Index / EltaMD / UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
EltaMD

UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46.

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Sunscreen

About this product

A broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with SPF 46 containing zinc oxide, niacinamide, and antioxidants, available in tinted and non-tinted formulas designed for daily facial protection.

Full ingredients

Guru Score

82%

Yay

22 experts · Strong agreement
22Gurus
19Yay
0Mixed
3Nay
#13 in SunscreenSee the ranking →

What they liked

  • Doesn't break out oily or acne-prone skin
  • Hydrating, feels like a moisturizer
  • Blends in easily, no white cast

What they flagged

  • Pricey compared to K-beauty alternatives

What the gurus are saying

Dermatologists and experts consistently praise this sunscreen for its elegant, lightweight formula that works across skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin, without leaving white cast. The 5% niacinamide and antioxidants add skin-calming benefits, and the range of tinted shades makes it inclusive for those managing hyperpigmentation or rosacea. One expert notes the price sits higher than some alternatives, though the formula's versatility and the fact that many dermatology offices stock it speaks to how well-studied and formulated it is.
Synthesized from 22 expert reviews · most recent take September 2026

What the gurus are saying.

Every take we've logged from this product's reviews across YouTube. Click any row to watch the moment they said it.

All takes Yay takes Nay takes Mixed takes Hide sponsored
Yay
"I got a link for it through the Air Skin Store where you can buy my favorite Ulta MD sunscreen at a discount, not just the first time you buy it, but every time you go back to repurchase it."
Top Pick: sunscreen
All 15 takes from 208SkinDoc
The Longevity Serums Worth Buying (And The Scams)
"Sunscreen is non-negotiable every single day, at least on your face, and EltaMD UV Clear is my go-to. That's a really good skin longevity routine."
The Truth About Seed Oils and Skin Cancer
"One of my go-to's is EltaMD UV Clear. It's got a really light finish, no white cast, and it works for most skin types. That's just one that I recommend because a lot of people love it."
Dermatologist Review's Alix Earle's Reale Actives Skincare
"In the meantime, EltaMD UV Clear is what I'd recommend that you reach for. It is lightweight, doesn't have a white cast, it's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, and that is one that I use almost every day."
Stop Buying Dark Spot Removers Until You Watch This
"I also highly recommend the EltaMD UV Clear. It has a great finish, it's very cosmetically elegant, it doesn't leave a white cast, and it works beautifully for most skin types."
These Viral Skincare Trends Are Sending People to the ER — A Dermatologist's Warning
"I personally use and recommend EltaMD UV Clear for daily use. It's lightweight, doesn't leave a white cast, and it actually works."
I Analyzed Bryan Johnson's $20,000 Skincare Routine So You Don't Have To
"SPF, this is every single day in my opinion, non-negotiable. EltaMD UV Clear is one of my absolute favorites, and that is going to cost you a little bit more, about 40 dollars a month."
5 Products That Will Transform Your Skin in 2026 (Dermatologist's Simple Routine)
"The sunscreen I recommend is the EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46. It's a hybrid sunscreen, both chemical and physical filters, that provides excellent protection without leaving a white cast or feeling greasy. SPF is non-negotiable to me. It's the number one selling sunscreen in my office, and it's the one I use most consistently."
Pigmentation Problems — Treating Dark Spots, Melasma & PIH
"For my acne patients who have some post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, I definitely recommend a zinc oxide based sunscreen. Typically my go-to recommendation depending on the skin type is the EltaMD UV Clear. They have the sheer version and the tinted version and they both work great."
Teen Skincare 101: How to Clear Acne, Build Confidence & Avoid Expensive Mistakes
"My favorite sunscreen is EltaMD UV Clear. It's made for acne prone skin, and it goes on clear not because it's invisible but because of the niacinamide in it, although it does go on invisible too. It's a very good sunscreen for oily and acne prone skin because of the niacinamide."
Under the Surface — Understanding Skin Texture & Large Pores
"A light SPF or a lightweight moisturizer with SPF 30 or above is usually my recommendation for the face, and EltaMD's UV Clear is great."
SPF Wars — Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen
"This was the first sunscreen that got me into the habit of daily sunscreen use on my face. UV Clear has been probably the most recommended dermatologist sunscreen in history, and the one that more dermatologists probably use themselves is going to be EltaMD UV Clear. It is a hybrid sunscreen, so it has zinc oxide and it also has octinoxate, so you've got a chemical and a mineral filter in there, and it is just incredibly cosmetically elegant. It works well under makeup. They now make it in a tinted version and a deep tint version, so for those with more melanated skin you can get one that's going to be a lot closer match to your natural skin tone. It's a product that I love. EltaMD was the first brand I ever encountered as a dermatology PA when I came out of school, and I've loved it ever since."
Perfect Skincare Routine for Beginners in 2025
"My favorite sunscreen brand is EltaMD. UV Clear was the first premium sunscreen I used, and it hooked me on the brand over ten years ago. They've come out with some additional formulations that are really good, but UV Clear is my most common go-to on a day-to-day basis."
The Best Skincare Gifts in 2024! Derm Recommended
"This is one of my absolute favorites to use personally and to recommend to my patients, and it's probably the bestselling sunscreen in my practice, the EltaMD UV Clear. It comes in a clear version, a tinted version, and a deep tint version, giving more flexibility to match different skin types. EltaMD makes really cosmetically elegant formulas, so they feel really good on the skin. The addition of niacinamide to this formula helps to fight the appearance of acne."
Stop Over-Exfoliating: Do This Barrier Repair Routine Instead
"I really love the EltaMD UV Clear for most skin types. They also have tinted versions to complement more skin tones."
Real Dermatologist Reacts to Extreme Ear, Nose, & Cyst Pops!
"I got a link for it through the Air Skin Store where you can buy my favorite Ulta MD sunscreen at a discount, not just the first time you buy it, but every time you go back to repurchase it."
Yay
"For those who are acne prone or rosacea prone, I like EltaMD's UV Clear SPF 46. It's great because it has niacinamide, which helps regulate sebum production, helps brighten the skin, and is very soothing [...] mixed into a sunscreen. If you have acne prone or rosacea prone skin and don't like thick sunscreens, this sunscreen is amazing, so gentle, so soothing, and very lightweight, and it won't clog up your pores. Just know it's not all mineral, it's a combination of zinc oxide and octinoxate."
