That changed on June 9, 2026, when the FDA added bemotrizinol (BEMT) to its list of permitted sunscreen ingredients in the United States. It is sold under the brand name PARSOL® Shield.

Among some of its benefits, bemotrizinol is a relatively large molecule, meaning it sits on top of the skin and has a low level of absorption. This makes it a good option for people with sensitive skin, while still providing a high level of sun protection.

“Sunscreen companies are working hard to develop products that feel better, look better and are more environmentally friendly so every person can find one they like,” says Northwestern Medicine Dermatologist Victor Quan, MD. “For example, mineral sunscreens used to be associated with a white cast, but they are becoming more invisible. For people with darker skin types, newer sunscreens fit their skin tones better. There’s also an eye toward sunscreens that prevent hyperpigmentation by blocking visible light with iron oxides.”

What Is Bemotrizinol — and Why Is It Different?

While bemotrizinol is new to the United States, it’s not new to the world. Bemotrizinol is a sunscreen ingredient that has been available in Europe since 2000. Since then, it has also become popular in Australia and Asian markets.

Bemotrizinol is broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. This helps reduce the amount of ultraviolet radiation that damages your skin, which can result in skin cancer. Sunscreens that have been previously available in the U.S. aren't as good at blocking out UVA rays.

“Sunscreen is one of our best tools to prevent skin cancer,” says Dr. Quan. “The main risk factor for skin cancer within our control is UV radiation and damage, which leads to mutations in skin cells and drives aging.”

UVA and UVB affect your skin in different ways. UVA rays are typically associated with aging, wrinkles and sunspots, while UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn. Therefore, it is recommended to use broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both types of UV rays.

Most sunscreens rely on a combination of ingredients to provide broad-spectrum protection. They fall into two main categories:

• Mineral (physical) sunscreens: These include ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They protect your skin by reflecting UV rays. Zinc oxide protects against both UVA and UVB rays, while titanium dioxide mostly protects against UVB and some UVA rays. These sunscreens can sometimes leave a white or chalky look on the skin, though newer formulas have improved their appearance.

• Chemical sunscreens: These include ingredients like octinoxate and avobenzone. They work by absorbing UV rays and turning them into heat, which is then released from your skin. Some of the ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream in very small amounts. The FDA has stated that this does not mean they are unsafe and continues to recommend sunscreen use. Avobenzone can break down in sunlight, though most modern formulas include stabilizing ingredients.

Bemotrizinol is considered a chemical sunscreen ingredient. It is known for being especially photostable and for providing strong, broad-spectrum protection, making it more advanced than other chemical filters. It also has low absorption, a lightweight feel and typically does not leave a white cast, unlike some mineral sunscreens that can sit on the skin and create a visible layer.

What Does Photostable Mean — And Why It Matters

Not all ingredients are created equal. They vary in their level of photostability. Photostability refers to an ingredient’s ability to maintain effectiveness when exposed to sunlight. For example, avobenzone is known to be unstable on its own, which is why it is often combined with other ingredients that help stabilize it. As it breaks down, avobenzone can release molecules that lead to skin irritation in some people.

Bemotrizinol, on the other hand, is photostable, which means it’s less likely to break down when exposed to sunlight and can provide more consistent, long-lasting protection. It may also help stabilize other sunscreen ingredients, which could support the development of more advanced sunscreen formulas in the United States.

What This Means for Sensitive Skin

Bemotrizinol’s low level of skin absorption makes it especially appealing for people with sensitive skin. Due to its large molecular size, it remains on the surface of the skin rather than penetrating deeply.

“The most common risk of sunscreen use is irritant contact dermatitis (skin irritation) or allergic contact dermatitis (skin allergy) with chemical sunscreens, which is usually from a fragrance or preservative in the sunscreen and not the active ingredient itself,” says Dr. Quan.

Its lower absorbency may also help address consumer concerns about sunscreen safety. A study by the Melanoma Research Alliance found that:

• 59% of respondents are concerned about chemicals or ingredients used in some sunscreens
• 38% question whether sunscreen is safe and effective

Because bemotrizinol has been used globally for over two decades, its safety profile is well documented.

Safety Considerations for Children and Pregnancy

Of the 16 main active sunscreen ingredients approved by the FDA, only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are designated as GRASE, or “Generally Recognized As Safe and Effective.” In June 2026, bemotrizinol became the third ingredient — and the first chemical filter — to receive this designation. It is approved for use in adults and children age 6 months and older.

“Chemical sunscreens are absorbed in very small amounts, but some pregnant women may choose a physical sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead out of an abundance of caution,” says Dr. Quan.

For infants under 6 months, the FDA and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend avoiding sunscreen use and instead keeping babies out of direct sunlight. If sun exposure is unavoidable, a broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen, containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, may be applied to small, exposed areas.  

Consistency Is Key for Effective Protection

Bemotrizinol could help improve how sunscreens feel and perform, making daily use more appealing. But no matter how advanced the formula, sunscreen only works when it’s used correctly and consistently.

“Bemotrizinol is another good option,” says Dr. Quan. “The best sunscreen is one that you use consistently and generously, applying at least every two hours, with an SPF rating of 30 or greater, and with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. There are lots of brands and features that may be more likable or suitable for one person than another but do not affect their effectiveness.”

The Sunscreen Gap: Awareness vs. Action

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70, yet sunscreen use remains inconsistent.

Despite high awareness:

• 80% of Americans know that sun exposure raises the risk of melanoma
• 25% say they rarely or never use sunscreen

Even when people do use sunscreen, they don’t always use it correctly. According to the American Academy of Dermatology:

• Most people only use 25% to 50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen.
• 65% forget to reapply.

How To Apply Sunscreen Properly  

Follow these steps to get the most effective protection:

• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher.
• Most adults should use 1 ounce (a full shot glass) for full-body coverage.
• Apply about 1 teaspoon to the face alone.
• Apply 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure.
• Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
• Don’t forget commonly missed areas like the top of your ears, scalp, hands and lips.

Beyond Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential, but it works best when combined with other sun-protective habits:

• Avoid peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
• Seek shade whenever possible.
• Wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.

What This Means for the Future of Sunscreen

Sunscreen remains one of the most effective tools for helping prevent skin cancer and premature aging. The addition of bemotrizinol is an important development in U.S. sunscreen options.

With more than 20 years of use internationally, it has been studied for both safety and effectiveness, and offers cosmetic advantages that may appeal to people with sensitive skin or concerns about white cast.

More broadly, bemotrizinol points to a shift in sunscreen formulations in the U.S., with a focus on improving performance and making products easier for people to use regularly.