# First New Sunscreen Type in 25 Years Hits US Shelves

> FDA approves BEMT sunscreen for broad protection without streaks.
- Title: First New Sunscreen Type in 25 Years Hits US Shelves · Wral
- Summary: FDA approves BEMT sunscreen for broad protection without streaks. The FDA approved bemotrizinol, a chemical sunscreen offering broad UV protection without…
- Keywords: bemotrizinol, bemt, fda, sunscreen, neutrogena, uv protection, skin protection, white streaking, business, finance, First, Type
- Source: Wral — https://wral.com/news/ap/7892c-the-first-new-sunscreen-type-in-25-years-has-arrived-on-us-store-shelves
- Author: MATTHEW PERRONE — AP Health Writer
- Published: 2026-10-14T16:08:13+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: bemotrizinol, bemt, fda, sunscreen, neutrogena, uv protection, skin protection, white streaking, business, finance
## New sunscreen type arrives
The first new sunscreen type in 25 years has arrived on US store shelves.
## FDA approves bemotrizinol
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved bemotrizinol, sometimes called BEMT, in June.
## BEMT offers broad protection
BEMT is the first chemical-based sunscreen in the U.S. that offers broad spectrum protection without white streaking.
## Minimal skin absorption
Studies show BEMT has minimal absorption into the skin, unlike older chemical sunscreens that absorb more deeply.
## FDA safety review
The FDA reviewed studies of BEMT in over 500 patients and found it did not cause irritation or allergic reactions.
## BEMT vs. mineral sunscreens
BEMT provides broad protection without the white streaking that mineral sunscreens cause for some skin tones.
## Environmental impact
Scientists show BEMT has limited environmental toxicity, but longer-term research is needed for coral reefs.
## Stability advantage
BEMT is significantly more stable than avobenzone, the only other chemical-based UVA filter.
## Sun protection advice
Dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen every few hours and using clothing for better sun protection.
## Key takeaway

The FDA approved bemotrizinol, a chemical sunscreen offering broad UV protection without white streaking, now available on US store shelves.