FDA Approves Bemotrizinol for U.S. Sunscreen Use

The federal agency approved the sunscreen filter in June 2026 after clearing the ingredient for use in adults and children.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Beauty

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of a glass prism refracting light, representing the science of new sunscreen filter technology. — The FDA approved bemotrizinol in June 2026, introducing the first new broad-spectrum sunscreen filter in the United States in 25 years. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you plan to switch to sunscreens containing new ingredients like bemotrizinol?

In June 2026, the FDA approved bemotrizinol for use in American sunscreens, marking the first new filter approval in 25 years. The agency cleared the ingredient for use in adults and children ages 6 months and older.

Why it matters

Bemotrizinol provides independent protection against both UVA and UVB rays, addressing the need for broader chemical coverage in sunscreens. This approval follows the September 2026 revocation of oxybenzone, which was found to absorb through the skin.

Bemotrizinol is safe for individuals 6 months and older, with molecules too large to enter the bloodstream at high levels. DSM-Firmenich currently holds 18 months of exclusive marketing rights for the ingredient.

The players

FDA

The Food and Drug Administration is the federal agency responsible for regulating sunscreens as drugs in the United States.

DSM-Firmenich

This global science-based company holds the exclusive marketing rights for the newly approved sunscreen ingredient.

The details

Regulators approved the ingredient because it provides broad-spectrum coverage, unlike traditional ingredients that require blending multiple chemicals. While the ingredient has been used in Europe and Asia since 1999, it remained restricted in the U.S. until the recent FDA approval.

Bemotrizinol began use in Europe in 1999.
The FDA began a broader sunscreen safety overhaul in 2019.
The FDA approved bemotrizinol in June 2026.
The FDA revoked approval for oxybenzone in September 2026.

Culture Shift

The introduction of this filter signals a departure from older chemical standards toward more modern, stable ingredients used globally. This transition reflects a broader shift toward higher safety standards for topical skincare products in the United States.

Consumers may see new sunscreen formulations on shelves, though availability may be initially limited due to exclusive marketing agreements. Users should look for products containing the new filter when seeking broad-spectrum protection for themselves and children.

The takeaway

The move to approve bemotrizinol highlights the government's shift toward prioritizing ingredients that provide broad protection without deep skin absorption. Shoppers can now anticipate higher-performance sunscreens as manufacturers begin adopting this new, FDA-cleared chemical filter.