Octinoxate
ok-TIN-ox-ate
What Is Octinoxate?
A common organic UV filter used in both sunscreens and hair care products. It absorbs UV-B radiation but has come under scrutiny for potential endocrine disruption and environmental impact.
Source: Synthetic organic compound
Origin: Synthetic
Also known as: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, OMC, Octyl Methoxycinnamate
What Does Octinoxate Do to Your Hair?
Absorbs UV-B radiation to protect hair from sun-induced damage and color fading. Helps prevent photooxidation of hair proteins and melanin, reducing sun-related dryness and color loss.
Best For
Color-treated hair, sun-exposed hair, highlighted hair
Not Recommended For
Sensitive scalp, those avoiding endocrine disruptors
Concentration Matters
1-5% in hair products
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Concerns about endocrine disruption (estrogenic activity in lab studies) and coral reef toxicity have led Hawaii and Palau to ban it in sunscreens. Hair product concentrations are lower but the concerns remain.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA permits use in cosmetics up to 7.5%. Banned in sunscreens in Hawaii and Palau due to coral reef toxicity.
EWG Score: 6/10
HairAide Verdict
An effective UV filter with legitimate environmental and health concerns. Consider Polysilicone-15 as a hair-specific UV alternative that avoids the endocrine disruption and reef toxicity issues.
Products That Contain Octinoxate
UV-protect sprays, color-protect products, leave-in treatments
Alternatives to Octinoxate
If you want to avoid Octinoxate, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Polysilicone-15, Benzophenone-4, Zinc Oxide
Frequently Asked Questions
Octinoxate has a safety rating of 5/10. It's generally acceptable but may cause issues for some hair types. Concerns about endocrine disruption (estrogenic activity in lab studies) and coral reef toxicity have led Hawaii and Palau to ban it in sunscreens. Hair product concentrations are lower but the concerns remain.
Octinoxate is not CG-method approved. Curly hair types may want to avoid this ingredient or use products containing it sparingly.
No, Octinoxate is not approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Octinoxate include: Polysilicone-15, Benzophenone-4, Zinc Oxide
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