The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved bemotrizinol (BEMT), a new sunscreen ingredient that has been used in Europe and Asia since 1999. This marks the first significant update to American sunscreen formulas in nearly three decades. BEMT is expected to hit U.S. stores later this summer, according to Alan Geller, a nurse and skin cancer prevention researcher at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
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BEMT functions as a chemical sunscreen filter, absorbing ultraviolet (UV) rays to protect the skin. Unlike mineral-based sunscreens that reflect UV rays, BEMT blocks both UVB rays, which can cause burns, and UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and carcinogenesis. Current U.S. sunscreens are effective against UVB but have limitations in UVA protection due to the instability of avobenzone, the primary ingredient for UVA filtration.
BEMT remains photostable, meaning it does not break down easily under sunlight, potentially offering better overall protection. Moreover, it is formulated to go on clear, avoiding the white residue often associated with mineral sunscreens, which could encourage broader usage.
The approval of BEMT has taken time primarily due to concerns about some chemical sunscreens entering the bloodstream. However, research indicates that BEMT has a low absorption rate and is considered safe for use. Geller advises that while the arrival of BEMT is encouraging, individuals need not discard their existing sunscreens, especially as products containing BEMT may be marketed as premium items and carry higher prices due to exclusive rights held by the European company DSM-Firmenich for 18 months.
Geller recommends that people continue applying SPF 30 or higher sunscreen generously on all exposed skin and suggests taking advantage of free sunscreen dispensers in local communities as a way to facilitate proper application and reapplication.