viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" width="20" height="20" aria-hidden="true"> UV Filter

BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE
Organic broad-spectrum UV filter (triazine derivative)

BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE is produced synthetically by a chemical reaction of methoxyphenyltriazine with ethylhexyloxyphenol groups. Learn everything about its origin, effect, and the best application in your daily care routine here.

CAS: 187393-00-6  |  Also known as: Bemotrizinol, Tinosorb S, BEMT, Parsol Shield
Substance Class Organic broad-spectrum UV filter (triazine derivative)
INCI Name BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE
CAS Number 187393-00-6
Quality EU Cosmetic Regulation compliant

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> What is BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE?

Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, better known as bemotrizinol or under the trade name Tinosorb S, is considered one of the most modern and powerful UV filters in the cosmetics industry. Developed by BASF as an answer to the weaknesses of older sun filters, this triazine derivative offers complete protection across the entire UV spectrum — from high-energy UVB rays to deeply penetrating UVA-I waves. What makes it special: its extreme photostability. While classic filters like avobenzone chemically decompose under sunlight, bemotrizinol remains intact for hours and even stabilizes other labile filters in the formulation. This property revolutionized sunscreen technology and for the first time enabled truly long-lasting broad-spectrum products with high sun protection factors. Approved in the EU since 2000, bemotrizinol is now standard in premium sunscreen products and anti-aging formulations.

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> Where does BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE come from?

It is produced synthetically by a chemical reaction of methoxyphenyltriazine with ethylhexyloxyphenol groups. Developed by BASF under the trade name Tinosorb S as a photostable successor to older UV filters. In modern cosmetics, extraction and processing are subject to strict quality standards according to the EU Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. RAU Cosmetics only sources cosmetic-grade raw materials from certified suppliers.

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> How does BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE work on a cellular level?

Absorbs UV radiation in the range of 280-400 nm (UVB and UVA) through its aromatic triazine chromophore system. The absorbed photons are converted into harmless heat energy. The two ethylhexyloxyphenol side chains give the molecule extreme photostability — it does not decompose under UV exposure and simultaneously protects other UV filters from degradation.

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> Dosage & Regulation

Typical use concentration: Up to 10% in sunscreen products according to EU regulation, typically 3-8% for high sun protection factor, 1-3% in daily defense products

How it works on your skin

Broad-Spectrum UV Protection

Absorbs both high-energy UVB rays (280-320 nm, which cause sunburn) and long-wave UVA rays (320-400 nm, which penetrate deep into the dermis). Unlike many older filters that only cover one spectrum, bemotrizinol offers complete protection across the entire UV range — particularly strong in the critical UVA-I range (340-400 nm), which causes oxidative stress and DNA damage in deep skin layers.

Extreme Photostability

Maintains its protective effect even after hours of UV exposure. While classic filters like avobenzone decompose under sunlight and lose their effect, bemotrizinol remains stable. The triazine ring structure with its bulky ethylhexyloxyphenol groups prevents photochemical decomposition reactions — the molecule can release the absorbed energy as heat without structural change.

Prevention of Photoaging

Protects collagen and elastic fibers from UV-induced degradation. UVA radiation activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes that break down collagen. By blocking UVA photons, bemotrizinol prevents this enzymatic cascade and preserves the structural integrity of the skin. Studies show that consistent broad-spectrum protection can delay skin aging by years.

Synergistic Filter Stabilizer

Stabilizes photolabile UV filters in the formulation. Avobenzone (butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane) is a widely used UVA filter that decomposes rapidly under UV light. Bemotrizinol acts as a photochemical shield: it absorbs the destructive photons before they reach the avobenzone, thus extending its duration of action many times over. This synergy enables higher, long-lasting sun protection factors.

Oil-Soluble and Elegant

Dissolves well in cosmetic oils and emollients, leading to smooth, non-sticky textures. Unlike mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide), bemotrizinol leaves no white film and feels light on the skin. This oil solubility also allows for higher concentrations without cosmetic disadvantages — essential for products with SPF 50+.

