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Formulation-Friendly UV Absorber for Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Mixes Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
UV Absorbers

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (EHMC),also commonly known as OMC, Octinoxate, it is a globally trusted, oil-soluble UVB sunscreen ingredient designed for cosmetic and personal care products. It delivers efficient protection against harmful UVB rays—one of the primary causes of sunburn, pigmentation, and early skin aging—while offering excellent compatibility with oil-based formulations and a lightweight, non-greasy finish.

  • Product Name: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
  • INCI Name: ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE
  • Product Code: YNR®EHMC
  • CAS No.: 5466-77-3
  • Molecular Formula: C18H26O3

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (EHMC), also known as OMC, Octinoxate, is one of the most widely used UV absorbers in the global cosmetics industry. At room temperature, it appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with good fluidity, mild odor, and strong oil solubility—traits that make it easy to work with in formulation.

It blends seamlessly with common cosmetic oils, such as capric/caprylic triglycerides, dimethicone, and plant-based options like jojoba oil, without needing complex emulsification steps. This allows it to integrate smoothly into diverse product textures, from lightweight lotions and quick-absorbing serums to rich facial creams and body balms, all while keeping the product transparent and stable, even when stored in varying temperatures. Beyond its core role of shielding against UVB rays (280–320nm)—the main cause of sunburn and immediate skin redness—EHMC offers practical advantages. It directly lowers sunburn risk and eases UVB-induced pigmentation, like dark spots, helping maintain an even skin tone with regular use.

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (page 1)
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (page 2)

Unlike mineral UV filters (e.g., zinc oxide), its oil-based nature eliminates the annoying “white cast” that can look unnatural on skin, making it perfect for tinted products such as BB creams, foundations, and tinted sunscreens that need a seamless, natural finish. When paired with UVA absorbers (e.g., Avobenzone or Benzophenone-4), it creates broad-spectrum UV defense, covering both burning UVB and aging UVA rays. Plus, its lightweight texture feels non-greasy on skin, absorbs quickly without stickiness, and is non-comedogenic—so it won’t clog pores, suiting oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types.

Key Technical Parameters

Appearance Pale yellow liquid
Hazen ≤70
Odor Slight characteristic
Identity(IR) USP <197F> Matches reference spectrum
Identity(Retention time) USP <621> Matched reference retention time
UV Specific extinction (E1% 1cm,310nm,ethanol) USP <197U> ≥850
Specific gravity(25℃)USP<841> 1.005~1.013
Refractive Index (at 20℃) USP<831> 1.542~1.548
Peroxide value,% ≤1.0
Acidity (0.1N NaOH) (USP) ≤0.8
Chromatographicpurity GC USP < 621> Purity(%) ≥99.0
Each Impurity(%) ≤0.5
Total Impurities(%) ≤2.0
Assay (%) USP<621> 95.0~105.0

EHMC’s UV protection works by stopping harmful UVB before it penetrates the skin. The methoxycinnamate group in its structure acts as a UV absorber: when hit by UVB, its electrons absorb the radiant energy, shifting from a stable ground state to an excited state. Instead of harming skin cells (via DNA damage or free radical production), the molecule releases this energy as low-heat infrared radiation—undetectable to the skin—and returns to stability. To boost its durability, it’s often mixed with photostabilizers like octocrylene, which prevent it from breaking down under prolonged sun exposure, ensuring long-lasting protection throughout the day.

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (page 4)

Applications

 Sunscreens (UVB-focused or broad-spectrum blends)

 Tinted cosmetics (BB creams, foundations, tinted moisturizers)

 Daily skincare (day creams, lightweight serums)

 Body care (body lotions, sunscreen sprays)

 Gentle kids’ sun protection products

Advantages

 Efficiently blocks UVB (280–320nm) to reduce sunburn and pigmentation

 Oil-soluble, no "white cast" (ideal for tinted formulas)

 Blends easily with UVA absorbers for broad-spectrum protection

 Lightweight, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic (suits all skin types)

 Globally compliant for cosmetic use

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