4-Methylbenzylidene camphor

4-Methylbenzylidene camphor (4MBC) is an organic UV filter commercially known as Parsol 5000, Eusolex 6300, and Brillian-BL200, with CAS number 36861-47-9. It carries no assigned E-code. The compound belongs to the camphor-derived benzylidene class of UV absorbers.

In sunscreen and photoprotective cosmetic formulations, 4MBC absorbs UVB radiation in the 290–320 nm range by undergoing reversible photoisomerization, converting UV energy into heat rather than allowing it to damage skin. It is commonly combined with UVA filters such as avobenzone to achieve broad-spectrum protection in SPF products including lotions, creams, and lip care preparations.

4MBC is supplied as a solid and is registered under REACH. Its use in cosmetics is regulated within the EU under Annex VI of the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, with a maximum permitted concentration of 4%. Procurement enquiries for standard cosmetic-grade material are accepted in bulk quantities.