Ingredient review
Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate
INCI: SODIUM BENZOTRIAZOLYL BUTYLPHENOL SULFONATE
A modern, photostable sunscreen ingredient that offers reliable broad-spectrum protection without the white cast of older mineral filters.
In plain English
This is a synthetic sunscreen ingredient that works like a sponge to soak up UV rays before they can damage your skin. It's designed to be very stable in sunlight, so it doesn't break down quickly, and it's water-resistant. Unlike some mineral sunscreens that leave a white layer, this one is nearly invisible on the skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is relatively strong for its common cosmetic role.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- strong
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate 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 Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate.
- 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
strongThere is a stronger practical or research basis for the ingredient role described here.
What it is
A synthetic organic compound that absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light. It belongs to the benzotriazole family of UV filters and is often used in modern sunscreens for its high photostability and broad-spectrum coverage.
How it works
When applied to the skin, it absorbs UV radiation (both UVA and UVB) and converts it into harmless heat, preventing it from penetrating deeper into the skin and causing sunburn, premature aging, or DNA damage.
Pros
Excellent photostability
Unlike some chemical filters that break down quickly in sunlight, this ingredient remains effective for longer, meaning your sunscreen stays protective.
No white cast
It dissolves clearly into the skin, making it a great choice for daily wear and for people with medium to dark skin tones who want to avoid a chalky look.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is a lab-created chemical, which may be a turn-off for those seeking natural or mineral-only skincare routines.
Regulatory limitations
This filter is not yet approved by the FDA for use in sunscreens sold in the United States, so it's mainly found in European and Asian products.
Best for
- Anyone looking for reliable, broad-spectrum sun protection
- People with darker skin tones who dislike white casts from mineral sunscreens
Use caution if
- Those who prefer 100% mineral or natural sunscreen formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Extensively tested and considered safe for use in cosmetics by the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS). It has low irritation and allergy potential. However, as with any sunscreen ingredient, patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Research notes
Multiple studies confirm its high photostability and broad-spectrum efficacy. It is one of the most well-researched modern UV filters, with a strong safety profile in human use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 10% (as per EU regulations)
- Regulatory status
- Approved in the EU and many other countries at concentrations up to 10%. Not yet approved by the FDA in the United States, so it is not found in US sunscreens.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Moisturizers with SPF, Daily anti-aging products
- Environmental note
- Studies suggest it has low potential for bioaccumulation and is less likely to harm coral reefs compared to some older filters like oxybenzone, but more research is ongoing.
Good to know
- Often combined with other UV filters like Tinosorb M or Uvinul A Plus for even broader protection.
- It is considered a 'next-generation' sunscreen ingredient because of its stability and safety profile.
Common questions
What is Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate in beauty products?
This is a synthetic sunscreen ingredient that works like a sponge to soak up UV rays before they can damage your skin. It's designed to be very stable in sunlight, so it doesn't break down quickly, and it's water-resistant. Unlike some mineral sunscreens that leave a white layer, this one is nearly invisible on the skin.
What does Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, it absorbs UV radiation (both UVA and UVB) and converts it into harmless heat, preventing it from penetrating deeper into the skin and causing sunburn, premature aging, or DNA damage.
Is Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate safe for most people?
Extensively tested and considered safe for use in cosmetics by the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS). It has low irritation and allergy potential. However, as with any sunscreen ingredient, patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate?
Those who prefer 100% mineral or natural sunscreen formulations
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.