Methoxypropylamino cyclohexenylidene ethoxyethylcyanoacetate (INCI; sometimes abbreviated MCE) is an organic compound used in sunscreens to absorb UVA radiation. It is marketed as Mexoryl 400 by L'Oréal, and as UVMune by L'Oréal's subsidiary La Roche Posay. MCE has an absorption maximum at 385 nm, which is in the long-wave UVA range (UVA1, 360−400 nm). It is used exclusively in products manufactured by L'Oréal. MCE was developed by L'Oréal and BASF.
Properties MCE is a yellow solid in the form of powder or small chunks. At 25 °C, it is soluble in phenoxyethanol, dimethyl capramide, ethoxydiglycol, dimethyl isosorbide, and alcohol (ethanol), which are ingredients used in cosmetics. It is considered a cyclic merocyanine.
Safety and regulation In 2019, MCE was approved for use up to a maximum concentration of 3% as a UV filter in cosmetics in the EU. In 2025, it was approved for use by the TGA in Australia up to a maximum concentration of 3%. It is not currently recognised or approved by the FDA for use in cosmetics in the US.
See also Ecamsule (Mexoryl SX) Drometrizole trisiloxane (Mexoryl XL)
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