Octocrylene

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Cat Number

API6197304

CAS Number

6197-30-4

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Product Detail Description Customer Q&A

CAS Number

6197-30-4

EINECS

228-250-8

Storage

Store at room temperature

Synonyms

2-Ethylhexyl 2-cyano-3,3-diphenylacrylate; 2-Propenoic acid, 2-cyano-3,3-diphenyl-, 2-ethylhexyl ester; Octocrileno; 2-ETHYLHEXYL-2-CYANO-3,3-DIPHENYLACRYLATE; Octocrilenum

Molecular Formula

C24H27NO2

Molecular Weight

361.48

Smiles

CCCCC(CC)COC(=O)C(=C(C1=CC=CC=C1)C2=CC=CC=C2)C#N

Appearance

Clear yellow viscous liquid

Melting Point

-10°C

Relative Density

1.051

General Description

Octocrylene is an organic UV filter belonging to the cinnamate family, specifically 2-ethylhexyl 2-cyano-3,3-diphenylacrylate. The molecule contains a cyano group and two phenyl rings, which provide photostability and broad UVB absorption with some UVA protection. It is a viscous, lipophilic liquid that is chemically inert and does not easily penetrate the skin, making it a common ingredient in sunscreen formulations.

Mechanism of Action

Octocrylene absorbs ultraviolet radiation primarily in the UVB range (280–320 nm) through the conjugated double bond system of the acrylate structure. Upon UV absorption, the molecule undergoes reversible trans-cis isomerization, dissipating the energy as heat without decomposing. This photostability allows it to stabilize other UV filters, such as avobenzone, by quenching their excited states and preventing photodegradation.

Application

Octocrylene is used as a topical sunscreen agent to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of UV-induced skin damage, photoaging, and skin cancer. It is often combined with other UV filters (e.g., avobenzone, octinoxate, oxybenzone) to achieve broad-spectrum protection. The compound has low systemic absorption and is considered safe, though it has been implicated in rare cases of contact dermatitis and photoallergy.

Does Octocrylene require protection from light and heat during storage?

Yes, as a UV filter, it is inherently light-absorbing but can degrade under extreme UV exposure or high heat. Store in light-resistant, tightly sealed containers at controlled room temperature (15-25°C).

Is Octocrylene stable in sunscreen formulations with other UV filters?

Yes, it is often used to stabilize avobenzone. However, avoid combination with strong oxidizing agents.

What packaging is recommended for long-term storage of Octocrylene?

Use amber glass or aluminum containers, filled to minimize headspace. Avoid metal containers that may catalyze degradation, and store away from direct sunlight.

How is the impurity octocrylene dimer (from photopolymerization) monitored?

This degradation product is quantified using a validated HPLC method with UV detection, ensuring it remains within cosmetic/pharmaceutical specifications.