Sunscreen's ability to protect skin from harmful ultraviolet rays is due to the presence of ultraviolet filter chemicals (UVFCs), organic compounds ranging from 5 to 20 percent concentrations in sunscreen products. UVFCs are expected to withstand the absorption of sunlight and thus be photostable. One commonly used UVFC is octyl dimethyl para-aminobenzoic acid (OD-PABA, padimate-O).  However, OD-PABA has been shown to be susceptible to direct photolysis, forming several degradation products. Prior research on OD-PABA's degradation using liquid chromatography�mass spectrometry has revealed demethylated products, a methylated product, and some evidence of PABA formation. In this study, PABA and other photolysis products have been isolated and characterized, and current studies are focused on testing the toxicity of OD-PABA and the products in human cells. Understanding the environmental fate and toxicity of UVFCs and their degradation products will lead to more informed decisions about their use and regulation in personal care products.

Investigating the toxicity of the ultraviolet filter chemical octyl dimethyl para-aminobenzoic acid and its photochemical degradation products

243rd National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.