All 8 takes from Dr. Daniel Sugai
The Most Common Retinoid Mistakes I See in Clinic (Dermatologist Guide)
"Wearing a sunscreen every day, SPF 30 and above, whether it's EltaMD UV Clear or Vanicream's Moisturizing SPF 30, those are all great options to do while on a retinoid"
The Only 5 Skincare Ingredient Categories You Actually Need
"You can find it in Ulta MD. You know, this is great for those with rosacea, the green tinted sunscreen."
Dermatologist Explains: How to Manage Hyperpigmentation/Dark Spots on the Face
"The EltaMD line has a lot of tint now, the UV Clear has a tint."
Dermatologist Explains: Anti-Aging Skincare Routine By Age
"EltaMD UV Clear are really nice options that my patients love and those are nice things to consider all year round."
Morning vs Night Skincare: What Matters for Anti-Aging?
"It could be EltaMD UV Clear or UV Daily."
If I Wanted Better Skin, This Is Exactly What I’d Do
"Incorporate a tinted sunscreen like EltaMD UV Clear, [...] which I love for being inclusive in terms of having available shades for various skin tones."
The Best Tinted Sunscreens of 2026
"For those who are acne prone or rosacea prone, I like EltaMD's UV Clear SPF 46. It's great because it has niacinamide, which helps regulate sebum production, helps brighten the skin, and is very soothing [...] mixed into a sunscreen. If you have acne prone or rosacea prone skin and don't like thick sunscreens, this sunscreen is amazing, so gentle, so soothing, and very lightweight, and it won't clog up your pores. Just know it's not all mineral, it's a combination of zinc oxide and octinoxate."
The Best Morning & Night Skincare Routine for Mature, Dry Skin
"The UV Clear by Ulta MD is very popular."
Yay
"I love this sunscreen. It's their UV Clear SPF 46. It's from EltaMD and I'm obsessed with this. Doesn't break me out. It goes on white, but then when you rub it in, it's really easy. Feels like a moisturizer. So it's hydrating. Super hydrating."
Yay
"EltaMD UV Clear is one of the SPFs I consistently see work well for oily or acne prone skin."
All 3 takes from April Basi
You’re Using the Wrong Sunscreen for Your Skin Type | Stop spf breakout, greasiness or stinging
"EltaMD UV Clear is one of the SPFs I consistently see work well for oily or acne prone skin."
How to have PERFECT SKIN at ANY AGE | Chemist perspective ♡ April Basi
"For sunscreen I love EltaMD's UV 46. I used to use that all the time and I ran out of it and I absolutely loved it. It's just so great."
Why Your Current Skincare Routine is AGING You Faster | Chemist perspective ♡ April Basi
"For sunscreen make sure you're using a broad spectrum sunscreen that covers both UVA and UVB, SPF 30 or higher, this will help prevent UV damage and further signs of skin aging. EltaMD's SPF 46 is a great option."
Yay
"EltaMD is a clinical brand, just because a lot of derm offices sell it. It's a sunscreen brand and they have so many sunscreens. We love EltaMD because very well studied, very well formulated. Definitely a lot of science behind the formulations. All the sunscreens have zinc oxide in it to ensure that there's good UVA coverage. They also make sure that they have tints that are available and that suit well for all skin tones. Their most viral product is the UV Clear. That one is great for people with oily or acne prone skin."
All 4 takes from Dr. Mamina
Dermatologist Ranks VIRAL Skincare Brands(Shocking) | Part 2
"EltaMD is a clinical brand, just because a lot of derm offices sell it. It's a sunscreen brand and they have so many sunscreens. We love EltaMD because very well studied, very well formulated. Definitely a lot of science behind the formulations. All the sunscreens have zinc oxide in it to ensure that there's good UVA coverage. They also make sure that they have tints that are available and that suit well for all skin tones. Their most viral product is the UV Clear. That one is great for people with oily or acne prone skin."
My Favorite Summer Skincare Tips & Products
"EltaMD is a huge favorite amongst derms and I really like the UV Clear. It goes on really well. There's a non-tinted and the tinted version that's SPF 46."
Does Sunscreen Cause Cancer?
"EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is one of my favorite safe and effective sunscreen products for your face."
How to Fade Your Acne Scars
"EltaMD has a good one, the UV Clear SPF 46. This one has niacinamide in it, which is nice. When people ask what the best sunscreen is to use, I tell them the one that you're willing to use every day."
Nay
"This was probably my first real sunscreen, the one that I committed to when I learned that I really needed to start taking care of my skin. It was dermatologist recommended. But there are now so many more options that I haven't repurchased this and I don't really plan to. It's also kind of hard to find, plus I heard they reformulated."
Yay
"One of my favorites from EltaMD is UV Clear. It is a hybrid sunscreen with zinc and also some chemical filters, so it's less likely to sting than an all chemical sunscreen but not as likely to leave a white cast as an all mineral sunscreen. The EltaMD UV Clear finish is [...] pretty matte, which makes it a great option for really oily skin. EltaMD UV Clear has niacinamide, which is great for redness, helps with the moisture barrier, and helps with hyperpigmentation. It's good for people who have acne because of the anti-inflammatory properties, but if you're sensitive to niacinamide then that would be one to avoid."
All 9 takes from Dr Dray
This Is Extreme! Bryan Johnson's Anti-Aging Skincare Routine
"I wear sunscreen because the Sun causes damage it ages the skin and causing agent damage so I try to spend my time in the sun in the early mornings or in the evenings when the UV index is low otherwise I stay out of the Sun but when I am in the sun I do have sun screen on."
*NEW* EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Sunscreens Review
"One of my favorites from EltaMD is UV Clear. It is a hybrid sunscreen with zinc and also some chemical filters, so it's less likely to sting than an all chemical sunscreen but not as likely to leave a white cast as an all mineral sunscreen. The EltaMD UV Clear finish is [...] pretty matte, which makes it a great option for really oily skin. EltaMD UV Clear has niacinamide, which is great for redness, helps with the moisture barrier, and helps with hyperpigmentation. It's good for people who have acne because of the anti-inflammatory properties, but if you're sensitive to niacinamide then that would be one to avoid."
Skincare, Coffee, & A New Book | Skincare Vlog
"I reviewed the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 in my skin care monthly reviews. It dries down with no shine; it's pretty matte. It has niacinamide."
*NEW* EltaMD UV Clear & Daily Deep Tints | May 2024 Skincare
