Meradimate is a fluorescent agent and a UV filter that can be used as an alternative to oxybenzone.
Meradimate is majorly used in sunscreen based products.
Meradimate can be easily mixed in cosmetic oils and can also be emulsified in aqueous formulations.
CAS Number: 134-09-8
Molecular Formula: C17H25NO2
Molecular Weight: 275.39
EINECS Number: 205-129-8
Synonyms: MENTHYL ANTHRANILATE, Meradimate, 134-09-8, Meradimate [INN], Menthyl-O-aminobenzoate, (5-methyl-2-propan-2-ylcyclohexyl) 2-aminobenzoate, Anthranilic acid, p-menth-3-yl ester, Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-, 2-aminobenzoate, 2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexyl 2-aminobenzoate, J9QGD60OUZ, DTXSID3047895, Cyclohexanol,5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-, 1-(2-aminobenzoate), 5-methyl-2-(propan-2-yl)cyclohexyl 2-aminobenzoate, NCGC00159361-02, DTXCID3027871, CAS-134-09-8, CCRIS 2468, Menthyl o-aminobenzoate, EINECS 205-129-8, UNII-J9QGD60OUZ, Meradimato, Meradimate [USAN:USP:INN], Neo heliopan MA, Meradimate (USP/INN), MERADIMATE [USAN], Menthyl anthranilate, 98%, MERADIMATE [MART.], MERADIMATE [USP-RS], MERADIMATE [WHO-DD], SCHEMBL18884, 5-Methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)cyclohexanol-2-aminobenzoate, CHEMBL1597075, MENTHYL ANTHRANILATE [MI], CHEBI:135974, MERADIMATE [USP MONOGRAPH], Tox21_111602, Tox21_200561, BBL028008, STK083062, AKOS001387784, AKOS017278349, DB11096, Menthyl anthranilate, analytical standard, NCGC00159361-06, NCGC00258115-01, VS-08642, DB-042217, NS00008634, D04927, 2-aminobenzoic acid (2-isopropyl-5-methyl-cyclohexyl) ester, Meradimate, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard, Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-, 1-(2-aminobenzoate), Menthyl anthranilate, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material,2-Aminobenzoic acid 5-methyl-2-isopropylcyclohexyl ester;Menthyl Anthranilate (500 mg/ampule) (Meradimate);2-isopropyl-5-Methylcyclohexyl 2-aMinobenzoate;Menthyl o-aminobenzoate;Meradimate (500 mg/ampule) (Menthyl Anthranilate);MERADIMATE;MERADIMATE,USP;5-Methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-cyclohexanol 2-aminobenzoate
Meradimate is currently required to be named as meradimate in all FDA approved OTC products.
Meradimate is approved by the FDA and Health Canada to be used as an ingredient in sunblocking products.
Meradimate, also known as menthyl anthranilate, is an organic compound that is primarily used as a sunscreen agent due to its ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Meradimate is a sunscreening agent.
It is one of the 17 ingredients approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in over-the-counter sunscreen products.
Meradimate, before known as menthyl anthranilate, is used in a maximal concentration of 5% in different products as a UV filter.
Meradimate is an ester derived from anthranilic acid and menthol, which gives it mild aromatic properties and makes it suitable for various cosmetic and personal care applications.
Meradimate is particularly effective at absorbing UV-A rays, which are responsible for skin aging, DNA damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer caused by prolonged sun exposure.
Unlike some other sunscreen ingredients that provide broad-spectrum protection, Meradimate is mainly effective against UV-A radiation and is often combined with other UV filters in sunscreen formulations to enhance overall sun protection.
Meradimate is considered to be relatively gentle on the skin and is less likely to cause irritation compared to some chemical sunscreens, making it a preferred ingredient in products designed for individuals with sensitive skin.
In addition to its role in sun protection, Meradimate is sometimes used in cosmetics and skincare products for its mild antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and protect the skin from environmental damage.
Meradimate is also found in certain pharmaceutical and dermatological formulations where UV protection is necessary to prevent photosensitivity reactions.
