Bis-Paba Porphyra 334: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Bis-Paba Porphyra 334?

Bis-Paba Porphyra 334 is a lab-made ingredient created by combining para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) with Porphyra 334, a natural molecule originally found in red algae. The result is a small peptide-like compound that brings together the sun-protective traits of both building blocks. Scientists first noticed Porphyra 334 in seaweed during the 1980s while searching for natural ways marine plants defend themselves from intense sunlight. By coupling it with PABA, chemists developed a stable synthetic version that works well in modern skincare formulas.

Production starts with purified PABA and Porphyra 334 isolated through fermentation. Under carefully controlled conditions they react, forming a new molecule that is then filtered, purified and dried into a fine powder. This powder dissolves easily into water-based or lightweight oil-in-water emulsions, making it an easy add-in for cosmetic chemists.

You will most often see Bis-Paba Porphyra 334 in daily moisturizers with SPF, lightweight facial sunscreens, anti-aging serums, after-sun gels, brightening masks and leave-on treatments aimed at protecting skin from environmental stress.

Bis-Paba Porphyra 334’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasker offers several perks when blended into skincare.

  • Antioxidant – helps neutralize free radicals triggered by UV light and pollution, reducing the look of premature lines and dullness
  • Light Stabilizer – boosts the staying power of other sensitive ingredients, so a formula keeps its promised potency throughout the day
  • UV Filter – absorbs a portion of UVA and UVB rays, adding an extra layer of sun defense that supports the main sunscreen actives

Who Can Use Bis-Paba Porphyra 334

Because it is lightweight and water soluble, Bis-Paba Porphyra 334 suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it as well thanks to its low use levels, though anyone with a known allergy to classic PABA should proceed with caution since this derivative still carries similar aromatic rings that could trigger a rare reaction.

The ingredient is made through laboratory synthesis using plant derived fermentation media so it contains no animal by-products. That makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.

No data indicate that Bis-Paba Porphyra 334 penetrates deeply or enters the bloodstream at meaningful levels, so products containing it are not automatically off limits for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and individuals in these groups should consult their physician before adding any new cosmetic.

Rather than causing photosensitivity, Bis-Paba Porphyra 334 actually helps defend against UV stress. It does not make skin more prone to sunburn so daytime use is perfectly acceptable when combined with broad spectrum sunscreen filters.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Bis-Paba Porphyra 334 differ from one person to the next. The issues listed below are possible yet unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is included at customary cosmetic levels.

  • Mild stinging or warmth on very reactive skin during the first minutes after application
  • Transient redness especially on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals who are allergic to PABA derivatives
  • Eye irritation if the product migrates into the ocular area
  • Interaction with certain chemical sunscreens that could alter texture if a formula is not well balanced

If any discomfort, swelling or persistent rash occurs stop use immediately and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Bis-Paba Porphyra 334 is a small water-soluble molecule that does not leave an oily residue or form an occlusive film on the skin, so it is very unlikely to clog pores. It is typically used at low percentages, further reducing any chance of buildup inside follicles.

Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

Because it dissolves readily in water and is often paired with lightweight emulsifiers, it does not change the pore-clogging profile of most formulas it appears in.

Summary

Bis-Paba Porphyra 334 works as an antioxidant, a light stabilizer and a mild UV filter. It absorbs portions of UVA and UVB rays, scavenges free radicals generated by sunlight or pollution, and helps keep delicate actives from degrading so a product remains effective longer.

While not as famous as ingredients like vitamin C or zinc oxide, it is gaining quiet traction in next-generation sunscreens and daily moisturizers that tout added photoprotection without heavy textures.

Current research and consumer feedback suggest it is safe for most skin types with only rare irritation reports, though anyone sensitive to PABA derivatives should stay alert. As with any new cosmetic, patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with it.

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