Drometrizole Trisiloxane

Best

UV filter

Drometrizole Trisiloxane at a glance

  • Known more commonly as Mexoryl XL
  • Photostable UVA and UVB filter
  • Developed and patented by L’Oreal
  • Not yet approved for wide use in the U.S.

Drometrizole Trisiloxane description

Drometrizole trisiloxane, known also by its trade name Mexoryl XL, is a photostable UVA and UVB filter developed and patented by cosmetics company L’Oreal. Since its UVA protection peaks at 340 nanometers, it’s generally best to see this combined with other UV filters whose protection peaks further along the UVA range, which goes up to 400 nanometers. Research has found that allergic reactions to drometrizole trisiloxane are considered rare; this UV filter is used in sun protection products sold in the EU, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It is not currently in wide use in the United States because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says there is not significant evidence yet showing it to be generally recognized as safe and effective for over-the-counter sunscreen use. Interestingly, the FDA has allowed L’Oreal to market a sunscreen in the U.S. that contains this filter.

Drometrizole Trisiloxane references

  • PubChem, Accessed April 2023, Website
  • TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, December 2022, ePublication
  • Indian Journal of Dermatology, January-February 2020, pages 5-10
  • Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, September 2008, pages 1,110-1,119
  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, September 2007, pages 1,071-1,075
  • Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, October 2004, pages 243-247

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.