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EltaMD · Sunscreens

UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

$42·48 ml·Leave-on
97
Low concern

Why this score

Concern52 / 55
  • No ingredients carry meaningful, evidence-backed concern.

How much genuine, cited concern the ingredients carry, weighted by how much of each is likely present and whether the product stays on or rinses off.

Transparency20 / 20
  • No hidden fragrance blend.

Whether the full ingredient list, and any fragrance, are actually disclosed.

Formulation restraint25 / 25
  • No needless irritants or fragrance allergens for this product type.

Needless irritant or allergen load for the product type. A clean, purposeful formula scores well without any "free-from" theater.

Scored by PlainBody Editorial against the PlainScore method · Label checked July 2026

What’s inside

OctinoxateWatch if sensitive

A widely used UVB chemical filter with a long safety record at US-approved concentrations. Some lab and animal studies have raised questions about hormone activity and coral reef impact, which is why a few jurisdictions cap or restrict it, but human-relevant risk at labeled use levels is considered low by regulators.

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Zinc OxideGenerally safe

A mineral UV filter that sits on the skin surface and reflects and scatters UV light. It is one of the best-studied sunscreen actives and is generally considered non-irritating and safe for use, including on sensitive skin.

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WaterGenerally safe

The base most products are built on. It carries the other ingredients and has no safety concern.

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Cetyl AlcoholCommonly feared, low concern

A fatty alcohol used to soften skin and stabilize creams. Despite the name, it does not dry the skin.

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NiacinamideGenerally safe

A form of vitamin B3 used to support a more even-looking tone and a comfortable barrier. Well tolerated at cosmetic levels.

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GlycerinGenerally safe

A humectant that draws water into the skin. One of the best-studied, best-tolerated ingredients in personal care.

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DimethiconeCommonly feared, low concern

A silicone that gives a smooth, soft feel and helps hold water in the skin. Inert and well studied.

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Lower-concern alternatives

Same category, higher PlainScore.

Compare UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 against anything we have scored →

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Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. Concern ratings are evidence-graded and cited on each ingredient page. See how we score.