Formula C24H27NO2 Melting point 14 °C Density 1.05 g/cm³ | Molar mass 361.48 g/mol Boiling point 218 °C | |
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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, 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. The only evidence gathered to date of a relationship between sunscreen use and malignant melanoma is correlational, but has not established a causal relationship.