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June 22, 2026—It's official: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved bemotrizinol for use as an active sunscreen ingredient—the first in two decades. According to FDA, it is safe and effective for use in over-the-counter sunscreens formulated for adults and children 6 months and older.

What's the big deal?

Bemotrizinol, also known by its brand name Parsol Shield, creates broad-spectrum coverage against the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays while reducing the total amount of filters needed to achieve the same results. And experts say it's less irritating to the skin than some older filters. In other words, it offers the same sun protection in a lightweight, better-feeling formula. This could go a long way toward making regular sunscreen use more tolerable for those who avoid heavier, greasier sunscreens.

In addition, bemotrizinol can potentially enhance a whole host of skincare products and cosmetics, like creams and tinted moisturizers, by boosting UV protection without affecting the formula's look and feel. This may open the door for more diverse sun protection options designed for many different skin tones, skin types and lifestyles.

The future of sun protection

When it comes to approving sunscreen ingredients, FDA is painstakingly slow—due in part to their stringent, years-long testing and approval process. With bemotrizinol's approval, FDA is finally closing the gap between the U.S. and its global counterparts. Bemotrizinol has been approved and available in Europe and countries around the world for many years. U.S. consumers can expect products containing this new ingredient to finally hit store shelves sometime in late 2026 or early 2027.

Protect your skin

The latest innovation in sun protection will be available soon! But don't wait until then to start protecting your skin. Remember, the best sunscreen is the one you use regularly. Go for a broad-spectrum formula with an SPF of 30 or higher. And reapply at least every two hours—more often if you're swimming or sweating.

Learn more about sunscreen types and how to find one that's right for you.

Sources

• AARP. "FDA Approves First New Sunscreen Ingredient in Over 20 Years — Here's What It Means for Older Adults." https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/fda-approves-new-sunscreen-ingredient-bemotrizinol/.
• American Academy of Dermatology Association. "American Academy of Dermatology Association Praises FDA for Approving New Sunscreen Ingredient." https://www.aad.org/news/fda-approves-new-sunscreen-ingredient.
• American Academy of Dermatology Association. "Sunscreen FAQs." https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen.
• Skin Cancer Foundation. "We Need Sunscreen Innovation: A Cosmetic Chemist's Perspective." https://www.skincancer.org/blog/we-need-sunscreen-innovation-a-cosmetic-chemists-perspective/.
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "FDA Expands Sunscreen Options for the First Time in 20 Years." https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-expands-sunscreen-options-first-time-20-years.