Ingredient review
Methyl Formylaminobenzoate
INCI: METHYL FORMYLAMINOBENZOATE
A synthetic UV filter that helps protect skin from sun damage, but its use is limited to certain regions and formulations.
In plain English
Methyl formylaminobenzoate is a man-made ingredient added to sunscreens and other products to absorb UV rays from the sun. It works like a tiny sponge that soaks up UV light and turns it into harmless heat, helping prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. You'll find it in some sunscreens, especially those designed for sensitive skin, because it's generally considered gentle and non-irritating.
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 Formylaminobenzoate 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 Formylaminobenzoate.
- 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 belonging to the benzoate family, specifically designed to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is a white to off-white crystalline powder that is oil-soluble, making it easy to blend into sunscreen formulations.
How it works
When applied to the skin, methyl formylaminobenzoate absorbs UVB and some UVA rays. The molecule's structure allows it to capture high-energy UV photons and release the energy as low-energy heat, preventing the radiation from penetrating deeper into the skin and causing damage like sunburn or DNA mutations.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Methyl formylaminobenzoate has a low irritation risk, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Good UVB protection
It effectively absorbs UVB rays, helping prevent sunburn and reducing the risk of skin damage.
Cons and cautions
Limited UVA coverage
This filter primarily blocks UVB rays, so it must be paired with other ingredients for broad-spectrum protection.
Regional availability
It is not approved as a sunscreen ingredient in the United States, so you'll mainly find it in products from other countries.
Best for
- People looking for a gentle UV filter for sensitive skin
- Those using sunscreens in regions where this ingredient is approved
Use caution if
- Anyone seeking broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection from a single filter
Usage tips
Safety summary
Methyl formylaminobenzoate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential. However, its safety profile is based on limited long-term studies compared to more common UV filters.
Research notes
Research indicates methyl formylaminobenzoate is an effective UVB absorber with good photostability. Most studies focus on its performance in sunscreen formulations rather than long-term human exposure. More data is needed on its systemic absorption and environmental fate.
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, but not listed as a permitted sunscreen ingredient by the US FDA.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, SPF moisturizers, UV-protective cosmetics
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental impact is not fully studied, but it is not known to bioaccumulate significantly.
Good to know
- This ingredient is sometimes listed under alternative names in international products.
- It is often combined with other UV filters to improve overall sun protection.
Common questions
What is Methyl Formylaminobenzoate in beauty products?
Methyl formylaminobenzoate is a man-made ingredient added to sunscreens and other products to absorb UV rays from the sun. It works like a tiny sponge that soaks up UV light and turns it into harmless heat, helping prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. You'll find it in some sunscreens, especially those designed for sensitive skin, because it's generally considered gentle and non-irritating.
What does Methyl Formylaminobenzoate do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, methyl formylaminobenzoate absorbs UVB and some UVA rays. The molecule's structure allows it to capture high-energy UV photons and release the energy as low-energy heat, preventing the radiation from penetrating deeper into the skin and causing damage like sunburn or DNA mutations.
Is Methyl Formylaminobenzoate safe for most people?
Methyl formylaminobenzoate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential. However, its safety profile is based on limited long-term studies compared to more common UV filters.
Who should be careful with Methyl Formylaminobenzoate?
Anyone seeking broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection from a single filter
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.