The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on June 9 approved bemotrizinol as a permitted active ingredient in over-the-counter sunscreens, the first new UV filter added to the agency's sunscreen monograph in more than two decades. Submitted by DSM Nutritional Products at concentrations up to 6%, it is cleared for adults and children 6 months and older.
Bemotrizinol is a non-mineral chemical filter that has been used safely in Europe and Asia for years. Regulators and dermatologists say it is more photostable than current U.S. filters, breaking down less in sunlight, shows lower bloodstream absorption, and helps close a long-standing gap in UVA protection in American products. Manufacturers may begin adding it to formulas on August 9, with a U.S. debut expected this summer under the brand name Parsol Shield.
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the move "will increase competition and consumer confidence in sunscreen products," while the Environmental Working Group's David Andrews called it "a great day for American consumers and everyone who has fought to improve sunscreen options."