BHA
What BHA is & what it does
Butylated hydroxyanisole, a synthetic antioxidant that protects a formula's oils from oxidation, extending shelf life. It safeguards the product, not the skin.
What does BHA do in skincare?
As listed on an INCI label, BHA refers to butylated hydroxyanisole, a synthetic antioxidant added to formulas to slow oxidation. It helps protect oils and other ingredients from going rancid, which extends the product's shelf life and keeps it stable. Note that in marketing the term BHA often means beta hydroxy acid such as salicylic acid, which is a different ingredient.
Is BHA safe?
Butylated hydroxyanisole is permitted as a preservative-type antioxidant in cosmetics and is used at very low levels. It is generally considered safe in that context, though some people prefer to avoid it. If you have concerns, a dermatologist can offer guidance based on your skin.
Is BHA natural or synthetic?
The antioxidant butylated hydroxyanisole listed as BHA is synthetic, produced industrially rather than extracted from a natural source. Because it is made synthetically, it generally contains no animal-derived material and is often suitable for vegan products.
Sunscreens with BHA
We rate 48 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Gerovital Crema Nuantatoare SPF 50
91/100
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Gerovital H3 Derma+ Sun Expert Spf 50 Natural Teinted
91/100
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Farmec gerovital
Farmec Romania Gerovitak H3 Erma+ Sun SPF 50 Kids
87/100
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Pharmaceris Spectrum-Protect Spf 50+, Ppd 30, Hev, Ir
86/100
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Regaliz Solasafe SPF 50+ Silicone Sunscreen Gel
85/100
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Gerovital Loțiune Spray Protecție Solară Copii SPF 50 Sun/ Kids Sunscreen Spray Lotion SPF 50 Sun
85/100
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Regaliz Solasafe Sunscreen Spf 50+
85/100
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Gerovital Must Have Moisturizing Cream SPF 15
84/100
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HIRUDO DERM Sun Protect Ultra Protect Face Spf 50+
84/100
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Gerovital h3 derma Anti-wrinkle Softening Cream SPF 30
83/100