Although Meradimate was once commonly used in commercial sunscreen formulations, its usage has declined in some regions due to the increasing demand for broader-spectrum UV filters and concerns about its overall effectiveness compared to newer alternatives.
However, it is still recognized by regulatory agencies such as the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a safe and approved sunscreen ingredient.
Meradimate is used as an active ingredient in sunscreens or as a sunblock factor in different products.
It fits under the category of broad-spectrum absorbent agent.
These characteristics are important to consider due to the fact that this kind of ingredients can either absorb or reflect UV radiation.
Meradimate is also important to know the type of rays that cover.
UVA rays are the responsible of causing sun damage and reaching deeper layers of the skin while UVB can only cause sunburn in the outer layer of the skin.
When an agent is of broad spectrum, this means that this agent is capable of acting in both UVA and UVB rays.
Meradimate remains a valuable compound in the field of dermatology and cosmetic science due to its ability to provide targeted UV-A protection while being gentle on the skin.
Meradimate continues to be an ingredient in select sunscreens, skincare products, and pharmaceutical formulations aimed at shielding the skin from harmful radiation and oxidative stress.
Meradimate acts by absorbing both the UVA and UVB radiation, this provides this ingredient with a broad spectrum and it explains why it is highly used in different products such as lip balms, lipsticks, and moisturizers.
Meradimates protective effective action does not cover completely the UVA rays as it only reaches 336 nm.
This has been proven even thought meradimate has a theoretical protective coverage range between 200-380 nm.
Its function is related to the intrinsic structure of meradimate which is an ortho-disubstituted aminobenzoate.
This structure allows easy electron delocalization and shifts in the maximum absorption.
Meradimate, also known as menthyl anthranilate, is an organic chemical compound that has been widely used as a UV-A sunscreen filter due to its ability to absorb long-wave ultraviolet radiation.
Structurally, it is an ester derived from menthol and anthranilic acid, which gives it a mild aromatic scent and makes it oil-soluble, allowing for easy formulation in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
Unlike physical sunscreens like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which act as UV reflectors, Meradimate functions as a chemical absorber, converting UV radiation into heat and preventing it from penetrating deeper into the skin.
One of the key benefits of Meradimate is its selective absorption of UV-A rays, which are known to penetrate the skin more deeply than UV-B rays and contribute to long-term damage such as photoaging, collagen breakdown, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
However, since it does not offer significant protection against UV-B rays, which are responsible for sunburns, Meradimate is rarely used alone in sunscreens and is instead combined with other active ingredients that provide a more comprehensive broad-spectrum defense against sun damage.
Meradimate is particularly useful in formulations designed to reduce the risk of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and other UV-induced skin concerns.
Meradimate is provided as delivered and specified by the issuing Pharmacopoeia.
All information provided in support of this product, including SDS and any product information leaflets have been developed and issued under the Authority of the issuing Pharmacopoeia.
Sunscreen products are intended to be applied to the body every day, over the course of a lifetime.
The companies that make and sell sunscreen ingredients and products should test them thoroughly for potential short-term and long-term health effects.
This includes toxicity testing for irritation and skin allergies, as well as testing for skin absorption and the potential to cause cancer, disrupt the hormone system and impact reproduction and development.
Melting point: 62.5-63.5°
Boiling point: 177-179 °C (3 mm Hg, lit.)
Density: 1.04 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
Refractive index: n20/D 1.542 (lit.)
Flash point: >230 °F
Storage temp.: 2-8°C
Form: Liquid
pKa: 2.17±0.10 (Predicted)
Odor: At 100.00%: grape menthol
Odor Type: Fruity
LogP: 6.085 (est)
Meradimate is a chemical UVA absorber found in personal care products including sunscreens, insect repellants, hair care, and cosmetic products.
Chemical sunscreen agents diminish the penetration of ultraviolet (UV) light through the epidermis by absorbing UV radiation within a specific wavelength range.
In cosmetics and personal care products, Meradimate is used in the formulation of sun protection products, eyebrow pencils, foundations, and lipsticks.
