What is EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46?
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a face sunscreen whose registered label lists zinc oxide 9.0% and octinoxate 7.5%. EltaMD describes it as oil-free and non-comedogenic, and names 5% niacinamide in the formula. It is the version EltaMD sold before the reformulation.
It suits skin that breaks out. EltaMD states the formula is fragrance-free, paraben-free and non-comedogenic, and the registered label carries no fragrance. On skin tone, EltaMD is specific: it says the product works best on fair, light, medium light or medium skin tones, so anyone deeper than that should weigh that before buying. It sits in our wider range of skincare chosen for skin that congests easily.
The actives do the protecting and the rest of the formula does the rest. Zinc oxide 9.0% and octinoxate 7.5% are the filters on the label. Niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, lactic acid and tocopheryl acetate follow as inactives; EltaMD puts niacinamide at 5% and credits it with visibly improving skin tone and discoloration. The label publishes no percentage for any inactive.
EltaMD reformulated UV Clear, and the current product is UV Clear Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50, whose registered label reads zinc oxide 11.0% and octinoxate 3.5%. Against the SPF 46's zinc oxide 9.0% and octinoxate 7.5%, that is more zinc and less octinoxate. Our reading of the two labels is that this is a different formula rather than a stronger one. Nava carries the SPF 46 for anyone who prefers the original.
Product Specification
| Size |
1.7 oz / 48 g and 3.7 oz / 106 g |
| Form |
Face sunscreen lotion |
| Actives |
Zinc oxide 9.0%, octinoxate 7.5% |
| Named by EltaMD |
5% niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, tocopheryl acetate |
| Fragrance |
None on the registered label. EltaMD states fragrance-free. |
| Skin tones EltaMD names |
Fair, light, medium light, medium |
| Routine step |
Morning, last skincare step |
| Brand |
EltaMD |
Browse the wider EltaMD sunscreen shelf for tinted, all-mineral and everyday options.