Why Don't You Buy...Your Dermatologist's Favorite Sunscreen

Aug 03, 2023

EltaMD's products check all the boxes.

Ask your inner circle for sunscreen recommendations, and you'll likely receive an overwhelming number of different responses. But ask a group of dermatologists, and we'd wager you'll hear the same name over and over again: EltaMD, renowned in the skincare community for its cosmetically elegant formulas that provide reliable sun protection. In fact, according to the brand, more dermatologists personally use its products than those of any other professional sun-care company.

Before EltaMD got into sunscreen, it specialized in wound-care products for hospitals and burn centers. Thirty years later, it's still committed to creating formulas that protect, heal, and are safe to use—even for those with skin conditions. Every one of its hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free sun-care products is thoughtfully developed in partnership with dermatologists. The star ingredient throughout the line is zinc oxide, a UV-blocking mineral that has been deemed both safe and effective by the FDA.

Of course, look, feel, and ease of application are also important criteria. But whatever your preferences, there's an EltaMD sunscreen (or even a complete head-to-toe SPF collection) that fits your lifestyle and routine.

For the face, UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a cult favorite. The weightless formula blends into skin without a white cast, and contains niacinamide to help visibly improve skin tone and discoloration and calm acne-prone skin. For those seeking an excuse to skip foundation, the multitasking UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 gives light coverage and a glowy finish. Great for combination and dry skin, it evens out skin tone and contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump fine lines.

Outdoor workout and water-activity enthusiasts should stock their stash with UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50. Unlike some mineral sunscreen lotions that take effort to rub in, this one gets absorbed efficiently and without leaving behind a chalky white film. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and can be used on both face and body. And for reapplication on the go, throw the UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ in your bag. The compact stick is easy to apply along the contours of your face and body and has a malleable, mess-free texture that glides on.

Finally, if you prefer a spray-style sunscreen but don't love the usual greasy feel and uneven application, get your hands on UV AOX Mist, the brand's buzzy new addition. Unlike many traditional sprays, it has a 100 percent mineral formula, plus it features an innovative air-powered, all-angle spray technology for enhanced control (translation: You can apply it upside down to cover hard-to-reach areas, like your back). The formula goes on white, so you can see exactly where you're applying, but rubs in sheer and it's enriched with antioxidants to target signs of aging, as well as aloe vera, coconut extracts, and glycerin to hydrate.

Another thing dermatologists agree on is that the best sunscreen is the one you'll commit to wearing. With EltaMD, though, it's not a question of finding "the one"—it's how to pick among them. Our preferred solution: Avoid paralysis of choice entirely with a full SPF suite.

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