While sunlight is known to boost people’s mood, exposure to the sun also increases a person’s chance of developing melanoma. In fact, the vast majority of melanomas are caused by the sun. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, an estimated 234,680 cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2026, and the number of melanoma deaths is expected to increase by 1 percent in 2026. What’s more, a higher number of people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined. Learn more about some of the newest innovations in suncare and how to educate clients on the importance of applying sun protection daily, not just during the summer months.
Hot Topics
Check out the latest news in sun protection.
• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently added bemotrizinol to the list of permitted sunscreen active ingredients. It is the first new active ingredient added to the over-the-counter sunscreen monograph since the late 1990s. Bemotrizinol provides protection against both ultraviolet A and B rays and has low levels of absorption through the skin into the body. The FDA considers bemotrizinol to be generally recognized as safe and effective for use in sunscreens by adults and children 6 months of age and older.
• The SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act was signed into law on November 13, 2025, as part of the reauthorization of the Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Act. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the sunscreen reforms included in the reauthorization will require the FDA to establish clearer, more flexible standards for testing new sunscreen ingredients and harmonize its approach with international testing standards to ensure the availability of a broader range of safe, effective sunscreens. It also directs the FDA to approve new sunscreen ingredients, and evaluate ingredients already approved for use around the world.
Ray of Light
Want to know how sunscreens are improving? Here, some experts share their thoughts.
“Today’s sunscreen formulations have evolved significantly, driven by advances in skin science and consumer expectations. Formulations are now more cosmetically elegant, with lightweight textures, invisible finishes, and improved compatibility across diverse skintones.”—Christiane Werron, executive director of global education at Augustinus Bader
“Modern formulations now go beyond basic UV protection, combining broad-spectrum defense with advanced skincare benefits that help support the skin barrier. This allows clients to not only shield their skin from premature aging and sun damage but actively improve overall skin health at the same time.”—Klaudia Wachowski, global trainer and elite esthetician at RéVive Skincare
“The availability of more options that suit a variety of skin types, concerns, preferences, and that fit into one’s lifestyle, can help make daily sunscreen usage a habit.”—Kara Lara, associate director of global product marketing, Colorescience
“Sunscreen formulations are being designed with environmental defense in mind, incorporating antioxidants, hydrators, and barrier-supporting ingredients to help protect against not only UV damage, but also pollution and other external stressors.”—Marc Ronert, M.D., Ph.D., co-founder and CEO of Image Skincare