"I have always recommended UV Clear and UV Daily because they look really nice on the skin and in my opinion these are the quintessential matte formulas. There is no shine with these sunscreens. They're a lightweight lotion formula so they're moisturizing. They don't have alcohol denaturant like many gel sunscreens, [...] but in contrast to a lot of lotion cream formulas they're not shiny. [...] UV Clear has niacinamide which is a wonderful ingredient for redness, dark spots, and the moisture barrier, though some people are sensitive to it."
Top Skincare Essentials At Target 🛒
"This is nice because it's water resistant so could be a great option for um days where you are sweating and maybe out and it's humid"
EPIC COSTCO SKINCARE DEALS 🛍 Dermatologist @DrDrayzday
"I've used this sunscreen for many years and I highly recommend it. It's a hybrid sunscreen, really good if you have super oily skin, and it's a holy grail for many people, one of the most popular sunscreens out there. It has a nice matte finish, not shiny, with niacinamide which is great for redness and acne prone skin, and lactic acid which mostly acts as a humectant to help soften the skin. The cast isn't noticeable since it's a hybrid sunscreen, but if you have a very deep skin tone there's a chance it could leave a lavender look because there's zinc in the formula. At Costco you get two 1.7 ounce bottles for 55 dollars, versus paying 38 to 41 dollars for just one bottle elsewhere, so that's a pretty substantial savings."
Vlog: MY BACK-UP PLAN 🤔 SKIN CARE PRODUCT TEXTURES 😍 @DrDrayzday
"It's a combination hybrid sunscreen with zinc and a chemical filter for UVB. I find these hybrid sunscreens usually offer a cast somewhere between an all chemical and an all mineral sunscreen, but this is pretty shiny, I've had it on for a while now. The cast on this to me is not fantastic, the look of it I don't love, I think it's a little too shiny. I put some on the back of my hand and it looked super patchy in terms of the application and the dispersion, so I thought that was a little strange."
BUDGET FRIENDLY ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE: DERMATOLOGIST TOP PICKS @DrDrayzday
"EltaMD has liquid mineral sunscreens that are nice, but this non-tinted one does leave a white cast even though it says non-whitening. If you have a deeper skin tone, that's going to leave a cast. It's a nice formula but it's kind of expensive."
Dermatologist reacts to REDDIT ACCUTANE STARTER PACK | Dr Dray
"When you are on Accutane your skin becomes even more sensitive to the sun, so you definitely need to be protecting your skin from the sun. This is a great recommendation to have on the slide. I would also like to see added to this a sun protective hat and UPF clothing just for additional measure, because sunscreen is not a shield of armor and it's difficult to keep up with it all over the body. Definitely wear broad-spectrum sunscreen to all sun exposed surfaces."
Yay
"EltaMD is a very research-backed brand. There's a reason why you find it in the majority of spas you go to. Very well accredited. They give great protection to the skin, and especially for someone as fair and as sensitive as her skin can get to the sun, you've got to be consistent and hardcore with sun protection."
All 3 takes from Hyram
Reacting to Leighton Meester's Skin Care Routine
"EltaMD is kind of considered like the best sunscreens, at least American sunscreens. However, when it comes to sunscreens you got to be really really careful about mixing anything into them. If you mix any other skincare product with your sunscreen it can render your sunscreen useless, which means you're not getting the sun protection that you think you're getting and it can actually lead to skin damage and irritation."
Specialist Reacts to Alex Cooper's Skin Care Routine
"EltaMD is a very research-backed brand. There's a reason why you find it in the majority of spas you go to. Very well accredited. They give great protection to the skin, and especially for someone as fair and as sensitive as her skin can get to the sun, you've got to be consistent and hardcore with sun protection."
Reacting to Allure's Best Skin Care of 2021
"The EltaMD sunscreen made it onto this list again, I'm not surprised whatsoever, it made it last year too. This sunscreen consistently wins the awards for best performing mineral sunscreen, and it's really popular especially among estheticians, every esthetician I know is a huge fan of the formula. It has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the typical ingredients used in mineral sunscreens, plus great ingredients like ginger root extract, glycerin, and squalane. I'm excited to try this one because if this is the same formula that has won time and time again, count me in."
Yay
"Octinoxate is another chemical filter that's pretty gentle, which means I can use a hybrid, this is the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, and it uses both zinc oxide and octinoxate. It's not that I can never buy a sunscreen in the US with some of our chemical filters in it, it's just that I have to be careful and keep an eye out for avobenzone and oxybenzone."
All 2 takes from AliceintheRabbitHole
INCREDIBLE Memorial Day Sales (& Updates, Reviews, Chitchat!)
"I wore this EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 yesterday and I was actually really impressed with it, it didn't irritate my skin at all. It's a hybrid sunscreen with zinc oxide and octinoxate. The reality is it's still an expensive product, and is it better than any of the K beauty sunscreens I've tried? Absolutely not. Even though it's a hybrid and not as drying as a pure zinc oxide mineral sunscreen, I do kind of feel like I used a primer for oily skin, through the day you get that astringent sensation from the zinc oxide."
Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin: YES, It's Possible
"Octinoxate is another chemical filter that's pretty gentle, which means I can use a hybrid, this is the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, and it uses both zinc oxide and octinoxate. It's not that I can never buy a sunscreen in the US with some of our chemical filters in it, it's just that I have to be careful and keep an eye out for avobenzone and oxybenzone."
Yay
"For those looking for an elegant mineral sunscreen, whether because you're super sensitive or chemical sunscreen breaks you out, I highly recommend EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. Pure mineral zinc oxide filter along with niacinamide, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid that is just really lightweight, leaves no white cast, suitable for oily acne-prone skin as well, great to wear long or under makeup. This is one I highly recommend. EltaMD makes really nice, elegant mineral-based sunscreen."
All 7 takes from Dr. Jenny Liu
Dermatologist skincare picks for Chinese New Year | Dr. Jenny Liu