When used in sun protection products in the United States, Menthyl Anthranilate must be called Meradimate.
Meradimate, when applied to the skin, absorbs UV rays.
In addition to causing sunburn, UV radiation is a significant cause of premature aging of the skin and contributes to the development of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer.
Meradimate, also known by its chemical name menthyl anthranilate, is an organic sunscreen agent primarily used to absorb ultraviolet A (UV-A) radiation, which is known to cause long-term skin damage such as premature aging, DNA mutations, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Meradimate belongs to the class of chemical sunscreens that function by absorbing UV radiation and dissipating it as heat, thereby preventing the harmful rays from penetrating deeper into the skin.
Meradimate is derived from menthol and anthranilic acid, giving it mild aromatic properties and a relatively stable molecular structure that allows it to function effectively in various sunscreen formulations.
Unlike broad-spectrum UV filters that protect against both UV-A and UV-B rays, Meradimate is specifically designed to absorb UV-A rays, which penetrate the skin more deeply than UV-B rays and contribute to the degradation of collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and other signs of aging. Because of its limited UV-B protection, Meradimate is rarely used as a standalone sunscreen agent but is instead combined with other active ingredients that provide complementary UV-B protection, such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, and octinoxate, to ensure comprehensive sun defense.
In addition to its role in sun protection, Meradimate has been explored for its antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate oxidative stress caused by environmental pollutants and UV exposure.
This characteristic makes it a potential ingredient in skincare products designed to combat free radical damage and reduce inflammation.
Furthermore, due to its relatively low potential for skin irritation and sensitization, Meradimate is considered suitable for use in sunscreens formulated for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin.
Meradimate is also used in after-sun lotions, lip balms, anti-aging creams, and other skincare products where UV protection is beneficial.
Regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved Meradimate for use in sunscreen formulations at concentrations of up to 5%, although its popularity has declined in recent years due to the emergence of newer, more efficient broad-spectrum UV filters.
Despite this, it remains an accepted and legal UV filter in certain regions and continues to be used in niche skincare and dermatological applications.
In some cases, Meradimate has been included in pharmaceutical preparations designed for individuals who are prone to photosensitivity disorders, as it helps reduce skin reactions triggered by UV exposure.
Although Meradimate is less commonly found in mainstream sunscreens today, its history and continued presence in select formulations highlight its importance as one of the early chemical filters used to protect against UV-A radiation.
With the increasing focus on photoprotection and anti-aging skincare, it remains a compound of interest for researchers and formulators who aim to develop safer and more effective sun protection solutions.
Meradimate has also been explored for its potential antioxidant properties, as studies suggest that it may help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollutants.
This makes it a potential ingredient in anti-aging skincare, where oxidative stress is a major contributing factor to wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and uneven skin tone.
Some cosmetic formulations, including moisturizers, foundations, and tinted sunscreens, incorporate Meradimate not only for its UV-A protection but also for its skin-conditioning benefits.
Meradimate is also included in some lip balms, after-sun care products, and specialized dermatological treatments for individuals with heightened sensitivity to UV radiation.
Despite its benefits, the use of Meradimate in sunscreen formulations has declined in recent years due to the growing demand for more advanced and broad-spectrum UV filters.
Regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved Meradimate for use in over-the-counter sunscreens at concentrations of up to 5%, but it has become less common in mainstream sun care products due to the development of newer, more efficient alternatives like avobenzone, Tinosorb S, and Mexoryl SX.
In some regions, regulatory changes and consumer preferences have led to a decrease in its usage, as modern sunscreens aim to offer superior stability and photoprotective efficacy.
However, Meradimate continues to be recognized as a safe and effective ingredient in certain specialized applications.
Meradimate is sometimes included in pharmaceutical sunscreens prescribed for individuals with medical conditions that make them highly sensitive to UV exposure, such as lupus, rosacea, and certain photodermatoses.
Additionally, it remains a component in some legacy formulations where its mild nature and compatibility with other ingredients make it a useful addition to sunscreen blends.
