Octocrylene
IUPAC name	2-ethylhexyl 2-cyano-3,3- diphenyl-2-propenoate
Identifiers
CAS number	6197-30-4 Y
SMILES	O=C(OCC(CC)CCCC)\C(C#N)=C (C2=CC=CC=C2)/C1=CC=CC=C1
Properties
Molecular formula	C24H27NO2
Molar mass	361.48 g/mol
Density	1.05 g/cm3
Melting point	14 °C
Boiling point	218 °C at 1.5 mmHg
Y (what is this?)  (verify) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa)
Infobox references

Octocrylene is an organic compound used as an ingredient in sunscreens and cosmetics. It is an ester formed by the condensation of a diphenylcyanoacrylate with 2-ethylhexanol. It is a viscous, oily liquid that is clear and colorless.

The extended conjugation of the acrylate portion of the molecule absorbs UVB and short-wave UVA (ultraviolet) rays with wavelengths from 280 to 320 nm^[1], protecting the skin from direct DNA damage. The ethylhexanol portion is a fatty alcohol, adding emollient and oil-like (water resistant) properties.

This organic compound can penetrate into the skin where it acts as a photosensitizer. This results in an increased production of free radicals under illumination.^[2] Free radicals are known to induce indirect DNA damage and an increased concentration of free radicals might have contributed to the increased incidence of malignant melanoma in sunscreen-users compared to non-users (see Epidemiology of malignant melanoma)

[edit] See also

• Sunscreen controversy

[edit] References