PUBLISHED STUDY: Dermatological and environmental toxicological impact of the sunscreen ingredient oxybenzone/benzophenone-3
CONCLUSION: “Based on the data reviewed, oxybenzone can be found globally in water, soil, sediments, sludge, and biota as well as in human urine, serum, and breast milk. As a sunscreen active, it is not as effective at protecting against UVA exposure as avobenzone, titanium dioxide, and/or zinc oxide. In humans, the chemical has been linked to Hirschsprung’s disease is a confirmed contact allergen and photocontact allergen with some potential to induce contact urticaria and, to a lesser degree, contact-mediated anaphylaxis. Environmentally, oxybenzone inhibits reproduction of coral and fish via embryo toxicity and/or causing male fish to be feminized, coral bleaching, and/or death. In summary, the potential negative health and environmental effects caused by the accumulation of this and other chemicals in the ecosystem needs to be taken into consideration by industry and regulatory agencies prior to the development and release of new and effective personal care products.”
