Looking for the perfect sunscreen that not only offers superior sun protection but also caters to your specific skincare needs? Look no further than EltaMD- a physician recommended brand that is widely popular for their superior and innovative SPF products. In this blog, we'll go through key benefits and descriptions of EltaMD's most loved sunscreens to help you identify your perfect match.
EltaMD is renowned for its advanced sun care solutions, trusted by dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike. With a wide range of formulas that cater to various skin types and concerns, finding the right SPF for your skin has never been easier. Whether you have sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, or are in need of a lightweight, oil-free option, EltaMD has you covered- literally.
We understand that selecting the right sunscreen can be overwhelming with so many options available. That's why we're here to demystify the process and help you make an informed decision! From mineral-based options to tinted formulations, we'll break down the features and benefits of each product, so you can choose the one that best suits your unique requirements so you don't have to compromise on sun protection.
Table of content
Importance of Sunscreen and Sun Protection EltaMD Sunscreen Formulation Philosophy Use of Zinc Oxide in EltaMD Sunscreen Exploring the Range of EltaMD Facial Sunscreens Best EltaMD Sunscreens for Each Skin Type Best for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin Best for Normal and Combination Skin Best for Dry Skin Best for Sensitive Skin Best EltaMD Sunscreens for Specific Concerns Concern: Post-Procedure Care Concern: Acne Concern: Anti-Aging Concern: Sweat and Water Resistance EltaMD Full Body Sunscreens Frequently Asked Questions
Importance of Sunscreen and Sun Protection
Source: EltaMD
Dermatologists consistently emphasize the importance of daily sunscreen use to shield against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, reduce exposure to blue light from electronics, help prevent signs of visible aging, and help in treating skin conditions like melasma or even acne. It's advised to incorporate a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen into your daily routine to maintain optimal skin health. It's crucial to choose wisely, as sunscreens vary in their formulation, effectiveness, ease of reapplication, and suitability for different skin types.
Your selection might also be influenced by personal preferences regarding texture, tone, and fragrance. EltaMD's sun protection line stands out due to extensive research and development, offering a variety of options tailored to meet diverse needs. This commitment to quality and customization makes EltaMD the top choice among dermatologists for professional sunscreen.
EltaMD Sunscreen Formulation Philosophy
The origins of EltaMD trace back to the 1800s in rural Switzerland, where a potent healing ointment was cherished and handed down through generations of farmers. In 1988, this Swiss secret crossed the Atlantic to the United States with the founder of EltaMD, who recognized its profound healing properties and subsequently launched a range of professional wound care products under the brand Elta. This line quickly gained recognition as the preferred choice for healing in hospitals, burn centers, and rehabilitation clinics worldwide. In 2007, leveraging their medical heritage and scientifically validated formulas, EltaMD expanded into everyday skincare products, evolving into the brand known and loved today.
EltaMD's Sunscreen collection is proudly recognized as the #1 Dermatologist Recommended sunscreen brand. Dermatologists recommend their more than any other sunscreen because it is cosmetically elegant, it has a range of formulas with tinted options for different skin types and tones, and positive patient feedback.
EltaMD takes a "Do No Harm" Approach to their formulations that are gentle yet efficacious and cosmetically elegant. All the products are Fragrance-Free, Paraben-Free, Dye-Free and Hypoallergenic. Best of all, it's loved by the masses and has over 100 awards under it's belt.
Use of Zinc Oxide in EltaMD Sunscreen
Source: EltaMD
Exploring the Range of EltaMD Facial Sunscreens
EltaMD sunscreen comes in a wide range that caters to various skin types and concerns. From lightweight, oil-free options to tinted formulations, there's something for everyone. All of EltaMD sunscreens are Hypoallergenic, Dye-Free, Fragrance-Free and Paraben-Free. Let's take a closer look at some of the popular EltaMD sunscreen products:
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen
The EltaMD UV Clear Tinted and Untinted Facial Sunscreen is a fan favorite for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin. Formulated with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, this sunscreen not only provides excellent sun protection but also helps calm and soothe irritated skin. The lightweight, oil-free formula is non-comedogenic, making it ideal for everyday use.
