Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid

Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid is often used as a common active ingredient in all sunscreen products. Back in the year 1999, the Food and Drug Administration, in the United States, made it mandatory for all manufacturers of cosmetic products to use the name Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid on their product labels, if used as an active ingredients. It is also known as Ensulizole.

It is very effective when it comes to protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UVB rays. In case of UVA protection, it should be kept in mind that the compound does not function efficiently as a shield.

To make sure that Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid has the capability to protect an individual from both the UVA and UVB rays of the sun, it needs to be paired with titanium dioxide, avobenzone or a similar compound like zinc oxide.

If one takes a closer look, outside of the United States, manufacturers often pair Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid with compounds like Mexoryl or Tinosorb for better results. Ensulizole is soluble in water which means that cosmetic products that have the compound as an active ingredient feel light on the skin, post application. When used in the manufacturing of lotions, sunscreens and moisturizers, it is often seen that patrons prefer products containing Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid due to its non-greasy and light finish.

It should be kept in mind that there are limited studies in the area of Research & Development that shed some light on the overall efficacy of Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid as an active ingredient for cosmetics. Selective, independent studies carried out by researchers have revealed time and again that when exposed to direct sunlight, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic acid does not degrade readily. In short, it is one of the best protective compounds for human skin against UV radiation.