The US just got its first new sunscreen in almost 30 years

Key Points:

• The FDA has approved bemotrizinol (BEMT), a new sunscreen ingredient first time in the 21st century, after over 25 years of regulatory delays; BEMT has been used safely in Europe and Asia for years and offers broad-spectrum UV protection.
• Bemotrizinol is expected to address concerns over chemical sunscreens by providing effective protection without leaving a white residue like mineral sunscreens, potentially increasing user compliance and satisfaction.
• The approval comes amid growing public skepticism about chemical sunscreens, fueled by FDA safety reviews and studies showing some ingredients can penetrate the body, though preliminary evidence suggests BEMT does not share these risks.
• DSM Nutritionals holds exclusive rights to market BEMT-based sunscreen Parsol Shield in the U.S. for 18 months, after which other manufacturers can incorporate the ingredient into their products.
• Experts emphasize the continued importance of using broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 to 50 to prevent skin cancer, which remains the most common cancer in the U.S., and hope BEMT will help restore consumer trust in sun protection.