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Overview: Bemotrizinol is an active ingredient in some over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen products. It helps prevent sunburn and protects your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) A and UVB rays. Bemotrizinol is usually well tolerated, although mild skin irritation is a possible side effect. If you have signs of a possible allergic reaction, such as a skin rash, itching, or bumps, wash the product off your skin and stop using it. Always read and follow the label directions to make sure you are using your sunscreen correctly.

Uses

What is bemotrizinol used for?

Bemotrizinol is a broad-spectrum sunscreen ingredient. It is commonly used to help prevent sunburn. It can also lower the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun, if it is used according to the product directions along with other sun protection measures.

Bemotrizinol may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does bemotrizinol work (mechanism of action)?

Bemotrizinol is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that helps protect your skin from both ultraviolet (UV) A and UVB rays from the sun. It works by absorbing these rays before they can burn or damage your skin.

How is bemotrizinol supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • BEMT
  • Parsol Shield

Bemotrizinol products are available in many topical forms that are applied to the skin.

How should I store bemotrizinol?

Sunscreens should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of reach of children and pets. Protect the product from excessive heat and direct sun.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of bemotrizinol?

Bemotrizinol is generally well tolerated, although some people may have mild skin irritation. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.

There may be other side effects of bemotrizinol that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of bemotrizinol?

While less common, the most serious side effects of bemotrizinol are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Bemotrizinol sunscreen products may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using the product and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use bemotrizinol?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use bemotrizinol.

  • Bemotrizinol
  • Parsol Shield
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific bemotrizinol products they stock.

What should I know about bemotrizinol before using it?

Keep bemotrizinol products out of the reach of children.

Sunscreens come in many forms, such as lotions, creams, gels, sticks, oils, and sprays. They may also have different combinations of ingredients. The directions for use can vary depending on the type of sunscreen. Always read and follow the product label to make sure you are using your sunscreen correctly.

Bemotrizinol is for use on the skin only. Keep it out of your eyes. If you get it in your eyes, rinse them with water. Do not use bemotrizinol products on broken or damaged skin.

Health care providers generally recommend choosing a sunscreen that is broad spectrum, water resistant, and has an SPF 30 or higher. 

Using sunscreen is only one part of protecting your skin from the sun. Try to limit your time in direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, a hat, and sunglasses to help protect your skin and eyes.

Bemotrizinol products are intended for use in adults and children 6 months of age and older. Ask a health care provider before using sunscreen on babies under 6 months old. 

What should I tell my health care provider before using bemotrizinol?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if bemotrizinol is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how bemotrizinol could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, ask your health care provider about which type of sunscreen to use.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if bemotrizinol passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does bemotrizinol interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between bemotrizinol and foods or drinks.

There are no known interactions between bemotrizinol and alcohol.

Does bemotrizinol interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between bemotrizinol and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much bemotrizinol?

If you or someone else has used too much bemotrizinol, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of bemotrizinol?

You should apply bemotrizinol sunscreen as directed, according to the directions on the product label. Most sunscreens should be reapplied at least every 2 hours while you are exposed to sunlight. If you miss an application, use it as soon as possible to help protect your skin from getting sunburned.