Outdated and Outlawed: Why Traditional UV Filters Are No Longer Enough
For decades, traditional UV filters like Avobenzone (Wksorb980), Octocrylene, Homosalate, and Benzophenone have been widely used in sunscreens. hile effective at the time, scientific research has revealed several serious drawbacks:
Key Limitations:
- Photoinstability: Many degrade under sunlight, losing effectiveness over time and requiring stabilizers or reapplication.
- Skin Absorption: Small molecular sizes enable them to penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, triggering health and safety concerns.
- Endocrine Disruption: Some filters are linked to hormonal interference and potential reproductive health effects.
- Environmental Impact: They can harm marine life and coral reefs. Regions like Hawaii, Palau, and Thailand have banned filters such as:
- Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone)
- EHMC (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate)
- 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor (4MBC)
- Butylparaben
Werlchem offers a robust line of next-generation UV filters that provide broad-spectrum protection, improved safety, enhanced photostability, and formulation flexibility.
Wksorb550 (Bemotrizinol)
INCI: Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
CAS: 187393-00-6
Unique Properties:
- Dual UV absorption peaks at 310nm and 340nm, covering both UVA and UVB.
- Extremely photostable: retains structure and efficacy under prolonged sun exposure.
- Fat-soluble with a large molecular structure, minimizing skin absorption.
- Ideal for long-wear sunscreens, waterproof products, and formulations requiring high SPF.
- Works synergistically with other filters to boost SPF value.
- Non-estrogenic, making it suitable for sensitive groups.
- Stable in diverse pH environments and in combination with other actives.
INCI: Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
CAS: 302776-68-7
Unique Properties:
- Absorbs UVA rays effectively (peak ~354nm), with high photochemical stability.
- Minimal interaction with other ingredients, especially metal oxides like ZnO and TiO2.
- Excellent Avobenzone replacement for day creams, sunscreens, BB creams, and tinted moisturizers.
- Compatible with sprays, lotions, and creams.
- Enhances the performance of UVB filters.
- Prevents premature aging and photo-induced oxidative stress.
- Non-irritating and lightweight on skin, perfect for daily wear.
- Highest known UVB absorbance per unit weight on the market.
- Peak absorbance at ~314nm; photostable and water-resistant.
- High molecular weight, ensuring low dermal penetration.
- High-SPF sunscreens, water sports formulas, acne-friendly and pregnancy-safe skincare.
- Excellent for sensitive skin and baby sunscreens.
- Delivers effective UVB shielding while maintaining gentle skin compatibility.
- No greasy after-feel; ideal for oil-control products.
- ISO 9001 / 14001 / 45001 certifications
- HALAL, EFFCI GMP, SA8000 accreditations
- Advanced QC labs with HPLC, GC-MS, UV-vis, and ICP-OES equipment.
As global sunscreen regulations tighten and consumer awareness rises, Werlchem filters are leading innovation:
- Approved and used in Europe, Japan, Korea, and Australia
- Included in global brands like Shiseido, ISDIN, Mistine, Biore, L'Oréal, and Nivea
- Compatible with both chemical and hybrid (chemical-physical) formulations.
- Global compliance (EU, ASEAN, FDA, etc.)
- Market demand for clean, reef-safe, and high-performance sunscreens
- Formulation goals: aesthetic elegance, high SPF, stability