Advocacy Update Dec. 16, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 16, 2025
AADA advocacy paved the way for a proposed new sunscreen ingredient
AADA opposed HIPAA Security proposed rule that would increase administrative burdens
SkinPAC raises over $1 million to support dermatology champions
Sunscreen Access
AADA advocacy paved the way for a proposed new sunscreen ingredient
The AADA applauded the FDA for proposing to permit use of a new sunscreen ingredient, bemotrizinol (BEMT). If approved, this new ingredient will expand the sunscreen options available to the public. The AADA has urged the FDA for over two decades to review and approve more innovative sunscreen ingredients and is encouraged that the agency is taking a step forward.
The FDA announcement follows ongoing advocacy by the Academy to ensure that consumers have options to protect themselves from UV exposure. For instance, the AADA successfully advocated for the FDA’s over-the-counter (OTC) user fee program to include increased innovation and access to OTC products like the approval of new sunscreens. This legislation streamlined the FDA’s review process for assessing the safety and effectiveness of new ingredients used in OTC sunscreens.
Simultaneously, the Academy has constantly urged the FDA to include innovative sunscreen filters, and it is encouraged that the FDA is taking the first step toward approving an innovative sunscreen filter as an active ingredient.
The proposed BEMT filter had already been approved in Europe since 2000. The FDA has approved 16 UV filters over the years, the last one in 1999.
The Academy hopes this proposed sunscreen filter is an indicator that the FDA is poised to move forward with lagging approvals of innovative and new sunscreen ingredients — many of which are available to consumers abroad — that will help save the lives of Americans from skin cancer.
Currently the FDA is seeking public comments on the new filter, and the AADA will review and submit its feedback.
Regulatory Advocacy
AADA opposed HIPAA Security proposed rule that would increase administrative burdens
The AADA, along with a coalition led by the American Medical Association, urged (PDF) the HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) to withdraw the HIPAA proposed rule on cybersecurity standards. The Academy opposed the rule as written, citing the significant financial and administrative burden it would place on physicians — particularly small and independent practices. The coalition asked the OCR to work collaboratively with stakeholders to develop practical, actionable cybersecurity standards.
AADA News
Dr. Derick reappointed to Florida Board of Medicine
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis reappointed Amy Derick, MD, FAAD, to the state’s Board of Medicine where she currently serves as the Chair of the Florida Board of Medicine. Dr. Derick serves with current AADA member James Matthew Knight, MD, FAAD, on the board. Having a dermatology presence on the state’s medical board provides a voice for dermatology on state medical policy issues.
Dr. Derick is the AADA Advisory Board Chair and the owner, founder, and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Derick Dermatology. She is also a member of the Federation of State Medical Boards and the Florida Allopathic representative to the Interstate Medical Licensing Compact.
Dr. Knight is currently the Chair of the AADA Congressional Policy Committee and founder, owner, and dermatologist at the Knight Dermatology Institute.
AADA News
SkinPAC raises over $1 million to support dermatology champions
As of Dec. 11, SkinPAC has raised $1,000,029.93 from 891 individuals. Contribute online at www.skinpac.org or by texting SkinPAC to 71777. Help us keep up the momentum as we advocate for Medicare physician payment reform! SkinPAC helps strengthen our relationships on Capitol Hill and reinforces our grassroots and lobbying efforts.
Email skinpac@aad.org with any questions.
The political purpose of the American Academy of Dermatology Association Political Action Committee ("SkinPAC") is to solicit and receive contributions to be used to make political campaign expenditures to those candidates for elective office, and other federal political committees, who demonstrate understanding and interest in the view and goals of the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
Contributions to SkinPAC are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions to SkinPAC must be made from your funds and may not be reimbursed. SkinPAC cannot accept contributions from corporate accounts. Any recommended contribution amount is merely a suggestion. All AADA members have the right to contribute more or less or refuse to contribute without reprisal. Federal law prohibits us from accepting contributions from foreign nationals. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, physical address, occupation, and name of the employer whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year.
