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SKIN CARE BLOGS

How to Pick the Right EltaMD Sunscreen for You

Best EltaMD Sunscreens

Want healthy, plump, glowy skin? Then you best not gloss over sunscreen. This non-negotiable skincare step is also a golden rule of skin care: never leave the house (no matter the weather) without a layer of sunscreen. Incorporating SPF into your daily skincare routine does more for the skin's integrity and appearance than imaginable: it helps shield skin from harmful UV rays while limiting signs of premature aging, including fine lines, sunspots, pigmentation, and dry skin. However, finding the right sunscreen for your skin type can seem like an uphill battle, which is why EltaMD sits high on the list for works-for-all-skin kinds. The brand is beloved by dermatologists and known for its high-performance sunscreens that work for a wide range of skin tones and concerns.

Since every person's skin has different needs, finding the correct sunscreen formula to suit it is essential. Is tinted better than non-tinted sunscreen? And what makes the two so different? What sunscreen is best if you have oily skin? Discover the difference between tinted and non-tinted sunscreen and how to choose the proper SPF and the best EltaMD Sunscreen for your skin type.

About EltaMD

The EltaMD story dates back to the 1800s in Switzerland, where a special healing ointment was passed down from generation to generation, eventually reaching the US. In 1988, EltaMD's founder got wind of the powerful secret ointment and recognized its potential, developing a full skincare line around the concept. Beloved by dermatologists and the choice for wound healing worldwide, the science-backed and medically celebrated formulas have become dermatologists' favorites for everyday skin protection. For years, EltaMD has remained the number one dermatologist-recommended and trusted sunscreen brand, used more than any other professional sunscreen line.

Sun protection is at the core of the EltaMD brand, and every sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide to naturally protect against UVA and UVB rays while retaining a sheer, blendable quality. Other products in the EltaMD portfolio include cleansers, toners, and serums, all of which repair the skin's barrier to promote healthy healing and renewal.

How to Pick the Right EltaMD Sunscreen for Your Skin

Each EltaMD sunscreen considers a unique skin type and its needs. You must consider your skin type and lifestyle when choosing the best sunscreen. Here's what you need to know to find the best EltaMD sunscreen for your skin.

  • SPF: A sunscreen's sun protection factor (SPF) measures how well it protects the skin from UVB rays. Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or above are always recommended by dermatologists because the higher the factor, the better the protection.
  • Skin type: A sunscreen formulation is imperative when finding the best EltaMD sunscreen for your skin (this goes for all types and brands of sunscreens). If your skin breaks out regularly, you may benefit from an oil-free formula that helps calm inflammation. When treating dry, flaky skin, look for hydrating ingredients since they provide added moisture and sun protection.
  • Lifestyle: How you expect your sunscreen to perform based on your lifestyle must be considered when finding the right one. Do you work outside all day? You may want a formula that's easy to reapply every two hours. Do you plan on swimming or sweating? You'll need a water-resistant sunscreen. Do you wear your sunscreen under makeup? A sheer SPF may be your best bet.

Key Ingredients in EltaMD Sunscreen

EltaMD's skincare-infused facial sunscreens are formulated with UV-protecting ingredients like zinc oxide and skin-friendly actives such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, designed to deliver benefits alongside UV protection. Whether you're looking for a lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreen or a tinted lotion, EltaMD's extensive SPF range of non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sensitivity-free formulas caters to all skin types, tones, and lifestyles.

EltaMD Tinted Sunscreen 

EltaMD's UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 50  protects your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays. Its tinted, mineral formula seeks to mask imperfections while guarding your skin from environmental aggressors and has an antioxidant-rich formula is made to care for the skin, not just protect it from the sun. 

What is Non-tinted Sunscreen? 

Non-tinted sunscreens are designed to be invisible on the skin. They offer a broader range of options for all skin types, including unique formulations and varying factors of SPF protection. Available in a range of textures and finishes, non-tinted sunscreen can be worn beneath makeup or alone, making it ideal for those with skin concerns such as sensitivity or blemishes.  

The most fundamental factor when choosing a sunscreen is ensuring it provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. The decision between tinted or non-tinted sunscreen ultimately depends on personal skincare needs and individual preference. 

EltaMD Non-tinted Sunscreen 

The UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 by EltaMD provides protection to your complexion to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. The fragrance-free face sunscreen is infused with sodium hyaluronate to help moisturize the skin, while lactic acid visibly refines the appearance of pores and unwanted shine. 

 

How to Choose the Right SPF 

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor; it is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays. It’s recommended to choose an SPF of 30 or above; the higher the factor, the higher the protection. It should be reapplied as often as possible throughout the day to help keep skin protected. When it comes to choosing the best sunscreen for yourself, you need to consider your skin type and lifestyle.  

Skin type: If your skin breaks out regularly, you may benefit from an oil-free formula that helps calm inflammation. If you have dry, flaky skin, you may want to look for hydrating ingredients that provide added moisture in addition to sun protection. 

Lifestyle: Do you work outside all day? You may want a formula that’s easy to reapply every two hours. Do you plan on swimming or sweating? You’ll need a sunscreen that’s water-resistant. Do you wear your sunscreen under makeup? A sheer SPF may be your best bet. 

