For the first time in more than 25 years, consumers in the United States have access to a new chemical sunscreen ingredient that has long been used in Europe and other regions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved bemotrizinol, also known as BEMT, in June, and products containing the ingredient are now available from major brands including Neutrogena.

Dermatologists highlight that BEMT addresses a significant gap in the sunscreen market by providing broad-spectrum protection against both ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet A (UVA) rays—the two types of ultraviolet radiation responsible for sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. The ingredient is the first chemical-based UVA and UVB filter approved in the U.S., where previously manufacturers had to combine multiple chemicals to achieve broad-spectrum coverage.

“This ingredient provides a solution for what is currently a big gap with respect to providing strong UVA protection,” said David Andrews, chief science officer of the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit advocating for improved sunscreen standards.

While mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide have long offered effective broad-spectrum protection, some consumers avoid them due to their tendency to leave white streaks or an undesirable texture, particularly on darker skin tones. BEMT offers a chemical alternative without these cosmetic drawbacks, according to Dr. Jennifer Stein, a dermatologist at NYU Langone Health.

Safety has been a key consideration for regulatory authorities and consumers alike, given concerns that some chemical sunscreen ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream. The FDA rescinded approval of oxybenzone earlier this year after finding unexpected levels of skin absorption. In contrast, BEMT’s molecular structure prevents significant skin penetration. Studies reviewed by the FDA—including more than 500 patients using the ingredient daily for up to three weeks—showed minimal absorption and no irritation or allergic reactions.

Consequently, the FDA has classified BEMT as “generally recognized as safe and effective,” joining mineral ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in that category. Several other commonly used sunscreen chemicals are under ongoing FDA review, reflecting the agency’s broader effort to update and strengthen sunscreen ingredient regulations, a process initiated in 2019.

Environmental concerns have influenced regulatory approaches in some U.S. states, where chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate have been banned due to their role in coral reef bleaching. Although BEMT has shown limited evidence of environmental toxicity according to the European Union’s environmental agency, long-term studies are still needed. Mineral sunscreens are generally favored for their lower environmental impact, although caution is advised regarding nanoparticle formulations that may pose inhalation or ecological risks.

Another advantage of BEMT is its photostability. Unlike avobenzone—the sole other chemical UVA filter approved in the U.S.—BEMT does not degrade rapidly in sunlight, reducing the need for chemical stabilizers and reformulations.

Experts emphasize that, as with all sunscreens, users should reapply BEMT-containing products every few hours, especially when swimming or sweating. Moreover, sunscreen should be part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy that includes seeking shade and wearing protective clothing.

“Sunscreen is just one part of an overall sun-protection plan,” Stein said. “Clothing is even better.”