Pronunciation: [ˈavə͡ʊbənzˌə͡ʊn] (IPA) 
Avobenzone is a commonly used ingredient in sunscreens. Its spelling may be a bit challenging, but it follows the English phonetic system. The word is spelled [ævəʊbɛnzəʊn], with the stress on the second syllable. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced as in "cat," while the "o" in the second syllable is pronounced as in "go." The "b" and "n" sounds are followed by a schwa sound, represented by the upside-down "e" symbol.
Avobenzone is a chemical compound utilized as an active ingredient in sunscreen and cosmetic products to provide protection against the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The compound is commonly classified as a sunscreen filter or an organic ultraviolet (UV) absorber.
As a UV absorber, avobenzone is capable of absorbing both UVA (ultraviolet A) and some UVB (ultraviolet B) rays. UVA rays, which are longer-wavelength rays, penetrate deeper into the skin and are responsible for premature aging, wrinkling, and skin cancer. On the other hand, UVB rays are shorter-wavelength rays that primarily cause sunburn and contribute to the development of skin cancer.
Due to its efficient absorption of UVA rays, avobenzone is considered a broad-spectrum sunscreen ingredient, providing protection against a wide range of ultraviolet radiation.
Avobenzone functions by converting absorbed UV rays into less harmful forms of energy through a chemical reaction. When exposed to UV radiation, avobenzone undergoes a photochemical reaction that results in its degradation, making it less effective over time. Therefore, avobenzone is often combined with other ingredients, such as stabilizers, to enhance its stability and ensure longer-lasting protection.
Overall, avobenzone plays a crucial role in sunscreens and cosmetic products by helping to shield the skin from harmful UV radiation, ultimately reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and potential skin cancer.
The term "avobenzone" is a combination of two elements: "avo-" and "benzone".
The prefix "avo-" is derived from the acronym AVO, which stands for "American Vela Observatory". This observatory was involved in the research and development of the compound avobenzone.
The word "benzone" refers to the organic compound "benzophenone". Benzophenones are a type of organic chemical compound that are commonly used in sunscreen formulations to absorb and block ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Therefore, the term "avobenzone" essentially means a compound that is derived from benzophenone, with specific modifications and enhancements made by researchers at the American Vela Observatory. Avobenzone is widely used in sunscreen products for its ability to absorb UVA rays.
