On 24 September 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched a six-month public consultation on a proposed EU-wide restriction of octocrylene, a common UV filter in sunscreens and cosmetics. The consultation will run until 24 March 2026.
What is octocrylene?
Octocrylene (CAS No 6197-30-4) is an ingredient widely used in sunscreens and other cosmetic products for its ability to absorb UVB radiation and to act as a photo-stabilizer, protecting the formula as a whole and specifically ingredients being less photo-stable. Beyond cosmetics, it can also be found in some industrial products such as coatings, sealants, and adhesives.
In cosmetics, octocrylene can help protect the skin from sun damage. It is typically used at concentrations of up to 10% in sunscreens.
Octocrylene potentially harmful to marine life
Recent studies show that octocrylene can be harmful to aquatic life, especially small marine organisms such as corals and worm species. It is persistent in the environment and can consequently accumulate over time.
When people wearing sunscreens containing octocrylene enter the water, the substance can wash off into the aquatic environment. This has raised concerns about its impact on marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs, where octocrylene has been shown to form harmful by-products.
Proposed EU restrictions
ECHA is proposing that:
- Octocrylene shall not be placed on the market or used in finished cosmetic products at concentrations equal to or greater than 0.001% (w/w).
- The restriction would apply 24 months after it enters into force.
- The definition of “finished cosmetic product” follows Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.
This measure would be adopted under Annex XVII of the REACH regulation.
Use of octocrylene worldwide
Octocrylene has already faced restrictions in several parts of the world. For example, Hawaii banned the sale of sunscreens containing octocrylene or avobenzone (without a prescription) starting 1 January 2023, in an effort to protect coral reefs. Similar bans are in place in Palau and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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References
ECHA. (2025). Submitted restrictions under consideration: Octocrilene. Retrieved on 25 September 2025.
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