Why is Octinoxate in Chemical Sunscreen - What to Know

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Octinoxate is a common chemical found in chemical sunscreens, and if you want to know more about the 2 major categories of sunscreen available on the market, read last week’s post. We’ll delve deeper into what it is and why it’s in sunscreen, along with the potential dangers of using it.

What Is Octinoxate?

Octinoxate, is also known as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, and is an organic compound commonly used in sunscreens and other cosmetic products like lotions and lip balms. Its primary function is to absorb UVB rays, which are responsible for causing sunburn. While it is effective at protecting the skin from UVB damage, the chemical has been linked to several health risks and environmental hazards, prompting concerns over its safety.

1. Endocrine Disruption:

Like oxybenzone, octinoxate is also an endocrine disruptor. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with the body's hormonal system, leading to a range of health problems. Octinoxate has been found to mimic estrogen, which can lead to hormonal imbalances. In animal studies, it has been linked to altered reproductive organ development and fertility issues, and research on humans is still needed to fully understand the effects.

2. Potential Allergic Reactions:

Octinoxate can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling, or a rash. Those with eczema or other pre-existing skin conditions may be more susceptible to these reactions. If you have sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens are your best bet, versus chemical.

3. Systemic Absorption:

Clinical studies have shown that octinoxate can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream. One FDA study revealed that octinoxate can remain in the body for days after sunscreen application, raising concerns about its long-term health impacts. Although the exact effects of systemic absorption are still inconclusive, finding the chemical in the blood stream is concerning to many.

4. Environmental Impact of Octinoxate on our Oceans

Octinoxate also contributes to coral bleaching, a process where corals lose their vibrant colors and eventually die. Coral reefs are vital to marine life, providing food and habitat for numerous species. Their destruction can have a ripple effect, negatively impacting entire ecosystems. In fact, some studies have shown that octinoxate is toxic to coral even at low concentrations, making it a significant contributor to coral reef degradation.

Hawaii and Key West banned sunscreens containing octinoxate and other harmful chemicals, such as oxybenzone, early on as advocates to protect our marine ecosystems.  If you're heading to a location with delicate marine environments, using a reef-safe sunscreen free from octinoxate is a must.

5. Choosing Safer Alternatives

The good news is that there are plenty of safe and effective alternatives to chemical sunscreens, the most common being mineral sunscreens. Many people do not understand the difference, but mineral sunscreens contain physical UV blockers like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both, like Kovr. Broad-spectrum protection offers the best protection against both UVA as well as UVB rays. Mineral sunscreen works by sitting on top of the skin, reflecting UV rays away rather than being absorbed into the skin, like chemical sunscreens.

In conclusion, while octinoxate may effectively protect against UV rays, its potential dangers to both human health as well as the environment can’t be ignored. From endocrine disruption to coral reef damage, the risks associated with octinoxate make it a controversial at best. To protect both your body and the planet, consider switching to mineral sunscreens that offer safer, eco-friendly protection against the sun’s harmful rays.