Allulose vs Avobenzone: which is worse?

What is Allulose?

Allulose (D-psicose) is a rare sugar monosaccharide naturally present in trace amounts in wheat, figs, raisins, and jackfruit. It has about 70% of sucrose's sweetness but provides only 0.4 kcal/g (about 10% of sucrose's calories) because it is absorbed but not metabolized. The FDA exempted allulose from the 'total sugars' declaration in 2019.

What is Avobenzone?

Avobenzone (INCI: Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane) is a chemical UV filter that is the only FDA-approved broad-spectrum UVA-absorbing active sunscreen ingredient in the US that covers the full UVA spectrum (320–400 nm). It is inherently photounstable and must be combined with photostabilizers.

Documented risks

Allulose: Generally considered safe with a favorable glycemic profile. Human studies show that allulose does not raise blood glucose or insulin. GI effects (bloating, abdominal cramping, diarrhea) have been reported in dose-response studies above 0.4 g/kg body weight; a 2016 study in the journal Food & Chemical Toxicology established a no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) in humans. Compared to erythritol, no cardiovascular concerns have been raised in the literature.

Avobenzone: Avobenzone is effective and considered safe at approved concentrations (up to 3% in US OTC sunscreens). A 2019 FDA study found that several sunscreen actives including avobenzone were systemically absorbed above the 0.5 ng/mL threshold after repeated use, triggering a call for additional safety data. This does not indicate harm, but the FDA requested more studies under its proposed sunscreen monograph. Current evidence supports its continued safe use. No clear endocrine disruption or carcinogenicity at human exposure levels is established.