Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (DHHB) comprises 2-(4-Diethylamino-2-hydroxybenzoyl)- benzoic acid hexyl ester and is a stable UVA absorber. It is a yellow melt that crystallizes upon storage. It remelts easily without decomposition by heating to approx. 70 – 80 °C.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate has a faintly characteristic odor. It is soluble in cosmetic oils and alcohol, and insoluble in water.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is used in oil-based sunscreens for its ability to filter UVA radiation, protecting skin cells from its harmful influence. Stabilized with Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or other surfactants, DHHB nanoparticles can be introduced in water-based sunscreen formulations to improve the UV protection range.
Toxicological assessment of the suitability of Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate in cosmetic preparations based on the information at our disposal and provided that the recommended concentrations and fields of application are adhered to, there is no evidence of any toxicological risks associated with its use.The combination of Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate with inorganic sunscreens like Zinc oxide in sunscreens is considered safe for coral reefs. However, Aliivibrio fischeri toxicity tests with DHHB in chlorinated pool water under solar radiation detected transformation by-products, which potentially can be harmful.
