New York, NY (June 9, 2026) — The Skin Cancer Foundation applauds the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its decision to approve bemotrizinol (BEMT) for use in the United States. This decision marks an important milestone in sun protection innovation, as the last new active ingredient added to the FDA sunscreen monograph was approved more than 25 years ago, in 1999. Consumers can expect BEMT to appear in formulations under the brand name PARSOL Shield in the near future.
Skin cancer remains the most common cancer in the United States, yet nearly 90 percent of skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and are largely preventable through a comprehensive sun protection strategy. While American consumers already have access to many sunscreen filters, expanding the range of available ingredients can help improve sunscreen formulation options and encourage greater daily use. People are more likely to use sun protection consistently when they can find products that meet their individual needs and preferences. Additional sunscreen options can help make daily sun protection more accessible and appeal to a broader range of consumers.
The Skin Cancer Foundation encourages everyone to practice a complete sun protection strategy that includes seeking shade, covering up with clothing, hats and UV-blocking sunglasses, and daily sunscreen use. For daily use, the Foundation recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and, for more extended time outdoors, a broad-spectrum, water-resistant product with SPF 50 or higher. Increasing access to innovative sun protection tools is an important step toward improving sun-safe behaviors and reducing the burden of skin cancer in the United States.
— Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, President of The Skin Cancer Foundation