A liquid UVB filter common in Australian sunscreens, now under TGA review for possible concentration limits.
What it is
Homosalate is an oily liquid that absorbs UVB and dissolves other filters. It has long been a workhorse in light, spreadable sunscreens.
Good for
UVB protectionSun protectionLightweight sun protection
How it works
Homosalate peaks around 306 nm and is a fairly weak UVB absorber on its own. Its main value is as a solvent that keeps crystalline filters such as avobenzone dissolved, and it is reasonably stable in light.
Ratings
Evidence
4/5
Proven SPF contribution, but regulators question its safety margin.
Gentleness
4/5
Rarely irritates skin, though long-term absorption is questioned.
Formulation difficulty
1/5
Easy liquid that dissolves other filters well.
Cost
1/5
Inexpensive commodity filter.
Popularity
3/5
Still common in mass-market SPF, but new briefs often exclude it.
Pairs and cautions
Pairs well with
In a routine. Pairing in one formula depends on matching pH windows.
Permitted up to 15% for now. The TGA's 2025 review found 15% not low risk for whole-body use and judged 0.28% low risk; Poisons Standard limits are proposed but not yet decided.
European Union
Since 2025 it is allowed only in face products, at up to 7.34% and not in propellant sprays, so body sunscreens for the EU must be formulated without it.
United Kingdom
Great Britain still allows up to 10% in any product, and its scientific advisers concluded in 2025 that 10% is safe in sunscreens, so UK and EU rules now differ.
United States
Permitted up to 15%, but it is one of 12 filters the FDA says need more safety data, and studies found blood levels above the FDA's 0.5 ng/mL threshold.
In the lab
Specifications
Typical use level
5–10%0525%
pH window
pH 5–7.52 acid7 neutral10 alkaline
Solubility
Oil-soluble
Sensitive to
High pH
5–10% adds UVB cover and dissolves crystalline filters such as avobenzone. Octisalate or ester emollients can take over part of that solvent role.
INCI
Homosalate
Also known as
HMS, Homomenthyl salicylate
Origin
synthetic
Lab notes
Solubility and phase
Oil phase. A liquid that also dissolves avobenzone, DHHB and bemotrizinol.
Stability
Rebalance the oil phase's solvency if it is removed or reduced. It is otherwise adequately photostable.
Regulatory, Australia
Permitted active, maximum 15% (Permissible Ingredients Determination No. 3 2026), and the TGA's 2025 review recommended scheduling limits by concentration, body area and age, with no change in effect as at October 2026. Primary sunscreens and moisturisers above SPF 15 are therapeutic goods, generally ARTG-listed (AUST L), tested to AS/NZS 2604 and labelled with approved names and set warnings.
Claims to take care with
Use only TGA-permitted indications, such as 'SPF 50+ broad spectrum very high protection', and skin-cancer, sunspot or solar keratosis claims need broad spectrum SPF 30 or more. State 'homosalate-free' plainly if used, without implying other products are unsafe.
