Contributes to a formula's overall SPF as a supporting filter
Helps stabilize other, less photostable UV filters
Well established, long standing use in sunscreen formulas
Homosalate Description
Homosalate is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that soaks up UVB rays, the type mainly responsible for sunburn, and quickly converts that energy into a tiny, harmless amount of heat before it can reach and damage living skin cells.
Research measuring how well it does this has found homosalate behaves well as a sunscreen ingredient overall, but on its own it is a fairly weak UVB absorber. Because of that, it is rarely the star ingredient in a sunscreen. Instead, it usually plays a supporting role, helping a formula reach its labeled SPF affordably and helping keep other, less stable filters from breaking down as quickly in sunlight.
Homosalate References
Insights into the Photoprotection Mechanism of the UV Filter Homosalate, Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 2020
Ultraviolet Filters for Cosmetic Applications, Cosmetics (MDPI), 2023
Our team reviews ingredient research and uses up-to-date evidence to rate ingredients based on the categories below.
Best
Ingredients with the most rigorous and convincing evidence. These are the standouts backed by consistent findings across independent, peer reviewed clinical research.. When we call an ingredient Best, it has earned that distinction through genuine, reproducible proof that it improves skin.
Good
Reliable, well tolerated ingredients that do their job without complaint. They may not carry the headline benefits of a Best rated active, but they hydrate, stabilize a formula, or support the ingredients around them in ways that make a real difference in how a product performs and feels.
Average
Ingredients that are perfectly safe and serve a clear function, typically as an emollient, thickener, or filler, but do not offer any meaningful skin benefit beyond that basic job. Not a red flag, just not a reason to choose one product over another.
Bad/Worst
Ingredients with documented potential to irritate skin, disrupt the barrier, or trigger sensitization in some users, often synthetic fragrance, drying forms of alcohol, or certain essential oils. Not automatically a dealbreaker for every skin type, but worth knowing about before you commit to a product.
