1 / 13EltaMD
UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Contains 5% soothing niacinamide
Hybrid BalancedLotion
Buy on AmazonSkin Type Match
42%
Sensitizing · Lightweight · Unscented
Pros
- Soothes inflammation
- Completely fragrance-free
- No drying alcohols
Cons
- Allergenic preservative risk
- Lacks needed emolliency
- Chemical filter irritation
Performance Scores
SPF Level
The labelled SPF 46 maps directly to the 'High' protection tier, suitable for extended outdoor use, backed by a combination of Octinoxate and Zinc Oxide.
Broad Spectrum
UVA protection relies entirely on a moderate 9.0% concentration of Zinc Oxide, which provides continuous UVA I and UVA II coverage but lacks the depth of a multi-filter system.
Sweat Resistance
The formula contains basic film-forming agents but lacks robust hydrophobic polymers and makes no formal water-resistance claim.
Photo Stability
The formula contains inherently photolabile Octinoxate without adequate triplet-state quenchers like Octocrylene, leaving it highly susceptible to rapid UV-induced degradation.
Visible Light
The formulation completely lacks iron oxides, tinting agents, or pigmentary minerals necessary to meaningfully attenuate visible light and high-energy visible (blue) light.
Irritation Risk
Generally gentle, but contains 5% niacinamide, octinoxate, and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate which may irritate compromised skin.
Pore Clogging
The formulation is extremely lightweight and oil-free, with only one mildly comedogenic emulsifier (Oleth-3 Phosphate, rated 2/5) present at a very low concentration.
White Cast
Contains 9% un-tinted Zinc Oxide in a hybrid filter system; despite formulation elegance, it will likely leave a visible cast on deeper skin tones.