Who is it for?

Sensitive skin

Provides broad-spectrum protection without known photosensitizing properties and is considered well tolerated even for reactive skin.

Skin prone to pigmentation

Effectively protects against UVA radiation, the main cause of hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Mature skin

Prevents photo-induced skin aging through comprehensive protection against both UV spectra.

Skin prone to rosacea

Minimizes UV-triggered inflammatory reactions that can trigger rosacea flare-ups.

In your routine

Morning UV protection

Apply as the last step of the morning routine — approx. 2 mg/cm² (about 1/4 teaspoon for the face). Allow to absorb for 15 minutes before sun contact so that the filter can be evenly distributed.

Renew every 2 hours

Despite photostability, mechanical abrasion (sweating, wiping) will reduce the protective layer. For longer periods outdoors, reapply every 2 hours, and immediately after swimming.

Under makeup

Can serve as a UV primer — absorbs quickly without pilling. Wait 5 minutes, then apply foundation. Many BB creams and tinted day care products contain bemotrizinol for elegant all-in-one protection.

Use all year round

UVA radiation penetrates clouds and window glass — present even in winter or when the sky is overcast. Apply daily, not just during summer vacation.

Storage: Extremely photostable — does not decompose under UV exposure. Heat-stable up to 80°C. Oil-soluble, therefore only incorporable into aqueous phases by means of emulsification. Can be stored in closed containers at room temperature for several years without loss of effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is bemotrizinol more photostable than older UV filters like avobenzone?

The molecular architecture makes the difference: bemotrizinol has a rigid triazine ring system with two bulky ethylhexyloxyphenol arms that act like a protective cage. When UV photons are absorbed, the energy is released as molecular vibration (heat) without the chemical structure breaking. Avobenzone, on the other hand, has an unstable diketone system that tautomerizes under UV light and decomposes irreversibly — even after 30 minutes of sun, 50% of the active ingredient can be broken down. Bemotrizinol remains intact for hours.

Can I combine bemotrizinol with vitamin C or retinol?

Yes, even highly recommended. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and retinol work antioxidatively or cell-renewing, respectively, but can be oxidized by UV light. Bemotrizinol protects these sensitive active ingredients from photochemical degradation. Ideal: Vitamin C + bemotrizinol sunscreen in the morning, retinol in the evening. Some modern formulations already combine stabilized vitamin C with bemotrizinol in a day care product for maximum cell protection.

Is bemotrizinol reef-friendly and environmentally compatible?

Bemotrizinol is considered significantly less ecotoxic than problematic filters such as oxybenzone or octinoxate, which cause coral bleaching. It is oil-soluble (not water-soluble), accumulates less in seawater, and shows low aquatic toxicity in studies. Nevertheless, the data situation for long-term marine ecosystem effects is still limited. If you want to be on the safe side, use purely mineral filters (non-nano zinc oxide), but often accept cosmetic compromises (white film).

Why is bemotrizinol often listed together with avobenzone in the INCI list?

Synergism and cost efficiency. Avobenzone is an excellent UVA filter, but photolabile. Bemotrizinol is photostable and protects avobenzone from decomposition. Together they achieve higher UVA protection values with lower total filter concentrations than either filter alone. Additionally, avobenzone is often cheaper — the combination optimizes costs while simultaneously improving performance. Modern sunscreen formulations almost always use such intelligent filter cocktails.

At what age should you start using products with bemotrizinol?

UV protection is important from infancy (from 6 months), but products containing bemotrizinol are typically formulated for adults and older children (from 3 years). For babies, dermatologists recommend mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) as these act purely physically and do not penetrate the skin. From the teenage years, modern organic filters like bemotrizinol are ideal — they offer superior protection with an elegant texture, which increases compliance. Important: the earlier consistent UV protection begins, the lower the lifelong risk of skin cancer.

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