What it is
Silver Oxide is an inorganic compound of silver and oxygen that releases small amounts of silver ions, which have antimicrobial activity. In cosmetics it is used at very low levels to help protect formulas against microbial growth. In sunscreens it functions as part of the preservation system rather than as a functional skincare active.
Safety & warnings
Silver Oxide is used at very low concentrations within its permitted preservative function. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen and is not considered comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
It is a synthetically produced inorganic silver compound.
Questions everyone asks
Why is silver oxide in a sunscreen?
It acts as a preservative and antimicrobial, helping keep the formula free of microbial contamination; it is not a UV filter.
How does silver oxide work?
It releases small amounts of silver ions that have antimicrobial activity against microorganisms in the formula.