Information on Tinosorb S Sunscreen Ingredient: Properties, Cost, and Alternatives

Asked by: korea-kon On: December 06, 2014 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Could you please provide detailed information about Tinosorb S (Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine)? I would like to know about its effectiveness in sunscreen formulations, its stability, cost compared to other UV filters like Zinc Oxide, and why it is not commonly used by many global cosmetic brands. Are there any alternative ingredients or blends, such as SPF Protect Ultra™, that can offer similar broad-spectrum protection and texture benefits?

Answer

Information about Tinosorb S

Tinosorb S (Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine) is indeed a highly effective and stable broad-spectrum sunscreen ingredient that provides protection across both UVA and UVB ranges. It is also known for its ability to help stabilize other UV filters, such as Avobenzone, enhancing the overall performance of sunscreen formulations.

However, Tinosorb S is a high-cost ingredient. Furthermore, it has not yet received approval for use in sunscreen products sold in the United States, despite being submitted for approval years ago. This regulatory status in a major market like the US leads many global cosmetic brands to avoid using it in their formulations, as it restricts their ability to sell the same product worldwide.

While we do not currently stock Tinosorb S due to these factors, similar broad-spectrum protection and stability can be achieved by combining other effective sunscreen agents. For instance, using a combination of physical sunscreens like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide can provide comprehensive UVA/UVB coverage. Although physical sunscreens can sometimes affect product texture (e.g., leave a white cast), formulators often mitigate this by using treated or micronized versions or combining them with other ingredients.

Alternatively, we offer blended sunscreen products that provide high efficiency, broad-spectrum protection, and good texture, comparable to the benefits of Tinosorb S. Examples include:

  • SPF Protect Ultra™ II: Offers high SPF/PA with a light texture, suitable for developing high-efficiency sunscreen formulas without alcohol.
  • SPF Protect Ultra™ III (UVA+UVB): Provides high SPF values and full protection from both UVB and UVA ranges, easily incorporated into formulas with a non-sticky feel.

These blended options allow formulators to achieve excellent sun protection performance and desirable product characteristics without the high cost and regulatory limitations associated with Tinosorb S.