What it is
Padimate O is a derivative of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) that absorbs in the UVB range, and is used as an organic ultraviolet filter in sunscreens and SPF products. It is an older-generation, oil-soluble filter that is not photostable, meaning it degrades on prolonged sun exposure, and it provides no meaningful UVA coverage on its own. Its use has declined as newer filters became available, but it remains an approved UVB filter in several markets.
Spectrum coverage
UVB
Regional approval · max %
Safety & warnings
Padimate O is a PABA derivative, and PABA-related compounds have a history of contact allergy and photoallergy in some users, so those with PABA sensitivity may wish to avoid it. It carries a comedogenicity rating of 0, indicating it is not considered pore-clogging. Because it is not photostable, it is typically combined with other filters in modern formulas.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic. It is a manufactured PABA derivative produced by esterification.
History
Padimate O came into use as a successor to PABA itself, which was an early sunscreen agent that fell out of favor because it stained fabric and caused frequent allergic reactions. Padimate O retained PABA's UVB absorption while reducing some of these drawbacks, though use of both PABA and its derivatives has since declined in favor of newer filters.
Questions everyone asks
What kind of UV protection does Padimate O provide?
It is a UVB filter and does not provide meaningful UVA protection on its own, so it is paired with other filters for broad-spectrum coverage.
Is Padimate O related to PABA?
Yes. It is a derivative of para-aminobenzoic acid, so people with known PABA sensitivity may prefer to avoid it.