"The first one is from EltaMD and it's their UV Clear. [...] It is a nice elegant sunscreen that I think most moms and aunties would like. It contains predominately zinc oxide with one chemical filter, also has niacinamide and other antioxidants to work synergistically to fend off environmental aggressors while at the same time helping to nourish your skin barrier. I also love the fact that it comes in a clear non-tinted as well as tinted, and if you have a loved one that struggles with hyperpigmentation, that tint can really help to also block visible light. It's a lovely elegant sunscreen, great for anyone with more sensitive skin or looking to simplify their morning routine with a moisturizer and sunscreen in one, and it's great to use in the winter time. I highly recommend it."
Week 2 Vitiligo
"Ulta MD makes really nice ones."
Sensitive Skin routine for less then $100 from a dermatologist | Dr. Jenny Liu
"EltaMD UV Clear, which is for about $38, you get great options tinted and non-tinted, and that one is also really lovely, very elegant, and it's mineral based but will not give you any white cast."
What you need to know about skin cancers | Dr. Jenny Liu
"For those looking for an elegant mineral sunscreen, whether because you're super sensitive or chemical sunscreen breaks you out, I highly recommend EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. Pure mineral zinc oxide filter along with niacinamide, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid that is just really lightweight, leaves no white cast, suitable for oily acne-prone skin as well, great to wear long or under makeup. This is one I highly recommend. EltaMD makes really nice, elegant mineral-based sunscreen."
Dermatologists Answer Sunscreen Questions
"EltaMD has the UV Clear as well as tinted, and both contain niacinamide and I think that's a great ingredient if you're acne prone. I love that EltaMD one, I use it all the time."
Dermatologist reviews viral skincare trends of 2023 | Dr. Jenny Liu
"EltaMD UV Clear, they have tinted and non-tinted sunscreens are super elegant."
Tips for transitioning skincare from winter to spring and summer | Dr. Jenny Liu
"EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a lovely option, especially for those with sensitive skin or acne-prone skin. Some individuals with acne do feel like chemical sunscreens tend to break them out more, so if you're not fond of chemical sunscreen, this is a great option to pick. It is elegant and nice to wear alone or under makeup. It does not leave a white cast. Aside from the zinc oxide, which is the mineral filter, it also contains niacinamide, which is a great antioxidant that helps support the skin barrier, along with vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. All of those ingredients make a wonderful formula to support your skin barrier and provide additional antioxidant benefits to skin. It's an elegant mineral filter that doesn't leave white cast and doesn't feel heavy or sticky or greasy on the skin."
Yay
"In terms of my facial sunscreen I love a tinted sunscreen. EltaMD makes a great tinted sunscreen. This is a broad-spectrum SPF 46. It's [...] very thin and tinted, and it has in it niacinamide, which is great for moisture, and hyaluronic acid, so it's a treatment and a sunscreen in one. I love that."
Yay
"The EltaMD UV Clear, I think this is the tinted version I have, which the tint is not super friendly for my skin, but if you get the one that's untinted it's really nice. This one is also a hybrid sunscreen and really nice, really light, great for acne prone skin, great for summer and winter. This one also uses US-based chemical filters, so keep that in mind. Some people prefer US filters only and some people prefer anything but US filters because they're so old and the US hasn't really updated anything they've done with sunscreens in the last 20, 30 years, so the US is really lagging behind in terms of all the technology in sunscreens out there."
Yay
"This is one I've talked about a whole lot, it is one that I personally use. It is perfectly formulated for acne, oily, rosacea prone skin and it contains niacinamide as well as Vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. It comes as a tinted form and a non-tinted form and it is just beautiful. The tinted version blends into many different skin types quite seamlessly and it gives a very moisturizing finish. This is not a purely mineral sunscreen, not that that should matter because mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens are both great. This one is a hybrid, it contains zinc oxide as well as octinoxate. It is a beautiful formulation. I love the sunscreen, I wear it myself, I recommend it to all my patients."
All 2 takes from Tea with MD
Ariana Grande's WICKED Skincare Routine | Dr Joyce Park
"This is one I've talked about a whole lot, it is one that I personally use. It is perfectly formulated for acne, oily, rosacea prone skin and it contains niacinamide as well as Vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. It comes as a tinted form and a non-tinted form and it is just beautiful. The tinted version blends into many different skin types quite seamlessly and it gives a very moisturizing finish. This is not a purely mineral sunscreen, not that that should matter because mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens are both great. This one is a hybrid, it contains zinc oxide as well as octinoxate. It is a beautiful formulation. I love the sunscreen, I wear it myself, I recommend it to all my patients."
Dermatologist FAVORITE SKINCARE Picks from Dermstore's 2023 SALE
"EltaMD UV Clear is always one of my recommendations for patients who have rosacea or acne prone skin, and the reason for that is because it contains niacinamide which can help with both acne and rosacea. It's also an antioxidant and can also help brighten up some dark spots and scars. This one is zinc oxide nine percent and octinoxate seven and a half percent, so it is a hybrid sunscreen with a mineral sunscreen component and a chemical sunscreen component as well. This one is oil free, non-comedogenic so it doesn't clog your pores, really great for oily acne prone skin, and it also contains some hyaluronic acid to help hydrate your skin."
Yay
"So this comes in both tinted and non-tinted options and again it's a hybrid sunscreen which really helps with the blendability. This was the clear one and then the tinted of course has the iron oxides in there which can really help if your acne healed with hyperpigmentation. One of the sunscreens that I recommend literally all day to my patients and it's a huge patient favorite is the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. For oily acne prone skin you really want to consider reaching for a sunscreen that has zinc oxide in the formula. It doesn't have to be the only filter, this is actually a hybrid, it has both inorganic and organic filters, but zinc can really help to absorb some of the excess oil that's clearly associated with oily acne prone skin, and also zinc has a lot of great properties for acne."
Yay
