2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (Oxybenzone)

This patient information on Oxybenzone is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida. This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

The results from your patch testing showed a positive reaction (contact allergy) to this chemical. Your immune system reacts with its defense mechanisms with each exposure of this chemical to your skin. It is unknown why certain individuals develop allergic sensitivities. In some it may take several exposures over long periods of time before an allergy develops. Once you have become sensitized (allergic) your immune system always “remembers”. If you currently have eczema this chemical may be the cause but other factors may play a role as well. The information below will help you avoid this allergen.

At least a dozen different benzophenones exist with widely different uses such as textiles, plastics, rubber products, paints, cosmetics, and sunscreens.

It is the most frequently used active ingredient in sunscreens.

Where is chemical found?

Cosmetics
Hair care agents
Hair spray
Lipsticks
Moisturizers
Nail polish
Paints
Perfumes
Plastic lens filters
Shampoos
Sunscreens
Varnish

Hints on avoiding chemical:

Choose products listed only on your personal contact allergen database, which has been provided to you. Products listed on your contact allergen database should be free of 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone and safe to use.

Please be aware that if your spouse or significant other uses topical skincare products that contain this chemical skin to skin transfer may occur to you.

It may take 2 to 3 weeks of avoiding exposure before improvement of your eruption begins.

Physical blocking sunscreens such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide can be used without fear of allergic reaction.

Other names you may see this chemical listed as:

2-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenylphenylmethanone
4-Methoxy-2-hydroxybenzophenone
Benzophenone 3
Escalol 567
Eusolex 4360
Mob
Oxybenzone
Spectra-Sorb UV 9
Sulisobenzone
Uvinul M-40
Uvinyl MS-40