Research Summary
UV filters are the shield ingredients of sunscreens, protecting against the negative effects of solar radiation. Since the discovery of the first UV filter, nearly 30 filters have become commercially available. Over the years, innovation and regulatory updates have driven their use by the cosmetic industry. This study aimed to characterize commercial sunscreens and identify the main trends by analyzing the labels of 444 sunscreen formulations currently being marketed.
Avobenzone, octocrylene, and bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine were the three UV filters with the highest usage frequencies, each being present in over 40% of the products. Emulsified preparations and sprays were the preferred forms, while the most frequent sun protection factor (SPF) was 50+. Differences were noted between adult and children’s sunscreens, particularly the higher usage of inorganic filters in formulations for children.
Over the past few years, the five most commonly used UV filters have remained consistent, but the usage of octocrylene, ethylhexyl salicylate, and nano methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol has decreased. There has also been an increasing trend towards the use of the inorganic UV filter titanium oxide.
Overall, this study provides a comprehensive characterization of the market impact of approved UV filters and how the market has evolved over recent years. These insights can help guide the design of new UV filters and inform the assessment of potential environmental risks.
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