cinoxate

Cinoxate is a synthetic organic compound classified as an ester, specifically formed from methoxycinnamic acid and 2-ethoxyethanol. It appears as a slightly yellow viscous liquid that is insoluble in water but miscible with alcohols, esters, and vegetable oils[7][8]. Cinoxate functions primarily as a sunscreen agent by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation—especially in the UVB range (280–320 nm)—thereby protecting skin cells from sunburn, photoaging, and DNA damage that can lead to skin cancer[1][6][8]. It was first approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1961 for use as an active ingredient in over-the-counter sunscreen products at concentrations up to 3%[1][5][7]. Although effective at absorbing UV rays and reducing risks associated with sun exposure, its use has declined over time and it is now rarely found in modern cosmetic formulations[7][8]. There are also reports of potential photoallergic contact dermatitis associated with its use[5].

Other names

2-ethoxyethyl-p-methoxycinnamatecinoxatocinoxatum