Ingredient review
Ethyl Ethylhexylamino Dimethylcyclohexenylidene Cyanoacetate
INCI: ETHYL ETHYLHEXYLAMINO DIMETHYLCYCLOHEXENYLIDENE CYANOACETATE
A modern UVA filter that offers broad-spectrum protection with low irritation potential, commonly used in sunscreens outside the US.
In plain English
This ingredient is a synthetic chemical that absorbs UVA rays from the sun, preventing them from penetrating deep into your skin where they can cause premature aging and damage. It's often combined with other UV filters to provide broad-spectrum protection. Think of it as a sponge that soaks up harmful UVA light before it reaches your skin cells.
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
Ethyl Ethylhexylamino Dimethylcyclohexenylidene Cyanoacetate 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 Ethyl Ethylhexylamino Dimethylcyclohexenylidene Cyanoacetate.
- 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
A synthetic organic compound designed specifically to absorb UVA radiation. It belongs to a class of UV filters known as cyanoacrylates, which are known for their photostability and effectiveness.
How it works
When applied to the skin, the molecule absorbs high-energy UVA photons and converts them into lower-energy heat, which is then released harmlessly. This prevents the UVA rays from causing oxidative stress and DNA damage in skin cells.
Pros
Strong UVA absorption
Effectively absorbs UVA rays, which are linked to premature aging and skin cancer, providing a key layer of protection.
Low irritation potential
Generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin types, with a low risk of stinging or redness compared to some other chemical filters.
Cons and cautions
Not FDA-approved in the US
This filter is not currently allowed in sunscreens sold in the United States, limiting its availability for American consumers.
Narrow spectrum alone
It primarily targets UVA rays and must be paired with other filters to provide comprehensive UVB protection, so it's rarely used as a standalone sunscreen.
Best for
- People looking for high UVA protection
- Those with sensitive skin who react to avobenzone
- Users of daily SPF products in regions where it is approved
Use caution if
- Those seeking only US-approved sunscreens
- Individuals with known allergies to cyanoacrylate compounds (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe and effective for use in sunscreens by regulatory bodies in the EU and other regions. It has low skin penetration and low irritation potential. The lack of FDA approval in the US is due to regulatory process differences, not safety concerns.
Research notes
Clinical studies and safety assessments support its efficacy as a UVA filter with a favorable safety profile. It is well-documented in cosmetic chemistry literature as a photostable alternative to avobenzone.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in sunscreens in the European Union, Australia, and many other countries, but not yet approved by the FDA in the United States.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Daily moisturizers with SPF, Anti-aging products
- Environmental note
- Research on its environmental impact is limited, but it is not currently classified as a major coral-reef toxin, unlike some other UV filters such as oxybenzone.
Good to know
- Often listed under the trade name 'Uvinul A Plus' in ingredient lists.
- It is considered more photostable than avobenzone, meaning it doesn't break down as quickly in sunlight.
- Commonly used in European and Asian sunscreens.
Common questions
What is Ethyl Ethylhexylamino Dimethylcyclohexenylidene Cyanoacetate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a synthetic chemical that absorbs UVA rays from the sun, preventing them from penetrating deep into your skin where they can cause premature aging and damage. It's often combined with other UV filters to provide broad-spectrum protection. Think of it as a sponge that soaks up harmful UVA light before it reaches your skin cells.
What does Ethyl Ethylhexylamino Dimethylcyclohexenylidene Cyanoacetate do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, the molecule absorbs high-energy UVA photons and converts them into lower-energy heat, which is then released harmlessly. This prevents the UVA rays from causing oxidative stress and DNA damage in skin cells.
Is Ethyl Ethylhexylamino Dimethylcyclohexenylidene Cyanoacetate safe for most people?
Considered safe and effective for use in sunscreens by regulatory bodies in the EU and other regions. It has low skin penetration and low irritation potential. The lack of FDA approval in the US is due to regulatory process differences, not safety concerns.
Who should be careful with Ethyl Ethylhexylamino Dimethylcyclohexenylidene Cyanoacetate?
Those seeking only US-approved sunscreens Individuals with known allergies to cyanoacrylate compounds (rare)
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.