The Newest Sunscreen Ingredient Approved in the U.S.: Bemotrizinol
For the first time in nearly 30 years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new sunscreen active ingredient for use in American sunscreens. The ingredient is called bemotrizinol (BEMT). While bemotrizinol may be new to the United States, it has been used safely in Europe, Asia, Australia, and other parts of the world for more than two decades. It is considered one of the most effective modern sunscreen ingredients available and may help improve both the protection and cosmetic elegance of sunscreens sold in the U.S.
Why Is This Such a Big Deal?
Skin cancer remains the most common cancer in the United States, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major risk factor. Daily sunscreen use is one of the most important tools we have to reduce UV damage, premature aging, and skin cancer risk.
The challenge has been that sunscreen innovation in the United States has lagged behind many other countries for years. Because sunscreen ingredients are regulated as over-the-counter drugs by the FDA, introducing new ingredients requires extensive testing and review. Bemotrizinol represents the first major advancement in sunscreen ingredients approved by the FDA in decades.
What Makes Bemotrizinol Different?
Broad-spectrum UV filter
Not all sunscreen ingredients protect equally against the sun's rays. Sunlight contains two major types of ultraviolet radiation that reach the Earth:
UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburns
UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging, pigmentation changes, and skin cancer development
An ideal sunscreen should provide strong protection against both. Bemotrizinol is considered a broad-spectrum UV filter, meaning it effectively absorbs both UVA and UVB radiation. This comprehensive coverage is one reason dermatologists have been eager to see it become available in the United States.
Superior UVA Protection
Many currently available U.S. chemical sunscreens rely on an ingredient called avobenzone for UVA protection. While effective, avobenzone has one significant drawback—it can break down when exposed to sunlight.
Bemotrizinol is highly photostable, meaning it remains effective for longer periods when exposed to UV radiation. This stability helps maintain protection throughout the day and can improve the overall performance of sunscreen formulations. Patients should still reapply sunscreen every two hours, but a more stable ingredient may provide more reliable protection between applications.
A Strong Safety Profile
One reason the FDA approval process took so long is that extensive safety data were required. The good news is that BEMT has one of the most thoroughly documented safety records of any sunscreen ingredient currently available.
Studies have shown that:
It is minimally absorbed through the skin
It is unlikely to enter the bloodstream in significant amounts
It rarely causes skin irritation
It has demonstrated a favorable safety profile after decades of international use
Its large molecular size makes it difficult for the ingredient to penetrate deeply into the skin, which may contribute to its excellent tolerability.
For patients with sensitive skin or concerns about sunscreen ingredients, this is encouraging news.
Better Cosmetic Elegance
One of the most common complaints dermatologists hear about sunscreen is simple: "I don't like how it feels." Many patients dislike greasy textures, heavy formulas, or the white cast often associated with mineral sunscreens.
Currently, zinc oxide is one of the best sunscreen ingredients available in the U.S. because it offers broad-spectrum protection and excellent safety. However, zinc-based sunscreens can leave a noticeable white residue, particularly on patients with darker skin tones.
Bemotrizinol is transparent on the skin and allows formulators to create lighter, more elegant products that are easier to wear daily. And the best sunscreen, after all, is the one you'll actually use.
When Will Patients Be Able to Buy It?
Although FDA approval has been granted, patients may need to wait a little longer before seeing products on store shelves.
Bemotrizinol will be marketed in the United States under the name Parsol® Shield. Dermatologists anticipate that new sunscreen formulations containing this ingredient will begin appearing in the coming months as manufacturers incorporate it into future products.
As more companies adopt this technology, patients can expect additional broad-spectrum sunscreen options to become available.
What This Means for Your Skin
While the approval of bemotrizinol is exciting, it does not change the fundamentals of sun protection. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV radiation, and sunscreen should always be part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy.
Best Practices for Sunscreen Use
For any sunscreen you use, always follow these best practices:
Apply sunscreen 15–20 minutes before sun exposure
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
Apply generously to all exposed skin
Reapply every two hours
Reapply after swimming or excessive sweating
Seek shade during peak sun hours when possible
Replace expired sunscreen products
Any questions? Consult one of our board-certified dermatologists. Please contact SSDP to schedule an appointment with any of our physicians.
Sources:
U.S. Food and Drug Administration sunscreen ingredient approval data NPR Health: 4 Things to Know About the New Sunscreen Ingredient the FDA Approved (June 2026)
Current dermatology and photoprotection literature regarding bemotrizinol (BEMT/Tinosorb S/Parsol Shield)
