The FDA has approved bemotrizinol, a new sunscreen ingredient that has been widely used in Europe and Asia, enhancing safety for consumers during sun exposure. Michael Kwa, a dermatologist at Boston University, emphasized that the approval of this organic UV filter marks the first new addition since 1999. Bemotrizinol is effective in blocking both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.
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Kwa noted that this approval improves the variety of UV filters available in the US, allowing for broader spectrum protection. The new ingredient can be combined with existing filters to create more effective sunscreens that are easier and more pleasant to use.
He highlighted that while current US sunscreens do provide adequate protection against harmful rays linked to photoaging and skin cancer, there is still room for advancement. Some ingredients remain exclusive to the European market, and the FDA has shown commitment to innovation, particularly through the CARES Act, which has streamlined the approval process for new UV filters.
The differences in regulatory frameworks between the US and Europe contribute to the wider range of approved sunscreen ingredients in Europe. In Europe, UV filters are classified as cosmetics, making their approval process less stringent than the drug classification applied in the US.
Concerns about sunscreens preventing vitamin D absorption and ingredients being absorbed into the bloodstream were addressed by Kwa, who reassured that sunlight is not essential for maintaining healthy vitamin D levels, which can also be obtained from diet. He mentioned that studies have not established any significant health risks linked to sunscreen use.
Kwa recommended that consumers choose sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30, broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance. He advised people to use sunscreens they enjoy and to remember to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.