What are the benefits of Homosalate for skin?

UVB protection, dissolves and stabilises other UV filters, lightweight liquid texture, formulation versatility

What concentration of Homosalate is effective?

Typical effective concentrations of Homosalate are Up to 7.34% in face products in the EU (Annex VI, effective July 2025), up to 15% in the US.

What skin types is Homosalate suitable for?

Homosalate is suitable for most skin types seeking UVB protection, oily skin (lightweight liquid texture).

Homosalate — Skincare Ingredient Guide

Q: Can Homosalate cause skin irritation?

Homosalate has a low irritation risk. Generally well tolerated at approved concentrations. EU Annex VI restricts homosalate to 7.34% in face cream and pump spray products (effective July 2025), down from the previous 10% limit. The SCCS found it safe only at this reduced concentration following review of endocrine disruption data.

Q: Is Homosalate safe to use during pregnancy?

Homosalate is rated "caution" for pregnancy use. In-vitro studies suggest potential estrogenic (endocrine-disrupting) activity. While real-world human studies are lacking, homosalate has been detected in blood after topical application, meaning potential fetal exposure cannot be ruled out. Those following a precautionary approach may wish to avoid long-term, full-body use during pregnancy. More research is needed.

Q: Does Homosalate increase sun sensitivity?

Homosalate has a no sun sensitivity risk. Homosalate is itself a UV filter designed to protect against sun damage. It does not increase photosensitivity.

Homosalate

INCI: Homosalate

Homosalate is an oil-soluble chemical (organic) sunscreen agent that absorbs UVB radiation, with peak protection at 306 nm. It is valued in sunscreen formulations primarily as a solvent for dissolving other difficult-to-solubilise powder UV filters such as avobenzone. However, it is a relatively weak standalone filter (SPF ~4.3 at maximum concentration) and is not photostable, losing approximately 10% of its SPF protection within 45 minutes of UV exposure.

Is Homosalate safe? Key considerations

Can Homosalate cause irritation?

Low Risk

Generally well tolerated at approved concentrations. EU Annex VI restricts homosalate to 7.34% in face cream and pump spray products (effective July 2025), down from the previous 10% limit. The SCCS found it safe only at this reduced concentration following review of endocrine disruption data.

Does Homosalate increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Homosalate is itself a UV filter designed to protect against sun damage. It does not increase photosensitivity.

Is Homosalate safe during pregnancy?

Caution

In-vitro studies suggest potential estrogenic (endocrine-disrupting) activity. While real-world human studies are lacking, homosalate has been detected in blood after topical application, meaning potential fetal exposure cannot be ruled out. Those following a precautionary approach may wish to avoid long-term, full-body use during pregnancy. More research is needed.

How does Homosalate work?

Individuals with endocrine concerns, pregnancy (precautionary), those preferring mineral-only sunscreens should review the considerations above before use.

Homosalate

What does this do in a formula?

Is Homosalate safe? Key considerations

Can Homosalate cause irritation?

Does Homosalate increase sun sensitivity?

Is Homosalate safe during pregnancy?

How does Homosalate work?

Which products contain Homosalate?

UV Filters SPF 45 Serum