Ingredient review
Methyl Methylpentylidene-Aminobenzoate
INCI: Methyl Methylpentylidene-Aminobenzoate
A synthetic UVB filter that helps protect skin from sunburn, but it's less common in modern sunscreens due to newer alternatives.
In plain English
This is a man-made ingredient that works like a tiny umbrella for your skin. It absorbs UVB rays (the kind that cause sunburn) and turns them into harmless heat. You'll find it in some sunscreens and SPF products, though it's not as popular today because newer filters offer broader protection and feel lighter on the skin.
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 Methylpentylidene-Aminobenzoate 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 Methylpentylidene-Aminobenzoate.
- 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 specifically designed to absorb ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. It belongs to the aminobenzoate family of UV filters, which have been used in sunscreens for decades.
How it works
When applied to the skin, the molecule absorbs UVB photons and converts them into lower-energy heat, preventing the radiation from penetrating deeper into the skin and causing damage like sunburn or DNA harm.
Pros
Effective UVB blocker
Absorbs UVB rays efficiently, helping prevent sunburn and short-term skin damage.
Stable in formulations
Works well with other sunscreen ingredients and maintains its protective ability over time.
Cons and cautions
No UVA protection
Leaves skin vulnerable to UVA rays, which cause premature aging and deeper skin damage, so it must be paired with other filters.
Less common today
Newer UV filters offer broader spectrum protection and better cosmetic elegance, making this ingredient less popular in modern sunscreens.
Best for
- People looking for a basic UVB filter in a sunscreen formula
- Those who tolerate synthetic sunscreens well and want affordable sun protection
Use caution if
- Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin who may prefer mineral-based UV filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical use at approved concentrations. Mild irritation is possible but rare. It does not provide UVA protection, so it should always be combined with other filters.
Research notes
Moderate evidence supports its effectiveness as a UVB filter. Few recent studies focus specifically on this ingredient, as newer filters have become more common in research and product development.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use as a UV filter in sunscreens in many countries, including the EU and Asia, but less commonly used in the US due to FDA review status.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Daily moisturizers with SPF, Makeup with sun protection
- Environmental note
- Some synthetic UV filters have raised concerns about coral reef safety, but specific data on this ingredient is limited. Check local regulations if you are near marine environments.
Good to know
- This ingredient is sometimes listed under different trade names on labels, so check the INCI list carefully.
- It is not a mineral sunscreen ingredient, so it won't leave a white cast like zinc oxide.
Common questions
What is Methyl Methylpentylidene-Aminobenzoate in beauty products?
This is a man-made ingredient that works like a tiny umbrella for your skin. It absorbs UVB rays (the kind that cause sunburn) and turns them into harmless heat. You'll find it in some sunscreens and SPF products, though it's not as popular today because newer filters offer broader protection and feel lighter on the skin.
What does Methyl Methylpentylidene-Aminobenzoate do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, the molecule absorbs UVB photons and converts them into lower-energy heat, preventing the radiation from penetrating deeper into the skin and causing damage like sunburn or DNA harm.
Is Methyl Methylpentylidene-Aminobenzoate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical use at approved concentrations. Mild irritation is possible but rare. It does not provide UVA protection, so it should always be combined with other filters.
Who should be careful with Methyl Methylpentylidene-Aminobenzoate?
Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin who may prefer mineral-based UV filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
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.