Octocrylene
Octocrylene is a common chemical sunscreen filter that both absorbs UV rays and stabilises other filters (especially avobenzone) against light. The EU's scientific committee has found it safe up to certain concentrations; the debate centres on the fact that it can turn into benzophenone in the product over time and can cause allergy in some people.
Risk range
1 is the lowest and 10 the highest risk. The range depends on the amount used, whether the product is rinsed off and how it is used. The Temiz İçerik app uses the same ranges.
The lower end applies to fresh, low-concentration products; it moves towards the upper end because benzophenone can form as the product ages and reactions can occur in people with a history of allergy.
What is octocrylene and what does it do?
Octocrylene is an oil-soluble organic compound with a cyanoacrylate structure. It mainly absorbs UVB and short-wave UVA rays. Although it is not a strong filter on its own, it protects other filters in the formula from breaking down in sunlight.
In particular, because the UVA filter avobenzone degrades quickly in the sun, it is often used together with octocrylene. Its oily texture also contributes to the product's water resistance.
Which products contain it?
- Sunscreen creams, lotions and sprays
- Day creams with SPF, BB and CC creams
- Lip balms and some hair care sprays
On the label it appears as Octocrylene and usually sits in the first half of the list, alongside other filters.
Is it harmful? The scientific assessment
The European Commission's scientific committee, the SCCS, re-examined octocrylene with up-to-date data and concluded that it is safe for consumers when used within the permitted maximum limits. The concentration that can be used in sun products is limited in the EU; Turkish cosmetics legislation is also aligned with the EU.
The issue that has come to the fore in recent years is that octocrylene can turn into benzophenone over time, during manufacturing or while the product is on the shelf. Some analyses have measured higher levels of benzophenone in old sunscreens than in new ones. Benzophenone is classified by the IARC in Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans; limited evidence). This does not mean that octocrylene itself is carcinogenic, but it shows why it is important not to use the product after its expiry date.
The hormonal effects of octocrylene and its effects on aquatic organisms are also being researched; there is no clear conclusion in these areas yet.
Who should be careful?
- People who have had a light-induced allergy to pain-relief gels containing ketoprofen: Cross-photoallergy to octocrylene is known to occur in these people.
- Children with a history of sunscreen-related rashes: Octocrylene is one of the filters that stand out in contact allergy tests.
- Very sensitive skin: Products with mineral filters may be better tolerated.
What to do when you see it on a label
There is no problem with using a sunscreen containing octocrylene if your skin does not react. The main thing to watch is how fresh the product is: stick to the period-after-opening and the expiry date, and replace sunscreen left over from last summer. If you have a history of allergy, you can try products with mineral filters such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Frequently asked questions
Is octocrylene carcinogenic?
No, octocrylene itself is not classified as a carcinogen. The debate is about benzophenone, which can form over time in old products; that is why using fresh products is recommended.
Can I use sunscreen left over from last summer?
If the period-after-opening shown on the packaging has passed, it is best to replace it. Its protective power may decrease and some filters may degrade.
Why is octocrylene used with avobenzone?
Avobenzone breaks down quickly in sunlight; octocrylene stabilises it so that UVA protection lasts longer.
Is octocrylene suitable for children?
It can be used at the concentrations permitted in the EU. However, because it is one of the filters that stand out in sunscreen-related contact allergy in children, products with mineral filters are often preferred for children with sensitive skin. If you notice a rash, stop using the product and see a doctor.
Sources
Updated: 2026-10-11 · How we score
This page is for general information and is not personal medical advice. Warnings on the product label and the advice of a health professional always come first.