Physician's Guide to EltaMD
Not sure which EltaMD sunscreen is best for you? Use this handy chart to determine the most effective sunscreen for your skin type and concerns. All EltaMD sunscreens are broad-spectrum, fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free and non-comedogenic.
| EltaMD Sunscreen | Use | Skin Type | Description | *Fitzpatrick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 |
Face | Acne-prone, Rosacea, Hyperpigmented | Formulated with 5% niacinamide for sensitive skin types. Tinted and untinted formulas. Oil-free. | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 |
|
UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44 |
Face | All Types, Post-Procedure | Tinted, chemical-free UV protection for all skin types. Water-resistant (40 mins.) | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
|
UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 |
Face | Extra-Sensitive, Post-Procedure | Lightly tinted. Chemical-free with antioxidants. Water-resistant (40 mins.) Oil-free. | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
|
UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 |
Face | Normal, Combination, Post-Procedure | Moisturizing UV protection with hyaluronic acid in tinted and untinted formulas. | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 |
|
UV Facial Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+ |
Face | Dry, Mature | Fluffy and moisturizing. Wear alone or under makeup. | 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 |
|
UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 47 |
Face & Body | All Types | Water-resistant (80 mins.) Natural, chemical-free active ingredients. Gentle and lightweight. Oil-free. | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
|
UV Shield Broad-Spectrum SPF 45 |
Face & Body | Oily to Normal | Lightweight protection. Apply under makeup or use alone. Oil-free. | 1, 2, 3, 4 |
|
UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 |
Full Body | All Types | Water-resistant (80 mins.) Ideal for water sports. Apply to wet or dry skin. Oil-free. | 1, 2, 3 |
|
UV Spray Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 |
Full Body | All Types | Water-resistant (80 mins.) sunscreen in pump sprayer. Oil-free. | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
|
UV Aero Broad-Spectrum SPF 45 |
Full Body | All Types | Continuous spray for easy application. Water-resistant (80 mins.) Oil-free. | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
|
UV Lotion Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+ |
Full Body | All Types | Moisturizing UV protection | 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 |
|
UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 31 |
Lip | All Types | Long-lasting moisturizing lip sunscreen with antioxidants. Water-resistant (80 min.) | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
*The Fitzpatrick scale uses genetic disposition and reaction to sun exposure to determine your skin type. Type I is very fair, type II is fair, type III is light, type IV is medium, type V is dark and type VI is very dark.
Zinc oxide means true broad-spectrum protection
Zinc oxide offers superior broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. It’s also one of the safest sunscreen ingredients, sitting on top of the complexion and scattering UV rays before they reach your skin.
Why Broad Spectrum Matters
When it comes to sunscreen, broad spectrum is the gold standard. Standard SPF levels only measure UVB protection, leaving your skin susceptible to sun damage. Broad-spectrum sunscreens shield against both UVA and UVB rays, and all EltaMD sunscreens provide this superior level of protection.
UVA Rays: The Aging Rays
- Penetrate deeply into the skin layers, damaging collagen and cells
- Cause wrinkling, pigmentation and loss of elasticity
- Can pass through glass (office and vehicles)
- Are not affected by weather or altitude
- Are present all day, every day of the year
- Are up to 50 times more prevalent than UVB rays
- Increase the risk for skin cancer
UVB Rays: The Burning Rays
- Mostly affect the outer layer of the skin
- Cause sunburns and tannin that increase the risk of cancer
- Vary with time of day and seasons, and are stronger in summer
- The SPF (sunburn protection factor) number of a sunscreen indicates level of protection from UVB only
