Octyl Methoxycinnamate
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INCI Name:
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
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Common Name:
Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC)
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Molecular Formula:
C₁₈H₂₆O₃
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CAS Number:
5466-77-3
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Alternate Names:
- OMC
- Octinoxate
- Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
- UVB Filter
- Sunscreen Agent
Key Benefits:
- Strong UVB protection for skin
- Helps prevent sunburn and UV damage
- Improves sunscreen SPF performance
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture
- Easily blendable in oil phases
- Enhances stability of sun-care products
Benefits & Uses (Short):
- Used in sunscreens and sunblocks
- Common in BB creams and tinted moisturizers
- Protects skin from UVB rays
- Helps prevent premature aging caused by sun exposure
- Used in daily skincare with SPF formulations
Recommended Usage Level:
- Sunscreen Products: 2% – 7.5% (regulated maximum varies by region)
- Creams & Lotions: 1% – 5%
- BB/CC Creams: 1% – 5%
- Daily Moisturizers: 1% – 3%
- After-sun products: 0.5% – 3%
How It Works (Short):
- Functions as a UVB absorber, converting harmful UVB radiation into heat energy
- Helps prevent sunburn and skin damage from sun exposure
- Works as an oil-soluble sunscreen filter in cosmetic formulations
- Enhances SPF protection when combined with other UV filters (like Avobenzone or Zinc Oxide)
- Provides lightweight protection without heavy residue
- Commonly stabilized with antioxidants for improved performance
Key Benefits for Skin Care:
- Protects against UVB rays
- Helps prevent sunburn and tanning damage
- Supports anti-aging skincare routines
- Lightweight and easy to formulate
- Improves overall sunscreen effectiveness
Olfactory Notes:
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Odor Profile: Mild aromatic/chemical
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Top Notes: Slight ester-like note
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Heart Notes: Soft synthetic nuance
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Base Notes: Neutral oily base
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Character: Functional, light, non-overpowering
FAQs:
Q: What is Octyl Methoxycinnamate used for?
A: It is used as a UVB filter in sunscreen and skincare products to protect skin from sun damage.
Q: Is Octyl Methoxycinnamate safe?
A: It is widely used in regulated concentrations in sunscreens, but usage limits vary by region.
Q: Can it be used alone as sunscreen?
A: No, it is usually combined with other UV filters for broad-spectrum protection.
Q: Is it oil soluble?
A: Yes, it is oil-soluble and used in the oil phase of formulations.
Q: What products contain Octyl Methoxycinnamate?
A: Sunscreens, BB creams, moisturizers, and daily SPF skincare products.
