Neutrogena Launches New Sunscreens With Newly Permitted UV Filter Bemotrizinol

Neutrogena is launching 2 facial sunscreen formulations featuring bemotrizinol (BEMT), a broad-spectrum ultraviolet (UV) filter added by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to the over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen monograph earlier this year. The launches represent an early introduction of BEMT-containing sunscreen products to the US market following the regulatory change.¹

The new products, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Daily Face Sunscreen SPF 70 and Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 60, will become available beginning September 17, 2026.

A New UV Filter for the US Market

In June 2026, the FDA issued a final administrative order adding BEMT at concentrations up to 6% as a permitted active ingredient in OTC sunscreens. The agency described the action as the first addition of a new active sunscreen ingredient to the OTC monograph since the late 1990s.¹

BEMT provides protection across both UVA and UVB wavelengths and has low systemic absorption, according to the FDA. The ingredient has also been used in sunscreen products in Europe and other international markets for years.¹

The FDA determined BEMT to be generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE) for use in sunscreens for adults and children aged 6 months and older. The regulatory action followed review of clinical and nonclinical safety and efficacy data submitted through an OTC Monograph Order Request.¹

Bringing BEMT Into New Formulations

According to information provided by Neutrogena, the company's new CLOUD-TECH formulations combine BEMT with additional UV filters through its Helioplex360 technology. The company designed the formulations to provide broad-spectrum protection while offering a lightweight, fast-drying texture intended for daily facial use.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Daily Face Sunscreen SPF 70 is designed as a lightweight daily facial sunscreen that can be layered under makeup. According to the company, the formulation feels 50% lighter on the skin than leading sunscreens and is designed to dry without a greasy or sticky residue.

The second product, Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 60, was developed specifically for acne-prone skin. The formulation includes niacinamide and vitamin E and is designed to provide UVA and UVB protection without clogging pores.

Both products will retail for $16.99 and are scheduled to become available through Amazon beginning September 17.

According to Neutrogena, the CLOUD-TECH platform was developed to pair expanded UV protection with the lightweight, skincare-like feel consumers increasingly seek from daily sunscreen.

“CLOUD-TECH combines BEMT with Neutrogena’s existing sunscreen science to deliver comprehensive UVA and UVB protection in weightless, invisible formulas designed to feel and blend more like skin care,” the company stated in materials provided to Dermatology Times.

Weightless, invisible formulas designed to feel and blend more like skin care,

Expanding Sunscreen Options

The introduction comes amid broader changes to the US sunscreen landscape. When announcing its BEMT decision in June, the FDA noted that the ingredient had already been marketed internationally and said its addition would expand the range of sunscreen active ingredients available to US consumers.¹

BEMT is photostable and provides broad-spectrum UV protection, characteristics that may give manufacturers additional flexibility when developing sunscreen formulations. Its addition to the OTC monograph may also pave the way for more US products incorporating sunscreen technologies that have previously been available primarily outside the country.²

The FDA continues to recommend sunscreen as one component of a comprehensive sun-protection strategy that also includes protective clothing, sunglasses, hats, and seeking shade during periods of peak UV exposure.³

References

1. US Food and Drug Administration. FDA expands sunscreen options for the first time in 20 years. Published June 9, 2026. Accessed September 16, 2026. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-expands-sunscreen-options-first-time-20-years
2. US Food and Drug Administration. MFG-400105 – Bemotrizinol: Revised Environmental Assessment. May 8, 2026. Accessed September 16, 2026. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/omuf/order/supportDoc/OTC000039/Environmental_Assessment.pdf
3. US Food and Drug Administration. Questions and answers: FDA’s regulatory actions on over-the-counter sunscreen. Updated September 10, 2026. Accessed September 16, 2026. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/questions-and-answers-fdas-regulatory-actions-over-counter-sunscreen