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Quick answer: Oxybenzone carries the heavier risk profile. Ensulizole is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US; Oxybenzone is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Ensulizole | Oxybenzone |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Allowed | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | low | high |
| Banned in | — | — |
| Restricted in | — | European Union |
| Category | uv filter | uv filter |
| Where it hides | Clinique City Block Purifying Charcoal Detox Moisturizer SPF 25, L'Oreal Paris UV Perfect Sunscreen, Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 30 | sunscreen, SPF makeup, lip balm |
Ensulizole (INCI: Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid) is a water-soluble UVB-absorbing chemical sunscreen active. Because it is water-based, it provides a lighter, less oily feel compared to oil-soluble UV filters.
Oxybenzone is an organic UV filter (benzophenone-3).
Ensulizole: Ensulizole is approved by the FDA at up to 4% and in the EU at up to 8%. It is water-soluble and less likely to cause sensitivity reactions than oil-soluble filters. Minimal systemic absorption is documented. No established carcinogenicity or endocrine disruption. As with other UV filters, phototoxicity and photocontact dermatitis are very rare possibilities.
Oxybenzone: An endocrine disruptor that is also banned in some reef regions. The EU restricts its concentration; it remains widely used in the US.
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