EltaMD UV Daily Tinted and Untinted Broad Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen
If you have mature or dehydrated skin, EltaMD UV Daily Tinted and Untinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen is a best seller. This is a sheer, lightweight sunscreen that can be used every day to hydrate and protect the skin.
EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Broad Spectrum Facial Sunscreen
If you're looking for a physical sunscreen with a hint of tint, the EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Facial Sunscreen is a fantastic option. With a universal tint that blends seamlessly into most skin tones, this sunscreen offers a sheer, natural-looking coverage while protecting against harmful UV rays. The gentle formula is ideal for sensitive skin and can be used as a daily foundation alternative.
EltaMD UV Elements Tinted Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen - Original Formula
For those seeking a mineral-based sunscreen with added skincare benefits, the EltaMD UV Elements Tinted Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen is worth considering. This sunscreen is enriched with antioxidants like vitamin C and E, providing additional protection against free radicals. The tinted formula offers a light coverage that evens out the complexion, making it perfect for those no-makeup days.
EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
This NEW and improved EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad Spectrum SPF 50 formula blocks 56% HEV (blue light), 39% more than the original formula of the UV Elements. This tinted face sunscreen is 100% mineral based with antioxidants to help combat and prevent signs of premature aging.
Source: EltaMD
Best EltaMD Sunscreens for Each Skin Type
Now that you're familiar with EltaMD sunscreen formulas and brand history, let's dive deeper into finding the right sunscreen for your specific skin type. EltaMD offers a range of options tailored to different skin concerns, including oily, dry, and sensitive skin.
Best for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
#1: EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46
Available Un-tinted, Tinted, and now Deep Tinted.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 is the perfect sunscreen choice for oily and acne prone skin types. This oil-free formula is non-comedogenic, ensuring it won't clog pores or contribute to breakouts. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving behind a matte finish that helps control shine throughout the day. Enriched with niacinamide (vitamin B3), this sunscreen helps regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, improving overall skin texture. Offering high-level broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 effectively shields the skin from sun damage without leaving a greasy residue. This sunscreen is a trusted solution for oily or acne-prone skin, providing essential sun protection while addressing specific concerns of excess oil and shine.
#2: EltaMD UV Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
EltaMD UV Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is another great option for oily skin types seeking lightweight, non-greasy sun protection. This oil-free sunscreen absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a heavy residue. It provides a matte finish that helps control shine throughout the day, making it ideal for people with oily or combination skin. The formula is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores and is less likely to contribute to breakouts. Despite its high SPF level, the sunscreen uses transparent zinc oxide as the active ingredient, offering effective broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays without leaving a white cast. Additionally, it contains antioxidants like vitamin E to combat free radicals caused by sun exposure, promoting overall skin health.
Best for Normal and Combination Skin
#1: EltaMD UV Daily Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Available Un-tinted, Tinted, and now Deep Tinted.
EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 is a versatile daily sunscreen that offers exceptional benefits for all skin types, including normal to combination skin. This lightweight and silky-smooth formula provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sunburn and skin damage. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, it delivers intense hydration to maintain skin moisture balance throughout the day, making it particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin. The sunscreen also contains transparent zinc oxide, ensuring effective sun protection without leaving a white residue on the skin. Its non-comedogenic and fragrance-free formulation makes it suitable for sensitive skin and won't clog pores or cause irritation. EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 is designed for daily use and can be worn alone or under makeup, offering essential sun protection while keeping the skin hydrated, smooth, and healthy.
#2: EltaMD UV Luminous Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Discover a radiant glow with EltaMD UV Luminous Broad-Spectrum SPF 41, a lightly tinted sunscreen that combines skincare and essential sun protection. Formulated with antioxidants like linoleic acid and vitamin E, this sunscreen shields the skin from free radicals and minimizes UV-induced signs of aging. Its light rosy tint and semi-matte finish effortlessly blend into the skin, blurring imperfections for a flawless look. Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive and post-procedure skin, this non-greasy sunscreen absorbs quickly and can be worn alone or under makeup. EltaMD UV Luminous Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 offers gentle UV protection with all physical active ingredients, and is free from parabens, fragrance, and dyes. Its non-comedogenic formula ensures pores remain clear, promoting a healthier, more radiant complexion.
