BASF’s Tinosorb® A2B [1] has been approved by EU authorities to be included in the positive list (Annex VI) of the Cosmetics Regulation [2]. It is the first UV filter with particle sizes smaller than 100 nanometers approved for use in cosmetics in Europe.

Tinosorb A2B protects the skin against UV wavelengths ranging from 290 to 340 nanometers. According to BASF, it complements conventional oil-soluble UV filters by closing the current gap between UVA and UVB absorbers.

Tinosorb A2B equally protects against UVB and UVAII radiation, thereby making an important contribution to preventing skin cancer and light-induced skin aging. After a long approval process we are delighted that we are now allowed to bring the UV filter to market and that our customers can use it in sunscreen products,” said Dirk Mampe, head of Business Management for BASF Personal Care Specialties Europe.

Furthermore, thanks to its particles sizes, Tinosorb A2B is more efficient than conventional filtres, BASF claims. “The absorption spectrum of a micronized UV filter depends on its particle size. With particle sizes of about 100 nanometers, optimum SPF performance can be achieved due to better skin coverage,” said Uli Osterwalder, Marketing Manager and Scientific Adviser for the Sun Care segment. As a result, a lower UV filter concentration is necessary than with conventional ingredients.