Studies point to octinoxate’s harmful consequences on animals and the environment. Although it’s commonly used, there are questions about its safety. The other active ingredient is a chemical UV filter called octinoxate - an ingredient you can find in a ton of cosmetic and skin care products like makeup, shampoo, hair dye, lotion, lip balm, and nail polish, to name a few. Some experts suggest opting for a sunscreen with at least 10 percent zinc oxide. Zinc oxide is included in the formula at a 9 percent concentration, which is lower than the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved maximum of 25 percent. One of the active ingredients is a mineral compound called zinc oxide, which works by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays. When it comes to sunscreens, there are two main types: physical sunscreens (also called mineral sunscreens) and chemical sunscreens.ĮltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 includes both. Research from 2012 points out that when used correctly, SPF 30 sunscreen will block around 97 percent of UVB rays. The American Cancer Society suggests wearing a sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30.

The formula is SPF 46, which means the product checks another important box. They’re also linked with premature skin aging. While UVB rays cause most types of skin cancers, UVA rays can also contribute to skin cancer.

This matters because both types of UV rays can damage your health. Thanks to the anti-inflammatory vitamin B3 on the ingredients list, it’s commonly recommended for people with sensitive skin.īefore we dig into details, the first thing to know about this product is that it’s a broad-spectrum sunscreen - which means it protects against both ultraviolet A and B (UVA and UVB) rays. This Skin Cancer Foundation-approved product is oil-free, paraben-free, and noncomedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores.

Elta md tinted sunscreen sensitive skin