Padimate A is an organic compound that is an ingredient in some sunscreens. It is an ester derivative of PABA. This aromatic chemical absorbs ultraviolet rays thereby preventing sunburn. However, it’s chemical structure and behaviour is similar to an industrial free radical generator.[1] In Europe this chemical was withdrawn in 1989 for unstated reasons.[1] In the US it was never approved for use in sunscreens.
Tags: Medicine stubs, Pharmacology stubs
The photobiological properties of padimate O and padimate A resemble that of Michler's ketone. These compounds have been shown to increase the lethal effects of UV-radiation on cells.[1] This photochemistry is relevant to the sunscreen controversy.
Padimate O is an organic compound that is an ingredient in some sunscreens. It is a derivative of PABA, an ester formed by the condensation of 2-ethylhexanol and dimethylaminobenzoic acid. It is a yellowish oily liquid that is insoluble in water. It absorbs ultraviolet rays, thereby preventing direct DNA damage by UV-B. Unfortunately the excited padimate O molecule reacts bimolecularly with DNA and produces indirect DNA damages, that are similar to those done by ionizing radiation. Therefore padimate O is presumably photocarcinogenic.[1] Other names for padimate-O are: 2-ethylhexyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate, Escalol 507, oxtyldimethyl PABA, or OD-PABA. This compound does not dissipate energy as