Best for Dry Skin
#1: EltaMD UV Facial Broad Spectrum SPF 35
EltaMD UV Facial Broad-Spectrum SPF 35 is a luxurious, creamy sunscreen specially formulated for dry skin types. This lightweight yet moisturizing sunscreen contains vitamin E, providing essential hydration while effectively protecting against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Ideal for daily use, it can be worn alone or under makeup, offering broad-spectrum sun protection without leaving a greasy residue. Fragrance-free and paraben-free, this hypoallergenic formula is gentle on sensitive skin and does not clog pores. Enriched with antioxidants, including tocopheryl acetate (Vitamin E), it helps combat skin-aging free radicals caused by ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiation (IR), promoting a more youthful and radiant complexion. The inclusion of sodium hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) enhances moisture retention, reducing flakiness and restoring suppleness to dry skin.
#2: EltaMD UV Replenish Broad Spectrum SPF 35
EltaMD UV Replenish Broad-Spectrum SPF 44 is a chemical-free sunscreen designed to replenish moisture in dry, stressed skin. This sunscreen features 100% physical (mineral) actives, including 10.0% transparent zinc oxide and 5.5% titanium dioxide, providing powerful sun protection against UVA and UVB rays, delivered through a gentle formula. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it deeply hydrates by retaining more than 1,000 times its weight in water within skin cells, promoting skin suppleness and moisture retention. The antioxidant-rich formula combats skin-aging free radicals associated with UV and infrared radiation while offering protection against high-energy visible (HEV) light. Oil-free and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, this lightweight sunscreen feels weightless on the skin and is suitable for daily and active wear.
*Please note: This product formula has been discontinued from EltaMD's product line, and remains available only in limited quantities at www.exclusivebeauty.com
Best for Sensitive Skin
#1: EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41
Great for normal to oily sensitive skin
This EltaMD SPF is an excellent choice for normal to oily skin that is also sensitive considering several key features that address both skin concerns simultaneously. The UV Physical features a soothing mineral-based formula enriched with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. This sunscreen offers gentle sun protection without causing irritation, making it ideal for sensitive skin types. The oil-free formulation provides a matte finish, effectively controlling shine throughout the day without clogging pores or causing breakouts in oily skin. Additionally, the inclusion of soothing antioxidants helps calm inflammation and reduce redness, promoting a more balanced and comfortable complexion. The UV Physical is a reliable choice providing both a soothing and mattifying solution for oily and sensitive skin concerns.
#2: EltaMD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 47
The EltaMD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 47 is an ideal sunscreen for sensitive skin types due to its unique formulation and gentle attributes. This sunscreen features purely physical (mineral) sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical sunscreens, making it suitable for delicate skin. The gentle, non-comedogenic formula is free from common sensitizing ingredients such as fragrance and parabens, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. It is also oil-free and lightweight, providing comfortable wear without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, this sunscreen is suitable for outdoor activities while ensuring continuous sun protection. Overall, EltaMD UV Pure SPF 47 is a reliable choice for sensitive skin, providing effective sun protection without compromising comfort or causing irritation.
Best EltaMD Sunscreens for Specific Concerns
Concern: Post-Procedure Care
EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
The new EltaMD UV AOX Elements SPF 50 is a great choice for post-procedure skin. The 100% mineral actives reflect and scatter UVA and UVB rays, providing essential sun protection. Additionally, the sunscreen blocks 56% of HEV (blue light) to protect against indoor environmental stressors. It has been clinically proven to reduce the detrimental effects of multi-environmental aggressors by 96%, further supporting skin recovery. Based on consumer feedback, the UV AOX Elements SPF 50 is well-tolerated, with a high percentage of users reporting no irritation, gentle feel, moisturizing effect, and lightweight, non-greasy texture, making it an excellent choice for sensitive and recently treated skin. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid helps hydrate and retain moisture, while bisabolol and ginger root work to calm the skin and visibly reduce redness, promoting comfort and recovery post-procedure.
