Oxonica’s Optisol™ Sunscreen Now Available Boots

Oxonica Ltd

26th April 2005

Oxonica Ltd, a leading European technology company, has patented a revolutionary new UV filter called Optisol™. As of this month, Optisol™ sunscreen is available on shelves as an active component of Boots' new Soltan Facial Sun Defence Cream.

Optisol™ sunscreen offers several major benefits over existing filters. In addition to protecting against UVB, the traditional focus of sun protection, Optisol™ offers enhanced protection against UVA light. It is now believed that UVA light is also responsible for skin damage and sunscreens sold in the UK have a star rating, developed by Boots PLC, to indicate the amount of UVA protection offered. Test data has shown that sunscreens formulated with Optisol™ can provide enhanced protection against both UVB and UVA.

Optisol™ is a milder, longer lasting and innovative new form of titanium dioxide, a commonly used ingredient in sunscreens which acts to absorb UV light. A tiny amount of manganese is incorporated within the titanium dioxide, adding major benefits; the manganese absorbs extra UVA giving a higher level of protection and also acts to stop the formation of free radicals in the titanium dioxide. These effects give enhanced performance which is extremely photostable ensuring that the product’s ability to protect isn’t broken down by the sun.

Further benefits are seen in a broader cosmetic context. Anti-oxidants such as vitamin C are commonly added to cosmetic products to scavenge free radicals and promote healthy skin. However, the anti-oxidants themselves can be degraded by UV. Optisol™ sunscreen provides additional performance benefits by acting to protect vitamins and plant extracts from UV allowing these cosmetic anti-oxidants to retain efficacy for longer. In this way, Optisol™ further helps to prevent cell damage and premature skin ageing. Optisol™ also enhances the cosmetic performance of formulated products, with users reporting an immediate improvement in skin tone and radiance.

Mike Brown, Boots Suncare Scientific Adviser, who played a central role in the creation of the new range of Soltan Facial sun protection said:
“The addition of Optisol™ to the new Soltan 5 Star facial sun care range offers people the best sun care protection on the market. It is essential to choose a sunscreen with good UVA protection. The new Soltan Facial suncare range, offers higher levels of protection from UVA rays for the same SPF, whilst also reducing the formation of free radicals on the skin. In this way, it works not only to protect against the immediate effects of over exposure to sunlight, but also as a long-term anti-ageing agent. OptisolTM is the next generation of sun protection as it offers milder, better and longer lasting protection. One can rest assured that the delicate skin around the face and neck area is protected from damage arising from exposure to the sun.”

David Browning, Business Director, Oxonica Healthcare said:
“We are delighted that Boots have enhanced their sun protection range through the inclusion of Optisol™ as an important component of the new Boots Soltan Facial Sun Defence Cream. Boots are renowned as innovators in sun care technology and their early adoption of Oxonica’s UV technology provides an excellent endorsement of the potential of Optisol™ as a revolutionary UV absorber and free radical scavenger product within the sun care and cosmetics area.”

Oxonica is also in discussions with other major cosmetic companies regarding inclusion of Optisol™ in their sun care and cosmetic ranges.

The Company is looking to build relations worldwide and has recently signed their first distribution agreement with Hanjoo C&C Co. Ltd, to further market Optisol™ UV Absorber in South Korea.

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