Tinosorb S (Bemotrizinol) — The UV Filter the FDA Hasn't Approved Yet
In Brief
Tinosorb S (Bemotrizinol) is a broad-spectrum UV filter used in European and Korean sunscreens since 2000. It provides superior UVA-PF compared to avobenzone and does not enter the bloodstream due to its large molecular structure. Not FDA-approved as of 2026.
What the Science Says
Tinosorb S absorbs UV from 280–380nm with exceptional UVA-II coverage — the range most correlated with photoaging and DNA damage.
Its molecular weight of 628 g/mol makes it a 'large molecule' filter: it sits on the skin surface rather than penetrating the stratum corneum, addressing the systemic absorption concerns that delayed FDA approval.
Unlike avobenzone (the standard US UVA filter), Tinosorb S is photostable — it does not degrade in sunlight, meaning SPF protection holds throughout the day without reapplication triggers from photodegradation.
Tinosorb S is oil-soluble and compatible with most emulsion systems, enabling lighter textures than inorganic filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) while achieving equivalent UVA-PF values.
Technical Specifications
| INCI name | Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine |
| Absorption range | 280–380nm (UVB + UVA-I + UVA-II) |
| Critical wavelength (λcrit) | > 370nm — meets EU broad-spectrum standard |
| Molecular weight | 628 g/mol (large molecule — low penetration) |
| Max permitted concentration (EU) | 10% |
| Photostability | Excellent — does not degrade on UV exposure |
| FDA status (US) | Not approved — pending since 2014 SIA submission |
Regulatory Status
Tinosorb S was submitted to the FDA under the Sunscreen Innovation Act (SIA) in 2014. As of March 2026, the FDA has not issued a final administrative order. It is approved in the EU (since 2000), South Korea, Japan, and Australia. US residents can legally import foreign-formulated sunscreens containing Tinosorb S for personal use.
Verified Products Containing Tinosorb S (Bemotrizinol)
Round Lab
Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
$22
Tinosorb S + Uvinul A Plus
Lightweight watery finish. Contains both Tinosorb S and Uvinul A Plus. Birch water base provides 72h hydration signal. YesStyle ships globally.
Beauty of Joseon
Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
$14
Tinosorb S
Cult favourite. 100% mineral-alternative formula with Tinosorb S achieving PA++++ without white cast. Ships globally via Stylevana and Amazon JP.
Anessa (Shiseido)
Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF50+ PA++++
$38
Tinosorb S + Uvinul T 150
Water-activated formula — UV protection strengthens when wet. Japanese summer standard. Available on Amazon JP with Prime international shipping.
Missha
Age Signature Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
$18
Tinosorb S
Contains Tinosorb S with a triple collagen complex. One of the most affordable Tinosorb S formulas available globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn't Tinosorb S available in US sunscreens?
Tinosorb S was submitted for FDA review under the Sunscreen Innovation Act in 2014. The FDA requires new sunscreen filters to meet drug-approval standards — a process that has taken over a decade and is still incomplete as of 2026. European and Korean sunscreens have used Tinosorb S since 2000 with no documented adverse effects.
Is Tinosorb S safe?
Tinosorb S has an excellent safety record across 26 years of EU and Asian market use. Its high molecular weight (628 g/mol) means it does not penetrate the skin barrier, avoiding the systemic absorption concerns raised for some chemical UV filters. No carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity, or endocrine disruption has been demonstrated.
Can I buy sunscreens with Tinosorb S in the US?
Yes. US residents can legally import foreign-formulated sunscreens for personal use. YesStyle, Stylevana, and Amazon Japan all ship Tinosorb S-containing sunscreens globally. The Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen and Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun are among the most widely available.
Is Tinosorb S better than avobenzone?
In UVA protection, yes. Tinosorb S provides a higher UVA-PF and is photostable — it does not degrade on UV exposure. Avobenzone (the standard US UVA filter) degrades within hours of sun exposure unless stabilised with octocrylene. For comprehensive UVA coverage, Tinosorb S formulas consistently outperform avobenzone in independent testing.