US Sunscreen Faces Biggest Change in Decades

The FDA is considering approving bemotrizinol, a highly effective UV filter used abroad, as part of its first major sunscreen regulation update in over 25 years. Dermatologists welcome the move, citing potential improvements in UVA protection, formula stability, and consumer compliance due to better textures." "article": "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reviewing bemotrizinol, a broad-spectrum UV filter widely used in Europe, Asia, and Australia, for approval in sunscreen products. If adopted, this would mark the first major update to FDA-approved sunscreen ingredients in more than 25 years. Bemotrizinol protects against both UVA rays—linked to aging and skin cancer—and UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to cancer risk. Unlike many current U.S. sunscreens, it is highly photostable, meaning it resists breaking down in sunlight and can improve the stability of other ingredients. Dermatologists, including Dr. Mona Gohara of Yale University, support the approval, arguing it could lead to more effective, comfortable, and easier-to-use sunscreens. Current U.S. products often lag in UVA protection compared to international alternatives, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The FDA’s approval process for sunscreen ingredients is rigorous, as they are classified as over-the-counter drugs rather than cosmetics. Manufacturers must provide extensive safety and efficacy data, which may explain the delayed review of bemotrizinol. If approved, bemotrizinol could expand consumer choices, improve formula textures, and encourage regular sunscreen use—a critical factor in preventing skin cancer, the most common cancer in the U.S.