What Is 2-ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: 2-Ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate is an organic compound used primarily in sunscreen formulations due to its UV-absorbing properties. It is a derivative of cinnamic acid with a 2-ethoxyethyl ester and a para-methoxy group on the aromatic ring.

Key Facts

2-Ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate has the molecular formula C14H18O4.
It absorbs UVB radiation in the 290–320 nm range, making it effective in sun protection.
The compound is structurally similar to other cinnamate esters used in cosmetics since the 1980s.
It enhances photostability when combined with other UV filters like avobenzone.
No major regulatory bans exist, but it is under review by the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety.

Overview

2-Ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate is a synthetic organic compound primarily used in cosmetic formulations, especially sunscreens, for its ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It belongs to the cinnamate family, a group of chemicals known for their photoprotective effects on human skin.

The compound is designed to enhance stability and solubility in emulsion-based skincare products. Its chemical structure includes a p-methoxyphenyl group and a 2-ethoxyethyl ester chain, contributing to its specific absorption profile.

Chemical class: It is classified as a cinnamic acid ester derivative, a group widely used in UV-filtering agents since the 1970s.
Molecular weight: The compound has a molecular weight of 246.3 g/mol, which influences its skin penetration and formulation compatibility.
Solubility: It is soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ethyl acetate but has low water solubility, making it ideal for oil-phase formulations.
UV absorption peak: It exhibits maximum absorption at 310 nm, placing it firmly in the UVB protection range.
Synthetic origin: It is not found in nature and is produced through esterification of p-methoxycinnamic acid with 2-ethoxyethanol.

How It Works

2-Ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate functions as a photostable UV filter by absorbing harmful UVB rays and converting them into less damaging thermal energy. Its mechanism relies on the conjugated double bond system in the cinnamate core, which allows for efficient energy dissipation.

Photoisomerization: Upon UV exposure, the molecule undergoes trans-to-cis isomerization, reducing its effectiveness over time unless stabilized.
Energy dissipation: The absorbed UV energy is released as heat through vibrational relaxation, preventing DNA damage in skin cells.
Stabilizing role: When combined with octocrylene, it reduces photodegradation by up to 40% in broad-spectrum sunscreen blends.
Lipophilicity: Its log P value of 2.8 indicates moderate lipophilicity, balancing skin adhesion and minimal systemic absorption.
Formulation synergy: It enhances the SPF of products when paired with UVA filters like butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane (avobenzone).
Photostability half-life: In simulated sunlight, it retains over 75% of its UV absorbance after 2 hours of continuous exposure.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares 2-ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate with other common UV filters in terms of chemical properties and regulatory status:

Compound	UV Range	Max Absorption (nm)	Approved Regions	Photostability
2-Ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate	UVB	310	Japan, South Korea, limited EU	Moderate to high
Octinoxate	UVB	310	US, Asia, banned in some US states	Moderate
Avobenzone	UVA	360	Global (with restrictions)	Low (requires stabilizers)
Oxybenzone	UVB/UVA	286, 325	US, Canada, banned in Hawaii and Palau	Moderate
Titanium Dioxide (nano)	UVB/UVA	Scatters UV	Global	Very high

This comparison highlights that 2-ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate occupies a niche in UVB protection with better photostability than octinoxate but less global approval than titanium dioxide. Its use is growing in Asian markets where regulatory pathways favor novel organic filters with strong safety profiles.

Why It Matters

As sunscreen regulations tighten worldwide, compounds like 2-ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate offer formulators alternatives to controversial filters such as oxybenzone. Its balanced efficacy and safety profile make it relevant in next-generation sun care products.

Environmental impact: It shows lower aquatic toxicity compared to oxybenzone, which is linked to coral bleaching.
Consumer demand: Rising interest in photostable, non-irritating sunscreens drives adoption in premium skincare lines.
Regulatory scrutiny: The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety is reviewing its safety, with a decision expected by 2025.
Market growth: The global UV filter market is projected to reach $1.8 billion by 2027, with organic esters gaining share.
Innovation potential: It serves as a scaffold for developing new hybrid UV filters with broader spectral coverage.
Skin compatibility: Clinical studies show less than 1% irritation rate in sensitive skin panels.

With increasing emphasis on safe, effective, and environmentally responsible sun protection, 2-ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate represents a promising candidate in the evolution of modern sunscreen technology.