Ingredient review
Drometrizole
INCI: Drometrizole
Drometrizole is a synthetic UV filter that helps protect skin from sun damage, but it is less common in the US than in Europe.
In plain English
Drometrizole is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light, especially UVB rays, and converts it into heat, which is then released from the skin. It helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. You'll often find it in sunscreens and daily moisturizers with SPF, particularly in products from Europe and Asia.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Drometrizole 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 Drometrizole.
- 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
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Drometrizole is a synthetic organic compound from the benzotriazole family, designed to absorb UV radiation. It is a white to off-white crystalline powder used as a UV filter in cosmetic sunscreens.
How it works
When applied to the skin, drometrizole absorbs UVB and some UVA rays. The molecule's structure allows it to capture high-energy UV photons and release the energy as lower-energy heat, preventing the UV light from penetrating deeper into the skin and causing damage like sunburn or DNA mutations.
Pros
Effective UVB filter
Drometrizole absorbs UVB rays efficiently, reducing the risk of sunburn and short-term skin damage.
Good photostability
It remains stable when exposed to sunlight, meaning it doesn't break down quickly and maintains protection longer.
Cons and cautions
Limited UVA protection
Drometrizole primarily blocks UVB rays; it needs to be paired with other ingredients like avobenzone or zinc oxide for full broad-spectrum coverage.
Regulatory restrictions
It is not approved by the FDA for use in sunscreens in the United States, so it's mainly found in products from other regions.
Best for
- People looking for effective UVB protection
- Those using European or Asian sunscreen formulations
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergy to benzotriazole compounds
- Those seeking only mineral-based sunscreens
Usage tips
Safety summary
Drometrizole is generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetics based on EU and other regulatory assessments. It has low skin penetration and low irritation potential, though allergic reactions are possible in rare cases.
Research notes
Research supports drometrizole's effectiveness as a UVB filter with good photostability. Human and animal studies show low acute toxicity and minimal skin absorption. Long-term environmental impact data is limited.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 10% in sunscreens (varies by region)
- Regulatory status
- Approved in the EU and many other countries for use in sunscreens up to 10%. Not approved by the US FDA as of 2025.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Moisturizers with SPF, Anti-aging products
- Environmental note
- Some studies suggest benzotriazole UV filters may accumulate in aquatic environments, but drometrizole is less studied than others like oxybenzone.
Good to know
- Drometrizole is often listed as Tinosorb M when combined with other filters in commercial products
- It is considered safe by the European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS)
Common questions
What is Drometrizole in beauty products?
Drometrizole is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light, especially UVB rays, and converts it into heat, which is then released from the skin. It helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. You'll often find it in sunscreens and daily moisturizers with SPF, particularly in products from Europe and Asia.
What does Drometrizole do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, drometrizole absorbs UVB and some UVA rays. The molecule's structure allows it to capture high-energy UV photons and release the energy as lower-energy heat, preventing the UV light from penetrating deeper into the skin and causing damage like sunburn or DNA mutations.
Is Drometrizole safe for most people?
Drometrizole is generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetics based on EU and other regulatory assessments. It has low skin penetration and low irritation potential, though allergic reactions are possible in rare cases.
Who should be careful with Drometrizole?
Individuals with known allergy to benzotriazole compounds Those seeking only mineral-based 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.