npr.org 1 days ago URGENCY: 6/10
FDA Approves New Sunscreen Ingredient: What You Need to Know
The FDA has approved bemotrizinol, a groundbreaking sunscreen ingredient that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Discover how this change could revolutionize sun protection in the U.S.
What is Bemotrizinol?
Bemotrizinol is a newly approved chemical UV filter that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Unlike previous ingredients, it is photo-stable, meaning it maintains its effectiveness longer when exposed to sunlight.
# Key Benefits of Bemotrizinol:
- Broad Spectrum Protection: It effectively blocks both UVA rays, which cause aging, and UVB rays, responsible for sunburn.
- Photo-Stability: Unlike avobenzone, bemotrizinol does not break down quickly in sunlight, providing longer-lasting protection.
- Global Usage: This ingredient has been safely used in European and Asian sunscreens for decades, making its delayed approval in the U.S. noteworthy.