Sunscreen · $41
EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41
A tinted, 100% mineral sunscreen using 9.0% zinc oxide and 7.0% titanium dioxide. The tint comes from iron oxides, which matters beyond cosmetics: iron oxides are the ingredient shown to help block the visible light implicated in melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Key ingredients
- Zinc oxide 9.0%
- Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB filter, published on the label rather than left vague.
- Titanium dioxide 7.0%
- Adds UVB coverage; also the main contributor to cast in untinted mineral formulas.
- Iron oxides (tint)
- Neutralise the mineral white and add visible-light protection, which standard SPF ratings do not measure.
- Antioxidant blend
- Vitamin E and green tea derivatives support the filters against free radical damage.
Texture and finish
A thick tinted cream that needs deliberate blending. It finishes matte to satin and provides light coverage, roughly one universal beige shade — which reads well on light to medium skin and can be too pale on deeper tones.
It suits you if
- You have sensitive, rosacea-prone, or post-procedure skin
- You are treating melasma or hyperpigmentation and want visible-light protection
- You prefer mineral filters and want disclosed percentages
Skip it if
- Your skin tone is deeper than medium — the single tint will cast
- You want a weightless, invisible everyday finish
- You need a large volume for body use at this price
Pros
- Iron oxide tint for visible-light protection
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, and well tolerated by reactive skin
- Filter percentages published on the label
Cons
- One shade only — poor deep-tone coverage
- Thick and requires effort to blend
- Expensive per ounce
How to use it
- 1Two finger-lengths for face and neck as the last morning step.
- 2Warm between fingers and press-blend in sections rather than rubbing.
- 3Reapply every two hours outdoors, using a tinted powder over makeup.
Where it fits in a routine
Final morning step, over moisturizer, every day including indoors near windows.
See the hyperpigmentation routineMore breakdowns
This breakdown is based on publicly available ingredient lists and manufacturer information. It is general skincare information, not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for a dermatologist's assessment of your skin.