University of Arizona licences new sunscreen to MexiAloe Laboratorios

Researchers professor Douglas Loy and graduate student Stephanie Tolbert at the University of Arizona (UA) in the US have licensed a new, non-penetrating sunscreen formulation to MexiAloe Laboratorios.

The sunscreen binds active ingredient oxybenzone in a way that prevents its absorption into the skin. This feature is intended to address customers’ concerns over the effects of the chemical, which is commonly used in topical sunscreens to protect from ultraviolet (UV) light.

To achieve the non-penetrating effect, Loy and Tolbert utilised chemical bonds to bind pearls to oxybenzone and prevent it from breaking down.

For the protection of intellectual property (IP) and licencing, Loy worked with the University’s Tech Launch Arizona office, which commercialises inventions obtained through research.

MexiAloe Laboratorios supplies aloe vera in North America, while parent company NovaMex distributes Mexican products in the US.

Novamex CEO Luis Fernandez said: "Personal care consumers are connecting the dots between health, environmental sustainability, and natural ingredients. This trend is shaping the future of the natural personal care category.

"With these licenced patents from UA, we are looking forward to provide innovative solutions for consumers that now more than ever are looking for natural and functional sunscreens."

Funding for the development of the sunscreen has been provided by Tech Launch Arizona’s Asset Development Programme.

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Image: Professor Douglas Loy. Photo: courtesy of Paul Tumarkin/Tech Launch Arizona.