Mexoryl® XL: What is it?
Mexoryl® XL is the trade name for drometrizole trisiloxane. It is an organic (carbon-based) sun filter developed and patented by L'Oréal in 1989. It provides protection against UVA and UVB rays.
In our products, it appears in the list of ingredients on the packaging, under the name DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE.
Where does it come from?
Mexoryl® XL is a synthetic organic compound (based on carbon, silicon, oxygen and hydrogen) that absorbs UVA and UVB rays.
Why it is used?
Mexoryl® XL is a photostable sun filter, it does not break down in sunshine. It protects the skin from UVB and UVA radiation, which are responsible for sunburn, premature aging and the risks of skin cancer.
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Photostable
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Anti-sunburn
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Protection against skin aging
What are its benefits?
Mexoryl® XL is complementary to Mexoryl® SX. It offers photostable UVA and UVB protection. It does not degrade when exposed to UV light, and therefore provides long-lasting protection.
It is easily integrated into the oily part of suncare products and is particularly suitable for water-resistant formulations.
It is also well tolerated, hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin. It is safe for health and the environment.
The facts:
- A study[1] shows that when Mexoryl® XL is combined with Mexoryl® SX, a synergistic effect increases UV protection. For this reason, Mexoryl® SX/Mexoryl® XL sunscreens are recognized as particularly effective and recommended by dermatologists.
- UVB filters reinforced with Mexoryl® XL provide effective protection against sunburn.
- It has no negative impact on the environment. A study[2] showed that even at concentrations higher than those found in the sea, Mexoryl® XL is not toxic to coral reefs.
[1] Moyal D., Prevention of ultraviolet‐induced skin pigmentation. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, 2004, 20: 243-247
[2] Fel, JP., Lacherez, C., Bensetra, A. et al. Photochemical response of the scleractinian coral Stylophora pistillata to some sunscreen ingredients. Coral Reefs 2019 38, 109–122.
How is it used in our products?
We use Mexoryl® XL in our suncare products in combination with other filters, such as Mexoryl® SX. Formulated today in association, these two filters Mexoryl® XL and SX enable us to market suncare product lines that offer the broadest and most balanced protection against UVA and UVB.
