FDA Approves First New Sunscreen Ingredient in Decades: Here’s What You Should Know

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved bemotrizinol, or BEMT, the first new sunscreen ingredient for the U.S. market in more than 25 years.

Bemotrizinol is a powerful broad-spectrum ultraviolet filter that has been used in sunscreens made in Asia and Europe for decades, but manufacturers haven’t been able to use it in American formulations until now.

The FDA has been gradually updating its standards for sunscreens. In 2011, the agency banned terms like “waterproof,” which regulators said was misleading, and required that all sunscreens filter out UVA and UVB rays. Previously some formulas only protected against UVB.

Bemotrizinol doesn’t absorb through the skin like other creams, leading to a better wearing experience and less skin irritation. In the past, products were known for the white cast they left on the skin, but newer products on the market have overcome that concern.

For the summer, it’s important for families to learn and practice safe skin care, particularly when it comes to children. South Florida summer temperatures average between the upper 80s to low 90s. To protect children from the intense heat, parents should prioritize broad-spectrum SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen, lightweight UV-blocking clothing, and frequent hydration to keep their skin healthy and safe during outdoor play, and reapplying sunscreen every 40 minutes if swimming or sweating heavily.

Take your child to a doctor if you suspect they’re developing the following heat-related skin conditions:Heat rash is seen most often in babies and young children when sweat gland pores become blocked and perspiration (sweat) can’t escape.

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that’s more common during hot, humid weather. It causes a rash that may have fluid-filled blisters or an oozing rash covered by crusted yellow scabs. Impetigo is more likely to develop where there is a break in the skin, like around insect bites.