For the first time in more than 25 years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new active ingredient for sunscreen, a move dermatologists say could improve sun protection options for consumers. Bemotrizinol, which has been used internationally for more than two decades, offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays in a single ingredient. Dr. Suzanne Sirota Rozenberg, chief of dermatology at Episcopal Health Services, said the approval marks an important step forward for sunscreen technology in the United States.
The approval modernizes sunscreen protection in the U.S.
According to Sirota Rozenberg, bemotrizinol is the first new sunscreen active ingredient approved for the U.S. market in more than 25 years. While Europe has more than 30 approved UV filters, the United States has had only 10 available. She said the FDA’s decision signals progress in updating sunscreen regulations and could pave the way for additional advanced UV filters already used safely around the world.
Bemotrizinol offers broad, long-lasting protection
Unlike many sunscreen ingredients currently available in the United States, bemotrizinol protects against both UVA rays, which contribute to premature aging, and UVB rays, which cause sunburn, in a single molecule. It is also highly photostable, meaning it does not break down as quickly in sunlight as ingredients such as avobenzone. Sirota Rozenberg said its large molecular size results in minimal absorption into the body and there is no evidence of endocrine-disrupting activity. While experts believe its broad coverage and stability should improve overall sun protection, there are no clinical studies directly comparing its effectiveness in preventing skin cancer with existing sunscreen ingredients.
Sunscreen is only part of the equation
Dr. Rozenberg emphasized that no sunscreen, including those containing bemotrizinol, replaces other forms of sun protection. She recommends choosing a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapplying it every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. Consumers should apply about one ounce — roughly the size of a shot glass — to cover the entire body. She also encourages wearing clothing, while seeking shade during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.”The best sunscreen is the one you will use every day,” Sirota Rozenberg said. “Make sun protection a daily habit, not just something you think about at the beach. Nearly 93 percent of melanomas are attributable to UV radiation, and consistent sun protection helps reduce that risk while preventing premature aging.”
