New sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays

Jul 27 2006

People will now be able to get better protection from the sun with a new sunscreen recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The new product, Anthelios SX, made by L'Oreal contains ecamsule (Mexoryl), an agent that shields skin from short-wave UVA rays and provides protection from the full range of both ultraviolet A and B rays, doesn't break down as easily as other products and lasts longer in the sun.

Sunscreens currently available in the United States are unable to do this; the product will be available to consumers in the fall.

However, experts say current advice about avoiding the sun and protecting the skin still applies, and a better sunscreen doesn't change the basic rules of skin protection.

Experts say UVB causes sunburn and skin cancer, while UVA causes aging and some skin cancer; the majority of sunscreens currently available contain two active ingredients: avobenzone and octocrylene.

Anthelios SX, which has an SPF of 15, contains those compounds as well, but adds in Mexoryl.

Sunscreens containing Mexoryl have been available in Europe, Asia and Canada since 1993 and it is unclear why it has taken so long for the FDA to approve the product.

One expert believes the best sun protection combines physical sun blocks with chemical ones, as many sunscreens break down in the sun.

Sun blocks such as zinc oxide and titanium physically block the sun and the ideal sunscreen would block both UVA and UVB, have a high SPF, and would be waterproof.