Bemotrizinol: The First New Sunscreen Ingredient in 20 Years, Finally Approved in the U.S.

For the first time since the late 1990s, Americans will have access to a new over-the-counter sunscreen active ingredient. On June 9, 2026, the FDA added bemotrizinol to the OTC sunscreen monograph, giving consumers a broad-spectrum filter that has been available in Europe and Asia for more than 25 years.

Key Takeaways

• Bemotrizinol provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective for adults and children 6 months and older (FDA, 2026).
• It is highly photostable and has low skin penetration compared with older chemical filters (Dermatology Advisor, 2026).
• Sunscreen manufacturers may begin using bemotrizinol starting August 9, 2026, with the first U.S. products expected later in 2026 (FDA, 2026).

Why Does This Approval Matter?

Current U.S. sunscreens rely heavily on avobenzone for UVA protection, but avobenzone degrades in sunlight and must be paired with stabilizing agents. Bemotrizinol absorbs UVA at 340 nm and UVB at 310 nm, retains over 98% of its UV-absorbing capacity after 50 minimal erythemal doses, and does not degrade quickly in sunlight (Dermatology Advisor, 2026). Its molecular weight exceeds 500 Daltons, which limits systemic absorption through the skin (FDA, 2026).

Citation capsule: Bemotrizinol is the third sunscreen active ingredient the FDA considers Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective, joining zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and the first new chemical filter approved in the United States in more than 25 years (FDA, 2026).

Is Bemotrizinol Safe?

The FDA reviewed penetration, sensitization, and phototoxicity data. The agency concluded that systemic exposure is low and that the ingredient is safe for repeated daily use in adults and children 6 months and older. Unlike oxybenzone, bemotrizinol does not show estrogenic activity in vitro, a point dermatologists highlighted during the public comment period (AACR, 2026).

Citation capsule: A June 2026 FDA review found that bemotrizinol has low levels of absorption through the skin into the body, supporting its classification as safe and effective for regular use in the general population (FDA, 2026).

What Should You Look for on the Label?

DSM Nutritional Products will launch bemotrizinol under the brand name Parsol Shield. After an 18-month exclusivity period, other manufacturers may include the ingredient in their formulations. When shopping, look for "bemotrizinol" or "BEMT" in the active ingredients list. It can be combined with zinc oxide to broaden protection without the white cast associated with mineral-only sunscreens (Dermatology Advisor, 2026).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bemotrizinol a mineral or chemical sunscreen?

It is a chemical, or organic, filter. It works by absorbing UV radiation and converting it to heat, rather than reflecting it like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (AACR, 2026).

Can I use bemotrizinol on my face and body?

Yes. The FDA approval covers both areas for adults and children 6 months and older. Pair it with protective clothing and shade for comprehensive skin cancer prevention (FDA, 2026).

Will my current sunscreen still work?

Current sunscreens remain effective if used correctly. Bemotrizinol offers a new option with better photostability and UVA coverage, but consistent use of any broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher product matters more than switching filters (MD Anderson, 2026).

Does this mean the FDA sped up sunscreen approvals?

Bemotrizinol is the first ingredient to succeed under a streamlined monograph order process established by the CARES Act in 2020. It does not automatically accelerate reviews of other pending ingredients, though advocates hope it signals a shift (Dermatology Advisor, 2026).

Conclusion

The approval of bemotrizinol closes a gap that has left American consumers with older sunscreen technology for decades. The practical takeaway is straightforward: you will soon have access to sunscreens that are more photostable, absorb less into the bloodstream, and offer broader UVA protection. Skin cancer remains one of the most preventable cancers, and better filters matter when they translate into more consistent daily use.