Benzophenone-3 (BP-3) CAS 131-57-7

What Benzophenone-3 Is

Benzophenone-3 (C₁₄H₁₂O₃), known as oxybenzone, is a benzophenone type UV absorber sold as a pale yellow crystalline powder. Practically insoluble in water, it dissolves in oils and organic solvents and absorbs UVB and short wave UVA, so it goes into the oil phase. It serves as a sunscreen UV filter in personal care and a light stabilizer for polymers and coatings. UATChem supplies cosmetic and industrial grades, with assay on the COA.

Sunscreen, Cosmetic and Industrial Uses

• Sun care and daily wear. A UV filter in sunscreens, day creams and lip products that need UVB and short wave UVA coverage.
• Other personal care. Added to hair care, fragrance and color products where an oil soluble absorber protects the formula and color from light.
• Plastics, rubber and coatings. A UV absorber for polymers, rubber, synthetic fibers and coatings to slow light aging, chalking and fading.
• Regulatory note. In cosmetics it must follow destination rules; some US states and reef regions restrict or ban oxybenzone, while markets that allow it set concentration and labeling limits. Industrial polymer and coating use is outside the cosmetic restrictions.

Typical Specifications

Cosmetic and industrial grades differ in assay and particle form, reported on the COA for each lot; the table below identifies the material.

Packaging, Documents and Ordering

• Packed in aluminium foil bags, fibre drums and kraft paper bags, with FIBC jumbo bags for volume orders; keep sealed, cool, dry and away from light.
• Cosmetic (sunscreen) and industrial grades are available, and every lot ships with COA, TDS and SDS; cosmetic buyers should confirm current UV filter status, concentration and labeling rules in the destination market, and UATChem supports this with documentation.
• For a quote, UATChem needs the grade, quantity, packing and destination port or market.

FAQ

Q: Is benzophenone-3 the same ingredient as oxybenzone?

A: Yes. Oxybenzone is the INCI name and benzophenone-3 or BP-3 is the technical name for the same UV absorber, CAS 131-57-7.

Q: Where is benzophenone-3 restricted in sunscreen?

A: Some US states and reef regions restrict or ban oxybenzone; others allow it under labeling limits, so check destination rules.

Q: Is benzophenone-3 water soluble and how is it added?

A: It is nearly insoluble in water and oil soluble, so benzophenone-3 is added to the oil phase before emulsifying.