Green Tea & Zinc Super-Matte SPF 50 PA++++

Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone) was formally classified as a Category 1 Endocrine Disruptor by ECHA in 2025, the highest classification level, meaning the scientific evidence is sufficient to classify it as a substance that interferes with hormones. It is also banned from sunscreens in Hawaii, Palau, and other marine-protected areas due to reef toxicity. It penetrates the skin and has been detected in blood and urine after application. Daily facial leave-on use constitutes ongoing systemic exposure. Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) is under a separate active review by both the EU and the US FDA for potential hormonal effects. Both filters remain legal in India. Chitosan, used here for the matte finish, is typically derived from crustacean shells; if animal-derived, this conflicts with Plum's vegan certification and carries shellfish cross-sensitisation risk. No synthetic Parfum, no parabens.

Avobenzone provides UVA protection and Octinoxate covers UVB, but there is a critical photostability problem. Avobenzone breaks down rapidly in sunlight unless it is paired with a photostabiliser such as Octocrylene or a Tinosorb filter. Octinoxate is absent from that role here and in fact actively accelerates Avobenzone's photodegradation. In practice, the UVA protection from this sunscreen diminishes materially through the day under direct sun. Titanium Dioxide provides partial supplemental coverage. Zinc PCA controls sebum and has mild antimicrobial benefit. Green Tea adds antioxidants. The matte finish performs well for oily skin types but the filter selection is problematic.

SPF 50 and PA++++ are claimed but no published test report is accessible on the brand website. The ECHA 2025 Category 1 endocrine disruptor classification for Oxybenzone is not disclosed anywhere in product communications. The Avobenzone photostability limitation, meaning UVA protection fades through the day, is not disclosed. Plum markets itself as a clean beauty brand, which makes the inclusion of a formally classified endocrine disruptor difficult to reconcile with that positioning.

No SPF 50 or PA++++ test certificate is published. No safety assessment addressing the endocrine disruptor status of Oxybenzone in the context of daily facial use has been published. The active regulatory status of two UV filters is not communicated to consumers. This represents a significant evidence gap for a product marketed as safe for daily use.

UV filter identities are named in the INCI. SPF and PA ratings are stated. The Oxybenzone endocrine disruptor classification, the Octinoxate regulatory review status, and the Avobenzone photostability failure are all material information that is withheld from consumers. Chitosan's animal derivation risk is not addressed despite the vegan brand positioning.