FDA Approves Only These Sunscreen Ingredients

Dermatologists share the key sunscreen ingredients proven to work effectively.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:49pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The FDA closely regulates sunscreen ingredients to ensure safety and efficacy. Dermatologists recommend looking for sunscreens with at least SPF 30 protection and the label 'broad spectrum' to ensure coverage against both UVA and UVB rays. While both mineral and chemical sunscreens are considered safe, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are the only ingredients currently approved by the FDA. Other chemical filters like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octocrylene are also commonly used but have raised some safety concerns.

Why it matters

Choosing the right sunscreen is crucial for protecting skin from UV damage that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer. With so many options on the market, it's important for consumers to understand the FDA regulations and dermatologist recommendations to select a sunscreen that will provide the best protection.

The details

The FDA oversees sunscreen regulations to ensure products meet strict safety and effectiveness standards before they can be sold. Currently, there are 16 FDA-approved SPF ingredients, which can be categorized as either mineral (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) or chemical (avobenzone, oxybenzone, etc.). The FDA has proposed pulling approval for many of the chemical filters due to gaps in safety data, leaving only the mineral ingredients as 'generally recognized as safe and effective.' Dermatologists recommend looking for sunscreens with at least SPF 30 and the 'broad spectrum' label to ensure protection against both UVA and UVB rays. While both mineral and chemical sunscreens are considered safe, mineral options may be gentler on sensitive skin.

  • The FDA announced in December 2025 that it is poised to approve a new sunscreen ingredient called bemotrizinol.
  • In 2019, the FDA proposed new rules that would pull approvals for many current sunscreen ingredients, leaving only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as approved for use.

The players

Ife J. Rodney, MD

Founding director of Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics in Fulton, Maryland.

Susan Massick, MD

Dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

Cindy Wassef, MD

Associate professor at the Rutgers Center for Dermatology.

Joshua Zeichner, MD

Director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause rash or skin irritation in the way some chemical-based sunscreens can for people with sensitive skin.”

— Susan Massick, MD, Dermatologist (Women's Health)

“Ultimately the choice of whether to use a mineral or chemical sunscreen depends on your personal preference.”

— Joshua Zeichner, MD, Director of cosmetic and clinical research (Women's Health)

What’s next

The FDA is expected to finalize its proposed new rules on sunscreen ingredients in the coming year, which could lead to the removal of many currently approved chemical filters from the market.

The takeaway

Choosing an effective, properly-formulated sunscreen is crucial for protecting skin from UV damage, but navigating the sunscreen aisle can be confusing. By understanding the FDA regulations and dermatologist recommendations, consumers can select a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection and suits their individual skin needs.