Styrene
What Styrene is & what it does
A polymer microsphere (SunSpheres) that scatters light to boost SPF efficiency, letting formulas reach higher protection with less filter. It also gives a smooth feel.
What does Styrene do in skincare?
Styrene by itself is an industrial chemical building block and is not used as a standalone active. In cosmetics it usually appears as part of larger styrene-based copolymers, such as film formers or opacifying and texturizing polymers, where the reacted styrene units are bound into the polymer chain.
Is Styrene safe in cosmetics?
In cosmetic products styrene is typically present in a polymerized, bound form rather than as free monomer, which limits exposure. Regulators set limits on residual monomer levels in such polymers. People with specific concerns should review the full ingredient list or consult a qualified professional.
Is Styrene natural or synthetic?
Styrene is a synthetic chemical, manufactured on an industrial scale, though trace amounts also occur naturally in some plants and foods. The styrene used in cosmetic polymers is the manufactured form.
Sunscreens with Styrene
We rate 6 sunscreens that contain it:
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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo-Kids Pediatrics Gel Spf 50+
86/100
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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultralight Mineral Sunscreen Spf 50
84/100
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Garnier Super UV Spot-proof Sunscreen SPF 50+ Pa+++
83/100
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Atrue Origin Safe Mild Sunblock SPF 50+ Pa++++
79/100
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La Roche-Posay Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid Spf 60 With Cell Ox Shield Xl
62/100
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Jafra Royal Boost Cover Me Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Spf 30
49/100