Octinoxate
INCI: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Also known as: EHMC, Octyl methoxycinnamate, Parsol MCX
Last updated:
Octinoxate is one of the most common chemical UV filters worldwide. It is permitted in the EU (up to 10%, Annex VI #12) and US (up to 7.5% under OTC sunscreen monograph). Hawaii (Act 104, effective 2021) and Key West (Florida) banned octinoxate sales due to coral reef toxicity concerns, though these are local-jurisdiction bans, not federal.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Status | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Union | Restricted | Max 10% as UV filter | Annex VI #12 |
| United Kingdom | Restricted | Max 10% (mirrors EU) | UK Cosmetics Regulation |
| United States | Conditionally permitted | Max 7.5% in OTC sunscreens (21 CFR 352) | 21 CFR 352 |
| Hawaii | Prohibited | Banned from sale since 2021 (Act 104) | Hawaii Act 104 |
| Canada | Restricted | Approved sunscreen active | Health Canada Sunscreen Monograph |
Safety profile
SCCS has evaluated octinoxate multiple times and concluded the 10% EU limit is safe for cosmetic use. Endocrine-disruption concerns have been raised in animal studies but human-relevant exposure data does not show effects at cosmetic levels. The bans in Hawaii and Key West are environmental — based on coral toxicity — not human safety.
Common uses
- Sunscreens and SPF-containing skincare (US OTC monograph at 7.5%)
- Daily-wear moisturizers with SPF
- Color cosmetics with sun protection claims
Primary sources
Regulatory status is current to the "Last updated" date above. Always verify against the regulator's authoritative publication for the specific market and product category before relying on this summary for compliance decisions.
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