Valerie McMurray is a visionary entrepreneur whose commitment to sustainability reshaped the sun care industry with her groundbreaking brand, Soleil Toujours. McMurray was motivated to create mineral-based sunscreens that protect skin and nurture it with safe, non-toxic ingredients. After extensive research and development, she introduced a mineral-based lotion featuring the innovative EcoSun—a proprietary blend enriched with vitamin C ester, vitamin D, red algae, and bisabolol. This formula encapsulates her commitment to offering skincare products that combine potent antioxidants and anti-aging properties.
Adequate sun protection is critical, as scientists estimate that 80% of premature aging is caused by sun exposure. Soleil Toujours meets this challenge by delivering robust UV protection products while enhancing skin health with antioxidants and anti-aging components.
Since its launch, Soleil Toujours has achieved significant acclaim, quickly becoming a favorite among beauty editors and securing features in esteemed publications like Vogue, Marie Claire, and Elle. The brand's widespread recognition continued to grow, with its Soleil Clean Conscious Body Sunscreen Mist being named the best sunscreen spray by Vogue in May 2023. Soleil Toujours has also expanded its presence in luxury markets, available in elite resorts and retailers such as Blue Mercury, and has successfully entered the digital direct-to-consumer market.
A notable milestone for the brand was its inclusion in Sephora in January 2023, where its products received the "Planet Aware at Sephora Clean" seal, reflecting its environmental consciousness. Additionally, McMurray launched a new line, Summer Camp, at Walmart in June 2022 to provide younger demographics with accessible, high-quality skincare.
Beyond her business achievements, McMurray is deeply committed to environmental sustainability. A portion of her company's profits supports the Goldeneye Foundation for coral reef restoration. Soleil Toujours prides itself on maintaining a net-zero carbon footprint by offsetting emissions through strategic carbon projects.
Residing in Bronxville, New York, with her husband Scott and their three children, Valerie Rodriguez McMurray's roots are firmly planted in the New York City metropolitan area. She holds a bachelor's degree in English and economics from Barnard College and an MBA from the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia. Active in her community, McMurray contributes her time and expertise to several local organizations and enjoys skiing, tennis, and traveling during her leisure time.