Wearing SPF is about as important as brushing your teeth and applying deodorant. Seeking a leading skincare brand that dermatologists recommend for daily sunscreen staples? Look no further than EltaMD.
Founded more than three decades ago, EltaMD is the sort of brand that beauty editors like to keep within arm’s reach, routinely repurchasing the same formulas year after year. Best known for its UV clear sunscreen, EltaMD has earned industry favor with its lightweight textures that disappear into skin rather than sitting on top of it.
Not sure where to start? Keep reading for our EltaMD SPF top picks.
The clear UV formula is undoubtedly the MVP of the EltaMD lineup. It features 5 percent niacinamide to calm irritated skin and balance oil production, and is a huge hit with rosacea and acne sufferers. With an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula, it won’t clog pores — so you can rest easy layering it over your usual moisturizer or under your daily foundation.
If you’re the sort of person that doesn’t like the feeling of heavy foundation, but wants the confidence that a touch of coverage gives you, this tinted and untinted duo from EltaMD will have your back for make-up and no make-up days alike. With a high-protection factor of 46 which blocks an amazing 97.8 percent of UV rays, the formula is designed to balance effective damage-shielding with a lightweight, comfortable feel.
Similar to the SPF 46 formula above, EltaMD’s SPF 40 tinted sunscreen is a top pick for dry and mature skin types. Featuring hyaluronic acid and antioxidant vitamin E, the moisturising tint works to lock in hydration and, with its hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula, it’s safe for sensitive skin, too.
If you’re worried about white cast, EltaMD’s UV sheer sunscreen uses transparent zinc oxide, so you can get all the benefits of a physical (also known as mineral) SPF without risking a chalky finish. What’s more, this formula features vitamin C to help with hyperpigmentation, as well as promising an impressive 80-minute water resistance, which is a big green flag for water babies.
Another pick for dry complexions, EltaMD’s daily hydration+ sunscreen protects from a number of environmental stressors, making it a top pick for commuters and city dwellers. Whether it’s blue light or pollution you’re worried about, the formula’s unique zincAOXpro technology has you covered, with its blend of four protective antioxidants. Imbued with hyaluronic acid and ginger root, too, the sunscreen’s hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties are a welcome respite for dry, tight skin.
Whether you’re looking to blur rosacea, minimise general redness or even out acne-prompted inflammation, EltaMD’s color correcting SPF 50 will be just the ticket. Don’t be intimidated by its pastel green hue; once smoothed into the skin, your complexion will return to its natural color — less any red tones or pinkness. Given that redness and irritation often go hand in hand, this formula also sets out to soothe barrier sensitivity with amino acids, ceramides and calming centella asiatica.
The cherry on the cake (or should we say, under it) is a good moisturiser to pair with your SPF, and EltaMD is on hand for that, too. Formulated with vitamin C to brighten, niacinamide to even skin tone, hyaluronic acid to quench thirsty skin and willow bark extract for natural exfoliation, this nourishing moisturiser is a no-brainer to give your skin even more TLC.
