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EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46

Curated from 93 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: March 3, 2025

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46

Brand: EltaMD
Price: $44
Snoop Score:
8.1
Sentiment
7.6
Popularity
7.2
Technical
8.6

Snoop's Take

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 is a dermatologist-recommended, oil-free sunscreen designed specifically for acne-prone and sensitive skin. This lightweight formula provides broad-spectrum protection without leaving a greasy residue, making it an ideal choice for daily use under makeup or alone. Consumer sentiment around EltaMD UV Clear is overwhelmingly positive, with users praising its effectiveness for oily skin and its lightweight, non-greasy feel. Many users report that it doesn't cause breakouts, with one stating, “it makes my skin feel like VELVET -- it's amazing.” The presence of soothing ingredients such as niacinamide further elevates its appeal, as it calms sensitive skin and minimizes the appearance of pores. Given the positive feedback regarding its performance and suitability for sensitive skin, EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is highly recommended in its category. Users have considered it a long-time favorite, despite some mixed reviews on ingredient changes, making it a solid choice for those seeking effective sun protection without the heaviness of traditional sunscreens.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Sun Protection

For oily skin it should be just fine, I really liked It when I tried it and it didn't cause any acne breakouts for me.

Positive Feedback

I've noticed that the texture and ingredients have changed and it's gotten so expensive.

Negative Feedback
Product
8.1
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
Daily Wear
10 / 10
Active & Outdoor Activities
4 / 10
Travel-Friendly
10 / 10
Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin
10 / 10
See how this compares to all Sun Protection

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Effective for oily skin without causing breakouts
For oily skin it should be just fine, I really liked It when I tried it and it didn't cause any acne breakouts for me.
After having tried so many awful products that make me look like a greasy mime, I’m so goddamn excited to have found a sunscreen I don’t have to fight with.
This was my go-to sunscreen for years, and I feel that it doesn't get enough love on here!
It makes my skin feel like VELVET -- it's amazing.
Lightweight and non-greasy formula
I rather like the satin finish, and no breakouts whatsoever.
The Elta doesn’t dry out my skin or anger my rosacea so I’m loathe to give it up.
EltaMD is absolutely gorgeous but the UVA protection could be better.
Overall they were very nice and now we know they do test the PPD of their sunscreens.
Effective for long-term use without breakouts
EltaMD is my holy grail list of products.
Doesn’t work for everyone but works for me!
Adored by users despite mixed reviews on ingredients
I also adore Elta MD.
this almighty and incredible sunscreen that's been floating in the realm since I understood sunscreen!!
Favorite product among users
UV Clear is my favorite EltaMD by far and is a combination sunscreen.
Effective for sensitive skin
Despite the tint, I love the product. It’s taken me ages to finally find an spf that works this well for my skin.
It’s one of the few that doesn’t feel greasy or tight on my skin and never oxidizes orange!
It looks very shiny and feels sticky and then all of a sudden it is completely matte and comfortable.
I love it. It is a purely physical sunscreen.
Effective for minimizing pores and brightening skin
I think the niacinamide in it, which helps with acne, could also brighten skin and minimize pores for non-acne-sufferers.
Sits nicely under makeup without stinging eyes
it sits nicely under makeup and never stings my eyes.
Long-time favorite among users
Elta MD is my tried and true.
Effective for dry/combo skin types
Well, I got **EltaMD UV Facial** off Amazon and even though it's my first day wearing it, I'm already in love.
No wonder my skin has been super happy!
Skin feels happy with niacinamide
the main difference is that UV Clear has niacinamide, which is an ingredient that generally makes skin happy :)
Leaves skin soft and non-shiny
OMG, so fast. And it leaves my skin so soft. Not shiny at all.
no white cast! (haha, I feel like an EltaMD evangelist or something)
No white cast on application
Alright, I'm sold!
Moisturizing when applied over a normal moisturizer
I find it somewhat moisturizing, actually. I wouldn't use it on its own, but on top of my normal moisturizer it's great.

Where it needs some work!

Areas to watch—feedback on possible improvements.
Changed texture and ingredients over time
I've noticed that the texture and ingredients have changed and it's gotten so expensive.
Pills on application with or without makeup
it pills everywhere on me with or without makeup.
Insufficient sun protection for some users
I feel like it’s not enough coverage.
Can pill on application
it does pill a little (like all of them I think) but it's def one of my favorites.
Overwhelming variety of formulas can be confusing
I was really wanting something that would moisturize (in lieu of moisturizer) and help with fine lines/wrinkles.
Insufficient UVA protection for some users
You can't really trust American sunscreens when it comes to UVA protection, unfortunately.
Thick and heavy white cast
It was like putting diaper paste on my face.
Contains irritating ingredients like octinoxate
but then I saw it that it has octinoxate, which irritates my skin :(
May cause sensitivity for some users
the tint does make my white t-shirts look like they've been through dirt and mud, kinda make me wanna avoid wearing white t-shirts.
Not water resistant
I found it to be really heavy/greasy, unfortunately.
Pilling with certain makeup products
I believe the Clear formula is silicone based, which can lead to pilling for many people.
I've been lucky that I haven't had any piling up, just on my chin when I put CC cream after.
Confusion over ingredient differences
What's the difference between Elta MD UV Clear and the Elta MD UV Facial?
The UV clear has niacinimide the UV facial doesn't.
Low PPD value raises concerns
I liked the UV Clear but had a problem or two with it (mostly the low PPD I thought it had) so have been looking at other sunscreens.
Seems fishy.
Can melt off in hot weather
But then it got hot, and I have a semi-physical job (nursing), and it started quite literally melting off of my face.
Contains highly comedogenic ingredients
This x 1000. All the EltaMD sunscreens I've tried caused me to break out in huge cysts which left horrible hyperpigmentation.

