Summary
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a facial sunscreen which is mainly intended for everyday use, especially by those who have sensitive, acne-prone, or skin that is prone to redness. Since it has been evaluated in terms of its ingredients, the sunscreen filters and its formulation as well as any possible sensitivity issues, the product has an overall Safety Score of 88 out of 100 and is therefore classified in the Very Good category.
The formula offers broad-spectrum SPF 46 protection and consists of both mineral and organic UV filters; the active components are 9% zinc oxide and 7.5% octinoxate. Zinc oxide is a mineral ingredient in sunscreens which guards against UVA and UVB radiation, and octinoxate is an organic UV filter that is generally used to give UVB protection and to enhance the overall effectiveness of sunscreen formulations.
A good point about this product is that it is formulated with skin care in mind. EltaMD UV Clear includes niacinamide, a ingredient which is generally used in facial skincare since it helps to support the skin barrier and contributes to an improvement in the appearance of redness and uneven skin tone. The formula also has hydrating ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and antioxidants such as tocopheryl acetate.
It is advertised as fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic. This is especially important for those who want facial sunscreens that are less likely to feel heavy or lead to clogged pores. Since the formula is lightweight, the product is usually described as a daily facial sunscreen rather than as a heavy sunscreen designed mainly for use when outdoors.
Even so, the product has a number of factors which stop it from getting a perfect score. The formula includes octinoxate, an organic UV filter that is something that some consumers would like to avoid. Some of the preservatives and other ingredients in the formulation might also lead to irritation or sensitivity in people who are prone to such reactions. Since ingredient safety varies from person to person, anyone who knows they have an allergy or sensitivity should always check the full ingredient list before using the product.
A further limitation is that the product is not intended to be a water-resistant sunscreen, so it is better suited to ordinary daily use than to situations involving long swimming or heavy sweating. It is especially important to reapply it after prolonged outdoor exposure.
Pros
- 95/100 for UV Protection — high SPF with broad-spectrum protection.
- Contains zinc oxide, a mineral UV filter.
- Contains sodium hyaluronate for hydration.
- Fragrance-free formula.
- Designed for blemish-prone skin.
- Lightweight facial sunscreen suitable for daily use.
- Contains vitamin E.
Cons
- Contains 7.5% octinoxate, an organic UV filter that some consumers prefer to avoid.
- Contains preservatives that may cause irritation in particularly sensitive individuals.
- Individual reactions are possible even with a well-tolerated formula.
- The formula may not be ideal for people specifically looking for a 100% mineral sunscreen
- Ingredient lists can change, so the current product packaging should always be checked.
Safety Scores
10th
Ingredient List
Butylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Lactic Acid, Niacinamide, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Oleth-3 Phosphate, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Phenoxyethanol, Phosphoric Acid, Polyisobutene, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Water,