Our long national sunscreen nightmare is almost over

The FDA has approved bemotrizinol, a new chemical sunscreen filter, marking the first approval of a new US-specific chemical sunscreen ingredient since 1999. This move could lead to more effective, stable sunscreens in the US market, addressing longstanding issues with American sunscreen formulations and misinformation campaigns about sun safety.

Last week, the FDA approved bemotrizinol, also known as Tinosorb S or BEMT, a broad-spectrum chemical filter that protects against UVA and UVB rays. It is more photostable and less likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream than older filters, making it a significant advancement for US sunscreen products.

This approval follows years of regulatory delays and safety concerns, especially after studies in 2019 and 2021 showed some chemical filters were absorbed into the bloodstream. The FDA clarified that bemotrizinol has been deemed GRASE (generally recognized as safe and effective), aligning it with mineral sunscreens like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Industry experts see this as a potential turning point for US sunscreen formulations, which have historically lagged behind international options in terms of efficacy and user experience. The move could also help counter anti-sunscreen misinformation that has gained traction on social media, despite the fact that most research supports sunscreen use for skin cancer prevention.

Impact of New FDA Approval on US Sunscreen Standards

The approval of bemotrizinol is a significant step toward improving sunscreen options available in the US, potentially leading to formulations that are more effective, photostable, and user-friendly. It also challenges the narrative promoted by anti-sunscreen advocates, offering scientifically supported options to protect against skin damage and cancer. This development may influence public perception and usage habits, encouraging more consistent sun protection practices and reducing reliance on misinformation.

Long US Sunscreen Delays and International Advances

For over two decades, US sunscreens have been limited to older chemical filters and mineral options, often criticized for their texture, appearance, and perceived safety concerns. Meanwhile, countries like those in Europe, Australia, and Asia have developed advanced formulations with newer ingredients like bemotrizinol, which provide better UVA protection and are more cosmetically elegant.

The delay in approving new chemical filters in the US was partly due to regulatory caution following safety concerns raised in studies from 2019 and 2021, which showed some ingredients were absorbed into the bloodstream. The FDA’s recent approval signals a shift toward embracing newer, more effective filters that meet safety standards.

“The FDA’s approval of bemotrizinol marks a pivotal moment for US sunscreens, promising formulations that are more effective and better tolerated.”

— Victoria Song, Verge senior reviewer

Remaining Questions About Implementation and Market Impact

It is still unclear how quickly new sunscreens containing bemotrizinol will reach US consumers, or how manufacturers will reformulate their products. Additionally, the extent to which this approval will influence public behavior and counter anti-sunscreen misinformation remains to be seen.

Next Steps for US Sunscreen Industry and Public Awareness Campaigns

Manufacturers are expected to begin developing and marketing new sunscreens with bemotrizinol in the coming months. Public health campaigns may also leverage this regulatory milestone to promote better sun protection habits and dispel myths about chemical filters. Monitoring consumer response and regulatory updates will be key in the near future.

Key Questions

What is bemotrizinol and why is it important?

Bemotrizinol is a broad-spectrum chemical sunscreen filter approved by the FDA, offering improved UVA and UVB protection and greater stability, marking a significant advancement in US sun protection options.

Will this approval lead to cheaper or more effective sunscreens?

While it may not directly affect prices, the approval allows manufacturers to develop more effective and cosmetically appealing sunscreens, which could improve user compliance and overall protection.

When can consumers expect to see products with bemotrizinol?

Manufacturers are likely to introduce new formulations in the next several months, with widespread availability possibly within a year.

Does this mean the anti-sunscreen movement is over?

This approval provides scientific backing for chemical sunscreens, but public perceptions and misinformation may still influence consumer behavior for some time.

Are mineral sunscreens still considered safer?

Mineral sunscreens like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are still deemed safe and effective by the FDA, but the new chemical filter offers additional options with improved stability and UVA protection.

Source: The Verge