In June 2026, the US Food and Drug Administration approved bemotrizinol as a sunscreen ingredient. It is the first new UV filter cleared for American sunscreens in more than 25 years, and the first products using it are now arriving on shelves. If you care about skincare, this is one of the most important beauty stories of the year.
What is bemotrizinol?
Bemotrizinol (also listed as bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, or BEMT) is a UV filter that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It has been used for years in Europe, Asia and Australia, where regulators approved it long before the US did.
- UVB rays mainly cause sunburn
- UVA rays penetrate deeper and are linked to premature ageing and dark spots
- A broad-spectrum filter helps with both
Why the approval matters
US sunscreen rules have been strict and slow to change, so American formulas have relied on a smaller set of filters than those available in many other countries. Adding bemotrizinol gives brands a well-studied option for strong, broad-spectrum protection. It is also valued by formulators for being stable in sunlight and for working well alongside other filters, which can make for more pleasant textures.
When can you buy it?
The first launches are already here. In September 2026, the Australian brand Ultra Violette released Unblock Screen SPF 50 in the US, described as the first American sunscreen to use bemotrizinol. More brands are expected to follow as they reformulate.
Does this mean your current sunscreen is not good enough?
No. The best sunscreen is still the one you will wear every day, in the right amount. A new filter is a welcome improvement, not a reason to throw away products that work for you. If you are building a routine from scratch, start with our 4-step skincare basics, where sunscreen is the final and most important morning step.
How to choose a sunscreen today
- Choose SPF 30 or higher and a formula labelled broad spectrum
- Apply about two finger-lengths for your face and neck
- Reapply every two hours outdoors, and after swimming or sweating
- Oily skin: look for fluid or gel textures; dry skin: creams with added moisturisers
- Sensitive skin: patch-test first and consider fragrance-free options
Sunscreen works best as a habit. Keep one by your door, one in your bag and one at your desk.
Your skin’s needs also change with the weather. Read how to adjust your routine in switching your skincare for the new season.
FAQ
Is bemotrizinol safe?
It has a long track record of use in Europe and Asia and has now been reviewed and approved by the FDA. As with any product, patch-test if you have sensitive skin.
Is bemotrizinol a chemical or mineral filter?
It is an organic (often called “chemical”) filter, but it is a large molecule designed to offer broad UVA and UVB protection.
Will more sunscreens use it?
Yes, more brands are expected to launch bemotrizinol formulas as they update their ranges for the US market.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. If you have a skin condition, speak to a dermatologist.
