SkinWis
SkinWis Scientific

Skincare Ingredient

Sign in to save this ingredient

Save ingredients to your skin profile and we'll use them when you look up products — instantly flagging what's reactive, neutral, or works well for your skin.

Drometrizole Trisiloxane

In Skincare: Is Drometrizole Trisiloxane Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects

Safety (overall safety)
2/5 — Low risk

Safety Information

UV filter used in sunscreens; CIR/EU allow use and it’s generally considered low systemic risk. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated Drometrizole Trisiloxane and concluded it is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%, with limited potential for skin irritation or sensitization.

Quick Insights

At a glance

  • 01

    Drometrizole Trisiloxane is widely recognized by its trade name, Mexoryl XL.

  • 02

    This ingredient functions as a photostable filter that protects skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

  • 03

    L’Oreal developed and patented Drometrizole Trisiloxane as a UV filter.

  • 04

    Drometrizole Trisiloxane has not yet received approval for broad use in cosmetic formulations within the United States.

Key Benefits

What Drometrizole Trisiloxane does for your skin

1 benefits
Anti-Aging

Overview

Ingredient Profile

Drometrizole trisiloxane, also known as Mexoryl XL, is a photostable UV filter that absorbs both UVA and UVB rays. It provides peak protection around 340 nanometers, and is often combined with other UV filters to offer broader UVA coverage. Studies indicate that allergic reactions are rare, and it is commonly found in sunscreens sold in Europe, Canada, Australia, and Japan. While not widely used in the United States due to regulatory considerations, it is approved for use in a limited number of sunscreen products.
Classifications
UV Filters

Data & Research

Scientific Facts

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a significant contributor to sunburn, premature skin aging, and an increased risk of developing melanoma and other forms of skin cancer.

Common Uses

Formulation in Drometrizole Trisiloxane

Drometrizole Trisiloxane is a UV filter approved for use in sunscreen products within Europe, where such products are regulated as cosmetics. In the United States, sunscreen products are classified as Over-the-Counter (OTC) drugs and are subject to FDA regulation. Due to the FDA’s review process for sunscreen active ingredients, Drometrizole Trisiloxane has not yet been approved for use in sunscreen drug products. However, it can be utilized in cosmetic and personal care products as a UV light absorber to protect the product itself from degradation caused by UV radiation.

Role of Drometrizole Trisiloxane

Active Cosmetic Mechanisms

LIGHT STABILIZER

UV Protector for Products

Protects products from degradation caused by light exposure

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Light stabilizers prevent photodegradation through UV absorbers that convert light energy to heat (benzophenones, benzotriazoles), radical scavengers (hindered amine light stabilizers), or quenchers that deactivate excited states. These protect photosensitive ingredients like fragrances, colors, and vitamins from degradation during storage. Mechanism involves absorbing UV radiation or scavenging photo-generated free radicals.

UV ABSORBER

UV Ray Absorber

Absorbs ultraviolet radiation to protect product and skin

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: UV absorbers are organic compounds that absorb UV radiation and convert it to harmless heat through molecular excitation and relaxation. Chemical UV filters include avobenzone (UVA), octinoxate (UVB), octocrylene (UVB), and newer broad-spectrum filters. Mechanism involves conjugated double bond systems absorbing photons, reaching excited state, then dissipating energy as heat while returning to ground state. Chromophore structure determines absorption spectrum. Photostability considerations important as some filters degrade under UV exposure.

UV FILTER

Sunscreen Agent

Blocks or filters harmful UV radiation

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: UV filters prevent UV light from reaching skin through absorption (chemical filters) or reflection/scattering (physical/mineral filters). Organic filters absorb UV converting to heat; inorganic filters (titanium dioxide, zinc oxide) reflect and scatter UV rays. Broad-spectrum protection covers UVB (290-320nm causing sunburn) and UVA (320-400nm causing aging). SPF measures UVB protection; PA rating or critical wavelength indicates UVA protection. Combination formulations optimize broad-spectrum protection. Must meet regulatory requirements varying by jurisdiction.

Products

containing Drometrizole Trisiloxane

437 formulations
Uvidea Anthelios Tone-Up Rosy SPF50+
Uvidea Anthelios Tone-Up Rosy SPF50+
La Roche-Posay · sunscreen
Ambre Solaire Clear Protect Refresh SPF30
Ambre Solaire Clear Protect Refresh SPF30
Garnier · sunscreen
Ideal Soleil Velvety Cream SPF 50+
Ideal Soleil Velvety Cream SPF 50+
Vichy · sunscreen

References

Scientific sources

[1]

PubChem, Accessed April 2023, Website

[2]

TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, December 2022, ePublication

[3]

Indian Journal of Dermatology, January-February 2020, pages 5-10

[4]

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, September 2008, pages 1,110-1,119

[5]

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, September 2007, pages 1,071-1,075

[6]

Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, October 2004, pages 243-247

Semantic Analysis

Similar Ingredients

Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Drometrizole Trisiloxane — common questions

What is Drometrizole Trisiloxane in skincare?

Drometrizole Trisiloxane is an organic compound that absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light.

What does Drometrizole Trisiloxane do? / Functions of Drometrizole Trisiloxane?

Common functions: LIGHT STABILIZER, UV ABSORBER, UV FILTER.

What is the comedogenic rating of Drometrizole Trisiloxane? / Is Drometrizole Trisiloxane comedogenic?

The comedogenic rating of Drometrizole Trisiloxane has not been established in our database.

Does it clog pores?
No Rating Available

Whether Drometrizole Trisiloxane clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.

Is Drometrizole Trisiloxane safe for skin?
2 2/5 — Low risk

Drometrizole Trisiloxane has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: UV filter used in sunscreens; CIR/EU allow use and it’s generally considered low systemic risk. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated Drometrizole Trisiloxane and concluded i

Is Drometrizole Trisiloxane good for sensitive skin?

Drometrizole Trisiloxane tolerance on sensitive skin varies by individual.

What are the side effects of Drometrizole Trisiloxane in skincare?

Known considerations: UV filter used in sunscreens; CIR/EU allow use and it’s generally considered low systemic risk. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated Drometrizole Trisiloxane and concluded it is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%, with limited potential for skin irritation or sensitization.

)