Ingredient review
Methyl Dimethyl-Cyclohexenylmethyleneamino-Benzoate
INCI: METHYL DIMETHYL-CYCLOHEXENYLMETHYLENEAMINO-BENZOATE
A synthetic UV filter that helps protect skin from sun damage, but its use is limited to certain regions and may not be as widely studied as other filters.
In plain English
This ingredient is a man-made chemical that absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, preventing it from reaching and damaging your skin. It's one of many UV filters used in sunscreens to help prevent sunburn and long-term skin aging. Because it's synthetic, it's designed to be stable and effective, but it's not as common in the U.S. as in other parts of the world.
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
Methyl Dimethyl-Cyclohexenylmethyleneamino-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 Methyl Dimethyl-Cyclohexenylmethyleneamino-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
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic organic compound that functions as a UV absorber, specifically targeting UVB and some UVA rays. It is chemically related to other benzoate-based sunscreens.
How it works
When applied to the skin, the molecule absorbs UV photons and converts them into harmless heat, preventing the energy from damaging skin cells. This reduces the risk of sunburn and photoaging.
Pros
Effective UV protection
Absorbs UVB and some UVA rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Good stability
Designed to remain effective under sunlight without breaking down quickly, so your sunscreen stays protective longer.
Cons and cautions
Limited global approval
Not approved in all countries (e.g., not FDA-approved in the U.S.), so availability and trust may vary.
Less research data
Compared to older UV filters like avobenzone, there is less published research on its long-term safety and environmental impact.
Best for
- Anyone seeking broad-spectrum sun protection
- People who prefer synthetic UV filters over mineral ones
Use caution if
- Those with known sensitivity or allergy to benzoate compounds
- Individuals seeking only mineral-based sunscreens
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally considered safe for topical use at approved concentrations, but long-term systemic absorption data is limited. Regulatory status varies by region.
Research notes
Moderate evidence supports its effectiveness as a UV filter. More studies are needed on its environmental fate and potential endocrine activity.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a UV filter in the EU and some Asian countries at concentrations up to 10%. Not currently approved by the U.S. FDA for use in sunscreens.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Daily moisturizers with SPF, UV-protective cosmetics
- Environmental note
- Like many synthetic UV filters, there are concerns about potential accumulation in aquatic environments. Research on its ecotoxicity is still emerging.
Good to know
- This ingredient is more commonly found in sunscreens sold in Asia and Europe.
- It is often combined with other UV filters to achieve broad-spectrum protection.
Common questions
What is Methyl Dimethyl-Cyclohexenylmethyleneamino-Benzoate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a man-made chemical that absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, preventing it from reaching and damaging your skin. It's one of many UV filters used in sunscreens to help prevent sunburn and long-term skin aging. Because it's synthetic, it's designed to be stable and effective, but it's not as common in the U.S. as in other parts of the world.
What does Methyl Dimethyl-Cyclohexenylmethyleneamino-Benzoate do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, the molecule absorbs UV photons and converts them into harmless heat, preventing the energy from damaging skin cells. This reduces the risk of sunburn and photoaging.
Is Methyl Dimethyl-Cyclohexenylmethyleneamino-Benzoate safe for most people?
Generally considered safe for topical use at approved concentrations, but long-term systemic absorption data is limited. Regulatory status varies by region.
Who should be careful with Methyl Dimethyl-Cyclohexenylmethyleneamino-Benzoate?
Those with known sensitivity or allergy to benzoate compounds Individuals 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.