Mexoryl

Mexoryl SX is a sunscreen developed and patented by L'Oréal. While conventional sunscreens protect against UVB (ultraviolet B) sunlight, Mexoryl SX is designed to protect against UVA (ultraviolet A) sunlight. UVB exposure is what causes sunburn and is most commonly associated with squamous and basal cell skin cancers. UVA reaches further into the skin, and can cause the deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma. L'Oréal has incorporated Mexoryl SX in their suncare products since 1993 ... alas, not those products sold (legally) in the United States.

The fancy name for Mexoryl is Terephythalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid. While products containing Mexoryl are still not available over-the-counter here in the states, they are freely available over the Internet.

Canada Pharmacy sells two lines of sunscreen with Mexoryl: L'Oréal's Ombrelle and La Roche-Posay's Anthelios. Ombrelle is available in SPF 15 (spray and lotion), SPF 30, SPF 45, and SPF 60 cream. Their SPF 30 Extreme Lotion is designed for sporting activities. Anthelios is available in both sprays and creams and in a variety of formulations, including SPF 30, SPF 40, SPF 45, and SPF 60.

Vichy's Capital Soleil line contains Mexoryl XL ... a different type of Mexoryl.

My family loves the beach. We spend a lot of time in the sun. While Mexoryl might technically be an illegal sunscreen ... I'm more worried about those UVAs than I am the FDA ...

6/22 Update: Mexoryl Sunscreen