EltaMD’s skincare-infused facial sunscreens feature ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, designed to deliver skincare benefits alongside UV protection. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight, fast absorbing cream or a tinted lotion, the extensive SPF range caters to all skin types and lifestyles. 

Shop the Best EltaMD Sunscreens

 

 

1. EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 (1.7 fl. oz.)

4.67 stars out of a maximum of 5

1115 reviews

$45.00

Why we love it: The technology in UV AOX Elements not only protects your skin outdoors, with 100% mineral actives to reflect and scatter UVA and UVB rays, but also protects your skin indoors by blocking 56% of blue light (a.k.a HEV). It also has an antioxidant-rich formula that helps combat signs of photoaging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, and is proven to reduce detrimental effects of multi-environmental aggressors by 96%. Key ingredients: Bisabolol, hyaluronic acid, ginger root, zinc oxide, Titanium Dioxide SPF: 50 Tinted: Yes Oil-free?: No Water resistant?: Yes (40 minutes) Great for skin type/concern: Combination, dry, sensitive, post-procedure

2. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (1.7 fl. oz.)

4.79 stars out of a maximum of 5

5215 reviews

$44.00

Why we love it: This is Dermstore’s number-one best-selling sunscreen for good reason: It’s lightweight, non-greasy and loved by dermatologists. Plus, it fights acne while it protects your skin from damaging UV rays, thanks to anti-inflammatory, redness-reducing niacinamide. Key ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, zinc oxide, octinoxate SPF: 46 Tinted?: Untinted and tinted versions available Oil-free?: Yes Water resistant?: No Great for skin type/concern: Acne-prone, hyperpigmentation, rosacea What shoppers say: “Sunscreen is light and blends easy! Feels like putting on an extra layer of moisturizer and love the way it makes my skin feel. No white residue and [it’s] great for everyday wear to protect your skin and great to use while in the sun!” Read more reviews here 

3. EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 (1.7 fl. oz.)

4.82 stars out of a maximum of 5

847 reviews

$40.00

Why we love it: One of this facial sunscreen’s star ingredients is hydrating, skin-smoothing sodium hyaluronate, making it a great pick for dry skin. It’s also gentle, so it can be used by sensitive skin types and those who’ve just had procedures.  Key ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid), vitamin E, zinc oxide, octinoxate  SPF: 40  Tinted?: Untinted and tinted versions available  Oil-free?: No  Water resistant?: No  Great for skin type/concern: Dry skin, sensitive skin, post-procedure  Price: $36.00  What shoppers say: “I love this! It feels like a lightweight moisturizer, not a sunscreen. Absorbs quickly, no sunscreen smell, leaves no residue or white sunscreen look. I feel like it [even] leaves a nice glow on my face. Put it on after my moisturizer and before my makeup every day now.”  Read more reviews here 

4. EltaMD UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 (1.7 fl. oz.)

4.47 stars out of a maximum of 5

90 reviews

$37.00

Why we love it: Look no further than this sunscreen for powerful protection that can hold up through a workout or swim and absorbs quickly with no white cast. Natural squalane and sodium hyaluronate (a form of hyaluronic acid) boost moisture without leaving skin shiny. Key ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate, squalane, vitamin C, zinc oxide, octocrylene SPF: 50+ Tinted?: No Oil-free?: Yes Water resistant?: Yes Great for skin type/concern: All skin types What shoppers say: “I love the EltaMD Sheer sunscreen! What I like best is that it glides on my skin and I can’t even tell that I have it on.” Read more reviews here 

5. EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 Sunscreen - Tinted (3 oz.)

4.66 stars out of a maximum of 5

1089 reviews

$46.00

Why we love it: If you have oily skin, you might worry that using sunscreen will lead to breakouts. But you don’t have to be concerned with this facial sunscreen, which has a non-comedogenic, lightweight mineral formula that won’t clog pores. Its light tint adds a boost of radiance and acts like a primer for the rest of your makeup routine.  Key ingredients: Antioxidants, dimethicone, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide  SPF: 41  Tinted?: Yes  Oil-free?: Yes  Water resistant?: Yes  Great for skin type/concern: Oily skin, sensitive skin  Price: $41  What shoppers say: “Chemical sunscreens burn and break me out, and most mineral-based sunscreens are pasty and leave a white cast on my skin. This is cosmetically elegant and sinks into my skin. It has a light, mousse-like consistency. I layer it over moisturizer, then add mineral foundation on top.”  Read more reviews here 

6. EltaMD UV Active Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 (8 oz.)

4 stars out of a maximum of 5

13 reviews

$67.00

Why we love it: If you prefer all-physical sunscreen ingredients and spend time in the water or exercising outdoors, this moisturizing, reef-safe formula is your best bet for your whole body. It’s great for kids, too.  Key ingredients: Jojoba esters, antioxidants, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide  SPF: 50  Tinted?: No  Oil-free?: Yes  Water resistant?: Yes  Great for skin type/concern: All skin types, great for body  Price: $67.00  What shoppers say: “If you want serious water-resistant staying power with extreme SPF protection, this is for you. I love it for sweaty exercising or swimming.”  Read more reviews here 
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