9.0
ISS Score
A+ — Excellent — very low hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
UV filter · Sunscreen agent · Photoprotectant
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Also known as: Octyl Methoxycinnamate, OMC, Ethylhexyl p-methoxycinnamate
Molecular Formula
C18H26O3
Molecular Weight
290.4 g/mol
Category
Cosmetic
Bottom Line: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in concentrations below 10%
- applied to intact skin
- not combined with known irritants
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin
- you are using multiple sun protection products
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to this ingredient
- you experience irritation or redness after use
- you are using products for children
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C18H26O3 |
| Molecular Weight | 290.4 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -68.3°C |
| Boiling Point | 185.0°C |
| Solubility | Miscible in alcohols, propylene glycol monomyristate, and various oils |
| Log P | 5.3 |
Common Use Cases
2 Categories
Cosmetic
Sunscreens, moisturizers, foundations, lip balms. Generally safe for topical use, but patch test recommended.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, dermatological creams. Use under medical supervision if sensitive.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is generally well tolerated on the skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Insufficient Data
Limited data on oral toxicity; ingestion should be avoided.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Insufficient Data
Inhalation exposure data is lacking; caution is advised.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
May cause mild irritation to eyes; rinse thoroughly if contact occurs.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk of skin irritation and sensitivity.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated with low irritation potential.
- breastfeeding — Minimal risk when used appropriately.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated; minimal risk of skin irritation. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Limited studies on pregnant women; use with caution. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity in young skin; potential for irritation. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Minimal systemic absorption expected; generally safe. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | May cause irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is widely used in cosmetics for UV protection, with moderate safety assessments.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No significant irritation observed | SCCS Opinion (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human repeated insult patch test | No sensitization reactions | FDA Regulatory Status (2020) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is widely used in cosmetics for UV protection, with moderate safety assessments.
- Effective UV filter in sunscreens.
- Potential for skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Regulatory assessments support its safe use.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in cosmetic products.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Regulatory Status of Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted for use in over-the-counter sunscreen products.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is permitted for use in major jurisdictions with no significant restrictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
It is primarily used as a UV filter in sunscreens and cosmetic products.
While generally safe, individuals with sensitive skin should patch test before use.
Consult a healthcare provider before using products containing this ingredient during pregnancy.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T05:35:21.499411Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.