For adults: oxybenzone is a common sunscreen ingredient that gets into the skin and blood. Most healthy adults can use it sometimes without problems, but it can cause allergic reactions in some people and studies suggest it may act like weak hormones in animals.
If you use a product with oxybenzone, test a small patch of skin first. Follow the product directions (use the amount recommended and reapply as instructed). If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or worried about hormone effects, pick a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead. Avoid using it on broken or very irritated skin.
Watch for new redness, itching, rash, or blistering after use â these are signs of an allergic or photoallergic reaction (based on human case reports and clinical reviews). Also note that some regulators have limited how oxybenzone is used in products (for example in Japan and in European reviews) and animal and lab studies raise concerns about weak hormone-like activity and cellular effects. If you have concerns, choose an alternative sunscreen and talk with your healthcare provider.
Scan the full ingredient label and understand if it's safe for your child.
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.
This ingredient may also be listed as:
Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Oxybenzone safety and effects.
Use caution with Oxybenzone for adults. Some safety concerns have been identified.
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream.
Could weaken or confuse immune system.
Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions.
May mess with natural hormone development in babies and children.
Builds up in the body over time with repeated use.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use.
Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.
Possible negative effects on the environment
Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure.
Oxybenzone is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for adults. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
Use our camera scanner to analyze more ingredient labels
Scan Another Product