Ingredient
Benzophenone-4
Benzophenone-4 is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, postpartum, PCOS and general use. The concern behind the strongest flag is endocrine disruptor and absorbed into the body.
- Sulisobenzone
- BP-4
- 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone-5-sulfonic acid
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Not Recommended
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 6 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Benzophenone-4 and pregnancy
Not Recommended
- Endocrine disruptor
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
Benzophenone-4 is a chemical UV filter that absorbs ultraviolet radiation to protect skin from sun damage. Unlike physical sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide, chemical filters work by absorbing UV rays and converting them to heat. Research published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that benzophenones can cross the placental barrier and have been detected in maternal and cord blood samples. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has noted that benzophenone exposure during pregnancy may be associated with altered birth outcomes. According to ACOG, while more research is needed, pregnant women may wish to minimize exposure to potentially endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Studies in animal models have shown that benzophenones can interfere with hormone function, raising theoretical concerns about fetal development. Most obstetricians and dermatologists recommend that pregnant women choose mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) over chemical filters when possible. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) notes that physical sunscreens sit on the skin's surface rather than being absorbed, making them a more conservative choice during pregnancy.
Benzophenone-4 and breastfeeding
Not Recommended
- Passes into breast milk
- Endocrine disruptor
- Infant exposure
Benzophenone-4 is lipophilic (fat-soluble) and can be systemically absorbed through the skin. Research shows that benzophenone compounds can be detected in breast milk, raising concerns about infant exposure during breastfeeding. A study published in Environmental Science & Technology detected benzophenone-type UV filters in breast milk samples from breastfeeding mothers. Because benzophenones have potential endocrine-disrupting properties, there are theoretical concerns about infant exposure during critical developmental periods. The AAD notes that while topical absorption is generally lower than oral exposure, fat-soluble compounds can accumulate in breast tissue and transfer to milk. Most dermatologists recommend that breastfeeding mothers choose mineral-based sunscreens to minimize potential infant exposure to chemical UV filters. While sun protection is essential for all mothers, physical blockers offer effective UV protection without the systemic absorption concerns associated with chemical filters.
Benzophenone-4 and postpartum
Caution Advised
- Endocrine disruptor
- Absorbed into the body
For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, benzophenone-4 carries fewer concerns than during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, its potential endocrine-disrupting properties remain a consideration for women recovering from pregnancy and working to restore hormonal balance. The SCCS has noted that benzophenones may interfere with hormone function. While this is a greater concern during pregnancy and lactation, postpartum women may still prefer to minimize exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, especially if they're experiencing hormonal fluctuations or planning to conceive again soon. Mineral sunscreens remain a conservative alternative, though benzophenone-4 is not contraindicated in this population.
Benzophenone-4 and trying to conceive
Not Recommended
- Endocrine disruptor
- Fertility effects
Women trying to conceive should apply the same precautionary principle as early pregnancy, since conception may occur before a woman knows she's pregnant. Benzophenone-4's potential endocrine-disrupting properties are particularly concerning during the preconception period. Studies have suggested that environmental endocrine disruptors may affect fertility and early embryonic development. According to reproductive endocrinologists, minimizing exposure to potentially hormone-disrupting chemicals during the TTC period is advisable. Most fertility specialists recommend that women switch to mineral-based sunscreens when actively trying to conceive, treating this period as if already pregnant.
Benzophenone-4 and PCOS
Caution Advised
- Endocrine disruptor
- Interferes with hormones
Women with PCOS already experience hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated androgens and insulin resistance. Benzophenone-4's potential endocrine-disrupting properties are therefore a specific concern for this population. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism suggests that environmental endocrine disruptors may exacerbate hormonal imbalances in women with PCOS. While direct studies on benzophenone-4 and PCOS are limited, the ingredient's ability to interfere with estrogen and androgen pathways raises theoretical concerns. Some endocrinologists recommend that women with PCOS minimize exposure to known or suspected endocrine disruptors. For women with PCOS who need sun protection (essential for those using acne treatments or experiencing melasma), mineral-based sunscreens offer effective UV protection without the potential hormonal concerns. Many dermatologists who specialize in PCOS recommend physical blockers as a first-line choice for this population.
Benzophenone-4 and general use
Caution Advised
- Endocrine disruptor
- Common allergen
For the general population not in reproductive life stages, benzophenone-4 is FDA-approved and widely used in sunscreen products. It provides broad-spectrum UV protection and is particularly valued in water-resistant formulations. The SCCS continues to evaluate benzophenone compounds for potential endocrine-disrupting effects. While approved for use, some dermatologists and environmental health advocates recommend choosing mineral sunscreens when possible. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) rates benzophenone compounds as moderate to high concern due to their potential hormonal effects and bioaccumulation. For individuals without specific health concerns, benzophenone-4 may be acceptable, though many consumers are choosing mineral alternatives due to both health and environmental considerations. The key is ensuring adequate sun protection with whatever sunscreen type an individual will consistently use.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of Benzophenone-4, each one with its own page here.
Ingredients that raise the same concerns.
Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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