Oxybenzone
Benzophenone-3
Also known as: Benzophenone-3 · BP-3
UV filterSunscreen
“An effective UVB/UVA filter — but one of the more controversial sunscreen ingredients.”
What it does
Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) is one of the most widely used chemical sunscreen filters, providing UVB and short-wave UVA protection. It is effective at low concentrations and widely approved. However, it is one of the more scrutinised sunscreen actives due to potential endocrine disruption in high systemic doses and reef toxicity concerns.
Benefits
- Broad UVB and short UVA protection
- Effective at low concentrations
- Widely available and inexpensive
How to layer
☀️ Morning routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
SPF
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After cleansing, before moisturiser
Good for
Normal skinOily skin
Works well with
Heads up
- ⚠Potential endocrine disruption — studies show systemic absorption above FDA threshold
- ⚠Reef-toxic — banned or restricted in Hawaii, Palau, and other reef-protected areas
- ⚠One of the more common causes of sunscreen contact allergy
How to use
Apply sunscreen 15–20 minutes before sun exposure. Consider mineral alternatives if you have sensitive skin or reef concerns.
Typical concentration: ≤6% in EU; ≤6% in US OTC formulations