First new US sunscreen ingredient since 1999 approved by FDA - a skin scientist explains how bemotrizinol works

The FDA on June 9, 2026 approved bemotrizinol, the first new sunscreen ingredient permitted for over‑the‑counter use in the U.S. since 1999. Bemotrizinol has long been used in Europe and Asia, and its approval marks a rare regulatory milestone for UV protection chemistry. The article explains how UV radiation damages skin, detailing UVA (315–400 nm) and UVB (280–315 nm) rays, with UVA penetrating deeper than UVB. Bemotrizinol targets both UVA and UVB, expanding protection beyond older filters. The editorial context outlines basic sun physics, including the sun’s 93 million‑mile distance and its ~10,000°F surface temperature, to frame why sunscreen is essential. The piece notes Europe and Asia’s prior adoption, hinting at future U.S. market impact.