Phytol
What Phytol is & what it does
Phytol is a fragrant diterpene alcohol found naturally in chlorophyll and many plant oils. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulas it can serve as a fragrance component and is also studied for antioxidant-related properties. As an oil-soluble alcohol, it blends easily into the oil phase of creams and lotions.
What does Phytol do in skincare?
Phytol serves mainly as a fragrance component and is also studied for antioxidant-related properties. As an oil-soluble alcohol found naturally in chlorophyll, it blends easily into the oil phase of creams and lotions. It is typically used at low levels.
Is Phytol natural or synthetic?
Phytol occurs naturally in chlorophyll and many plant oils, so it can be plant-derived. It can also be produced synthetically for cosmetic use. Either way, the molecule is the same.
Is Phytol safe?
Phytol is used as a fragrance and cosmetic ingredient and is generally considered safe at the low levels typical in skincare. Like other fragrance components, it may occasionally cause sensitivity in those prone to reactions. Patch testing is reasonable if you have sensitive skin.
Sunscreens with Phytol
We rate 12 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Azarine Tone Up Mineral Sunscreen Serum SPF50 Pa++++
75/100
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Collistar Unico Foundation SPF 15
72/100
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Avon Anew Reversalist Plump &smooth Day Cream SPF 20
65/100
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Avon Anew Platinum Day Cream Spf 25
65/100
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Avon Ageless Protecting Day Cream Spf 30
64/100
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Avon Care Sun+ Fresh Protection Face Cream Spf 50
61/100
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Avon Anew Clinical Defend & Repair Multi-Shield Day Cream Spf 50 With Smartrepair
59/100
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Avon Multivitamin Kids' Sun Cream Spf50
59/100
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Avon Anew Pollution Protect+ Day Defence Lotion Spf 50
58/100
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Avon Anew Ultimate Day Multi-performance Day Cream SPF 25
55/100