ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE is graded C (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING, FDA regulatory data. It is restricted under Sephora Clean (Prohibited).
ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE
Octinoxate
Safety grade: C
This UV filter (sunscreen agent) is permitted in EU cosmetics up to a maximum concentration under EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. To be sold legally in the EU or UK, a product must stay within this limit.
It protects skin from sun damage and premature aging by absorbing UVB rays, making it a key ingredient in sunscreens and sun protection products.
Graded using: COSING, FDA.
- Sephora Clean — Prohibited
- EU COSING — Restricted use
Last verified: June 9, 2026
Safer alternatives to ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE
- TITANIUM DIOXIDE — Grade A**. Mineral UV filter that absorbs and scatters UVB rays like the original.
- ZINC OXIDE — Grade A**. Mineral UV absorber providing broad-spectrum sun protection via particle reflection.
- BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE — Grade B. Chemical UV absorber that absorbs UVA/UVB rays; direct functional equivalent.
- ETHYLHEXYL TRIAZONE — Grade B. Chemical UV absorber providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection in sunscreen formulas.
- PHENYLBENZIMIDAZOLE SULFONIC ACID — Grade B. Water-soluble UV absorber that protects skin from UVB damage in sunscreens.
Other UV Absorber ingredients
- BENZYL SALICYLATE — Grade C**
- ETHYLHEXYL SALICYLATE — Grade B
- OCTOCRYLENE — Grade D
- BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE — Grade B
- CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT — Grade A