Dioxybenzone: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 04:07, 13 February 2025

Overview[edit]

Dioxybenzone is an organic compound that is commonly used as a sunscreen agent. It is known for its ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation, thereby protecting the skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure. Dioxybenzone is a derivative of benzophenone, a class of compounds frequently used in sunscreen formulations.

Chemical Structure[edit]

Dioxybenzone is chemically classified as a benzophenone derivative. Its chemical formula is C14H12O4, and it is also known by its systematic name, 2,2'-Dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone. The structure of dioxybenzone includes two hydroxy groups and one methoxy group attached to a benzophenone core, which contributes to its UV-absorbing properties.

Mechanism of Action[edit]

Dioxybenzone functions by absorbing UV radiation, particularly in the UVB range (290-320 nm), and to some extent in the UVA range (320-400 nm). By absorbing these wavelengths, dioxybenzone prevents the UV radiation from penetrating the skin and causing damage such as sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer.

Applications[edit]

Dioxybenzone is primarily used in sunscreen products. It is often combined with other UV filters to provide broad-spectrum protection. The compound is valued for its ability to stabilize other sunscreen agents and enhance the overall efficacy of the sunscreen formulation.

Safety and Regulations[edit]

The use of dioxybenzone in sunscreen products is regulated by health authorities such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. It is generally recognized as safe and effective when used according to the recommended guidelines. However, as with all chemical compounds, it is important to monitor for any potential allergic reactions or skin sensitivities.

Related Compounds[edit]

Dioxybenzone is part of a larger group of compounds known as benzophenones, which are widely used in sunscreens and other cosmetic products. Other related compounds include oxybenzone and sulisobenzone, each with varying degrees of UV absorption and stability.

Related Pages[edit]

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-'''Dioxybenzone''' is a [[sunscreen]] ingredient that absorbs [[ultraviolet]] (UV) radiation. It is also known as [[benzophenone-8]], and is used in many sunscreen products to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
+{{DISPLAYTITLE:Dioxybenzone}}
-==Chemical Properties==
+== Overview ==
-Dioxybenzone is a derivative of [[benzophenone]], and has the chemical formula C14H12O3. It is a pale yellow crystalline solid that is soluble in alcohol and insoluble in water.
+'''Dioxybenzone''' is an organic compound that is commonly used as a [[sunscreen]] agent. It is known for its ability to absorb [[ultraviolet]] (UV) radiation, thereby protecting the skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure. Dioxybenzone is a derivative of [[benzophenone]], a class of compounds frequently used in sunscreen formulations.
-==Uses==
+== Chemical Structure ==
-The primary use of dioxybenzone is as a UV absorber in sunscreen products. It absorbs UV radiation and converts it into less harmful heat, thereby protecting the skin from damage. It is also used in some cosmetics and personal care products for its UV protection properties.
+Dioxybenzone is chemically classified as a [[benzophenone]] derivative. Its chemical formula is C14H12O4, and it is also known by its systematic name, 2,2'-Dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone. The structure of dioxybenzone includes two hydroxy groups and one methoxy group attached to a benzophenone core, which contributes to its UV-absorbing properties.
-==Safety==
+[[File:Dioxybenzone.png|thumb|right|Chemical structure of Dioxybenzone]]
-The safety of dioxybenzone has been evaluated by the [[Food and Drug Administration]] (FDA) and the [[European Union]] (EU). Both organizations have approved its use in sunscreen products, but with certain restrictions. The FDA allows a maximum concentration of 3% in sunscreen products, while the EU allows a maximum concentration of 6%.
-==Environmental Impact==
+== Mechanism of Action ==
-There is some concern about the environmental impact of dioxybenzone. Studies have shown that it can be harmful to coral reefs, and some regions have banned the use of sunscreens containing dioxybenzone in an effort to protect these ecosystems.
+Dioxybenzone functions by absorbing UV radiation, particularly in the UVB range (290-320 nm), and to some extent in the UVA range (320-400 nm). By absorbing these wavelengths, dioxybenzone prevents the UV radiation from penetrating the skin and causing damage such as [[sunburn]], [[photoaging]], and [[skin cancer]].
-==See Also==
+== Applications ==
+Dioxybenzone is primarily used in [[sunscreen]] products. It is often combined with other UV filters to provide broad-spectrum protection. The compound is valued for its ability to stabilize other sunscreen agents and enhance the overall efficacy of the sunscreen formulation.
+== Safety and Regulations ==
+The use of dioxybenzone in sunscreen products is regulated by health authorities such as the [[Food and Drug Administration]] (FDA) in the United States. It is generally recognized as safe and effective when used according to the recommended guidelines. However, as with all chemical compounds, it is important to monitor for any potential allergic reactions or skin sensitivities.
+== Related Compounds ==
+Dioxybenzone is part of a larger group of compounds known as [[benzophenones]], which are widely used in sunscreens and other cosmetic products. Other related compounds include [[oxybenzone]] and [[sulisobenzone]], each with varying degrees of UV absorption and stability.
+== Related Pages ==
+* [[Sunscreen]]
+* [[Ultraviolet radiation]]
+* [[Benzophenone]]
 * [[Oxybenzone]]
-* [[Avobenzone]]
-* [[Octinoxate]]
 [[Category:Sunscreening agents]]
 [[Category:Benzophenones]]
-[[Category:Phenols]]
-{{stub}}