As research into sunscreen technology advances, there is ongoing interest in improving the stability, photostability, and efficacy of existing UV filters, including Meradimate.
Some studies have explored ways to enhance its performance through encapsulation in nanocarriers, combination with stabilizing agents, or incorporation into multi-functional skincare products that offer both sun protection and anti-aging benefits.
While its prominence in commercial sunscreens may have diminished, Meradimate remains a valuable compound in the field of photoprotection, with potential applications in both dermatological and cosmetic science.
With growing concerns about the impact of chemical sunscreens on marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs, certain UV filters such as oxybenzone and octinoxate have been banned in places like Hawaii and Palau due to their toxic effects on coral reefs.
While Meradimate has not been extensively studied in relation to coral reef damage, there is no strong evidence suggesting that it has significant environmental toxicity.
However, because it is an organic UV filter, further research is needed to fully assess its potential impact on marine life.
Uses Of Meradimate:
Meradimate is the only FDA-approved liquid sunscreen chemical with uVA-absorption capabilities.
Meradimate has an approved usage level of 3.5 to 5 percent.
This is a stable ingredient and can be combined with other sunscreen chemicals to increase SPF while providing uVA protection.
Meradimate or menthyl anthranilate is a weak UVB filter and with absorption mainly in the near UVA portion of the spectrum.
They are less effective than benzophenones in this range and are less widely used.
Meradimate is used as a UV filter in skin care formulations.
Sunscreens are used to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun.
They help to prevent sunburn and premature aging (such as wrinkles, leathery skin).
Sunscreens also help to decrease the risk of skin cancer and also of sunburn-like skin reactions (sun sensitivity) caused by some medications (including tetracyclines, sulfa drugs, phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine).
The active ingredients in sunscreens work either by absorbing the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, preventing it from reaching the deeper layers of the skin, or by reflecting the radiation.
Wearing sunscreen does not mean that you can stay out longer in the sun. Sunscreens cannot protect against all of the sun's radiation.
There are various types of sunscreens available in many forms (such as cream, lotion, gel, stick, spray, lip balm).
Meradimate serves multiple purposes across the fields of sun protection, skincare, and dermatology.
Its ability to absorb UV-A radiation makes it a key ingredient in sunscreens, daily skincare products, and cosmetics designed to prevent photoaging and sun damage. Additionally, its mild nature and compatibility with sensitive skin make it a valuable component in pharmaceutical and dermatological preparations aimed at individuals with photosensitivity conditions.
While its use has become less widespread due to the introduction of newer UV filters, Meradimate remains an effective and approved option for sun protection, particularly in specialized formulations where its unique benefits continue to be recognized.
Meradimate, also known as menthyl anthranilate, has several uses primarily related to its ability to absorb ultraviolet A (UV-A) radiation, making it a valuable ingredient in sunscreen formulations.
Its primary function is to protect the skin from the harmful effects of long-wave UV-A rays, which are known to penetrate deeper into the skin than UV-B rays and contribute to premature aging, DNA damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
By acting as a chemical UV filter, Meradimate absorbs UV-A radiation and converts it into less harmful heat energy, preventing it from reaching the deeper layers of the skin where it can cause cellular damage.
One of the most common applications of Meradimate is in sunscreen products, where it is often combined with other UV filters to provide a broader spectrum of sun protection.
Since Meradimate primarily absorbs UV-A rays but offers limited protection against UV-B radiation, it is frequently formulated alongside ingredients such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, and octinoxate to ensure comprehensive protection against both UV-A and UV-B exposure.
This combination helps prevent sunburn, skin discoloration, and long-term damage such as collagen breakdown and wrinkles.
In addition to its use in traditional sunscreens, Meradimate is also found in various skincare and cosmetic products that offer sun protection.
Many moisturizers, foundations, tinted sunscreens, lip balms, and anti-aging creams contain Meradimate as an active ingredient to provide daily UV defense while also delivering hydration, skin-conditioning benefits, and antioxidant protection.
By incorporating UV filters like Meradimate into everyday skincare and makeup products, manufacturers help consumers maintain consistent sun protection throughout the day without relying solely on stand-alone sunscreens.
