Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid: properties, uses, pros, cons, safety, alternatives

Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid is an organic acid derived from sulfonated benzimidazole. This compound is valued for its protective properties, making it popular in various applications, particularly in the fields of cosmetics and personal care.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The chemical composition of Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid includes a benzimidazole structure with a phenyl group and a sulfonic group. This structure imparts unique UV-absorbing capabilities to the compound, making it effective as a sunscreen agent.

Physical Properties

• Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid typically appears as a white or slightly yellowish powder, soluble in water and organic solvents. It has a fine texture and a slightly acidic pH.
• Production Process
• The production of Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid involves several steps:
• Chemical Synthesis: Benzimidazole is reacted with sulfuric acid and a phenyl derivative in a sulfonation process to form phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid.
• Purification: The reaction product is purified to remove any impurities and unreacted components.
• Drying: The purified compound is dried to obtain the final powder.
• Formulation and Packaging: The final product is formulated to achieve the desired consistency and packaged under controlled conditions to ensure stability and purity.

Applications

Cosmetics: In the cosmetics industry, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid is valued for its sunscreen properties. It is commonly included in formulations of sunscreens, lotions, and skincare products to protect against UV damage.

Personal Care: Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid is used in various personal care products such as moisturizers, lip balms, and anti-aging products for its ability to absorb UV rays and prevent skin damage.

Pharmaceuticals: It can also be used in certain pharmaceutical formulations to enhance sun protection and improve the stability of topical products.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Environmental Impact: The production of Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid generally has a moderate environmental impact. Sustainable sourcing of raw materials and the use of environmentally friendly processes can help minimize the overall impact.

Safety: Restricted cosmetic ingredient as VI/6  a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported:     2-Phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulphonic acid and its potassium, sodium and triethanolamine salts / Ensulizole.

Based on the information provided, the SCCP is of the opinion that the use of phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid and its salts as a UV-filter at a maximum concentration of 8.0% in the cosmetic sun protection preparations does not pose a risk to the health of the consumer. Uses of phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid and its salts in other types of cosmetic products at concentrations up to 8.0% also does not pose a risk to the health of the consumer. (1)

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics - INCI Functions

Light stabilizer. It prevents light from degrading light-sensitive components and slows down degradation reactions that have already begun. The mechanism is, in a way, similar to antioxidants and the effectiveness depends on the.complexity of the formulation and the density of the product.

UV absorber. It acts by intercepting ultraviolet light before it can cause damage by reducing its energy through dissipation and returning it to a lower energy state.

UV filter. It is the defining ingredient in sun creams that can mitigate the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is a high risk factor for the development of skin cancer, erythema and photo-ageing.

Alternatives

Molecular Formula     C₁₃H₁₀N₂O₃S

Molecular Weight    274.30 g/mol

CAS    27503-81-7

EC number    248-502-0

Bibliografia__________________________________________________________________________

(1) EU Health & Consumer Protection Directorate-General Opinion on phenylbenzimidazole sufonic acid and its salts SCCP/1056/06 Opinion adopted by the SCCP during the 10th plenary of 19 December 2006