FDA Approves Bemotrizinol, New Sunscreen Filter, for U.S. Market After Decades-Long Stagnation
In a significant development for the U.S. sunscreen market, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially added Bemotrizinol (BEMT) to the U.S. sunscreen monograph in June 2026. This approval marks the first new sunscreen active ingredient permitted in the U.S. in over two decades. BEMT, also known by its chemical name bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine or trade name Tinosorb S, is a broad-spectrum UV filter that effectively absorbs both UVB and UVA rays. It has been widely used in Europe since 2000. The FDA's decision, which took effect on August 9, 2026, allows BEMT to be used in sunscreens at concentrations up to 6% for adults and children aged 6 months and older. This approval was facilitated by the CARES Act of 2020, which created a faster regulatory pathway for new active ingredients.
