What it is
Ethylhexyl triazone is a modern triazine-based organic UVB filter that absorbs ultraviolet energy and re-emits it as low-level heat. It protects in the UVB range with peak absorption near 314 nm and is described as one of the most photostable UVB filters, retaining its absorbance well under sunlight. It is oil-soluble, odorless and colorless, has good affinity for keratin, and is effective at low use levels, making it efficient for building SPF in lightweight, fragrance-free formulas. Because it is essentially insoluble in water it is favored in long-lasting sun care.
Spectrum coverage
UVB
Regional approval · max %
Safety & warnings
Cosmetic references describe ethylhexyl triazone as a well-tolerated filter that, being oil-soluble and large, tends to stay on the skin surface, and it is commonly used in fragrance-free formulations suited to sensitive skin. As with any organic UV filter, a small number of people can develop contact or photo-contact reactions, so those with a history of sunscreen sensitivity may prefer to patch test. It is widely used across European and Asian sun care without notable irritation concerns in general use.
Origin & sourcing
It is a fully synthetic compound built on a 1,3,5-triazine ring bearing three anilino groups and ethylhexyl ester substituents, with a molecular weight around 823 g/mol. It is manufactured industrially as a cosmetic UV-filter raw material rather than sourced from nature.
History
It is supplied by BASF under the trade name Uvinul T 150 and by DSM-Firmenich as Parsol EHT. It is an established UVB filter approved in markets including the EU and Japan, while remaining outside the US over-the-counter monograph, which limits its use in American sunscreens.
Questions everyone asks
Why isn't ethylhexyl triazone in US sunscreens?
It has not been added to the US over-the-counter sunscreen monograph, so it cannot be used as an approved active in American sunscreens, though it is approved in the EU, Japan and Korea.
What kind of UV does it block?
It is a UVB filter with peak absorption around 314 nm. It does not cover UVA on its own, so it is paired with UVA filters for broad-spectrum protection.
Is it photostable?
Yes. It is regarded as one of the most photostable UVB filters, keeping its absorbance well under sun exposure.