2-Ethylhexyl Salicylate / Octyl Salicylate

INCI: Octisalate

What is it?

A chemical UVB filter used in sunscreens, often paired with other filters to broaden protection and help stabilize avobenzone.

What does it do?

According to PubMed, a photochemistry study found that octyl salicylate (octisalate) and homosalate both suppress singlet-oxygen generation photosensitized by the UV-A stabilizer Corapan TQ, quenching its excited singlet state -- a previously unreported protective characteristic beyond simple UV absorption, relevant to preventing UV-driven skin damage (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1039/c9pp00104b). It is also named, alongside homosalate, among the Category III "non-GRASE" UV filters facing ongoing photostability and systemic-absorption scrutiny described in a 2025 review (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpharm.2025.125790).

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Sources

A novel characteristic of salicylate UV absorbers: suppression of diethylhexyl 2,6-naphthalate (Corapan TQ)-photosensitized singlet oxygen generation

Important disclaimer

This page provides general skincare information and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ingredient interactions and evidence summaries reflect published, cited sources — not a personal assessment of your skin. For medical skin conditions, rashes, pregnancy/lactation questions or persistent concerns, please consult a licensed dermatologist or HPCSA-registered practitioner.