Octocrylene (often spelled Octrylene) is an organic UV filter that absorbs UVB and short UVA radiation and is widely used in sunscreens, where it also stabilizes other filters such as avobenzone. It is an oil-soluble liquid that improves water resistance of formulations.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contact dermatitis / skin irritation | Uncommon | Localized redness or itching, more often seen with leave-on use. |
| Photoallergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Reaction triggered by sun exposure; octocrylene is a recognized photoallergen, including in adults previously sensitized to ketoprofen. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis (without sun) | Rare | Sensitization can occur, with positive patch-test reactions reported. |
| Eye stinging or irritation | Uncommon | From product migration into the eyes during application. |
| Systemic absorption | Rare | Detectable in plasma in some studies; clinical significance not established. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.