First new US sunscreen ingredient since 1999 approved by FDA – a skin scientist explains how bemotrizinol works
Bemotrizinol blocks both UVA and UVB rays and may stay effective for 4 to 8 hours, experts said.
- On June 9, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved bemotrizinol, the first new sunscreen active ingredient permitted for over-the-counter use in the United States in more than 25 years.
- While this chemical filter is new to the U.S., consumers in Europe and Asia have used bemotrizinol for decades, relying on its ability to filter both UVA and UVB rays without requiring mixture with other ingredients.
- Bemotrizinol offers superior photostability, lasting four to eight hours compared to traditional chemical sunscreens that degrade quickly, while its molecules remain on the skin surface rather than being readily absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Because the FDA granted exclusive manufacturing rights to PARSOL Shield for 18 months, consumers will not find bemotrizinol-based sunscreens on U.S. shelves immediately, though new formulas are expected by next spring or summer.
- This approval enables a new generation of sunscreen formulas in the U.S. market, though dermatologists continue to recommend using products with an SPF of at least 30 for optimal skin protection.
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First new US sunscreen ingredient since 1999 approved by FDA – a skin scientist explains how bemotrizinol works
Chemical sunscreens have come a long way since they were first developed in 1891. mihailomilovanovic/iStock via Getty Images PlusAs summer in the U.S. heats up, people become more diligent about protecting their skin from the Sun. Another option for doing so will soon be available. On June 9, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first new sunscreen ingredient to be permitted for over-the-counter consumer use in the U.S. since…
A new sunscreen ingredient is OK'd for the first time in decades. Here's why doctors are excited
The first sunscreen ingredient approved by the FDA in over 20 years will soon give Americans more, and potentially better, options for sun protection. University of Minnesota dermatologist Dr. Ingrid Polcari explained why the approval of bemotrizinol is generating excitement among skin cancer experts.
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