What it is
This oil-soluble ingredient is not itself a sunscreen filter; instead it absorbs and dissipates excess energy from other filters, helping stabilize light-sensitive actives such as avobenzone. By reducing filter breakdown, it helps a sunscreen hold its protection in the sun.
Safety & warnings
Used as a stabilizer and generally regarded as well tolerated.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic organic compound.
Questions everyone asks
Is ethylhexyl methoxycrylene a sunscreen filter?
No, it is a photostabilizer that protects other UV filters from breaking down in sunlight.
Why is it added to sunscreen?
It helps light-sensitive filters like avobenzone stay intact, so protection lasts better in sun.