Chemical filter

Homosalate

Common UVB filter and solvent. EU already limited it to 7.34% in face products. TGA is proposing tighter Australian controls for high whole-body use.

Homosalate is a UVB salicylate (peak about 306 nm), often used as much as a solvent and booster as a primary filter. Australia still allows 15%. The EU restricted it to 7.34% in face products only, excluding propellant sprays.

It is absorbed systemically. TGA’s July 2025 review found the margin of safety below 100 for daily full-body use at the 15% cap. Face-and-hands-only use looked acceptable at lower percentages (modelling in the range of about 2.7–11.4% depending on product type). TGA consulted on Poisons Standard controls in 2025 and says an interim decision will be published for further consultation by the end of 2026. Current products remain legal.

SCCS treats the endocrine evidence as inconclusive. Human causality of endocrine disease is unproven. The combination of high permitted load, measurable absorption and animal signals is why limits are falling.

No need to throw out a bottle you already have. No need to seek high-homosalate body lotions.

Sources

Sunscreens with Homosalate

Are we sloppy? Tell Gus.