"This is a new entry on my list. It's probably the most popular Elta MD sunscreen. Elta MD is a brand that's sold in a lot of skin clinics. It's very lightweight and silky. It's meant to be good for sensitive skin, including skin prone to acne and rosacea, and it applies clear with no residue. I'm not entirely sure it would meet the broad spectrum requirements for Australia or the EU with its filters, but it is broad spectrum in the US. It's very wearable, so if you're not getting a lot of sun, this is a pretty good option."
Yay
"This is the EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 facial sunscreen. This one has chemical filters in it but I love it because it has a really beautiful light tint to it. If I need to reapply my sunscreen while I'm out I like to go for this one because I'm essentially putting like more makeup on my face. It's one of those things where if I'm wearing blush or something like that it's gonna pretty much cover it up but I don't really care because it gives me a little bit of color, it gives me a glow and it looks really pretty. So this is what I use to reapply a lot of the time."
Yay
"This is currently 45 dollars for their UV Clear, which is what I'm currently using on my face right now, tinted. I like it, it's just a standard one. When did the prices get so high for this product? Maybe they were always high and I just didn't realize it."
Sponsored
All 9 takes from Doctorly
The ULTIMATE Normal & Combination Skincare Routine | Doctorly Routines
"EltaMD UV Clear sunscreen is a great product, really is great for pretty much all skin types. It's got the addition of niacinamide in it, just a great product. A little bit on the pricier side but definitely gets the job done."
Top Sunscreens, How Tariffs Affect Skincare, and Trump Goes After Big Pharma | Doctorly Unhinged
"I've been a huge fan of UV Clear for a very long time and I've always liked it. It's one of the first sunscreens I used pretty consistently. It's got 5% niacinamide in it and it's really good for that oily acne prone skin."
Amazon Prime Day: Dermatologists Build The ULTIMATE Shopping Cart
"This is currently 45 dollars for their UV Clear, which is what I'm currently using on my face right now, tinted. I like it, it's just a standard one. When did the prices get so high for this product? Maybe they were always high and I just didn't realize it."
Top Sunscreens We Can’t Live Without | Dermatologist Favorites
"The one I've used most consistently and recommended is still the UV Clear. It's just a staple for dermatologists in terms of what we like to wear and what we use for patients, one of my favorite sunscreens."
DEBUNKING INSANE SUNSCREEN MYTHS: Homemade Sunscreen, Dangerous Chemicals, and Vitamin D Deficiency
"We love this product because one, it's blendable. Two, it has 5% niacinamide, which also has skincare benefits. And three, because it works. This is easily one of the most recommended sunscreens on the channel, and in the clinic it's one of the dermatologists' first choice when recommending a sunscreen. It also has niacinamide, which helps regulate oil production and makes it really good for people with blemish-prone skin, so anyone with acne-prone skin, this is a really good option too. I personally like both the non-tinted and the medium tint, which matches my skin particularly well. It feels extremely gentle on the skin, it's hydrating, and it kind of doubles as a hydrating moisturizer and sun protection if you want to simplify your routine."
Skincare Splurge/Save? Glycerin the New HA? Selena Gomez & TikTok Culture | Doctorly Unhinged EP #5
"Your Elta MD tends to be a little bit more expensive, but the very elegant sunscreens tend to be at a higher price point and really are nice products."
Black Dots on the Nose? Here's How To Treat Sebaceous Filaments
"EltaMD has one of my favorites and one of the workhorses in this space. It's very mattifying and very lightweight, and it has niacinamide as well."
BEST SUNSCREENS EVER?! | Doctorly Reviews
"This is just kind of a foundational OG for niacinamide-based lightweight sunscreens. It just sits very well on kind of like oily, acne-prone skin. Plus, it has niacinamide in it for a little bit of oil control. So, this is lightweight, OG, it's like a dermatologist's favorite. It's really what introduced EltaMD into the world. They have both tinted and untinted forms of this. Great for oily, blemish, acne-prone skin, even for rosacea because of that niacinamide."
BEST MOISTURIZERS OF THE YEAR | DOCTORLY REVIEWS
"The Elta MD UV Clear I think is pretty moisturizing personally. It's not marketed as a moisturizer sunscreen, but it is moisturizing enough for me to just use it as a single step in the morning. The Elta MD's whole line I think fits that role. Almost like UV Restore is my go to, but same thing as my facial moisturizer in the morning."
Yay
"EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 is the sunscreen I have recommended the most consistently to my patients over the last decade of my practice. It has great broad-spectrum coverage, so it's going to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays, but it also has niacinamide, which is a fantastic antioxidant that's anti-inflammatory and can help with things like acne. This is a really good sunscreen if you are acne prone. This was one of the first broad-spectrum sunscreens to incorporate niacinamide in a really intentional way. Niacinamide helps with pigment brightening. It helps calm inflammation. So when you combine it in a sunscreen, it makes for a product that is very good for people who have sensitive skin and acne prone skin. [...] If I have a patient who has struggled to find a daily sunscreen that their skin really agrees with, EltaMD UV Clear is my go-to because it is beloved by so many people and very, very consistently."
Sponsored
All 5 takes from Dr. Sam Ellis
Answering Your Biggest Skincare Questions From The Comments Section | Dr. Sam Ellis
"The most well-known of the sunscreens I recommend for acne is EltaMD UV Clear. This formula has been around for over a decade. It was one of the very first sunscreens I ever truly fell in love with, first as a consumer and then as a dermatologist. [...] This formula is so beautiful. It's very lightweight on the skin. It's meant to not clog your pores. [...] I find that a lot of people who are acne prone do really well with it. This was one of the first sunscreens to really lean into the ingredient niacinamide. EltaMD was very much a pioneer with incorporating this into a formula. Niacinamide helps with barrier function. It helps with oil control. It acts as an antioxidant. So having that within a sunscreen can be very helpful if you are acne prone or you feel like your sunscreen tends to make you oily."
My Most Purchased Skincare Products as a Derm | Dr. Sam Ellis
"EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 is the sunscreen I have recommended the most consistently to my patients over the last decade of my practice. It has great broad-spectrum coverage, so it's going to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays, but it also has niacinamide, which is a fantastic antioxidant that's anti-inflammatory and can help with things like acne. This is a really good sunscreen if you are acne prone. This was one of the first broad-spectrum sunscreens to incorporate niacinamide in a really intentional way. Niacinamide helps with pigment brightening. It helps calm inflammation. So when you combine it in a sunscreen, it makes for a product that is very good for people who have sensitive skin and acne prone skin. [...] If I have a patient who has struggled to find a daily sunscreen that their skin really agrees with, EltaMD UV Clear is my go-to because it is beloved by so many people and very, very consistently."
Is Expensive Sunscreen Really Better? A Dermatologist Tells All | Dr. Sam Ellis
"The EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 sunscreen was literally the first sunscreen I ever used and was like, 'Oh, this is awesome.' And it really did make me want to use sunscreen more. [...] This is my go-to sunscreen rec. When someone's like, 'What's a sunscreen that I can buy in the US that performs well, that's good for sensitive skin?' I lean on this so often and I feel like it's absolutely worth that slightly elevated price tag. When you apply it, it feels like it's between a lotion and a cream. It's a little heavier than a lotion, but not as rich as a cream, which I really like because I find that it's supportive of the skin barrier without weighing your skin down or making your skin look oily or feel greasy throughout the day, which is also why I love this for people who are acne prone. It is my top rec basically for my acne prone patients who are looking for a sunscreen to incorporate into their skincare routine. I love it. I don't think I will ever stop loving it."
Dermatologist Shares the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin Type (Oily, Dry, Combination, & More!)
"For the last decade that I have been involved in the dermatology world, this sunscreen most consistently is recommended by my patients who struggle with acne, from my colleagues who are dermatologists who deal with a lot of acne. It's not to say that it's the only sunscreen you can use if you have acne, but if you have acne and you have not tried this sunscreen and you're looking for one that has a high likelihood of being successful for you, you might want to start here. In my personal experience, I feel like a lot of the ELA MD sunscreens are good if you have acne."
Dermatologist’s Best Skincare Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation (Melasma, Dark Spots, & More)
"The EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is one of my all-time favorite sunscreens and it also has niacinamide in it. So when you're using that you're not only getting sun protection but you're also getting niacinamide into your routine."
Nay
"I was so excited to use and try their UV Clear, this is the broad-spectrum 46, but this just didn't work for me. It wasn't moisturizing enough and ended up kind of peeling, and it just never, the white cast just never really settled down. So this was a pass for me."
Sponsored
All 2 takes from Beyond50Skin
8 Best Sunscreens To Keep You Safe From The Sun in 2023 | Recommended By The Skin Cancer Foundation
"The Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a combination sunscreen with zinc and octinoxate and this is a beautiful sunscreen. It goes on clear, it's slightly dewy, it's not overly glowy. Your recommendation was spot on with this sunscreen, I love it. [...] It's so pretty and it covers without any white cast. Elta [...] MD typically knocks it out of the park with their sunscreens."
Skincare Empties 2023 | Fails & Favorites
"I was so excited to use and try their UV Clear, this is the broad-spectrum 46, but this just didn't work for me. It wasn't moisturizing enough and ended up kind of peeling, and it just never, the white cast just never really settled down. So this was a pass for me."
Yay
"EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, they've taken zinc and a chemical and blended them together and created their UV Clear, which patients love. It is broad-spectrum SPF 46 and it is nice for oily skin. It [...] is a very nice lightweight moisturizer that is fragrance-free, it's mineral, it has supposedly no white cast, I am not the best judge of that because I am basically Casper the ghost, so I would advise you to test it out. The beauty of a hybrid is that you get the best of both worlds, so hopefully cosmetically elegant enough and good protection."
Sponsored
All 2 takes from Dr. Shereene Idriss
Dermstore Black Friday Sale 2023: Top Picks for All Skin Concerns | Dr. Shereene Idriss
"EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, they've taken zinc and a chemical and blended them together and created their UV Clear, which patients love. It is broad-spectrum SPF 46 and it is nice for oily skin. It [...] is a very nice lightweight moisturizer that is fragrance-free, it's mineral, it has supposedly no white cast, I am not the best judge of that because I am basically Casper the ghost, so I would advise you to test it out. The beauty of a hybrid is that you get the best of both worlds, so hopefully cosmetically elegant enough and good protection."
Dermstore Black Friday Sale Top Picks 2021! | Dr. Shereene Idriss
"EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 is probably my favorite one of theirs. It has more of a reddish undertone. When in doubt, if you want something that does not have any sort of appearance on your skin, classic chemical sunscreens are your best bet as they are more cosmetically elegant."
Nay
"I haven't started using it yet, it just got one."
Sponsored
All 14 takes from Cassandra Bankson
15 Years Of Acne: How I Got My Dream Skin After Having Acne For 15 Years!
"EltaMD has some really good sunscreen options for acne prone skin. They specifically have a sunscreen called the UV Clear and this is made with niacinamide that can help to regulate oil control. It's one of my personal favorite sunscreens for my acne."
I Built A CEO/ Former Managing Director of Facebook A Skincare Routine. Kirthiga Reddy’s SkinStory
"I haven't started using it yet, it just got one."
3 Acne Destroying Skincare Tips I Wish I knew When I was 16
"EltaMD has the UV Clear, it's like $50 with niacinamide. It's expensive, but it's really really good."
Why JLo puts Nutella on her face and more Insane Celebrity Beauty “Secrets” You Should NEVER Do!
"So many people love the EltaMD sunscreen like Haley Bieber, all of these celebrities on Harper's Bazaar, they're using sunscreens in their routine. This is amazing, this is fantastic. [...] Sunscreen is phenomenal for your skin and it is one of the best ways to prevent wrinkles, to prevent fine lines, to prevent dark spots and melasma and more."
Dermatologist Approved Skincare Is 20% Off For 5 More Hours During Dermstore’s Beauty Refresh Sale
