EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Sunscreen
EltaMD
Apply liberally to clean, dry face 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Suitable for daily use on most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Patch test prior to first use if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Not recommended for infants under 6 months. Avoid use if you have known sensitivities to any listed ingredients.
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Benefits & Concerns
Concerns & Limitations (7)
- Contains Octinoxate, a chemical UV filter with potential for irritation or allergy in sensitive individuals
- Contains Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, a preservative with rare risk of allergic reaction
- Contains Isopropyl Palmitate and Octyl Stearate, which may be comedogenic for some users
- Contains iron oxides, which may rarely cause irritation in sensitive skin
- Contains silicones (Cyclopentasiloxane), which may not be suitable for all preferences
- Contains phenoxyethanol, which can cause irritation in rare cases
- Not all ingredients are biodegradable or environmentally benign
Complete Ingredient Analysis
Total Ingredients
Emollients
Fragrances
Unsafe
Complete Ingredient Breakdown
Listed in order of concentration with detailed analysis
Product Attributes
Usage Instructions & Guidelines
Official Usage Instructions
Manufacturer's recommended application
unknown
Ideal For:
- •Daily skincare routine
- •Sensitive skin types
- •Natural product enthusiasts
Avoid If You Have:
- •Known allergies to listed ingredients
- •Very sensitive or reactive skin
- •Strict vegan lifestyle requirements
- •Preference for fragranced products
Skin Type Compatibility
How well this product works for different skin types
Contains niacinamide and some emollients (cyclopentasiloxane, octyldodecyl neopentanoate) that can help with hydration, but lacks richer moisturizers or occlusives, so may not be hydrating enough for very dry skin.
Lightweight silicones and absence of heavy oils make it suitable for oily skin; niacinamide can help regulate sebum. Non-comedogenic ingredients reduce risk of pore clogging.
Fragrance-free and contains niacinamide (soothing), but octinoxate is a chemical filter that can irritate some sensitive skin types. Zinc oxide is generally calming.
Balanced formula with lightweight hydration and oil control; suitable for most combination skin, though may need additional moisturizer on drier areas.
Non-comedogenic, contains niacinamide (anti-inflammatory, sebum regulating), and zinc oxide (calming), but octinoxate can rarely trigger breakouts in very sensitive, acne-prone individuals.
Well-balanced, lightweight, and non-irritating for most normal skin; provides broad-spectrum protection with minimal risk of adverse effects.
Seasonal Usage Recommendations
How to use this product throughout the year
Winter
Apply daily to protect against UV rays, even on cloudy days. The niacinamide and hydrating ingredients help combat dryness from cold air and indoor heating. Layer over a richer moisturizer if skin feels tight.
Spring
Use consistently as sun intensity increases. The lightweight, non-comedogenic formula is suitable for fluctuating temperatures and humidity. Niacinamide may help soothe skin prone to irritation from allergies.
Summer
Apply generously and reapply every 2 hours during outdoor activities. The tinted, lightweight formula is ideal for hot, humid weather and provides broad-spectrum protection against strong UV exposure.
Fall
Continue daily use as UV rays remain significant. The hydrating and calming ingredients support skin as temperatures drop and wind increases. Begin layering with more emollient products if skin starts to feel drier.
Enhanced Usage Instructions
Detailed usage guidance for different skin concerns and best practices
Usage by Skin Concern
Dry Skin
Before applying EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Sunscreen, use a hydrating moisturizer to prevent dryness or flaking. The sunscreen is lightweight and non-comedogenic, but layering over a moisturizer will help lock in hydration. Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.
Oily Skin
This sunscreen is formulated to be oil-free and contains niacinamide, which can help regulate sebum production. Apply to clean, dry skin as your final morning skincare step. Avoid heavy moisturizers underneath to prevent excess shine.
Sensitive Skin
EltaMD UV Clear is generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin due to its minimal fragrance and gentle ingredients. Patch test before first use. Apply gently, avoiding rubbing or tugging, and reapply as needed, especially if sweating or after swimming.
Combination Skin
Apply sunscreen evenly across the entire face, focusing on drier areas with a light moisturizer beforehand and using the sunscreen alone on oilier zones. Adjust moisturizer use as needed for different facial areas.
Acne-Prone Skin
The formula is non-comedogenic and contains niacinamide, which may help calm inflammation and reduce breakouts. Apply to clean, dry skin after any acne treatments. Avoid layering with heavy creams to minimize pore congestion.
Usage Tips & Best Practices
Daily Use
Apply every morning as the last step of your skincare routine, at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors, or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
Night Use
Sunscreen is not necessary at night. Remove thoroughly with a gentle cleanser before bedtime to prevent buildup and potential irritation.
Frequency
Use daily, every morning. Reapply every 2 hours during prolonged sun exposure.
Amount
Use a nickel-sized amount (about 1/4 to 1/3 teaspoon) for the face and neck. Ensure even coverage without missing areas such as the ears and hairline.
Best Time
Apply in the morning, at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply throughout the day as needed, especially if outdoors.
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