The sunscreen aisle may soon look very different.

In December 2025, the FDA proposed adding bemotrizinol, also known internationally as Tinosorb S, to the list of approved active ingredients in OTC sunscreen. If finalized, it would represent the first major addition to the U.S. sunscreen monograph in more than 25 years and could significantly improve the range of broad-spectrum sunscreen options available to consumers. Bemotrizinol offers strong UVA and UVB protection, excellent photostability, low skin absorption, and a favorable safety profile established through decades of use in Europe, Australia, and Asia. Industry experts anticipate a final FDA decision in 2026.

As pharmacists prepare for another summer season, patient questions about sunscreen selection, skin cancer prevention, photosensitizing medications, and suspicious skin lesions will become increasingly common. Community pharmacists remain among the most accessible healthcare professionals capable of identifying risk factors, recommending preventive measures, and encouraging dermatologic screening.

Why Skin Cancer Prevention Matters

Skin cancer remains the most common cancer in the United States. Fortunately, many cases are preventable through proper UV protection, early recognition of suspicious lesions, and regular skin examinations in high-risk individuals. Early detection is particularly important for melanoma, where prognosis is strongly associated with stage at diagnosis.

Understanding UV Radiation

UVA rays make up 95% of UV rays and penetrate deeply into the skin. They are responsible for accelerated photoaging, contributing to wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. UVA rays are present year-round with equal intensity and are able to pass through windows and clouds.

UVB rays primarily affect the outer layer of skin, causing sunburn and skin blistering. They directly cause damage to cellular DNA, making them strongly associated with skin cancer development. UVB rays are most intense during midday hours but can vary throughout the year based upon location.

Patients should be encouraged to select “broad-spectrum” sunscreens meaning they provide protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.

Emerging Sunscreen Innovation: Bemotrizinol

Why is bemotrizinol generating so much excitement among dermatologists?

Bemotrizinol provides protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, including portions of the UVA spectrum that have historically been more difficult to cover effectively. Most UVA protection is derived from avobenzone. However, avobenzone is prone to degradation during UV exposure, requires frequent reapplication, and must be stabilized with other products. Bemotrizinol remains highly stable to maintain effectiveness throughout exposure. As a larger molecule, it stays on the skin’s surface and does not end up in the bloodstream the way avobenzone does. Long term studies have not determined what effect that absorption may have.

Bemotrizinol may allow manufacturers to formulate less greasy, more natural feeling products that patients are more likely to use consistently. For pharmacists, this represents an important emerging OTC category that patients will likely begin asking about as media coverage increases.

Which Patients Are at Highest Risk for Skin Cancer?

Pharmacists should pay particular attention to patients with the following risk factors:

Personal History of Skin Cancer
Patients with a prior history of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma are at increased risk of developing subsequent skin cancers and should maintain regular dermatology follow-up.

Family History of Skin Cancer
A first-degree relative with melanoma significantly increases risk.

Photosensitizing Medications

  • Antibiotics – doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim
  • Fluoroquinolones
  • Diuretics – furosemide, HCTZ
  • Amiodarone
  • Isotretinoin and topical retinoids
  • NSAIDs – ketoprofen, naproxen

Receiving immunosuppression

  • Organ transplant immunosuppressants
  • Chronic systemic corticosteroids
  • Certain biologic therapies

Patients with fair skin phenotype

  • Burn or freckle easily
  • Have red or blonde hair
  • Have light-colored eyes

Excessive UV Exposure

  • Outdoor occupations
  • Frequent recreational sun exposure
  • History of blistering childhood sunburns
  • Indoor tanning bed use

Numerous or Atypical Moles
Patients with numerous nevi or atypical moles may warrant closer surveillance.

 

When Should Patients See a Dermatologist?

Immediate Referral
Patients should promptly seek dermatologic evaluation for lesions that demonstrate ABCDE:

  • Asymmetry
  • Border irregularity
  • Color variation
  • Diameter enlargement
  • Evolution or change over time

The American Academy of Dermatology encourages evaluation of any lesion that changes, itches, bleeds, fails to heal, or otherwise appears suspicious.

Routine Screening
Although the USPSTF currently states that evidence is insufficient to recommend universal clinician skin cancer screening in asymptomatic adults, many dermatology organizations recommend regular professional skin examinations for higher-risk individuals. Monthly self-skin examinations should be encouraged for all patients, particularly those at elevated risk.

All patients should consider a baseline skin examination and perform monthly self-examinations. Patients at an increased risk should consider annual dermatologist examination. Patients at high risk should visit a dermatologist every 6-12 months or as directed.

 

Frequently Asked Patient Question: “Why Does Sunscreen Burn When I First Put It On?”

Many pharmacists encounter this question during the summer. Several explanations may contribute:

Chemical Sunscreen Ingredients
Some chemical UV filters may cause transient irritation, particularly in sensitive skin.

Impaired Skin Barrier Function
Patients with rosacea, eczema, dermatitis, or recent sun exposure may experience stinging upon application.

Fragrances and Preservatives
Inactive ingredients often contribute more irritation than active sunscreen ingredients.

Heat and Vasodilation
Once outside, increased skin temperature and blood flow can amplify pre-existing irritation.

Counseling Pearl:
Patients who experience burning with sunscreen may benefit from switching to mineral formulations containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These formulations are generally better tolerated by patients with sensitive skin.

 

Technology in Sun Safety

Technology continues to create new opportunities for prevention. Many weather apps now provide real-time UV index monitoring. Some devices can track cumulative UV exposure and remind users to reapply sunscreen. Photographic tracking tools may help patients identify changing skin lesions. Virtual dermatology consultations can improve access to dermatology services, especially in rural areas. These technologies should complement—not replace—professional evaluation.

 

Front-End Revenue Opportunities

Summer creates natural opportunities for pharmacist recommendations. Consider merchandising:

Sun Protection

  • Broad-spectrum sunscreens
  • SPF lip balm
  • Aloe vera gels and after-sun moisturizers

Outdoor Health

  • Electrolyte replacement products
  • Insect repellents
  • UV-blocking sunglasses

Travel Health

  • Motion sickness products
  • First aid kits
  • Antihistamines
  • Medication organizers

Counseling Pearl:
A family of four can easily use an entire 8-ounce bottle of sunscreen during a weekend of swimming, boating, or beach activities. Encouraging patients to purchase adequate quantities helps improve protection and compliance.

 

Pharmacists Should Counsel Patients On:

  • Broad-spectrum sunscreen selection
  • SPF 30 or greater
  • Reapplication every two hours, or after swimming or sweating
  • Photosensitizing medications
  • Protective clothing and shade
  • ABCDE warning signs of melanoma
  • Monthly self-skin examinations
  • Annual dermatology evaluations for high-risk patients
  • Emerging technologies that support skin cancer prevention

The Bottom Line

The future of sun protection is evolving. With the potential addition of bemotrizinol, expanding digital health tools, and growing awareness of medication-induced photosensitivity, pharmacists can help patients prevent skin damage and detect skin cancer earlier.

Every sunscreen recommendation, counseling conversation, and dermatology referral represents an opportunity to improve long-term patient outcomes while reinforcing the pharmacist’s role as an accessible and trusted healthcare professional.

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