First new US sunscreen ingredient since 1999 approved by FDA – a skin scientist explains how bemotrizinol works

Consumers in Europe and Asia have used sunscreen containing bemotrizinol for decades, and many say its approval in the US is long overdue.

By: Guy German, Binghamton University, State University of New York, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: June 18, 2026

Words: 1,128

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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By Guy German, Binghamton University, State University of New York

As summer in the U.S. heats up, people become more diligent about protecting their skin from the Sun. Another option for doing so will soon be available.

On June 9, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first new sunscreen ingredient to be permitted for over-the-counter consumer use in the U.S. since 1999 – a chemical called bemotrizinol.

Bemotrizinol isn’t new – …

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