Beyond its cosmetic applications, Meradimate is also used in pharmaceutical and dermatological formulations designed for individuals with heightened sensitivity to UV radiation.
Some people with medical conditions such as lupus, rosacea, polymorphous light eruption (PMLE), and other photosensitivity disorders require specialized sun protection to prevent skin flare-ups and irritation caused by UV exposure.
Meradimate’s ability to absorb UV-A rays while being gentle on the skin makes it a useful ingredient in sunscreens formulated for these individuals, as it minimizes the risk of adverse reactions while offering effective protection against the sun’s damaging effects.
Additionally, Meradimate has been explored for its mild antioxidant properties, which may help neutralize free radicals produced by UV exposure and environmental pollutants.
Free radicals contribute to oxidative stress, which is a major factor in premature aging, skin inflammation, and even some skin diseases.
By incorporating Meradimate into skincare formulations, manufacturers can enhance the protective benefits of their products and support overall skin health.
This is particularly beneficial in anti-aging skincare lines, where ingredients that combat oxidative damage and support the skin’s natural repair mechanisms are highly valued.
Although Meradimate has historically been a popular sunscreen ingredient, its usage has declined in some regions due to the growing preference for newer, more photostable UV filters with broader-spectrum protection.
However, it is still approved for use by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which allows its inclusion in over-the-counter sunscreen formulations at concentrations of up to 5%.
In certain niche applications, such as specialized dermatological sunscreens, after-sun care products, and formulations intended for sensitive skin, Meradimate continues to be used due to its mild nature and UV-A protective properties.
Moreover, ongoing research in sunscreen technology has led to new formulation techniques that aim to improve the effectiveness and stability of UV filters like Meradimate.
Some studies have investigated methods such as encapsulation in nanocarriers, combination with stabilizing agents, and integration into hybrid formulations that combine chemical and physical UV blockers.
These advancements may enhance Meradimate’s role in future sun protection products and skincare applications, ensuring that it remains a viable option for those seeking targeted UV-A defense and gentle, skin-friendly formulations.
Safety Profile Of Meradimate:
Meradimate, also known as menthyl anthranilate, is generally considered to be a safe and well-tolerated ingredient when used in sunscreen and skincare formulations.
Regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved Meradimate for use in over-the-counter sunscreen products at concentrations of up to 5%, indicating that it meets safety standards for topical application.
However, as with any chemical compound, its safety profile depends on factors such as concentration, formulation, skin sensitivity, and long-term exposure.
Meradimate is classified as having a low risk of causing skin irritation or allergic reactions, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin.
Unlike some other chemical UV filters, such as oxybenzone, Meradimate does not have a high incidence of contact dermatitis or phototoxicity.
Meradimate is non-sensitizing and non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores or cause acne breakouts.
However, in rare cases, individuals with pre-existing skin conditions or highly reactive skin may experience mild irritation or allergic reactions upon application.
One limitation of Meradimate is its poor photostability, meaning it can break down when exposed to prolonged sunlight. When Meradimate degrades, it may lose its UV-protective effectiveness and produce byproducts that could potentially lead to skin irritation.
For this reason, it is often combined with photostabilizing agents such as avobenzone stabilizers, antioxidants, or other UV filters to enhance its longevity and effectiveness in sunscreen formulations.
Compared to some other chemical sunscreen agents, Meradimate has low skin penetration, meaning it is unlikely to enter the bloodstream in significant amounts.
This is an important factor in its safety profile, as certain chemical sunscreen filters, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, have raised concerns due to their ability to penetrate the skin and potentially disrupt hormone function.
The low systemic absorption of Meradimate makes it a safer alternative for individuals concerned about endocrine disruption and systemic toxicity.
Unlike some controversial UV filters, such as oxybenzone, which has been linked to hormonal interference, Meradimate does not exhibit significant endocrine-disrupting properties based on current research.
Meradimate is considered to be a safer chemical UV filter in this regard, making it a preferred option for individuals looking for low-risk sunscreen ingredients.