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Are Sunscreens from Other Countries Better?

By Jenna Peart, MD, FAAD
Dermatology at Boulder Medical Center

My dermatology patients often ask whether European or Asian sunscreens work better than those sold in the United States. The short answer, supported by current UV-filter technology and global UVA-protection standards, is yes. International sunscreens are typically more advanced, more elegant, and more protective against long-term UV damage.

This difference is not about hype or influencer trends; it’s rooted in regulation.

Why International Sunscreens Are More Advanced Than U.S. Products

The regulatory environment is the main driver of global sunscreen differences.

In the United States:

    • Sunscreens are regulated as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
    • New UV filters require a full New Drug Application (NDA)
    • This process is lengthy, expensive, and rarely pursued

In Europe and Asia:

    • Sunscreens are generally regulated as cosmetics (still with strict safety oversight)
    • New UV filters can enter the market quickly
    • Consumers have access to modern, highly protective filters such as Tinosorb S, Tinosorb M, and Mexoryl XL, none of which are currently approved in U.S. sunscreens

The UVA Gap: Where the Difference Truly Matters

UVB rays cause sunburn, but UVA rays drive skin aging and DNA damage and can increase melanoma risk, which is especially important in Colorado’s high-altitude, sunny climate.

International sunscreens must meet higher UVA-protection standards, such as the EU’s PPD/PF rating system. These requirements result in broader, more stable UVA protection. Many U.S. formulas still fall short in this category.

Texture, Wearability, and Real-World Compliance

Daily sunscreen use is critical for folks across Boulder County, where UV exposure is intense year-round. International sunscreens tend to be:

    • Lightweight
    • Non-chalky
    • More cosmetically elegant
    • Better suited across a wide range of skin tones

When sunscreen feels better on the skin, people use it more. Better compliance = better protection.

A Promising Update: A New UV Filter May Be Coming to the U.S.

A widely used European ingredient, Bemotrizinol (BEMT), is currently under review by the FDA. A decision is expected in early to mid-2026.

If approved, BEMT would be the first new UV filter available in U.S. sunscreens in decades, potentially improving both UVA protection and product feel.

Can You Safely Import International Sunscreens?

In most cases, adults can purchase high-quality foreign sunscreens while traveling or from reputable online retailers.

However:

    • Quality control varies by brand
    • Counterfeit products exist
    • Children and those with very sensitive skin may need more vetted formulations
    • Dermatologists can help guide safe product selection when needed

In this Instagram post, I share my favorite Korean sunscreens and how to purchase them.

Should You Switch to International Sunscreens?

If your goal is the most advanced UV filters and the highest UVA protection, foreign sunscreens lead the market. U.S. sunscreens are safe and effective, but they are not yet “best-in-class.”

As a dermatologist in Boulder, Louisville, and Longmont, I recommend a mix:

    • I use Korean sunscreens daily for my face, neck, and chest because of their light feel and strong protection
    • I also use plenty of U.S. formulas for body application and on-the-go reapplication

Tip: Keeping sunscreen accessible everywhere makes it easy to stay protected.

Key Takeaways

International sunscreens outperform U.S. options mainly because regulatory barriers have slowed filter innovation in the American market. Patients who prioritize maximum UVA protection and daily wear will notice a clear difference.

But sunscreen is only one part of sun safety, especially in sunny, high-altitude regions like Boulder County. Daily habits still matter:

    • Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30+
    • Reapply at least every 2 hours when outdoors
    • Wear UPF clothing, hats, and seek shade
    • Avoid peak UV hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
    • Daily diligence + modern UV filter technology = your best defense against skin cancer and premature aging
jenna-peart-md

Jenna Peart, MD, Dermatologist

About Jenna Peart, MD, FAAD

Board-Certified Dermatologist in Boulder, Louisville, and Longmont, Colo.

Jenna Peart, MD, provides comprehensive medical, surgical, cosmetic, and pediatric dermatology care, including: acne, psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, atopic dermatitis, vulvar skin conditions (including lichen sclerosus), skin cancer treatment and benign growth removal, cosmetic injectables, Halo™ and BBL laser treatments, and more.

Learn more

Article References

    • “FDA now weighing approval of first new sunscreen ingredient in decades (Bemotrizinol).”  CBS News
    • “Bemotrizinol moves closer to US FDA approval.”  Happi
    • “Regulation of UV filters in the United States.” Typology Paris
    • “How sunscreen ingredients are regulated in the U.S.” EWG
    • “Americans are buying more European sunscreens. Are they better …?”  Boston University
Dermatology
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