Big News in Sun Protection: The U.S. May Soon Approve a New, Advanced Sunscreen Ingredient!

At Dr. Baron Shop, we’re passionate about bringing you the best in skin health and sun protection. As a dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, I see firsthand the impact of sun damage and the importance of effective, reliable sunscreen. That’s why I’m excited to share some long-awaited news: the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is finally moving to approve a new, advanced sunscreen ingredient—bemotrizinol (BEMT)—for use in American sunscreens.

Why Is This Such a Big Deal?

For over 25 years, the U.S. has not approved any new active ingredients for sunscreens. Meanwhile, people in Europe, Asia, and other parts of the world have enjoyed access to more advanced, effective, and cosmetically elegant sunscreen filters. These newer ingredients not only provide better protection against the full spectrum of ultraviolet (UV) rays—including the deeper-penetrating UVA rays that cause aging and skin cancer—but also feel lighter and more pleasant on the skin.

Bemotrizinol (BEMT) is one of these next-generation ingredients. It’s been used safely in Europe and Asia for decades, offering broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. BEMT is oil-soluble, has very low absorption into the body (which is great for safety), and rarely causes skin irritation. If approved, it will join zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as one of the few sunscreen ingredients recognized as both safe and effective for adults and children over 6 months old.

Why Has It Taken So Long?

Unlike many other countries, the U.S. classifies sunscreen as a drug, not a cosmetic. This means new sunscreen ingredients must go through a lengthy, expensive approval process—one that hasn’t kept pace with scientific advances or the urgent need for better sun protection. As a result, Americans have had fewer choices and, in many cases, less effective protection than people abroad.

The FDA’s recent proposal to add BEMT to the list of approved sunscreen ingredients is a direct result of years of advocacy by dermatologists and organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA). Thanks to new legislation and a streamlined review process, we’re finally seeing progress.

What Does This Mean for You?

If the FDA gives the green light, you’ll soon see sunscreens with BEMT on store shelves in the U.S. This means:

• Better Protection: BEMT offers strong, broad-spectrum defense against both sunburn-causing UVB and cancer-causing UVA rays.
• More Choices: You’ll have access to sunscreens that are as advanced as those available in Europe and Asia.
• Improved Experience: Newer filters like BEMT help create sunscreens that are lighter, less greasy, and less likely to leave a white cast—making daily use easier for all skin tones.

The Bigger Picture: Skin Cancer in America

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., with more cases diagnosed each year than all other cancers combined. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Despite this, only about 13% of Americans use sunscreen daily. With better, more appealing sunscreen options, we hope to see more people protecting their skin every day and lowering their risk of sun damage and skin cancer.

Sun Safety Tips—What You Can Do Now

While we wait for these new options, remember that the best sunscreen is the one you use consistently. Here are my top sun safety tips:

• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Apply generously to all exposed skin, including often-missed spots like ears, neck, and the tops of feet.
• Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses—no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays.
• Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
• Check the label for water resistance if you’ll be swimming or sweating.

Looking Ahead

The FDA is currently seeking public comments on BEMT, and the AADA is reviewing the science to provide feedback. I’m hopeful this is just the beginning, and that more innovative sunscreen ingredients will soon be available in the U.S.—giving all of us better tools to prevent sun damage and skin cancer.

At Dr. Baron Shop, we’re committed to keeping you informed about the latest advances in skincare and sun protection. As soon as there’s more news, I’ll share it with you.

Stay tuned for updates, and remember: your skin is worth protecting every single day!