Ingredient review
Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate
INCI: Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate
A modern synthetic UVA filter that provides broad-spectrum protection with low irritation potential, but its use is limited to certain regions due to regulatory approval status.
In plain English
This is a man-made sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UVA rays—the type of sunlight that causes premature aging and wrinkles. It's added to sunscreens and daily SPF products to help protect your skin. Because it's a newer ingredient, it's not yet approved in all countries, so you'll mostly find it in sunscreens 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
Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate 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 Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate.
- 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 the cyanoacetate family of UV filters and is often used alongside other sunscreens to provide balanced, broad-spectrum protection.
How it works
When applied to the skin, the molecule absorbs high-energy UVA photons and converts them into harmless heat, preventing them from penetrating deeper skin layers where they can cause collagen breakdown and DNA damage.
Pros
Strong UVA absorption
Effectively blocks UVA rays that cause premature aging and skin darkening, making it a valuable addition to anti-aging sun protection routines.
Gentle on skin
Has a low irritation and allergy profile, so it's suitable for sensitive skin types that may react to older chemical filters like oxybenzone.
Cons and cautions
Limited global availability
Not approved in the US or Australia, so you can only find it in sunscreens from Europe, Asia, and other regions with different regulatory approvals.
Requires combination with other filters
On its own, it doesn't provide enough UVB protection, so it must be paired with other sunscreen ingredients to achieve broad-spectrum coverage.
Best for
- People looking for high UVA protection in sunscreens available outside the US
- Those with sensitive skin who react to older chemical sunscreens
Use caution if
- Consumers in the United States where this ingredient is not FDA-approved for sunscreen use
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in sunscreens by the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) at concentrations up to 10%. It has low acute toxicity and is not a significant skin sensitizer. However, long-term human exposure data is still being gathered.
Research notes
Clinical studies demonstrate effective UVA absorption and photostability. The SCCS has reviewed safety data and approved its use. More independent research on systemic absorption and environmental fate would strengthen the evidence base.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 10% in finished products (varies by regulation)
- Regulatory status
- Approved in the European Union and many Asian countries at concentrations up to 10%. Not approved by the US FDA for use in sunscreens as of 2025. Always check local regulations.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Daily moisturizers with SPF, Anti-aging sun protection products
- Environmental note
- Synthetic UV filters can enter waterways through rinsing. Research on the environmental impact of this specific compound is limited, but it is not known to be a major coral reef pollutant like oxybenzone.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed under trade names like 'Uvinul A Plus' in some formulations, but check the INCI for the exact name
- It is photostable, meaning it doesn't break down quickly in sunlight, so it maintains protection longer than some older filters
Common questions
What is Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate in beauty products?
This is a man-made sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UVA rays—the type of sunlight that causes premature aging and wrinkles. It's added to sunscreens and daily SPF products to help protect your skin. Because it's a newer ingredient, it's not yet approved in all countries, so you'll mostly find it in sunscreens from Europe and Asia.
What does Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, the molecule absorbs high-energy UVA photons and converts them into harmless heat, preventing them from penetrating deeper skin layers where they can cause collagen breakdown and DNA damage.
Is Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in sunscreens by the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) at concentrations up to 10%. It has low acute toxicity and is not a significant skin sensitizer. However, long-term human exposure data is still being gathered.
Who should be careful with Methoxypropylamino Cyclohexenylidene Ethoxyethylcyanoacetate?
Consumers in the United States where this ingredient is not FDA-approved for sunscreen use
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.