Ingredient review
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
INCI: DIETHYLAMINO HYDROXYBENZOYL HEXYL BENZOATE
A reliable, photostable UVA filter that helps protect skin from premature aging and sun damage without leaving a white cast.
In plain English
This is a sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UVA rays, the type of sunlight that causes wrinkles and dark spots. Unlike some older UVA filters, it stays stable in sunlight for a long time and doesn't leave a chalky white layer on your skin. It's often used in combination with other sunscreen ingredients to provide broad-spectrum protection.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is relatively strong for its common cosmetic role.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- strong
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
strongThere is a stronger practical or research basis for the ingredient role described here.
What it is
A synthetic organic compound specifically designed to absorb UVA radiation (320–400 nm). It is a derivative of benzophenone but with improved photostability and safety profile.
How it works
It works by absorbing UVA light energy and converting it into harmless heat, preventing the rays from penetrating the skin and causing collagen breakdown, DNA damage, and hyperpigmentation.
Pros
Excellent photostability
Unlike avobenzone, this ingredient does not break down quickly in sunlight, so your UVA protection lasts longer during sun exposure.
No white cast
It is a clear, colorless ingredient that blends invisibly into all skin tones, making it ideal for daily wear under makeup.
Cons and cautions
Not broad-spectrum alone
It only protects against UVA rays, so it must be paired with a UVB filter (like octocrylene or titanium dioxide) for complete sun protection.
Potential eye irritation
Some users report mild stinging if the product gets into their eyes, especially during sweating or swimming.
Best for
- Anyone seeking reliable UVA protection in daily sunscreen
- People with darker skin tones who want to avoid white cast from mineral sunscreens
Use caution if
- Those with known allergy to organic sunscreen filters (rare)
- Individuals who prefer mineral-only sunscreens
Usage tips
Safety summary
Extensively tested and considered safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%. It has low skin penetration and no known endocrine disruption concerns based on current evidence.
Research notes
Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm its high photostability and efficacy as a UVA filter. It is a preferred alternative to avobenzone in many modern sunscreen formulations.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 10% in finished products
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a sunscreen active ingredient in the EU, Japan, and many other countries. Not currently approved by the US FDA for use in sunscreens.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Moisturizers with SPF, Makeup with SPF
- Environmental note
- Studies suggest it has low aquatic toxicity compared to some other organic UV filters, but its environmental impact is still being researched.
Good to know
- Approved in the EU, Asia, and Australia but not yet FDA-approved in the US
- Often listed as Uvinul A Plus on ingredient labels
Common questions
What is Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate in beauty products?
This is a sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UVA rays, the type of sunlight that causes wrinkles and dark spots. Unlike some older UVA filters, it stays stable in sunlight for a long time and doesn't leave a chalky white layer on your skin. It's often used in combination with other sunscreen ingredients to provide broad-spectrum protection.
What does Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate do in a beauty product?
It works by absorbing UVA light energy and converting it into harmless heat, preventing the rays from penetrating the skin and causing collagen breakdown, DNA damage, and hyperpigmentation.
Is Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate safe for most people?
Extensively tested and considered safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%. It has low skin penetration and no known endocrine disruption concerns based on current evidence.
Who should be careful with Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate?
Those with known allergy to organic sunscreen filters (rare) Individuals who prefer mineral-only sunscreens
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.