Avobenzone vs Dextrose: which is worse?

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.

What is Dextrose?

Dextrose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) derived from corn starch hydrolysis. It is chemically identical to glucose and is the primary energy source for human cells. In food manufacturing, dextrose is used as a sweetener, fermentation substrate, and browning agent. It has a glycemic index of approximately 100.

Documented risks

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.

Dextrose: Dextrose has a GI of 100 (the standard reference), causing rapid blood glucose elevation. Excessive consumption contributes to caloric overload, dental caries, and metabolic syndrome risk. However, as a single ingredient it is no more concerning than other simple sugars. The health risks of dextrose are those of added sugar generally, which the American Heart Association and WHO link to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease when consumed in excess.