New Sunscreen Chemical Ingredient Available in U.S.

For the first time in more than a quarter-century, American consumers have access to a new sunscreen active ingredient. In June, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved bemotrizinol (BEMT), a chemical filter long used in Europe and elsewhere.

Sunscreens containing BEMT are now available on U.S. store shelves. Dermatologists state the ingredient fills a significant market gap by providing broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays without the cosmetic drawbacks of older chemical filters, such as white streaking.

BEMT has decades of safety data and demonstrates minimal skin absorption, addressing concerns associated with some older sunscreen chemicals. The FDA has designated BEMT as "generally recognized as safe and effective" (GRAS), citing studies that showed negligible absorption and no skin irritation.

The new ingredient significantly improves UVA protection, which has been a challenge for previous chemical sunscreens. While mineral-based sunscreens like zinc oxide offer strong protection, they can leave white residue and may have an undesirable texture for some users. BEMT provides an alternative without these limitations.

BEMT also offers improved stability compared to older UVA filters like avobenzone. Although the EU has found limited environmental toxicity for BEMT, further research is needed on its impact on marine ecosystems.