"For those acne-prone people like me, if you tend to have acne, if you tend to be a little bit oily, this ELTA MD sunscreen is so freaking good. This is the UV Clear broad spectrum 46, and it has ingredients like niacinamide that actually support the skin and other antioxidants that actually help to wound heal. The great thing about this is that it actually goes on sheer. Not all sunscreens go on sheer, and not all ELTA MD sunscreens even go on sheer. This one is called the UV Clear, and while it does go onto the skin in a clear manner, it really just means that it's formulated for those who are breakout-prone. Doctors and derms absolutely love this. It's UVA and UVB protection. Derms recommend sunscreens all the time, but often ELTA MD can be a little bit out of reach because it is expensive. But when it's 20 percent off, it's an amazing deal. I buy it full price, but if I can get it on sale, I'm going to."
The Best Products I’ve Ever Used As An Esthetician
"They have the UV clear which is amazing for people who have acne prone skin. The UV clear literally has niacinamide and anti-acne ingredients as well as formulas that don't break out skin more. If you're trying to cover acne, depending on the makeup and if you sleep in it and don't remove it properly it can make the entire experience worse so if you get a tinted sunscreen, the UV clear that is formulated for acne, it works as a sunscreen but it also works to help with those blemishes. Elta MD sunscreens are just like what I'm constantly reaching for."
Reacting To A YOUTUBE EXECUTIVE’S Skincare Routine.. Then Building Her A New One!
"This is the UV clear, this is what I use for acne prone skin, it is wonderful for her. I love that she loves it. And as somebody who does wear foundation, I wonder if she's ever used the UV clear tinted. I want to get her on the tinted and see how she likes that one. Her sunscreen is perfect, continue using this."
10 Best Acne Product Essentials For Breakout Prone Skin! (Under $50!)
"EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 is such a great sunscreen if you have acne. Dermatologists and doctors recommend this because it is so good. It has high purity zinc oxide and niacinamide and it's actually made for acne-prone skin. The sun degrades collagen and elastin and can cause skin cancer, but a lot of people don't realize that sun exposure can actually make acne turn into a scar or make acne scarring worse. It can lead to hyperpigmentation, it can cause a scar to be more irritated while it's healing and slow down the healing process. This has a blend of mineral and chemical filters but it goes in very nicely if you give it a second to rub in. The niacinamide in here as well as the other ingredients actually support acne-prone skin and help your skin regulate sebum. Remember that sebum is the oil that our skin naturally produces. If we get that oil to get in balance and in check and in sync, then the acne bacteria can't eat as much of it, can't bubble up and swell up and cause this red inflamed pimple, and then the sun can't attack that pimple and cause irritation and scarring. This really is one of the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin. I have loved this for years. Doctors recommend it as well. This is cruelty-free, and I absolutely love this for anyone who is acne-prone or even if you're just oily and you get a lot of blackheads and blemishes."
3 Things Kardashians Got HORRIBLY WRONG About Skincare… and 3 Things They Got RIGHT
"I'm really impressed that Chloe speaks about using her Elta MD sunscreen and is so open about her history with skin cancer. This awareness is absolutely huge and can literally save lives if other people start looking at their skin and thinking about getting growths checked out by a dermatologist."
The Best Skincare Sale All Year Is TODAY?!?! (And Blenders and Cat Robot Vacuums and Amazon Prime)
"This is the UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 and it has niacinamide. So, it has ingredients that don't break out people who are prone to breaking out. And then on top of that, it actually has ingredients that fight breakouts and pigmentation and help to regulate sebum control. These are so good."
Ashley Tisdale and Her Not-So-FABULOUS Skincare Routine - Esthetician Reacts
"This sunscreen is really good. This is the EltaMD UV Clear. It's 40 something dollars and it is worth every penny. This is literally a sunscreen that is made for acne prone skin, broad spectrum SPF 46. It works very well and it is wonderful for those who break out. This is another one of those niacinamide products. This also has some peptides and it is fragrance free. This is just such a great formula. If you have acne prone skin and you're looking for a sunscreen that doesn't break you out, and if anything helps, this is it."
👏🏼 Hands 👏🏼 Down 👏🏼 The Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin ☀️
"This is specifically made for acne prone skin. It has high purity niacinamide, transparent zinc oxide and UVA UVB protection. If you are someone who struggles with acne and hyperpigmentation, this is fantastic because of that niacinamide. Niacinamide stops your skin cells from sharing that melanin, that pigment that is created after a blemish or from sun exposure, and stops it from traveling to the keratinocytes, those skin cells in your skin, which can actually cause some of that discoloration on those blemishes. This is fantastic for anyone who has post-breakout hyperpigmentation or PIH. The formula is actually less stingy and burny to blemishes and eyes than the ZitStick one or the Apostrophe one because it's just got zinc oxide and octinoxate. The sunscreen doesn't feel like it's suffocating you, it doesn't feel like it overly clogs pores, it doesn't sting or burn the same way many other sunscreens do. This is a fantastic cruelty-free Swiss American sunscreen that is literally made for acne prone skin in mind. Another bonus is that this formula is oil-free."
Reacting to Euphoria’s SENSITIVE SKIN Sydney Sweeney Skincare Routine
"The EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen is phenomenal for $37 and it is worth every single penny. This one is great for people who do struggle with acne. It has niacinamide in there which can really help with regulating oil control and can help with a little bit of the dark spots or pigmentation. It stops that pigmentation from being spread to other cells. If you do get those little brown or red or purple spots after pimples, this could be a great one. This also has lactic acid not as an exfoliant but to help this entire formula work and help these ingredients penetrate. This is a blend of chemical and organic and then inorganic mineral filters. It is sheer and it's made for acne-prone skin. I love this one."
Ordering My Subscribers' Amazon Wishlists! (THIS GOT SO EXPENSIVE)
"There's an Elta MD Clear Sunscreen on the list."
Yay
"The UV Clear has niacinamide and is really going to be geared towards or marketed more towards acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation of the skin. It blends in nicely with a pretty normal soft finish, not overly matte and definitely not like a hydrating dewy luminous look at all. If you have acne prone skin, this is one that I recommend."
Sponsored

