Key takeaways
- Bis‑Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (also known as Bemotrizinol and BEMT) is a UV‑absorbing ingredient designed to help protect skin from UVA and UVB rays.
- It is used as part of broad‑spectrum sunscreen systems, not by itself.
- How a sunscreen is formulated affects how well ingredients like BEMT perform.
- On June 10, 2026, the FDA issued the final order for BEMT use in sunscreen products sold in the United States under the OTC Sunscreen Monograph. The order will take effect on Aug. 9, 2026.
What is BEMT?
BEMT stands for Bis‑Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine. It is a sunscreen ingredient used in many countries to help limit the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. BEMT works by absorbing UV rays and converting them into a small amount of heat.
How does BEMT work in sunscreen?
BEMT is classified as a chemical (organic) UV filter. It is designed to protect against:
- UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and are associated with visible aging and long‑term skin changes
- UVB rays, which mainly affect the skin’s surface and are most associated with sunburn
Because it absorbs both types of UV rays, BEMT helps support broad‑spectrum sun protection.
Why formulation matters when using BEMT
A sunscreen isn’t just a list of active ingredients—it’s a carefully designed formula. And that design matters.
Research from Kenvue scientists shows that the same UV filters can perform very differently depending on how a sunscreen is formulated. In other words, it’s not only what ingredients are used, but how they’re put together.
Think of sunscreen like a recipe: even with the same core ingredients, small changes can affect the final result. In sunscreen, non‑active ingredients help determine how evenly UV filters spread on skin, how stable they are, and how effectively they absorb UV rays.
In this research:
- Sunscreens with the same UV filters, including BEMT, can lead to different levels of protection based on formulation choices.
- Optimizing the overall formula led to a significant increase in measured SPF, while still maintaining balanced protection across both UVA and UVB rays.
- Broad‑spectrum performance remained consistent, showing that good formulation can enhance protection and deliver high SPF efficiency.
What role could BEMT play in daily sun protection?
When formulated effectively, BEMT can help support high‑level UVA and UVB protection as part of a complete sunscreen system.
Because UV exposure happens every day — including on cloudy days and through windows — broad‑spectrum sunscreen is an important part of a daily sun protection routine, along with protective clothing, shade and other sun‑safe behaviors.
Is BEMT approved for use in U.S. sunscreens?
On June 10, 2026, the FDA issued the final order for BEMT use in sunscreen products sold in the United States under the OTC Sunscreen Monograph. The order will take effect on Aug. 9, 2026.
BEMT is the first new sunscreen filter approved in the U.S. since 1999 — a meaningful step forward to for sunscreen innovation that will give consumers more effective, appealing sunscreen options that are essential for helping drive consistent daily use.
BEMT has been approved and used in sunscreens for many years in regions such as:
- The European Union
- Australia
- South Korea
- Other global markets
How to use sunscreen effectively
- Apply generously to all exposed skin
- Reapply at least every two hours when outdoors
- Use water‑resistant sunscreen when swimming or sweating
- Pair sunscreen with hats, long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses and shade for added protection
Frequently asked questions about BEMT in sunscreen
What is BEMT in sunscreen?
BEMT is a UV‑absorbing sunscreen ingredient currently used in markets outside the U.S. It stands for Bis‑Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine and is used to help protect skin from ultraviolet rays.
Does BEMT protect against UVA or UVB rays?
BEMT helps absorb both UVA and UVB rays, which is why it is currently used in broad‑spectrum sunscreen formulations outside the U.S.
