DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE
Commonly Found In
Overview
DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for LIGHT STABILIZER. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Mexoryl XL, Drometrizole Trisiloxane, L'OrΓ©al UV filter
Key Benefits
Mexoryl XL (drometrizole trisiloxane) is a broad-spectrum UV filter that studies suggest may protect against both UVA and UVB radiation with dual absorption peaks. Its photostability means the protective capacity is maintained under prolonged UV exposure, which may contribute to more consistent daily protection.
Supporting Research
- β’ L'OrΓ©al internal studies cited in EU CosIng submission; photostability data in SCCS assessment
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; silicone-conjugated filter with a light, non-greasy feel.
Source: SCCS/1533/14
Irritancy Rating
Very low irritancy; silicon carrier reduces skin penetration. No notable sensitization data in available literature.
Source: SCCS/1533/14 (Silatriazole safety data)
Typical Use Concentration
Range
2β15%
Optimal
5β10%
EU Annex VI permits use up to defined limits. Japan permits use. Australia TGA approves. FDA has not approved for OTC sunscreen use as of 2025.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Developed by L'OrΓ©al. Often paired with Mexoryl SX (ecamsule, a water-soluble UVA filter) for comprehensive broad-spectrum coverage. Oil-soluble; used in oil phase of formulations. Especially suitable for water-resistant formulations. Not available in US market products.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (VI/16) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Mexoryl XL was patented by L'OrΓ©al in 1989 and is approved in the EU, Canada, Australia, Japan, and many other countries. The FDA has not approved it, citing insufficient safety data for a GRASE determination, despite an extensive international safety record. The combination with Mexoryl SX is used in L'OrΓ©al's Anthelios sunscreen range, which is sold in EU/Canada but not in the US without substituting different UV filters.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 34 ingredients in the LIGHT STABILIZER category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Entirely synthetic siloxane-modified benzotriazole developed and patented by L'OrΓ©al. No natural occurrence.
π How It's Made
Multi-step synthesis involving formation of benzotriazole core followed by attachment of trisiloxane groups. The trisiloxane modification (silicon-oxygen-silicon groups) provides lipophilic (oil-soluble) properties and enhances formulation stability. Proprietary L'OrΓ©al manufacturing process.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Photostable Broad-Spectrum Uva And Uvb Filter protecting against Dual peaks - 303 nm (UVB) and 344 nm (UVA). Used at Typically used at 2-10% in formulations concentrations. Lipophilic (oil-soluble) benzotriazole derivative that absorbs both UVA and UVB radiation. Photostable and does not degrade when exposed to UV light, providing long-lasting protection. Easily integrated into oily phase of suncare products, making it particularly suitable for water-resistant formulations. Shows synergistic effect when used with Mexoryl SX (ecamsule).
π¬ Other Applications
Pharmaceutical topical formulations; Limited applications due to L'OrΓ©al patent exclusivity
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Mexoryl XL (drometrizole trisiloxane) was developed and patented by L'OrΓ©al in 1989, representing an innovation in oil-soluble photostable UV filters.
- β’ Approved in the EU, Canada, Australia, Japan, and many other countries, but has never been approved in the United States despite decades of safe use elsewhere.
- β’ The FDA continues to cite insufficient scientific data to establish drometrizole trisiloxane as generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE) for OTC sunscreen use, despite relatively few reports of adverse reactions globally.
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex VI
- β’ SCCS safety assessment of drometrizole trisiloxane
- β’ Japan MHLW UV filter positive list
- β’ Australia TGA UV filter list
- β’ FDA OTC sunscreen monograph status
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
BENZOPHENONE-3
BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE
BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE
DIETHYLAMINO HYDROXYBENZOYL HEXYL BENZOATE
ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE
OCTOCRYLENE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE used for in cosmetics?
DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE is primarily used for light stabilizer in cosmetic products. It also serves as uv absorber, uv filter. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE?
DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For light stabilizer, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Where can I find official regulation information about DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE?
Official information about DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.