What the evidence says.

Independent of what the gurus think, this is what the published research supports about the main active ingredients here.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide has evidence behind it for redness, uneven tone and supporting the skin barrier, and it is usually well tolerated even by skin that reacts to most things.

Source: DermNet

Alpha hydroxy acids

Alpha hydroxy acids loosen the bonds holding dead cells at the surface. The evidence supports smoother texture and more even tone over time, and they can leave skin more sensitive to sun.

Source: NIH, National Library of Medicine

Sunscreen filters

Sun protection is the best evidenced way to slow visible ageing, and the filters are what does the work. Mineral and chemical filters both protect when a product is applied thickly enough and often enough, which is where most people fall short rather than on the choice of filter.

Source: DermNet

Frequently asked.

What is EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46?

A broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with SPF 46 containing zinc oxide, niacinamide, and antioxidants, available in tinted and non-tinted formulas designed for daily facial protection.

Is EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 worth it?

Mostly yes. 19 of the 22 gurus who reviewed it give it their stamp of approval, for a Guru Score of 82%.

What is EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46's Guru Score?

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 holds a Guru Score of 82%. That is our read on how warmly the experts talk about it, based on the verdicts of 22 expert reviewers we have collected. At least one expert has named it a Top Pick in its category.

Same formula, for less.

Products built around the same core actives as this one, with what the experts make of each.

See how they stack up →

Similar products worth a look.

Other products the same gurus have weighed in on, plus more from this brand and category.

Compare side by side →

Share this score

Add this badge to your blog or website. It links back to this page and updates itself when the experts change their minds. Free, no sign-up.

Then paste it into your site's HTML or embed block.

This week's top beauty news, in your inbox.

A weekly read of the takes worth catching up on: the raves, the splits, the ones the gurus won't shut up about. Free, no spam, unsubscribe whenever.

Subscribe to the digest