Compare On All Talked About Dimensions

Product NameImagePriceScoreCompareSee DetailsBuy Now
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46$44
8.1
DetailsBuy
Neutrogena Beach Defense Spray Sunscreen SPF 70Neutrogena Beach Defense Spray Sunscreen SPF 70$9
7.5
DetailsBuy
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70$8
6.9
DetailsBuy
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 100La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 100$26
6.8
DetailsBuy
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 70La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 70$36
6.6
DetailsBuy
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Mineral SunscreenThinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Mineral Sunscreen$18
6.6
DetailsBuy
AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun StickAHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick$13
5.8
DetailsBuy
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 50Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 50$17
4.7
DetailsBuy
Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30$8
3.8
DetailsBuy
Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush SPF 30Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush SPF 30$16
3.7
DetailsBuy
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen SprayBanana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray$12
3.6
DetailsBuy
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 100 Sunscreen SprayBanana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 100 Sunscreen Spray$10
3.6
DetailsBuy
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Lip Sunscreen 2 PackBanana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Lip Sunscreen 2 Pack$5
3.3
DetailsBuy

Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
Conversation about sunscreen ingredients and their effects.
Here’s what helped reduce my melasma so dramatically: sunscreen rated PA++++.
Does it have zinc?
Discussion of different EltaMD formulas and preferences
I have tried all 3 and have been using UV Elements for years now, it’s my fave!
Preference for mineral sunscreens due to sensitivity
I prefer physical/mineral sunscreens because my eyes are extremely sensitive and chemical filters make them buuuuurn, baby, burn.
Curiosity about other EltaMD formulas
Hmm. I thought eltaMd had a ppd rating of 7 or so.
User experiences and questions about product suitability
Wow that's so cheap.
it's the cheapest I've seen and I want to know if I can use it :)
Preference for physical sunscreens due to reapplication and irritation concerns
I like physical sunscreens for two main reasons: 1) not needing to reapply as often as with a chemical sunscreen 2) applying in the eye area without horrible burning.

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Discussion about mixing tinted and untinted versions
Messing around with the formula could effect the evenness of the uv filters and reduce protection.
I’ve been wondering the same thing, and am planning to email EltaMD to confirm for sure.
Discussion about different EltaMD products and their uses
Elta MD directly has a spf finder tool, based on your answers to questions.
I love it!! Not oily, smooth, I bought the tinted one, no white cast.

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Mention of other sunscreen brands and comparisons to EltaMD.
some US broad-spectrum sunscreens have amazing UVA protection, and some have average UVA protection.
I’m starting my baby melasma journey and would love all/any recommendations you’re willing to share!
I ADORE the Purito calming Centella sunscreen.
Discussion about alternative sunscreens and their effectiveness
The filters are much more effective than any sunscreens in the United States?
Curiosity about tinted options
It looks great and not very noticeable which is what I’m looking for.
Discussion about sunscreens' protective ratings and comparisons
I emailed EltaMD asking for their ppd rating, but they ended up giving me the PA rating instead.
Advice on where to buy EltaMD products at a discount
I think they're dropped their free shipping on everything policy :( Still an option if you're buying a lot at once, though.
Discussion on the availability of new EltaMD products
I might give it a try for running but only after I get through my huge glut on sunscreen 😬
Exploration of alternatives for sensitive skin sunscreens
Wondering if any of you guys have any experience with it (white cast, durability, how it wears under makeup, etc.), thanks!
Discussion about transitioning to a different EltaMD product
This looks really nice but I can’t use chemical sunscreens :(.
Discussion of EltaMD product comparisons
I use the lotion and love it.
Discussion about price differences in sunscreen options
I use Elta MD UV lotion. The percentage of Zinc Oxide and Octinoxate is lower (it's 30 SPF), but it's even cheaper.
Comparison of EltaMD with other brands
The LRP one is extremely drying, I find, and not shiny at all.
Previously my HG is skin1004 centella or the canmake mermaid uv gel.
Question about sunscreen reapplication during sun exposure
do you feel like it's still working? Or are you reapplying it and things like that.

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
Discussion of personal experiences with melasma and sunscreen efficacy.
I normally use EltaMD sunscreen. But I hear so much about BofJ.
For whatever the reason, I notice my melasma begins to come back with US sunscreens, including EltaMD.
I don’t trust it for hyperpigmentation anymore.
I still stare at it longingly in my medicine cabinet.
User sharing personal experiences with different sunscreens
Yay for UV shield love!

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