In June 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) added bemotrizinol to its list of approved sunscreen ingredients. In this post, Dr. Robert Bednarek, Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology, Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute, offers several reasons why this update could be a gamechanger for sunscreens sold in the United States.
Overview
While new to the U.S. market, bemotrizinol has been used internationally for decades. It is organic, or chemical, sunscreen. Like others in this class, it works by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation and releasing it as heat.
Effectiveness
Bemotrizinol is highly photostable, meaning it does not significantly degrade when exposed to extreme UV rays and can maintain its efficacy.
It also offers broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) coverage as an active ingredient without needing to be combined with other UV filters. This makes it particularly appealing compared to other organic filters, such as avobenzone (a long-used chemical sunscreen ingredient), which breaks down and loses efficacy much more quickly and primarily only covers UVA radiation.
As for staying power during sweat and high-intensity activity, this is generally related to the formulation and the active ingredient. That said, bemotrizinol adheres pretty well to the skin, making it a more water-resistant ingredient.
Safety
Bemotrizinol is only the third active ingredient, in addition to zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (mineral sunscreens), to be considered safe and effective for use by adults and children aged six months and older.
Its larger molecular size minimizes absorption through the skin, which has been a recent concern with some chemical sunscreen ingredients.
Usage
When available and for the time being, bemotrizinol-containing sunscreens should be used in accordance with current American Academy of Dermatology sunscreen recommendations. Choose a broad-spectrum and water-resistant formulation with SPF 30 or higher. Apply an adequate amount to cover all exposed body surfaces, and reapply at regular intervals.
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