Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) sunscreen law
The CNMI bans importing sunscreens that contain oxybenzone or octinoxate (from January 1, 2021) and selling or distributing them (from July 1, 2021), unless dispensed under a prescription. Banned sunscreen is treated as contraband and can be seized.
Last verified October 14, 2026 · Public Law 21-20 (H.B. 21-28, HD1, SS1; signed April 3, 2020)
Banned ingredients
| Ingredient | Also called | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Oxybenzone | benzophenone-3, benzophenone 3 | UV filter |
| Octinoxate | ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, octyl methoxycinnamate | UV filter |
The details
- Import has been prohibited since January 1, 2021, enforced by the Division of Customs. Sale, offer for sale and distribution for sale have been prohibited since July 1, 2021, enforced by the Department of Commerce.
- Prescription exception: a prescription issued by a licensed physician or osteopathic physician.
- 'Sunscreen' means a product marketed or intended for topical use to prevent sunburn. Facial cosmetics are excluded, following Hawaii's model.
- Penalties: civil fines of $500 to $1,000 per violation, and confiscation of products offered for sale. The law also adds banned sunscreen to the contraband list in 6 CMC § 2301(a), making it subject to seizure and forfeiture.
- The law does not ban personal use.
History
- July 1, 2021 · Took effect Sunscreen rule took effect.
We last re-read this law’s sources on October 14, 2026. All law updates →
Sunscreens allowed in Northern Mariana Islands
911 of 988 products we track pass; 76 don’t.Browse all 911 →
Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 50
Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 30
Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 30
Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Hydrating Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 50
By brand
Common questions
What sunscreen ingredients are banned in Northern Mariana Islands?
Oxybenzone, Octinoxate.
When did the Northern Mariana Islands sunscreen rule take effect?
July 1, 2021.
Which sunscreens are allowed in Northern Mariana Islands?
Of the 988 products we track, 911 meet the Northern Mariana Islands rule. The simplest choice is a sunscreen with only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as active ingredients.