Homosalate

Absorption

For local use only, no systemic absorption.

Toxicity

LD50: Not available.

Chemical properties

Liquid.

The Uses of Homosalate

homosalate is a chemical uVB absorber included in the FDA’s Category I Sunscreen Chemical list. Its approved usage level is 4 to 15 percent by the FDA and 10 percent by the european union’s Cosmetic Directive.

The Uses of Homosalate

UV screen, analgesic

The Uses of Homosalate

Homosalate used as a UV filter in various personal skin care formulations and cosmetics.

Indications

As ingredient in many sunscreen for protection against sunburn, skin aging and skin cancer.

Background

Homosalate is an organic compound that belongs to salicylates. It is an ester formed from salicylic acid and 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexanol, a derivative of cyclohexanol. Salicylates prevent direct skin exposure to the sun’s harmful rays by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) light. Homosalate specifically absorbs short-wave UVB rays, which are associated with DNA damage and increased risk of skin cancer.
It is a common ingredient in many commercially available sunscreens. There are no reported adverse effects from homosalate.

Definition

A homolog of menthyl salicylate.

brand name

Eusolex (Rona Laboratories, Great Britain); Heliophan (Greeff).

General Description

Viscous or light yellow to slightly tan liquid or oil.

Air & Water Reactions

Homosalate will hydrolyze under basic conditions. . Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

An ester and a phenol. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides.

Fire Hazard

Homosalate is probably combustible.

Flammability and Explosibility

Non flammable

Pharmacokinetics

Acts as UV filters.

Metabolism

For local use only, no systemic absorption.