Bemotrizinol: What Does This New Sunscreen Ingredient Mean for the U.S.?

When comparing the number of U.S. skin cancer cases to those throughout the rest of the world, it’s clear that Americans can and should be doing more to protect their skin. In 2022 alone, U.S. citizens represented more than 100,000 of the 300,000 skin cancer cases worldwide, while five of the most populated countries in Europe combined had less than 90,000. Australia only had 16,000, and China only 8,000.

While the cause is not exactly known, there is one important difference worth noting: Sunscreens sold in Europe, Australia, and Asia all contain a UV filter called bemotrizinol that’s not authorized (yet) for use in the U.S. Bemotrizinol has been shown to offer superior protection over current ingredients in U.S. sunscreens, yet the FDA has taken more than 20 years to review its approval.

In December of 2025, they decided to begin the process of deeming it safe and effective for use by adults and children over 6 months. So, what is bemotrizinol? What advantages does it have over more traditional sunscreen products? And if it’s so great, why has it taken so long to finally allow it in the U.S.?

What is bemotrizinol, and how would it improve sunscreen in the U.S?

The new sunscreen ingredient bemotrizinol is a highly effective, oil-soluble organic chemical UV filter. It absorbs rays from both UVA and UVB, making it a broad-spectrum product. (UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term DNA damage and premature aging, and contributing significantly to the development of skin cancers. UVB rays directly damage cellular DNA, creating mutations that can lead to basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Having protection from both substantially reduces the risk of cancer.)

Currently, the FDA has two sunscreen active ingredients that are Generally Recognized As Safe and Effective (GRASE), which means they do not pose an unreasonable risk when used as directed. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are found in mineral (also called physical) sunscreen and offer broad-spectrum protection. However, these minerals sit on top of the skin and leave a chalky white film that some users don’t like, especially those with deeper skin tones.

Some people opt for chemical sunscreens that dry without leaving a white cast or residue, but these can be irritating to sensitive skin and don’t typically last as long as mineral versions.

Based on data reviewed by the FDA, bemotrizinol would qualify as GRASE and offers multiple benefits over active ingredients currently being used:

Blocks UVA rays as well as UVB rays for better skin cancer protection. This also means that bemotrizinol offers anti-aging benefits for the skin, since it protects the skin’s prevents the formation of free radicals induced by UV rays.
Lasts longer than other ingredients. Bemotrizinol is photostable, meaning it doesn’t break down quickly under sunlight. It also protects and improves the durability of other filters in the product.
Is water-resistant. While some filters run off of the skin when exposed to sweat or water, the new sunscreen ingredient bemotrizinol adheres well to the skin even when it’s wet.
Does not cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. This is especially useful for those with sensitive skin who tend to avoid sunscreen with octinoxate, which can cause allergic reactions, and octisalate, which has been linked to allergic contact dermatitis.
It might turn out to be safer. Bemotrizinol has larger molecules compared to other sunscreen ingredients, and so is not as readily absorbed through the skin. While research is inconclusive as to whether absorption is dangerous, a 2023 review of 254 studies found mounting evidence that ingredients like oxybenzone could have endocrine-disrupting properties that could potentially cause reproductive problems when absorbed through the skin.

What has taken so long for the U.S. to adopt a new sunscreen ingredient?

In other countries, sunscreen is considered a cosmetic, allowing for a faster, more flexible approval process for new UV filters. Bemotrizinol was developed in the late 90s, and was in European and Asian sunscreens by 2000.

But in the U.S., sunscreen filter ingredients are classified as over-the-counter drugs. This means they require clinical trials and rigorous safety tests before being approved for sale. It took 25 years for the FDA to deem bemotrizinol safe and effective, and a public review period has just finished. Now they have to evaluate feedback before making a final approval, which could come as early as this summer.

Is it safe to keep using current sunscreens until bemotrizinol is approved by the FDA?

In the words of Carl D’Ruiz, senior manager at DSM-Firmenich, a Swedish company that makes bemotrizinol, “People aren’t dying from using sunscreen. They’re dying from melanoma.”

Although there has been some research presenting potential risks in certain chemical ingredients, there’s no evidence that sunscreen increases the risk of cancer. However, we do have proof that not using sunscreen does increase your risk of skin cancer.

Many sunscreens currently available in the U.S. are very safe and effective when used properly. Mineral sunscreens are the safest bet as far as irritation is concerned. If you don’t like the white cast it leaves, look for a tinted version or go ahead and opt for a chemical sunscreen. Just make sure to reapply it every two hours when spending time outdoors, and more frequently when in water.

If and when the new FDA sunscreen ingredient approval comes through, we recommend making a purchase since it will likely reduce your chances of getting skin cancer. As dermatologists, we are excited about the potential change it will make in the number of cases we see.

Your best bet at beating skin cancer is early detection. Schedule regular checkups with your dermatologist, and if you notice any changes to the shape, color, or size of current moles or see a new spot pop up, make an appointment at a Forefront location near you.

Book an appointment with your trusted, local dermatologist.