FDA approves new sunscreen ingredient used for years in Europe and Asia

FDA approves new sunscreen ingredient used for years in Europe and Asia

FDA approves new sunscreen ingredient used – After two decades without any new additions, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has finally given approval to a novel sunscreen ingredient—bemotrizinol, or BEMT—that has been safely utilized in Europe and Asia for decades. This decision marks a significant shift in the American sunscreen landscape, offering consumers a potentially safer alternative to many of the chemical compounds currently in use. The approval comes amid growing concerns about the long-term effects of traditional UV filters and a push for better UVA protection in sunscreens.

The Science Behind Sunscreen Safety

Sunscreens on American shelves today are effective at blocking ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which are responsible for visible sunburns. However, critics argue that these products often fall short in protecting against ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation, which penetrates deeper into the skin and contributes to premature aging, immune suppression, and skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, UVA rays are a primary driver of long-term skin damage, yet many U.S. sunscreens only provide about 24% of the UVA protection their SPF labels suggest, as revealed in peer-reviewed research by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

“Bemotrizinol changes the calculus of sun care. It is highly photostable—meaning it won’t break down when hot summer sun hits your skin—unlike avobenzone, currently the only non-mineral filter in the U.S. that provides meaningful UVA coverage.” – Alexa Friedman, senior scientist at the EWG

BEMT is a chemical filter that not only offers reliable UVA protection but also resists absorption into the skin, reducing potential systemic exposure. This characteristic is a key advantage over older non-mineral UV filters, which were found to enter the bloodstream at unsafe levels after just one day of use. In 2019, FDA scientists identified six of the most commonly used ingredients as capable of penetrating the human bloodstream, raising alarms about their safety. Homosalate and oxybenzone, two of these compounds, remained above safety thresholds in the blood for over two weeks, according to the agency’s findings.

Industry Response and Future Outlook

The Personal Care Products Council, which represents sunscreen manufacturers, welcomed the FDA’s action as a milestone but emphasized the need for continued progress. “While we commend FDA for this progress, continued efforts are needed to establish a more efficient and modern approach for approving additional sunscreen active ingredients,” said Tesia Williams, a spokesperson for the PCPC, in an email statement.

For years, mineral-based sunscreens have been lauded for their physical barrier against UV rays, as they sit on the skin rather than being absorbed. However, their reputation for leaving a “white cast” has deterred some users. Newer mineral formulations, though, have addressed this concern, offering a smoother application while maintaining their safety profile. As of the 2026 report, 497 out of the 550 sunscreens recommended by the EWG are primarily mineral-based, highlighting their growing appeal.

“This is a great day for American consumers and everyone who has fought to improve sunscreen options and close the UVA protection gap in U.S. sunscreens.” – David Andrews, chief science officer of the EWG

The approval of BEMT is particularly timely, as the FDA has yet to finalize updated regulations for the dozen chemicals it classifies as potentially unsafe. These studies, which have not been publicly announced, are required before ingredients can be deemed GRASE, or “generally regarded as safe and effective.” The delay in regulatory action has left many consumers reliant on outdated formulas, despite global advancements in sunscreen technology.

A New Era for Sun Protection

BEMT’s introduction is seen as a breakthrough, especially for those seeking broad-spectrum protection without compromising on safety. Unlike older chemical filters, BEMT can be combined with zinc oxide to enhance UVA coverage while minimizing the white residue often associated with mineral sunscreens. This flexibility could lead to more versatile product options, appealing to a wider range of users.

Experts stress that the move to incorporate BEMT reflects a growing awareness of the need for improved sun protection. “For decades, Americans have used outdated sunscreen tech while the rest of the world moved forward. The approval of bemotrizinol will help change that,” Andrews added. The decision underscores the FDA’s acknowledgment of the UVA protection gap, a problem that has persisted despite decades of research.

The environmental and health advocacy group EWG has been a vocal proponent of this change, noting that U.S. sunscreens often fail to meet their advertised UVA protection levels. Their annual report highlights the stark contrast between American and international sunscreen standards, with European and Asian products leveraging BEMT for years. The approval now allows U.S. manufacturers to access this ingredient, potentially expanding the range of safe, effective options available.

BEMT’s photostability is a major selling point, as it maintains its protective properties even under prolonged sun exposure. This is a notable improvement over avobenzone, which is prone to degradation and requires frequent reapplication. The ingredient’s robust safety data also sets it apart, as it has been extensively tested in Europe and has not shown adverse effects in long-term use.

While the approval is a positive step, some experts caution that it should be part of a broader strategy to reform sunscreen regulations. “This is a win that has been a long time coming,” Andrews remarked, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and policy updates. The FDA’s decision to approve BEMT without immediate regulatory changes for other chemicals suggests a cautious but progressive approach to sun protection innovation.

Consumers are likely to benefit from this development, as the increased competition from new ingredients like BEMT could drive better formulations and greater transparency. With the UVA protection gap narrowing, the hope is that future sunscreens will not only shield against visible burns but also provide comprehensive defense against the more damaging UVA rays. As the sunscreen industry evolves, the integration of BEMT represents a pivotal moment in the quest for safer and more effective sun care solutions.