Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (BMDBM)
Also Known As: Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is commonly known as Avobenzone. It is also referred to by various trade names such as Parsol 1789, Milestab 1789, Eusolex 9020, Escalol 517, and Neo Heliopan 357.
What is It? Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is an organic compound and a derivative of dibenzoylmethane. It is an oil-soluble ingredient primarily used in sunscreen products to absorb the full spectrum of UVA rays. Avobenzone is known for its ability to absorb ultraviolet light over a wider range of wavelengths compared to many other sunscreen agents, making it a key component in broad-spectrum sunscreens.
What Makes It Different? The unique property of Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane lies in its ability to absorb UVA radiation from approximately 320 to 400 nm. This broad absorption range helps protect the skin from the deeper penetrating UVA rays, which are responsible for premature aging and other long-term skin damage. Additionally, Avobenzone exists in a stable enol form due to intramolecular hydrogen bonding, enhancing its effectiveness as a UV filter.
Where Does It Come From? Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is a synthetic compound. It was first patented in 1973 and has since been approved for use in various regions, including the EU, Australia, Japan, and the United States.
Where Is It Used? This compound is widely used in the cosmetic industry, particularly in sunscreen formulations. It is found in many commercial sunscreens marketed as "broad spectrum" due to its effective UVA protection. Besides sunscreens, it can also be present in other skincare products that offer sun protection.
Is It Sustainable? The sustainability of Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is a complex issue. While it is effective in protecting the skin from harmful UVA rays, its production and use raise several environmental concerns. Avobenzone is a petroleum-based ingredient, which means its production relies on non-renewable resources. Additionally, there are concerns about its potential impact on marine ecosystems. For instance, Avobenzone has been banned in certain regions like Palau due to its reef-toxicity concerns.
Sustainable Issues Related to Its Production:
- Resource Dependency: The reliance on petroleum for its production raises concerns about the depletion of non-renewable resources.
- Environmental Impact: Studies have shown that Avobenzone can degrade into harmful compounds when exposed to chlorinated water and ultraviolet light, potentially causing adverse health effects.
- Marine Toxicity: The potential for Avobenzone to contribute to coral reef bleaching and other marine ecosystem disruptions has led to regulatory actions in some regions.
In summary, while Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is a highly effective UV filter, its sustainability is challenged by environmental and resource-related issues. Efforts to develop more eco-friendly alternatives or improve the sustainability of its production processes are ongoing.