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| Names | |
|---|---|
| IUPAC name (3E)-1,7,7-Trimethyl-3-[(4-methylphenyl)methylene]-2-norbornanone | |
| Other names 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor 3-(4-Methylbenzylidene)bornan-2-one 3-(4-Methylbenzylidene)-dl-camphor | |
| Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol) | |
| Abbreviations | 4-MBC |
| ChemSpider |
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| ECHA InfoCard | 100.048.386 |
| EC Number |
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| UNII | |
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| Properties | |
| C18H22O | |
| Molar mass | 254.37 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Melting point | 66 to 69 °C (151 to 156 °F; 339 to 342 K) |
| Insoluble | |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling: | |
 | |
| Warning | |
| H410 | |
| P273,P391,P501 | |
| Pharmacology | |
| Legal status |
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Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in theirstandard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). | |
Enzacamene (INN; also known as4-methylbenzylidene camphor or4-MBC) is an organiccamphorderivative that is used in thecosmetic industry for its ability to protect theskin againstUV, specifically UV B radiation. As such, it is used insunscreenlotions and other skincare products claiming a SPF value. Its tradenames includeEusolex 6300 (Merck) andParsol 5000 (DSM).
All the camphor-derived sunscreens dissipate the photon energy bycis-trans isomerisation. However, for enzacamene the quantum yield for this isomerization is only between 0.13-0.3. This low quantum yield means that other photochemical processes are also occurring.[2]
Studies have raised the issue that enzacamene acts as anendocrine disruptor. There is controversy about theestrogenic effects of enzacamene and while one study showed only a relatively minor effect.[3] In addition, there is some evidence that enzacamene may suppress the pituitary-thyroid axis, leading tohypothyroidism.[4]
Enzacamene is approved in Canada byHealth Canada. It is not approved for use in the United States by theFood and Drug Administration and it is not permitted in Japan nor in Denmark.[5]
