Spf

Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol

Tinosorb M — the only photostable broad-spectrum micropigment UV filter. It absorbs and reflects UV simultaneously. Covers UVB+UVA I+UVA II with peaks at 303 nm and 360 nm. Insoluble in water and oil — suspended as microparticles.

Tinosorb Mbroad spectrumUVA+UVBmicroparticles
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Tinosorb M — an organic filter, but due to its insolubility in common solvents, it is used as an aqueous suspension of microparticles (~200 nm). A unique dual mechanism: chemical absorption (like organic filters) + physical scattering (like mineral ones). Two absorption peaks: 303 nm (UVB) and 360 nm (UVA I). Maximum concentration in the EU: 10%. Photostable. Does not penetrate the skin due to the large particle size. Not approved by the FDA.

Broad-spectrum sunscreens in the EU/Asia. Often combined with Tinosorb S (BEMT) for maximum coverage from 280 to 400+ nm.

Key Benefits

Broad-spectrum protection UVB+UVA in one molecule
Tinosorb M covers the entire UV spectrum: from 280 (UVB) to 400 nm (UVA I) due to two absorption peaks. Few filters have such broad natural coverage. For comparison: avobenzone only covers UVA (315–400 nm), octinoxate — only UVB (280–320 nm). Tinosorb M — a true broad-spectrum filter.
Hybrid mechanism: absorption + scattering
Microparticles of Tinosorb M (~200 nm) simultaneously absorb UV (like organic filters) and scatter (like mineral filters). The dual mechanism increases effectiveness compared to purely chemical or purely mineral alternatives. At the same time — significantly better cosmetic profile than TiO₂ or ZnO (no white residue).
Systemic safety — does not penetrate the skin
The large size of microparticles (~200 nm) ensures no systemic absorption — Tinosorb M remains on the surface of the stratum corneum. Meets the strictest safety standards of the EU and SCCS. Suitable for sensitive skin. Aqueous dispersion — does not irritate the eyes in SPF creams.

Suitable for

for all skin typesfor sensitive skinfor children's skin (in some formulas)

Main Actions

✓ UVB+UVA protection (broad spectrum)✓ photostability✓ minimal systemic absorption
Tinosorb M vs Tinosorb S

Tinosorb M (MBBT) — insoluble, microparticles, absorption + scattering, good in water-based formulas. Tinosorb S (BEMT) — oil-soluble, only chemical absorption, excellent photostability, lighter texture. Together: Tinosorb M + Tinosorb S = the best broad-spectrum system among organic filters. This combination is used by Avène, La Roche-Posay, and Bioderma in premium sunscreens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol do for skin?
Broad-spectrum sunscreens in the EU/Asia. Often combined with Tinosorb S (BEMT) for maximum coverage from 280 to 400+ nm.
Who should use Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol?
Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol is suitable for: for all skin types, for sensitive skin, for children's skin (in some formulas).
Are there any warnings about Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol?
Tinosorb M (MBBT) — insoluble, microparticles, absorption + scattering, good in water-based formulas. Tinosorb S (BEMT) — oil-soluble, only chemical absorption, excellent photostability, lighter texture. Together: Tinosorb M + Tinosorb S = the best broad-spectrum system among org

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