Phenylbenzimidazoles sulfonic acid (inci)

Phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid (molecular formula: C13H10N2O3S) is a substance used in cosmetic formulations. It acts as a chemical UV filter (filters certain UV rays from sunlight). The sunscreen index as triethanolamine salt is 8.2 (e.g. potassium, sodium phenylbenzimidazole sulfonate -INCI designation).

According to the EC Cosmetics Regulation No. 1223/2009, which has been bindingly valid for the European Union since July 2013, UV filters are substances that are exclusively or predominantly intended to protect the skin from a certain UV radiation by absorption, reflection or scattering. Annex VI of the EC Cosmetics Regulation No. 1223/2009, is a set of rules that determines the applicability of sunscreens. The regulation specifies which substances may be used as UV filters in cosmetic products. It also defines the maximum concentrations of UV filters in cosmetic products. Before being approved, UV filters are specifically tested for their toxicological safety and subjected to careful testing.

According to the German Cosmetic Decree, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid is permitted up to a maximum concentration of 8 % (calculated as acid).

Cosmetics manufacturers must prove the health safety of UV filter substances in scientific studies. The list will be adapted to the latest scientific findings.