Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Also Known As: Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is commonly known by its trade names, such as Parsol DHHB (by DSM) and Uvinul A Plus (by BASF).
What is it? Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is an organic compound used primarily as a UV filter in sunscreen products. It belongs to the benzophenone family and is known for its ability to absorb UVA radiation, particularly in the long UVA-I range (340 to 400 nm). This makes it effective in protecting the skin from both acute and chronic photodamage caused by UVA rays.
What Makes it Different? One of the standout features of Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is its excellent photostability. Unlike some other UV filters, it does not degrade significantly when exposed to sunlight, ensuring prolonged protection. Additionally, it is highly compatible with other UV absorbers and cosmetic ingredients, making it a versatile component in sunscreen formulations.
Where Does it Come From? This compound is synthetically produced in laboratories. It is a result of chemical engineering processes designed to create effective and stable UV filters for use in personal care products.
Where is it Used? Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is widely used in sunscreen products across the globe. It has been approved for use in sunscreens in the European Union, South America, Mexico, Japan, and Taiwan. In the United States, it is used for product protection. Beyond sunscreens, it can also be found in various other cosmetic products that require UV protection.
Is it Sustainable? The sustainability of Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is a complex issue. On one hand, its use in sunscreens helps protect human skin from harmful UV radiation, which has significant health benefits. However, the production and use of synthetic chemicals in personal care products raise environmental concerns.
Sustainable Issues Related to its Production:
- Chemical Production: The synthesis of Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate involves chemical processes that may produce waste and require energy, contributing to environmental pollution and carbon emissions.
- Marine Impact: While Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is considered safer for marine life compared to some other UV filters like Oxybenzone, there is still ongoing research into its long-term effects on aquatic ecosystems.
- Regulatory Scrutiny: As with many synthetic chemicals, there is continuous monitoring and regulation to ensure that its production and use do not pose significant risks to human health and the environment.
In conclusion, while Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is an effective and stable UV filter, its sustainability profile is mixed, necessitating ongoing research and regulation to mitigate any potential environmental impacts.