Oxybenzone
Oxybenzone also known as benzophenone-3, is a member of the benzophenone family. It is an oil-soluble sunscreen agent that mainly protects against UVB rays and some UVA rays.
What are the benefits?
The benzophenones as a category are used not only for sun protection but also as photo-stabilisers in cosmetics. That is, they prevent formulas from discolouring or degrading with exposure to sunlight. They are also used as flavour enhancers in food.
Oxybenzone, along with other sunscreen actives, is currently undergoing additional safety testing under the supervision of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The aim of this testing is to gain a better understanding of the systemic absorption, metabolism, and removal of these sunscreen actives when small amounts penetrate the skin through topical application. It is important to understand that the existence of this or other sunscreen actives in the body does not imply that your health is jeopardised. Additional testing is expected to reaffirm the protection of these ingredients.
However, if you are concerned, you can opt for mineral sunscreen agents such as Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide.
See also: Antioxidant Titanium Dioxide Zinc Oxide