What Is Homosalate?
Homosalate is an organic compound formally known as benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexyl ester. It belongs to a family of ingredients called salicylates, which are valued for their ability to soak up ultraviolet (UV) rays. The raw materials that form homosalate include salicylic acid and a trimethylcyclohexanol derivative. Chemists combine these two parts through a process called esterification, creating a clear, oil-soluble liquid that blends easily into cosmetic formulas.
The ingredient first appeared in sunscreens during the 1940s when researchers were looking for better ways to shield skin from sunburn. Over time its use spread to everyday care items because it fits well with many textures and holds up under sunlight. Today manufacturers include homosalate in lotions, sprays and sticks that focus on daily sun protection. It can also show up in lip balms, tinted moisturizers and some scented body products where a light UV shield is helpful.
Homosalate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Below are the key roles homosalate can play in a cosmetic formula
- Fragrance: Homosalate has a faintly sweet smell that can soften or round out the scent profile of a product, letting brands use fewer added perfumes
- UV absorber: It soaks up mainly UVB rays, turning them into a small amount of heat before they reach the skin, which helps reduce the risk of sunburn
- UV filter: By filtering part of the sun’s energy, it supports other sunscreen agents and contributes to the stated SPF, giving more balanced protection when teamed with filters that target UVA rays
Who Can Use Homosalate
Homosalate is generally suited to normal, combination and oily skin since it feels lightweight and does not leave a heavy film. Dry skin can also tolerate it but may prefer formulas that pair the filter with richer emollients. Very sensitive or allergy-prone skin might react to the salicylate backbone or the faint fragrance, so extra caution is advised for those groups.
The ingredient is made synthetically from petrochemical feedstocks and involves no animal-derived materials, so it is compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. As always cruelty policies depend on the finished brand rather than the raw ingredient itself.
Current cosmetic regulations allow pregnant and breastfeeding women to use sunscreens containing homosalate up to set concentration limits. There is no firm evidence that topical use harms mother or baby, yet individual situations differ. This is not medical advice and expecting or nursing mothers should show any product they plan to use to their doctor just to be safe.
Homosalate does not make skin extra sensitive to sunlight. In fact it does the opposite by absorbing UVB rays, although like all sunscreens it needs regular reapplication for ongoing coverage. One point worth noting is that environmental agencies are reviewing homosalate for its possible impact on aquatic life so people who swim in natural waters may want to follow local guidance.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical homosalate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is used at permitted levels in a well-formulated product.
- Skin irritation or redness
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to salicylates
- Eye stinging if the product washes into the eyes
- Breakouts in individuals with very oily or acne prone skin
- Possible endocrine interaction observed in some laboratory studies though real-world significance remains debated
- Reduced UV protection if the filter breaks down in strong sun and is not reapplied
If you notice any of the above while using homosalate or a product containing it stop use and seek medical advice
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Homosalate is an oil-soluble liquid yet it is used at low levels and does not stay on the skin as a thick film, so it has little tendency to block pores. Formulas that contain many heavy waxes or butters alongside it could still feel greasy, but the molecule itself is not a strong pore-clogger.
Straightforward answer for acne-prone users: most should have no problem with homosalate although the overall product texture still matters.
Because it is usually combined with lighter emollients in modern sunscreens homosalate is rarely singled out in breakout reports, which supports its low rating.
Summary
Homosalate works as a mild fragrance note and, more importantly, as a UVB absorber and filter. It pulls in the sun’s high-energy rays and converts them to a harmless trace of heat, helping products reach their advertised SPF and teaming up with UVA filters for balanced protection.
It enjoys steady use in mainstream sunscreens but is less talked about than newer broad-spectrum filters. Regulatory reviews and the push for reef-friendly formulas have nudged some brands to explore alternatives, yet many popular lotions, sprays and makeup-with-SPF still rely on homosalate because it blends easily, feels light and keeps costs down.
When used at allowed levels it is considered safe for the general public with irritation or hormone concerns remaining unlikely in real-world use. As with any skincare ingredient a quick patch test with the finished product is a smart extra step for peace of mind.