# FDA approval of bemotrizinol sunscreen ingredient

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/fda-approval-of-bemotrizinol-sunscreen-ingredient
> Updated: 2026-08-31T15:30:34.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized the use of bemotrizinol (BEMT) in over-the-counter sunscreen products. This marks the first new active ingredient added to the American approved list since the late 1990s.

Bemotrizinol is an organic, broad-spectrum filter capable of absorbing both UVB and UVA radiation, specifically targeting UVA1 wavelengths between 340 and 400 nanometers. The molecule works by intercepting ultraviolet radiation and dissipating the energy as heat. The FDA has permitted its use in formulations at concentrations up to 6%.

While the ingredient has been utilized for years in Europe and Asia, its approval is expected to influence North American formulas. In Canada, dermatologists and health officials have provided guidance on usage, recommending broad-spectrum SPF 30+ products and emphasizing the importance of reapplication every two hours, particularly during swimming or heavy sweating.

Marketed by dsm-firmenich as PARSOL® Shield, the ingredient is noted for its high photostability and its ability to create lightweight formulations that avoid the white cast often associated with mineral sunscreens. The Australian brand Ultra Violette has already launched the first U.S. product containing the ingredient, Unblock Screen SPF 50, a hybrid formula combining BEMT with octocrylene and zinc oxide. The brand intends to expand its BEMT-based offerings with the launch of Fave Screen SPF 50 in early 2027.

## Claims

- Bemotrizinol is the first new sunscreen active approved in the United States in more than 25 years. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Bemotrizinol provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with high photostability. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- dsm-firmenich announced the FDA approval of PARSOL® Shield (bemotrizinol, BEMT) for the U.S. market. (single source)
- Ultra Violette has launched Unblock Screen SPF 50, the first sunscreen containing BEMT to arrive in the U.S. market. (single source)
- The Unblock Screen SPF 50 formula combines BEMT with octocrylene and zinc oxide. (single source)
- Bemotrizinol has been used in sunscreen products outside the United States since 1999. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-31: Bemotrizinol approved by FDA as first new U.S. sunscreen active in decades

The FDA has approved bemotrizinol, the first new sunscreen active in the U.S. in over 25 years. dsm-firmenich and Ultra Violette are leading the market introduction of this broad-spectrum UV filter.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bemotrizinol-approved-by-fda-as-first-new-us-sunscreen-active-in-decades

### 2026-08-27: FDA approves bemotrizinol as new sunscreen active ingredient

The FDA has approved bemotrizinol (BEMT) for over-the-counter sunscreens in the U.S., the first new active ingredient since the 1990s, providing enhanced UVA1 protection.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fda-approves-bemotrizinol-as-new-sunscreen-active-ingredient

### 2026-08-02: Canada Sunscreen Guidance Highlights New FDA-Approved Ingredient and Reapplication Tips

Canada health officials advise SPF 30+ sunscreen use and flexible reapplication, while the U.S. FDA approves new filter bemotrizinol for future North American products.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/canada-sunscreen-guidance-highlights-new-fda-approved-ingredient-and-reapplication-tips

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Cite as: FDA approval of bemotrizinol sunscreen ingredient. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/fda-approval-of-bemotrizinol-sunscreen-ingredient