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Oils, Fats & Waxes

Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate

CAS: 5466-77-3

Overview

Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate ( CAS 5466-77-3 ), commonly abbreviated as OMC, is a UV-B absorbing ester used as the active sunscreen ingredient in cosmetic and personal care formulations.

It absorbs ultraviolet radiation in the 280–320 nm range, protecting both the skin and the stability of light-sensitive formulations. OMC is the primary UV filter in sunscreen lotions and SPF-rated moisturizers.

In daily-wear foundations, it delivers broad UV-B protection at concentrations typically between 2–10%. In hair care, it is incorporated into leave-on conditioners and styling products to prevent UV-induced color fade.

It also prevents protein degradation in hair fibers. Lip care products, including SPF lip balms and glosses, rely on OMC for photostability in thin-film applications across various cosmetic lines.

Pharmaceutical topical preparations also use it to protect active ingredients from photodegradation during shelf life. This ensures the efficacy of the medication remains intact throughout its storage period.

The product is supplied as a clear, pale yellow oily liquid. It is available in cosmetic-grade specification, which is the standard for personal care applications and industrial manufacturing.

It meets the regulatory concentration limits set by the EU Cosmetics Regulation, FDA OTC monograph, and other major markets. Bulk supply is typically offered in drums and IBCs for large-scale production.

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Physical Properties

Melting Point<-25°C
Boiling Point140-150 °C @ Press: 0.076 Torr
Density1.009
Flash Point193°C
Appearancecolourless or pale yellow liquid
ColorClear colorless to yellow
OdorOdorless
FormLiquid
Water Solubility<0.1 g/100 mL at 27 ºC
Refractive Index1.543-1.547
Log P5.921 (est)

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS07 GHS09 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29189090
Storage Class10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany)nwg

Other Names

2-ethylhexyl 4-methoxycinnamate | 2-ethylhexyl (E)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-enoate | Octinoxate | OMC

Related Products

Chemical Properties

CAS Number
5466-77-3
EC Number
226-775-7
Mol. Weight
290.4
HS Code
29189090

Industries

Documentation