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Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate

What Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate is & what it does

Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate is the sodium salt of phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid, a water-soluble organic compound. In sunscreen formulas the parent acid (ensulizole) is a UVB-absorbing filter, and the sodium salt form improves water solubility for use in the water phase of a product. Because it is water-soluble, it is often chosen for lighter, less oily sunscreen textures.

What does Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate do in skincare?

Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate is the sodium salt of a UVB-absorbing sunscreen filter (the acid form is known as ensulizole). The salt form is water soluble, so it is used in the water phase of sunscreen formulas to help provide UVB protection. Its solubility supports lighter, less oily sunscreen textures.

Is Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate safe?

The parent filter is an approved sunscreen UV filter in several regions and is used at regulated concentrations. As a water-soluble UVB filter, it is chosen for lighter formulas, though as with any sunscreen ingredient individual sensitivities can occur. Following the product's directions and reapplication guidance is recommended.

Is Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate natural or synthetic?

Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate is a synthetic compound manufactured for use as a water-soluble sunscreen filter. It is not derived from a natural source. The sodium salt form is made to improve solubility in water-based formulas.

Sunscreens with Sodium Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonate

We rate 11 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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