FDA Approves Bemotrizinol, a New Sunscreen Ingredient Enhancing UVA Protection
FDA approves new sunscreen ingredient used for years in Europe and Asia
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The FDA has approved bemotrizinol (BEMT), a new sunscreen ingredient used safely in Europe and Asia for years. This approval aims to improve UVA protection in U.S. sunscreens, addressing concerns over existing chemical filters that may enter the bloodstream at unsafe levels.
- 01Bemotrizinol has been safely used in Europe for decades and is now approved by the FDA for use in the U.S.
- 02The ingredient provides strong UVA protection and is photostable, unlike some existing filters.
- 03Current U.S. sunscreens often fail to deliver adequate UVA protection, with studies showing only 24% effectiveness relative to SPF labels.
- 04Mineral-based sunscreens dominate the market, but BEMT can be combined with zinc oxide for better protection without the white cast.
- 05The approval of BEMT signifies a significant advancement in sunscreen technology, closing the UVA protection gap in the U.S.
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In a landmark decision, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved bemotrizinol (BEMT), the first new sunscreen ingredient in 20 years, which has been safely used in Europe and Asia for decades. This approval is expected to enhance competition and consumer confidence in sunscreen products. Current U.S. sunscreens primarily excel at blocking ultraviolet B (UVB) rays but often fall short in providing adequate protection against ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which are linked to skin cancer and premature aging. Research indicates that U.S. sunscreens deliver only 24% of the UVA protection implied by their SPF labels. BEMT, a chemical filter, offers robust UVA protection and is not easily absorbed into the skin, making it a safer alternative. It is also highly photostable, meaning it does not break down under sun exposure, unlike other non-mineral filters. This approval is hailed as a significant step forward for American consumers, who have long relied on outdated sunscreen technology while other countries advanced their formulations.
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The approval of bemotrizinol is expected to improve sunscreen options available to consumers in the U.S., enhancing skin protection against UVA rays.
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