Anthelios sunscreens are formulated with Mexoryl SX or Mexoryl XL, patented molecules that when combined with other sunscreen filters, such as titanium dioxide, avobenzone (Parsol 1789) and octocrylene, offer broad spectrum protection from the sun's UVA and UVB rays.

The main advantage of Mexoryl over any other chemical sunscreen filters is that it is highly photostable (doesn't degrade upon exposure to sunlight) compared to other sun filters available in the United States.

Because Mexoryl may be combined with other sun filters, it is possible to formulate products offering very high SPF (sun protection factor) ratings, as high as SPF 60. Anthelios L is such a product.

Some women prefer the softer and creamier texture of Anthelios Lait even though it is only rated at spf 45. The lower rating is sufficient for day to day use.

Most experts agree that exposure to the sun's UVA and UVB rays accounts for the majority of photoaging (skin aging by sunlight). By some estimates as much as 90% of the symptoms of skin aging are caused by ultraviolet radiation as early as our 20s!

Th sun causes collagen (our skin's supporting structure) to break down faster and impairs the ability of elastin (gives our skin elasticity). Over time, this leads to wrinkles. Deeper penetration of UV rays may cause skin thinning and the growth of skin lesions such as actinic keratoses, basal cell carcinomas, and squamous cell carcinomas.

The sun actually gives off 3 types of radiation:
UVA rays - (320 to 400 nm) are the longest rays and penetrate deep in the skin - the dermis. Once thought to have a minor effect on skin, studies show that UVA rays are responsible for wrinkles, premature aging, skin lesions and some types of skin cancer. UVA rays are prevalent year round and can penetrate through glass. That's why it's important to use UVA and UVB protection on your face year round.
UVB rays - (290 to 320 nm) are shorter than UVA rays. They affect the top layer of the skin (epidermis) and are associated with suntans (and sunburns). UVB rays are most prevalent between 10 am and 2 pm during the summer months. UVB rays cannot penetrate through glass.
UVC rays - (100 to 290 nm) are the shortest rays and are almost completely absorbed by the ozone layer. They are not thought to have any effect on the skin.
SPF or Sun Protection Rating refers to the protection from UVB and not UVA rays. However, given the long terms associated with excessive exposure to UVA rays, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently proposed a new rating system to measure a sunscreen's UVA protection. It's expected that the system will come into effect sometime in 2009.

Sunscreen filters may be divided into two categories: physical or chemical.

Physical agents work by sitting on top of the skin and preventing the penetration of UV rays. Physical sun filters include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Chemical agents, on the other hand, interact with the skin's surface to provide a protective barrier. They include agents such as octocrylene, avobenzone (Parsol 1789), Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl XL.

La Roche Posay's Anthelios comes in a range of formulations. All offer both UVB and UVA protection, so the hardest thing will be deciding which one to choose:
Anthelios XL SPF 60 - formulated with Mexoryl SX, Mexoryl XL, avobenzone plus other sun filters, it offers the ultimate in sun protection
Anthelios Lait SPF 45 - a lighter fluid formulation which some prefer
Anthelios S SPF 30 - a great cream formulation for everyday use
Anthelios Spray SPF 30 - convenient application so perfect for children
Hydraphase UV SPF30 - though not part of the Anthelios line, this wonderful moisturizer by La Roche Posay is perfect for most skin types. Because it's a moisturizer and not a sunscreen it can (and should be) used everyday, year round to offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
If you're still confused, visit www.pharmacymix.com to learn more.

La Roche Posay, a French based cosmetics company manufactures a range of products for all skin types, including those that are sensitive. La Roche Posay products are recommended by many dermatologists and other healthcare professionals. Their best selling products include Anthelios sunscreens, Hydraphase facial care products and their anti-aging products Active C and Redermic.

Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Fluide Extreme is one of the best selling La Roche Posay sunscreens in the Anthelios line. Formulated with Mexoryl SX, Mexoryl XL, Parsol 1789 (avobenzone) and titanium dioxide it delivers unparalleled UVA and UVB sun protection in a luxurious facial lotion. It's non-greasy pleasing texture is suitable for almost all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin.

Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Fluide Extreme is also available in a larger sized body lotion. Both products can be purchased at pharmacymix.com

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