Ingredient glossary
Avobenzone
INCI: Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane · Also: BMBM
A UV filter. What matters is how the finished sunscreen feels and whether it covers the full spectrum, not this one name on the label.
What it does
- uva1 protection
strong evidencePhotostability studies show avobenzone alone degrades significantly under UV but remains stable when combined with filters like Tinosorb S or octocrylene.
On a label: usually effective at 2-3%.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- all
Approach with care
- very sensitive
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskModerate
Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plays well with
- tinosorb s
- octocrylene
- mineral filters
This, for every label you own
One ingredient is easy. A full label is where it gets confusing. The Ingredient Decoder reads any product and tells you the honest truth, ingredient by ingredient.
Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.