What the FDA’s bemotrizinol proposal means for Nevada

Nevada’s sun-soaked skies are part of what makes our state beautiful — and what makes sun protection essential. That’s why the recent move by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to propose adding a new sunscreen ingredient called bemotrizinol to the lineup of approved sunscreen actives is big news for sun-smart communities like ours.

For nearly three decades, American consumers have been limited to a small set of sunscreen ingredients compared with much of the rest of the world. In places like Europe, Asia and Australia, broad-spectrum filters with enhanced UVA protection have long been available, giving users better defense against the full range of harmful ultraviolet radiation. Now, a long-awaited proposal could begin to change that.

Bemotrizinol — also known by the chemistry shorthand BEMT — is a broad-spectrum UV filter widely used overseas for years. Unlike some current U.S. sunscreen ingredients, it provides strong defense against both UVB (the rays that cause sunburn) and UVA (the rays linked to deeper skin damage, aging and some skin cancers), with what experts say is excellent photostability and low skin irritation.

In other countries, bemotrizinol is a staple of high-performance sunscreen products. Americans traveling abroad may already recognize it in formulas that feel lighter on skin, resist breakdown in the sun and offer reliable protection without a heavy “white cast” — benefits that could improve sunscreen use and adherence at home too.

What the FDA proposal involves

On Dec. 11, 2025, the FDA announced a proposed administrative order to add bemotrizinol to the over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen monograph — the regulatory list of ingredients considered “generally recognized as safe and effective” for public use. If finalized, this would allow sunscreen makers to use bemotrizinol in products sold in the U.S., potentially as soon as late 2026.

Before moving forward, the FDA is seeking public feedback — a key part of federal rulemaking — through late January 2026. Public feedback can be provided here. Dermatologists, sunscreen manufacturers, consumer advocates — and everyday sun lovers — all have a voice in the process. After that, the agency will consider feedback before issuing a final decision.

A step toward better protection

For Nevadans spending long days outdoors — whether at Red Rock Canyon, Lake Tahoe or your own backyard — better sunscreen choices matter. Broad-spectrum protection helps reduce risks of sunburn, early skin aging and skin cancers that are increasingly common with cumulative sun exposure.

Adding bemotrizinol to the U.S. market doesn’t replace other sun-safe habits — hats, sunglasses, shade, protective clothing and regular reapplication still matter — but it does promise more effective tools in our health toolkit.

This could mark the first new broadly used sunscreen ingredient in the U.S. in nearly 30 years, a meaningful moment for public health and for states like Nevada where sun safety isn’t just a slogan — it’s a daily priority.

Read the original CNN article here:
https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/11/health/sunscreen-ingredient-bemotrizinol-fda

This article created with the assistance of AI and edited by NCC staff. This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.