The US Food and Drug Administration has approved bemotrizinol for use in sunscreens, marking the first addition of a new chemical filter in over 25 years. Known as BEMT, this ingredient provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays without breaking down in sunlight.
Unlike many existing US formulations, bemotrizinol is highly photostable and effectively blocks UVA rays, which penetrate deep into the skin to cause aging and DNA damage. Current domestic filters often lack adequate UVA shielding or degrade rapidly upon sun exposure.
Safety data supports the approval, with studies showing minimal bloodstream absorption and no evidence of carcinogenic or reproductive toxicity. The FDA classifies the ingredient as generally recognized as safe and effective for adults and children over six months old.
Bemotrizinol will launch in the US under the brand name Parsol Shield. After an 18-month exclusivity period, other manufacturers may incorporate the ingredient into their own product lines, potentially modernizing American sun protection standards.