We’re big fans of EltaMD’s UV Clear broad-spectrum face sunscreen with SPF 46, but we understand if the hefty $45 price tag has made you hesitant to grab it. Luckily, we’re in the business of finding affordable alternatives that are just as great as their more expensive counterparts. We’ve tracked down a “holy grail” SPF 45 face sunscreen that has former EltaMD devotees saying, “EltaMD who?” for $17 less and the same size bottle.“This sunscreen has replace[d] my EltaMD UV Clear as my holy grail. This is the first sunscreen that I have WANTED to put on. Amazing,” one Ulta reviewer gushed about Drmtlgy’s SmrtSun broad-spectrum SPF 45 sunscreen with hyaluronic acid. At $28, it’s less than two thirds the price of EltaMD UV Clear, and promises similar sun protection and moisturizing benefits.The ingredient lists for both sunscreens are remarkably similar: Both contain zinc oxide and 7.5% octinoxate, which act as UV filters for sun protection (the Drmtlgy sunscreen even has a higher amount of zinc oxide — 12% to EltaMD’s 9%). That’s in addition to other helpful ingredients on both lists, like hyaluronic acid for hydration, niacinamide for a more even skin tone and tocopheryl acetate (aka vitamin E), an antioxidant that can help reduce the appearance of aging.Beyond the ingredient list, many reviewers who have used both prefer Drmtlgy’s sunscreen not just for the price, but for the feel on the skin. “I’ve heard this is suppose to be a dupe for Elta MD sunscreen but it’s even BETTER,” one reviewer claimed. “This sunscreen wears very well under makeup and doesn’t pill like Elta MD sunscreen does. This is my holy grail of all sunscreens.”Other reviewers call the formula “perfect under makeup” — non-greasy, lightweight and hydrating without leaving a white cast. “It goes on smoothly and soaks in,” one Ulta shopper said. “Doesn’t feel like it’s just sitting on my face. While protecting my skin, it feels like I’m nourishing it, too.” Another saw the effects of some of the sunscreen’s evening and smoothing ingredients: “After only a month of use I also noticed that my skin looked brighter, more evenly toned and lines on my forehead were gone. A definitive repurchase.”UltaThe formula is non-greasy, lightweight, suitable for sensitive skin and fragrance-free.And, just like the EltaMD sunscreen, several skin cancer survivors swear by this Drmtlgy SPF. “I have sensitive skin and I’ve had skin cancer,” one reviewer wrote. “This is my go-to daily SPF for my face [and] neck. It feels great on my skin, is non-irritating, and doesn’t have an odor. I buy this SPF for my daughter, too. The quality is incredible for the price.”Another said, “I am 56 years old, and grew up in the early [1970s] in south Florida with no [sun]screen. My fair skin paid for it later on. Was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2021, and of course, the doctor dermatologist recommended me using sunscreen every single day. ... Haven’t found the right one; until now!” They added, “Today, I was in a rush leaving, so not only did I put it on my face and décolleté, I also applied to my arms and it kept me protected as I ran my errands. You got a customer for life!”You’ll find more similarly impressed reviews below, in case you need any more convincing that this sunscreen is worth the buy. If EltaMD’s UV Clear isn’t in the budget right now, or you just want a sunscreen that both protects your skin and nourishes it, don’t let Drmtlgy’s SmrtSun pass you by.“I’ve been using this for a few years, and it’s consistently reliable. It works beautifully under makeup, absorbs quickly, and never feels heavy or greasy. I feel confident knowing it provides solid sun protection, and my skin stays comfortable throughout the day. A must-have in my routine.” — Rebecca E“I am a faithful SPF girl! I wear it everyday and battle with sunscreens that have been super thick or feel heavy on the face but this sunscreen is THE BEST! It provides great protection but is lightweight on the skin. It doesn’t feel tacky or heavy on the face. It wears GREAT under foundation too! Cheers to another amazing product by DRMTLGY” — Merle J.“When I say this is my holy grail... I mean it. I have tried so many other sunscreens and always come back to this one. Affordable, not greasy, makeup sits soo nicely over it. Absolutely 10/10 and cannot beat the price!” — Brieanna L“The perfect daily sunscreen-lightweight, protective and invisible and isn’t crazy expensive. This sunscreen is incredibly lightweight, blends seamlessly into my skin without leaving a white cast, doesn’t feel greasy or heavy even after hours of wear. Whether I am heading to work, the gym, or a day outdoors this sunscreen delivers consistent protection without irritation.” — Angela“I was looking for a sunscreen to replace my elta md I love their sunscreen but it’s pricey. I got this and was skeptical because I have very sensitive skin and also rosacea. This is amazing. Didn’t set off a flare up, no white cast, absorbs great. Best thing the bottle is huge for such a great price. I was expecting a much smaller bottle. This stuff is amazing so glad I found it.” — Ashley VThe original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.
If You Love The Feel Of Elta MD Sunscreen But Not The Price, We Found An Alternative
"I have tried so many other sunscreens and always come back to this one."
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