Pentyl Dimethyl PABA

Also known as: Amyl Dimethyl PABA

INCI: Pentyl Dimethyl PABA | Function: UV Absorber (Sunscreen) | Type: Chemical Sunscreen (PABA Derivative)

What Is Pentyl Dimethyl PABA?

Pentyl Dimethyl PABA (Amyl Dimethyl PABA) is a PABA-derived chemical UVB absorber that was used in older sunscreen formulations. PABA derivatives have largely been phased out due to photosensitivity concerns, staining properties, and allergic contact dermatitis reactions. Modern sunscreens have replaced PABA derivatives with safer, more stable UV filters like avobenzone, octinoxate, and mineral alternatives.

Key Skin Benefits

+ UVB absorption — blocks burning rays in 280–320 nm range
+ Water-resistant — good substantivity on skin

Pros

+ Effective UVB protection at low concentrations
+ Good water resistance for beach formulations

Cons

− Photosensitizer — may cause phototoxic reactions
− Allergic contact dermatitis — common sensitizer
− Stains clothing yellow — consumer complaint issue
− Largely phased out — limited commercial availability
− PABA association — carries PABA allergy cross-reactivity risk

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Body
Product Type	Leave-On
Source	Synthetic
Natural Level	Synthetic

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	4/5
Comedogenic Rating	0/5
EWG Score	7/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	Restricted	N/A	Restricted — rarely used
US (CIR/FDA)	Not in OTC monograph	N/A	Not approved as sunscreen active
Japan (MHLW)	Not listed	N/A	Not approved
ASEAN	Restricted	N/A	Restricted — follows EU
China (NMPA)	Not listed	N/A	Not approved

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Sunscreens (legacy)	1–5% (historical, discontinued)

References

CosIng Database — Pentyl Dimethyl PABA. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
FDA Sunscreen Monograph — PABA and derivatives safety review.
Funk JO et al (1995) — Sunscreen intolerance: Contact and photocontact sensitization. PMID: 7758250
EWG Skin Deep — PABA derivatives. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

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