Ingredient
Homosalate
What is Homosalate?
Homosalate is an organic compound commonly used as a UV filter in sunscreen and other skin care products. It is synthesized by the esterification of salicylic acid with 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexanol.
It functions primarily by absorbing ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun, protecting the skin from sunburn, and minimizing risk of skin cancer related to UV damage. The health evidence surrounding homosalate is mixed; while it is effective in providing UV protection, concerns have been raised about its potential to act as an endocrine disruptor at higher concentrations.
When reading product labels, consumers should be aware that homosalate concentrations are regulated to ensure safety and efficacy, adhering to guidelines in different regions.
Commonly found in: Sunscreen, Moisturizers with SPF, Anti-aging creams, BB creams, Tanning oils
What to watch
- Homosalate may act as an endocrine disruptor according to some studies.
- Bioaccumulation concerns have been raised, leading to regulatory scrutiny over long-term exposure.
Benefits
- Effective in absorbing UVB rays, thus protecting skin against sunburn.
The FDA classifies homosalate as an approved active ingredient in sunscreens with a concentration limit of up to 15%.
Research on homosalate reveals effective UVB protection but raises alarm for potential endocrine-disrupting effects at high doses.
Homosalate is synthetically derived, making it suitable for vegan formulations.
Sources: Homosalate Sunscreen Monograph · Evaluation of Endocrine Disrupting Effects of UV-filters
Scout's take
Chemical UV filter. The EU SCCS concluded in 2021 that homosalate is unsafe at concentrations above 7.34% due to endocrine-disruption concerns; many CeraVe AM SPFs use 6–13%. Detected in human breast milk and urine in biomonitoring studies.
The case against
Homosalate can penetrate the skin, potentially disrupting hormones and causing environmental harm.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionThe case for
It provides UVB protection in sunscreen formulations.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionMore from Scout's analyses
Homosalate at 10% is lower than the 15% in other Neutrogena sprays but still a chemical UV filter with endocrine disruption concerns and high skin absorption.
from the analysis of Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Body Spray Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60+Homosalate is a chemical UV filter used in sunscreens to absorb UVB radiation. It is known to penetrate the skin and may disrupt hormones. It is often criticized for its potential endocrine-disrupting effects and environmental impact.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionHomosalate is a chemical UV filter present at 15%, among the highest concentrations allowed. It is absorbed through skin and has been linked to hormone disruption and is flagged by EWG as a high-concern filter.
from the analysis of Neutrogena Beach Defense Water + Sun Protection Sunscreen Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 50Found in 10 products
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