Ingredient · Updated
Octisalate
Found in 12 productsSee all
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60 
Aveeno Protect + Refresh Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Body Spray SPF 60 
Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Body Spray Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60+ 
Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 Lotion 
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion 
Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55 What is Octisalate?
Octisalate is an organic compound used primarily in sunscreens to enhance the UV protection. It is an ester formed from salicylic acid and 2-ethylhexanol and functions as a UVB filter.
This ingredient helps prevent sunburn by absorbing UVB rays, which are responsible for causing sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer. While it is effective in providing sun protection, some research indicates that it may penetrate the skin and can potentially cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
When reading labels, it's essential to note that octisalate is often combined with other chemical sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum protection, as it mainly offers UVB defense.
Commonly found in: Sunscreens, Lip balms with SPF, BB creams, Moisturizers with SPF
What to watch
- Some studies suggest octisalate may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- There is limited evidence that suggests octisalate can penetrate the skin, raising questions about its hormonal effects.
Benefits
- Octisalate helps enhance the UV protection factor of sunscreens, contributing to the prevention of sunburn and skin damage.
The FDA considers octisalate as a safe and effective active ingredient in sunscreens.
Research shows octisalate is effective for sunburn prevention, but questions about absorption and skin irritation have been raised.
Octisalate is not derived from animals and is considered vegan-friendly.
Sources: Sunscreen Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use
Scout's take
Chemical UV filter. Skin penetration and absorption confirmed in FDA studies. Less hormonal concern than oxybenzone but still systemic.
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with Octisalate, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionThe case for
It enhances the stability and efficacy of other UV filters in sunscreen formulations.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionMore from Scout's analyses
Octisalate is a chemical UV filter used in sunscreens to stabilize other UV filters and enhance UVB protection. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. It is effective at enhancing the efficacy of other UV filters.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionOctisalate (ethylhexyl salicylate) is a chemical UV filter that enhances absorption of other filters and has moderate concerns around hormone disruption with repeated exposure.
from the analysis of Neutrogena Beach Defense Water + Sun Protection Sunscreen Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 50Octisalate is a chemical UV filter that acts as a penetration enhancer for other active ingredients, increasing systemic absorption of co-formulated filters.
from the analysis of Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 70All 12 products with Octisalate
Where Octisalate shows up
- Sunscreen 12 products
Higher-scoring picks without Octisalate
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Octisalate, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.