Tinosorb S
Tinosorb S (BEMT, bemotrizinol) is a modern photostable broad-spectrum organic UV filter by BASF that absorbs both UVB and UVA radiation. Approved up to 10 % in the EU and most of Asia. In the US it has been part of the FDA over-the-counter sunscreen monograph since 9 August 2026, at up to 6 %. Stabilizes other filters in the formula.
Evidence by route
Topical application
One of the few organic filters with high photostability and broad coverage. Works against UVB and the full UVA range, shows good skin tolerance.
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Tinosorb S is the trade name for Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, also known as bemotrizinol or BEMT. BASF developed it as a photostable, broad-spectrum organic UV filter that absorbs both UVB and UVA radiation in the 280-400 nm range. Maximum allowed concentration in sunscreens is 10% in the EU and most of Asia. In the US, the FDA added bemotrizinol to the over-the-counter sunscreen monograph M020 at up to 6% (order OTC000039 of 10 June 2026, in force since 9 August 2026). What sets Tinosorb S apart is photostability. Unlike older filters such as avobenzone or octinoxate, Tinosorb S barely degrades after hours of UV exposure. It also stabilizes other less-stable filters in the same formula. Adding 2-3% Tinosorb S to an avobenzone-based sunscreen significantly slows avobenzone breakdown. Modern Asian and European sunscreens use Tinosorb S as the photostability backbone of the formula. Pregnancy safety. Tinosorb S is currently rated as caution during pregnancy. Systemic absorption from intact skin is below 1% in available studies, the molecule is large and lipophilic. There is no signal of endocrine disruption in animal data and no documented teratogenic effects. The caution rating reflects the limited human pregnancy literature rather than positive harm. Skin safety. Low irritation and low allergen risk in patch tests. Sensitive and rosacea-prone skin generally tolerates Tinosorb S well. Comedogenic potential is minimal. Comparison with Tinosorb M (Bisoctrizole, MBBT). Tinosorb M is a particle that scatters and absorbs UV, while Tinosorb S is a fully soluble molecule. The two are often combined in modern sunscreens to give complete UVA1+UVA2+UVB coverage with one set of ingredients. Tinosorb S is one of the safest broad-spectrum filters. In sunscreens from Europe, Korea, Japan and Australia, look for it on the INCI list. Bottom line. Tinosorb S is a modern, photostable UV filter that covers UVB and UVA, stabilizes other filters, and has a low irritation profile. The caution flag in pregnancy is a precautionary stance rather than a sign of harm.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tinosorb S safe during pregnancy?
Tinosorb S should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Tinosorb S for?
Tinosorb S suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Tinosorb S and what does it do in cosmetics?
Tinosorb S (BEMT, bemotrizinol) is a modern photostable broad-spectrum organic UV filter by BASF that absorbs both UVB and UVA radiation.
What's the INCI name for Tinosorb S?
The INCI name is Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine. It may also appear as: Bemotrizinol, Anisotriazine, BEMT.
See Tinosorb S in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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