Concern: Acne
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Available Un-tinted, Tinted, and now Deep Tinted.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 is the perfect sunscreen choice for oily and acne prone skin types. This oil-free formula is non-comedogenic, ensuring it won't clog pores or contribute to breakouts. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving behind a matte finish that helps control shine throughout the day. Enriched with niacinamide (vitamin B3), this sunscreen helps regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, improving overall skin texture. Offering high-level broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 effectively shields the skin from sun damage without leaving a greasy residue. This sunscreen is a trusted solution for oily or acne-prone skin, providing essential sun protection while addressing specific concerns of excess oil and shine.
Concern: Anti-Aging
EltaMD UV Restore Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
This tinted sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, which are key contributors to premature aging including fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Enriched with antioxidants such as squalane, niacinamide, and various forms of vitamin E, UV Restore combats free radicals and oxidative stress, helping to rejuvenate and protect the skin. The inclusion of hydrating ingredients like glycerin and squalane replenishes moisture, improving skin elasticity and promoting a more youthful complexion. Additionally, ceramides and lipids support the skin's natural barrier function, enhancing moisture retention and defending against environmental aggressors. Ingredients like ginger root extract and beta-glucan provide anti-inflammatory benefits, calming and soothing the skin to reduce redness and irritation associated with aging and sun exposure.
Concern: Sweat and Water Resistance
EltaMD UV Active Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+
EltaMD UV Active Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ is specifically formulated to withstand sweat and water, making it highly durable and reliable in active settings. Whether you're running, swimming, or playing sports, UV Active provides long-lasting protection against UVA and UVB rays. The water-resistant formula ensures the sunscreen remains effective for up to 80 minutes of water exposure, ideal for extended periods of outdoor activity. Additionally, UV Active features a lightweight, non-greasy texture that won't feel heavy or uncomfortable on the skin, allowing for unrestricted movement and comfort during physical activities. Its high SPF rating of 50+ provides exceptional sun protection, reducing the risk of sunburn and skin damage even during intense outdoor workouts or sports events. Overall, EltaMD UV Active SPF 50+ is the go-to sunscreen for active people seeking superior sweat and water resistance without compromising on skin wellness.
EltaMD Full Body Sunscreens
EltaMD Sunscreen offers a wide range of sun care protection for the body. Every elbow, knee and knuckle need a little love. EltaMD sunscreens help prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun, when used with other sun protection measures. As always, they’re made with zinc oxide, noncomedogenic, and free of fragrances, parabens and sensitivities.
EltaMD Tinted Sunscreens
Comes in a variety of shades to match all skin tones.
UV Daily SPF 40 - Hydrates skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
UV Clear SPF 46 - Helps calm and protect sensitive skin types prone to acne and rosacea.
UV Elements SPF 44 - Boosts moisture retention for a smoother, more youthful appearance.
UV Physical SPF 41 - Provides oil-free sun protection for extra-sensitive skin types.
UV Luminous SPF 41 - Protects your skin from free radicals and diminishes UV-related signs of aging.
UV Restore SPF 40 - Improves sun-damaged skin and helps revitalize it.
Marla Willis
Marla Willis has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry and is President of Exclusive Beauty , online retailer of professional skincare, beauty, health & wellness products. A self-professed beauty enthusiast, Marla knows what's new, what works and what are the best products to enhance beauty and promote skin health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of EltaMD's best selling products?
Some of EltaMD's best-selling products include:
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
EltaMD UV AOX Eye Broad Spectrum SPF 3
How much SPF do I need to use?
Some recommend applying enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin, including your ears and neck.
Where should I put facial SPF in my skincare routine?
Some recommend applying facial SPF in the morning to get on top of UV exposure throughout the day.
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