Benzophenone

Briefly: Benzophenones are chemicals used in sunscreens and other personal care products. SkinSAFE will help you avoid most common sources.

In Detail: Benzophenones are chemicals used as ultraviolet (UV) light absorbers. They are commonly used as active ingredients in sunscreens marketed in the United States. They are also used in non-sunscreen cosmetic products like moisturizers as a preservative. Benzophenones can also be added to dental composites and other plastic materials to prevent them from degrading from exposure to sunlight.

You should avoid contact with the specific benzophenone that you showed sensitivity to. Avoidance requires reading labels, package inserts, and on occasion, direct communication with the manufacturer. You may be allergic or photoallergic to benzophenones.  If photoallergic, you may only develop a rash when exposed to light, such as going out in the sun.

A contact allergy to one kind of benzophenone does not necessarily mean you are allergic to all benzophenones. You should discuss with your provider if it is wise to avoid all benzophenones, or just the specific one you tested positive to. Some oral medications such as the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) ketoprofen and tiaprofenic acid, and the cholesterol-lowering agent fenofibrate may contain a benzophenone. You can discuss with your healthcare provider if strict avoidance of oral agents containing benzophenone is needed, or if just skin contact should be avoided. 

• Color preserver in paints, varnishes/fluorescent lacquers

• Cosmetics and personal care products

° After-shave lotions

° Bath oils, tablets, and salts

° Cleansing products (cold creams, lotions, liquids and pads)

° Colognes and toilet waters

° Hairsprays and other hair care products including tonics, dressings, and grooming aids

° Lipsticks and lip balms

° Make-up products/Foundations

° Moisturizers

° Nail polishes and enamels

° Perfumes

° Shampoos

° Soaps

° Sunscreens (creams, lotions, sprays, and sticks)

• Dental composite materials

• Flavoring agent may be listed as “artificial flavoring”

• Paints

• Photo initiator in inks

• Clear coating in the printing industry

• Plastic packaging

• Rubber products

• Textiles