Major Sunscreen Upgrade Now Hitting US Shelves

For the first time in more than a quarter-century, Americans have a new option when shopping for sunscreen: a skin-protecting chemical that's long been a go-to option in Europe and other parts of the world. The first sunscreens containing bemotrizinol—sometimes called BEMT—are hitting US store shelves following FDA approval of the ingredient in June. Dermatologists say the chemical fills an important market gap by offering broad protection, like the most well-established sunscreen ingredients, but without their cosmetic downsides, including white streaking. More from the AP:

• BEMT is the first chemical-based sunscreen in the US that offers "broad spectrum protection," meaning it protects against both UVB rays, which cause most sunburn, and UVA rays that pose the greatest risk of skin cancer and wrinkles. Previously, manufacturers had to mix multiple ingredients to get this dual protection.
• Mineral-based formulas, like those combining zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are also effective, but their texture, consistency, and the white streaking they leave behind are a turn-off for some, particularly those with darker complexions.
• Another benefit is that well-studied BEMT has been shown to have minimal absorption into the skin—a concern with some older sun-blocking chemicals. Last month, the FDA revoked approval of an older chemical ingredient, oxybenzone, after determining it was "absorbed through the skin to a greater extent than previously understood."

• Oxybenzone and octinoxate, another chemical UV filter, were previously banned in Hawaii and parts of Florida due to concerns about environmental toxicity. Though longer-term research is needed, the European Union's environmental agency has found "limited evidence of environmental toxicity" with BEMT.
• Experts say BEMT has one other key advantage, in that it doesn't break down quickly in the sun. That's been a particular issue for avobenzone, the only other chemical-based ingredient that filters UVA light.