For the first time in more than 25 years, the U.S. sunscreen industry is welcoming a new FDA-approved UV filter. The approval of bemotrizinol, commonly known as BEMT, marks a significant milestone for sunscreen innovation in the United States and reflects years of scientific research, regulatory review, and industry advocacy.
BEMT, Bemotrizinol, Tinosorb S®, and Other Names Refer to the Same Ingredient
BEMT is the abbreviation of Bemotrizinol, which is the name that will appear in the “Active Ingredients” section of the Drug Facts panel when products containing this ingredient become available. However, there are several other names that refer to the same ingredient.
Other names for Bemotrizinol include:
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Bis-ethylexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine
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Parsol Shield®
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Tinosorb S®
Consumers may see different names used in scientific literature, regulatory documents, ingredient listings, or product marketing materials, but they all refer to the same UV filter ingredient.
Bemotrizinol (BEMT) is a broad-spectrum UV sunscreen filter that helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays. It is considered a “chemical” sunscreen filter and has been used for many years in Europe, Asia, Australia, and other regions around the world but has not previously been available in U.S. sunscreen products due to the country's unique regulatory framework for sunscreen ingredients.
One of the characteristics that has generated interest among scientists and formulators is BEMT's photostability, meaning it remains effective when exposed to sunlight. Research submitted to and reviewed by the FDA found low levels of skin absorption and a low potential for skin irritation. These properties have made BEMT a widely used UV filter internationally and a long-discussed candidate for approval in the United States.
FDA Approval Expands the Options Available to Sunscreen Formulators
For decades, American sunscreen manufacturers have had access to a smaller selection of approved UV filters than formulators in many other countries. Because sunscreens are regulated as over-the-counter drugs in the United States, the process for adding new active ingredients has historically been lengthy and complex.
The addition of BEMT provides formulators with another tool for developing sun protection products and demonstrates that the regulatory pathway for new sunscreen ingredients can move forward when supported by safety and efficacy data.
Babo Botanicals Continues to Support Innovation While Maintaining Its Core Standards
At Babo, our mineral-based sunscreens remain rooted in the principles that have guided out brand from the beginning: broad-spectrum protection, ingredient transparency, and trusted sun care for families.
That foundation doesn't change. In fact, it's what drives us. As scientists, we're committed to staying at the forefront of sunscreen research, continuously monitoring advancements and evaluating new ingredients as the science evolves. When an ingredient is shown to be safe, effective, and aligned with our rigorous standards, we're ready to embrace it. That's not a shift in our values—it's a reflection of them. Responsible formulation means combining a strong scientific foundation with a commitment to continuous learning and innovation.
We have followed the development and regulatory review of BEMT for many years and appreciate the extensive scientific work that led to this approval. We believe this approval is an important moment for the industry and expands opportunities for future innovation.
EWG's Supports the Approval of BEMT Based on Safety and Performance Data
As a long-time partner of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), we have also closely followed the organization's work on sunscreen safety and regulation. EWG has publicly supported the approval of BEMT, citing its strong safety profile, broad-spectrum protection, low skin absorption, and extensive history of use in other countries.
"EWG is excited to see the first big change to the sunscreen market in over two decades. This ingredient, bemotrizinol has been used in other countries for decades and has safety data to substantiate its use. Adding this ingredient to the sunscreen monograph proposal signals real hope for public health. Consumers will soon have more options for products that offer UVA protection and include ingredients with supporting safety data." – Alexa Friedman, Senior Scientist at Environmental Working Group
The Approval of BEMT Signals Continued Progress in Sunscreen Innovation
The approval of BEMT represents an exciting milestone in sunscreen innovation and a meaningful development for the U.S. sun care landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, Babo Botanicals remains committed to staying informed about emerging science while maintaining the standards of safety, efficacy, and transparency that our customers expect.
Most importantly, this news serves as a reminder of the critical role sunscreen plays in protecting skin health. Whether a sunscreen relies on mineral UV filters or newly approved chemical filters, consistent daily sun protection remains one of the most important steps people can take to help prevent sun damage and support long-term skin health.
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