Americans have a new sunscreen option for the first time in more than 25 years, as products containing bemotrizinol, also known as BEMT, begin appearing in U.S. stores. The Food and Drug Administration approved the ingredient in June, allowing manufacturers, including Neutrogena, to introduce formulas containing a chemical widely used in Europe and other parts of the world.

BEMT provides broad-spectrum protection against both major types of ultraviolet radiation. UVB rays cause most sunburn, while UVA rays contribute to skin cancer risk and premature skin aging, including wrinkles. Sunscreens that protect against both are labeled “broad spectrum protection.”

Before BEMT's approval, American manufacturers generally had to combine multiple chemical ingredients to provide broad-spectrum protection. The new ingredient can deliver protection against both UVA and UVB rays while avoiding some cosmetic drawbacks associated with existing sunscreen products.

Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide also provide broad-spectrum protection. However, they can leave a visible white cast or streaks on the skin, particularly on darker complexions. Some consumers also find their texture and consistency less appealing than chemical-based alternatives.

BEMT has decades of safety data behind it, including research indicating that very little of the ingredient is absorbed through the skin. During its review, the FDA evaluated studies involving more than 500 patients conducted by Dutch manufacturer DSM Nutritional Products. The studies found that absorption levels were nearly undetectable.

Researchers also examined daily use over periods of up to three weeks. The FDA's review found that BEMT did not cause irritation or allergic reactions in those studies, leading the agency to designate the ingredient as “generally recognized as safe and effective,” alongside zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

The approval comes amid increased scrutiny of chemical sunscreen ingredients. Last month, the FDA revoked approval of oxybenzone after determining that it was absorbed through the skin to a greater extent than previously understood. The agency has said that more evidence is needed to establish the safety and effectiveness of more than a dozen other sunscreen ingredients currently used in the United States.

Environmental concerns remain another factor in sunscreen development. Research has linked some sunscreen chemicals to coral bleaching and reef damage, leading Hawaii and parts of Florida to restrict oxybenzone and octinoxate. An estimated 25% of sunscreen applied to the skin washes off during swimming or wading.

BEMT's environmental effects are not yet fully understood. The European Union's environmental agency has found limited evidence of environmental toxicity associated with the ingredient, but longer-term research is still needed. Mineral-based sunscreens are generally considered more environmentally favorable, although some experts caution against certain nano formulations that contain extremely small particles.

BEMT also offers greater stability in sunlight than avobenzone, the other chemical-based ingredient used to filter UVA rays in U.S. sunscreens. Avobenzone can break down relatively quickly when exposed to sunlight unless combined with stabilizing ingredients, making formulation an important part of maintaining its effectiveness.

The FDA's decision is part of a broader effort to reassess sunscreen ingredients that began in 2019. The approval expands the options available to American consumers as manufacturers develop formulas designed to provide effective protection while addressing concerns about skin absorption, appearance, and environmental impact.

Regardless of the sunscreen ingredient, dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen every few hours and more frequently after swimming or heavy sweating. Sunscreen should also be combined with other protective measures, including seeking shade, wearing hats, and using sun-protective clothing.