For more than 25 years, sunscreen ingredients available in the United States remained largely unchanged. That changed on June 9, 2026, when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved bemotrizinol (BEMT), the first new sunscreen filter approved in the United States since 1999.
The approval is welcome news for dermatologists because BEMT offers another option for broad-spectrum sun protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
“I’m very excited that the FDA has approved this new filter,” says Nicholas Brownstone, MD, board certified dermatologist and Assistant Professor of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. “It’s time we have new filters because sunscreen technology continues to advance. We want to take advantage of the latest research and innovations to better protect our skin.”
So what is BEMT, and how does it compare with the sunscreens currently available over the counter? Dr. Brownstone explains.
Nicholas Brownstone, MD, board certified dermatologist and Assistant Professor of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Are BEMT sunscreens new?
Although BEMT is newly approved in the United States, it has been used safely for years in other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Unlike many other countries, the United States regulates sunscreen as an over-the-counter drug. As a result, approving new sunscreen ingredients has historically been a lengthy regulatory process.
Recent legislative changes, including provisions in the CARES Act, helped modernize parts of that process.
“As dermatologists, we welcome this innovation,” says Dr. Brownstone. “We hope it leads to continued advances in sunscreen technology.”
How does BEMT compare with existing sunscreens?
Bemotrizinol is a broad-spectrum chemical sunscreen filter, meaning a single ingredient helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
It is also highly photostable, meaning it maintains its effectiveness when exposed to sunlight better than many existing sunscreen filters.
Another advantage is that it allows manufacturers to create lighter, more cosmetically elegant sunscreen formulations without relying on as many additional ingredients.
The FDA has also determined that BEMT is generally recognized as safe and effective. Because its molecule is larger than those of many existing chemical sunscreen filters, it is less likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream.
How does BEMT compare with mineral sunscreens?
Mineral sunscreens remain an excellent option for protecting your skin.
Mineral sunscreens work by reflecting and scattering ultraviolet rays, while chemical sunscreens such as BEMT absorb ultraviolet energy before it can damage the skin.
One difference is cosmetic appearance. Mineral sunscreens may leave a white cast on the skin, while chemical sunscreens often blend in more easily.
Both mineral and chemical broad-spectrum sunscreens can provide effective sun protection when used correctly.
Why is broad-spectrum protection important?
Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays contribute primarily to premature skin aging and photoaging. UVB rays are the leading cause of sunburns and play a major role in the development of skin cancer.
Protecting against both types of ultraviolet radiation helps reduce the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin aging.
Is my current sunscreen still good enough?
Yes—if your sunscreen is labeled “broad spectrum” and has an SPF of 30 or higher, it remains an effective choice when applied correctly.
Dr. Brownstone recommends:
- Using an SPF 30 or higher broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Applying about one shot glass of sunscreen to cover the body
- Applying sunscreen about 15 minutes before going outdoors
- Reapplying every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating
People often ask Dr. Brownstone which sunscreen is best.
His answer is simple: “The best sunscreen is the sunscreen that you’ll actually use.”