For the first time in nearly two decades, the FDA has approved a new active sunscreen ingredient for use in the United States: bemotrizinol. Already widely used in Europe, Asia, and Australia, for over 25 years, this ingredient will soon appear in US sunscreens and may offer a more effective and cosmetically appealing option for daily sun protection. Let’s talk more about it and why it is important.
What Is Bemotrizinol?
Bemotrizinol is a broad-spectrum UV filter that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to skin aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn, both increase the risk of skin cancer. Unlike mineral blockers such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reflect UV light, bemotrizinol stays on the skin’s surface and absorbs and disrupts UV radiation before it can damage skin cells.It is highly stable in the sun and sits predominantly on the surface of the skin, which minimizes absorption into the body as well as skin irritation. It feels lighter and more wearable than mineral sunscreens, which can leave a white cast. These qualities may help improve daily sunscreen adherence, which is an important factor, given that only 57% of Americans report regular sunscreen use.
Why Is This Approval Important?
The FDA’s June 2026 decision marks a rare expansion of sunscreen options in the US, where regulatory standards have historically limited the availability of newer UV filters. Beginning August 2026, manufacturers may incorporate bemotrizinol into over-the-counter sunscreens.
This approval comes at a critical time. UV radiation is responsible for 92% of melanoma cases, the most aggressive form of skin cancer. The National Cancer Institute estimates that more than 112,000 Americans will be diagnosed with melanoma in 2026. Broad-spectrum sunscreen remains a cornerstone of prevention.
How Does It Compare With Existing Sunscreens?
Bemotrizinol is now one of only three sunscreen ingredients the FDA considers generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE), alongside zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Other chemical filters commonly found in U.S. sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and avobenzone, are still under review for long-term safety.
Sunscreens such as bemotrizinol often provide higher SPF options and better cosmetic feel, which may encourage consistent use, an essential factor in reducing skin cancer risk. No sunscreen is effective if people won’t use it!
What Else Can You do to Protect Your Skin?
Bemotrizinol-containing sunscreens will soon offer Americans a more advanced, broad-spectrum, cosmetically elegant option for daily protection. Still, no sunscreen works alone. Here are some things that you can pair with sunscreen to protect your skin:
- Seek the shade – Natural shade or an umbrella at the beach or above your outdoor furniture
- Wear protective clothing – Hats, long sleeves, newer SPF clothing
- Avoid peak sun hours – 10 am to 2 pm during Standard Time, 11 am to 3 pm during Daylight Savings Time (when solar noon actually happens at 1 pm).
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Dr. Anita Bennett MD – Health Tip Content Editor