Sunscreen is one of the most important skincare products used on a daily basis. From preventing skin cancer to reducing risk for accelerated skin aging, sunscreen makes a huge difference in skin health and appearance. According to Dr. Jennifer Holman of U.S. Dermatology Partners Tyler on Old Dominion Plaza, “Sunscreen has been an important part of skincare for decades, but there hasn’t been a new sunscreen ingredient introduced since the late 1990s. In June, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved bemotrizinol to the list of approved active ingredients for over-the-counter sunscreen. The first bemotrizionol sunscreen products were permitted in August 2026. Many of my patients are seeing news stories or social media videos about it, and they’re asking what is this new ingredient and do I need to change my daily sunscreen routine? The answer to that question can be complicated, but it boils down to something very simple – it’s all up to the patient.” In this blog, Dr. Holman discusses this innovative new sunscreen ingredient and how it may benefit skincare routines.
What Is Bemotrizinol?
To answer the question, “What is bemotrizinol?” Dr. Holman says, “Bemotrizinol, commonly abbreviated as BEMT, is a broad-spectrum UV filter that protects the skin from both UVA and UVB radiation. BEMT works by absorbing UV radiation, helping prevent it from causing sunburn and other UV-related skin damage. Because UVA and UVB rays affect the skin differently, protection against both is an important part of comprehensive sun protection.” It’s important to protect against both UVA and UVB rays because they cause different types of skin damage as outlined below.
UVA Exposure Associated With:
- Accelerated skin aging.
- Loss of skin elasticity.
- Changes in skin tone.
UVB Exposure Associated With:
- Sunburns.
- Skin damage at the cellular level.
- Increased risk for skin cancer.
Why Is Bemotrizinol’s FDA Approval Significant?
By receiving FDA approval, bemotrizinol sunscreen has become the first sun protection innovation in decades. In addition to passing rigorous FDA standards, bemotrizinol has been used since 2000 in Europe with great success. The approval for use in the U.S. means more options for sunscreen manufacturers and patients. According to Dr. Holman, “Dermatologists and patients benefit from more safe, effective sun protection options. With more options, patients are more likely to find products they enjoy using every day.”
How Is Bemotrizinol Different from Other Sunscreen Ingredients?
All sunscreen ingredients offer unique benefits that appeal to individuals hoping to achieve specific goals. Some of the key factors that differentiate bemotrizinol from other sunscreen active ingredients include:
- Truly broad-spectrum protection – while many active ingredients are only effective protection for a very small part of the UV spectrum, BEMT offers truly broad-spectrum protection for modern sunscreen formulations.
- Photostability – sunscreen filters degrade with UV exposure. Bemotrizinol is highly photostable, so it continues filtering sunlight and preventing damage. This allows for longer-lasting sunscreen formulas.
- Low systemic absorption – many chemical sunscreens are readily absorbed into skin, making them less beneficial for some patients. The large molecular structure of bemotrizinol means it has lower absorption.
- Cosmetic elegance – sunscreens formulated with BEMT as an active ingredient are often easier to blend, lightweight, and less likely to leave a white cast behind on skin.
What Does Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Actually Protect Against?
A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This is important because different types of light rays affect skin differently. Determining how to protect your skin from sun damage should include consideration of the different ways that UV rays impact skin. UVA rays penetrate more deeply into skin and carries risk of developing melanoma. They are the biggest contributor to accelerated skin aging, and they’re associated most with pigmentation changes and the breakdown of supportive collagen proteins. UVB rays are associated with sunburns, DNA damage, and increased risk for skin cancer.
Does Bemotrizinol Make Older Sunscreens Obsolete?
While BEMT sunscreen represents an important innovation in the sunblock sector, it hasn’t made other sunscreens obsolete. Dr. Holman says, “The current FDA-approved sunscreen options are still valid. BEMT just adds more options to the table. That doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. The best sunscreen option depends on a variety of factors, including sky type, lifestyle, texture, and activity level to name a few. The most important thing is that the patient is willing to make sunscreen part of their daily routines.”
Why Sunscreen Texture and Wearability Matter More Than You Think
Daily sun protection is a necessity, however, people may skip applying sunscreen because they think it’s greasy, leaves a white cast, feels heavy, can lead to breakouts, and doesn’t work well with makeup. Dr. Holman says, “New UV filters like bemotrizinol mean manufacturers have more options to create wearable formulas, giving patients more options to choose from.”
How to Protect Your Skin Every Day
Considering how to protect your skin from sun damage, it’s important to develop a consistent and comprehensive strategy that includes:
- Daily application of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30+.
- Reapplication of sunscreen at least every two hours when outdoors.
- Taking a break in the shade periodically when outdoors.
- Wearing protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
- Avoiding tanning beds and other unnecessary UV exposure.
Who May Be Interested in Bemotrizinol Sunscreens?
When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, Dr. Holman says, “A new ingredient doesn’t automatically make one sunscreen better for every person, but there are many benefits to innovating sunscreen ingredients.” Some of these benefits include:
- Broad-spectrum coverage.
- Lightweight formulas.
- Reduced residue visibility.
- Easy to apply with cosmetics.
- More options for skin tones.
- Comfortable for daily use.
What Should Patients Look for When Choosing Sunscreen?
When choosing a sunscreen, consider the following factors:
- UVA and UVB protection.
- Sun protection factor (SPF) 30+.
- Water resistances as needed.
- Comfortable texture.
- Skin type compatibility.
Explore New & Innovative Sunscreen Solution
In conclusion, Dr. Holman says, “Bemotrizinol represents a significant, positive expansion in sunscreen formulas. The broad UVA and UVB protection, photostability, and unique formula mean manufacturers are able to create innovative sunblock options that patients enjoy using. The best sunscreen is the one you will use and use consistently. No matter what broad-spectrum sunscreen you choose, apply it every day and reapply regularly.”
Talk to Your Dermatologist Before Switching Sunscreen
If you’re not sure what sunscreen to use, you need an annual skin cancer screening, or you’ve recently noticed an irregular spot, the U.S. Dermatology Partners team is here to help. Take just a few moments to fill out our online scheduling request form, and a local team member will be in touch to finalize the details of your upcoming appointment.
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