EltaMDUV Clear Tinted Face Sunscreen, SPF 46 Oil- Free with Zinc Oxide, Dermatologist Recommended

I’m 52 and never wore sunscreen. About a year ago, I noticed some discoloration on my upper cheeks. I asked my dermatologist what I could do about it. He said that it was melasma from sun damage. He sold me a cream that contained hydroquinone and recommended EltaMD Tinted 46. So, I bought some.EltaMD seemed very expensive at the time. So, I bought a big bottle of another brand with a pump on it and used it every morning like lotion. Quick and easy. But, I could feel that I was absorbing what I learned were chemicals (I didn’t know the difference in physical and chemical sunscreen at the time).So, then I got into a rather obsessive series of chats with ChatGPT about chemical sunscreen (for months). Most chemical sunscreens in the U.S. use the same four ingredients. These ingredients do absorb into the skin and some impact hormones.So, I bought Zinc Oxide /Titanium Dioxide sunscreens. But, they literally turn your face blue. OK for the beach. But, you can’t wear it to work. People think you are low on oxygen and are dying. Definitely not worth the distracting conversations—especially if you’ve lost a bunch of weight taking a GLP-1.As I said, I became obsessed with this subject and know all of the chemicals used in the U.S and Europe along with associated target wavelengths (I didn’t look too much into Asian sunscreens). But, I’ll say that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is really in the way with chemical sunscreens. The approval process is so expensive, the sunscreen companies don’t go through the approval process in the U.S.But, the Europeans have a lot of options. And they are very good options. Particle size, and some other characteristics, ensure that they don’t absorb into the skin, are reef safe, and don’t degrade quickly in sunlight. So, you don’t have to apply them every two hours if you are in an office and not sweating (because that’s the other thing—I’m not getting caught in the restroom mirror, or with a compact mirror, applying sunscreen at work).So, I ordered a lot of different European sunscreens to be shipped directly from Europe. Why so many? I learned that blue light is what causes melasma. And there are a couple of ingredients (Mexoryl 400 and TriAsorB) that stop blue light along with UVA and UVB. But they made my face shiny (like, your face looks like it is slathered in olive oil). I bought matte versions that were still shiny. Or they had perfume in them—very floral feminine scents (God knows I don’t want to show up at work smelling like a girl—or a Romeo fresh from a romp either). Some of the bottles were comically small (fits in the front pocket of your slacks without bulging) for exhorbatant prices that were exacerbated by high shipping costs. But, mostly, they are oily.So, I bought a great U.S. zinc oxide one that is very mattifying. Worked perfect… almost. The problem was that two layers of sunscreen (I didn’t want to give up the blue light protection) with a mattifier absorbing so much oil made it look like I was wearing foundation—and turned my face blue. I tried a lower zinc oxide spf concentration. Still blue. Then I got tinted versions (the first one was too dark and made me look like I was drunk). And, that much sunscreen makes you feel like you are wearing a mask and you can’t wait to wash it off at the end of the day.After washing, my face would be dry (don’t use Castile soap on your face). So, I bought moisturizers (several because ChatGPT gave me a whole regimen on a Word doc so I could tape it to my mirror). Some made my face oily. Some made my face sting (even the simple volcano water and hyaluronic acid stung). For the love of God! So, ChatGPT tells me that my barrier is compromised. So, I buy a bunch of mild cleansers. Cream to foam is not strong enough to remove caked on sunscreen. Squalene oil emulsifier works great. But, this was all too much.So, this morning I saw, among a bathroom sink full of so many products it puts my wife’s side of the sink to shame (she’s very unhappy with this obsession by the way. She says I look like a girl putting on make up (rubycell sponges are the best in case you are looking for that kind of thing))….Well, to make a long story short, I saw an old bottle of EltaMD 46. Very smooth application (I think that it is the Octinoxate that creates the perfect viscosity). It feels like I have nothing on my face. That’s a great feeling. No white cast or blue face. The tint does not seem to wear off as easily on things like a white collar or the inside of a hat (probably because it spreads so well you don’t have to use a lot. I’ve purchased a dozen hats to protect me from the sun too. But that’s a whole n’other story).The bottom line is that my dermatologist was right. And, I could have financed a few years worth of EltaMD 46 purchases if I hadn’t gone down the European rabbit hole.Do not buy the EltaMD 50! It does not spread well.One more thing. The iron oxide used in the tint blocks blue light that causes melasma! Who would have guessed. I didn’t notice that message the first time I was reading the bottle label.Just buy the EltaMD 46. Trust me. It’s the best in every way.

My goodness!!! I've recently discovered a game-changer in my skincare routine, and it's none other than this tinted sunblock that has won my heart! This product is more than just sun protection; it's my secret to a flawless, radiant complexion. Haha!!! :)What sets this tinted sunblock apart is its ability to tackle multiple concerns with ease. First and foremost, it provides the essential sun protection we all need. That's a given. But what truly stands out for me is its magical touch in evening out my skin tone. It conceals the redness on my cheeks and imparts a lovely, uniform color to my face, leaving me feeling confidently fresh-faced.Another reason I'm head over heels for this sunblock is its lightweight texture and easy blendability. It glides on effortlessly, and within moments, it feels like a part of my skin. No caking, no heavy feeling - just pure comfort. I have not tried it under makeup yet, but in the mornings I do not really gravitate towards makeup.What's more, it's a savior for my sensitive eyes. I've struggled with sunblocks that irritate my eyes, but this one is gentle and doesn't cause any burning or discomfort.I should also mention that I have oily skin, and this sunblock has been a true hero in controlling shine. It mattifies my T-zone and keeps excess oil at bay throughout the day. I no longer worry about looking greasy in the afternoon.Now.......the only drawback is its size and price. It's a tad small, and I wish it came in a larger container. But, quality often comes at a price, and I'm more than willing to invest in something that works wonders for my skin. In fact, I've already dropped hints to friends and family that this sunblock is my go-to gift request! Who can blame me? I'm simply smitten with it. Hahaha!! :)In a nutshell, this tinted sunblock is a true gem. It's not just sun protection, it's a beauty enhancer, a skin soother, and an oil controller all in one. So, if you're looking for a sunblock that goes the extra mile, look no further. Give it a try, and you might just fall in love with it, like I did! :) <3

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Sunscreen is one of the few products I keep repurchasing. It gives my skin a beautiful, even tone while providing serious sun protection. The tint blends seamlessly—no white cast, no greasy residue—just a smooth, lightweight finish that looks like skin, only better.I have sensitive, acne-prone skin, and this formula has never caused breakouts or irritation. In fact, it feels calming thanks to ingredients like niacinamide. It wears well under makeup, but honestly, I often skip foundation altogether when I use this.Perfect for everyday wear, especially if you want sun protection without compromising on how your skin looks or feels. A go-to for anyone who wants skincare and SPF in one step.

This was recommended to me by my dermatologist and my sister, both of whom are well-versed in skin care.Even though it comes out of the container, looking tinted, it goes on your face transparently.The label information can seem confusing.I wear it every day, except in the deep winter.I have never had any sort of skin problem, or breakout from using it and I can have sensitive skin.I have also not had any sunburn, but I don’t stay out in the sun very long so I’m not a good gauge of that.It’s not inexpensive, but I have done some comparison shopping and getting a high SPF formula that’s safe for your face with this major ingredients is not inexpensive.

Great daily sunscreen with a light tint. Glowy base that’s perfect for summer. Hasn’t caused a breakout on the acne prone skin. Super lightweight formula!