Octinoxate
Octinoxate is a common UV filter used in UK sunscreens, moisturisers and lip products to help protect skin from UVB rays. It is a lightweight, oil-soluble ingredient that absorbs into the skin easily and is often combined with other filters for broader protection. Shoppers will find it listed as octinoxate or ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate on ingredient labels.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, octinoxate works as a chemical sunscreen agent that absorbs UVB radiation and converts it into harmless heat, helping to prevent sunburn and UV-induced damage to skin and product formulations. It is frequently used in lightweight facial sunscreens, daily moisturisers with SPF, lip balms and foundations because it spreads easily, feels non-greasy and offers good photostability when paired with other filters. Its oil-soluble nature makes it particularly compatible with emollients and waterproofing agents in beach and sports formulations popular in the UK.
Key benefits
- Helps shield skin from UVB rays
- Lightweight and non-greasy texture
- Enhances SPF performance in formulations
- Improves water resistance of sunscreens
- Stabilises other UV filters in products
- Suitable for everyday facial moisturisers
Best for
normal skin, oily skin, combination skin, sensitive skin
Where it comes from
Octinoxate is a synthetic organic compound derived from cinnamic acid, which occurs naturally in plants such as cinnamon, balsam and shea. It is produced through chemical synthesis for use in cosmetics.