The Number One Dermatologist-Recommended
Professional Sunscreen Brand
Available at R+H Aesthetic Medicine · Roseville · West Sacramento · Lake Tahoe
Skincare Education
The Right Sunscreen Is Not the One You Will Wear. It Is the One You Will Actually Use Every Day.
R+H Aesthetic Medicine · Roseville · West Sacramento · Lake Tahoe
Most patients know they should wear sunscreen daily. Very few actually do. The reason is almost never awareness of sun damage. It is texture. It is the white cast. It is the breakouts. It is the greasy film that sits on top of the skin all day. It is reaching for a product that was designed for someone else's skin type.
EltaMD exists to solve exactly that problem. As the number one dermatologist-recommended professional sunscreen brand, EltaMD formulates each product to a clinical standard and then engineers the texture, finish, and active ingredients around a specific skin type and concern. The result is a lineup where there is a genuinely right answer for nearly every patient, not a compromise.
At R+H Aesthetic Medicine, we recommend and carry EltaMD sunscreens because sun protection is not separate from the results we achieve with our treatments. It is the foundation those results rest on. Every filler, every neurotoxin session, every Morpheus8 treatment, and every skincare investment you make is either protected or undermined by what you put on your face each morning.
Daily broad-spectrum SPF is the single most evidence-based anti-aging intervention available without a prescription. It is also the one most patients skip.
R+H Aesthetic Medicine Clinical Team
This guide exists to change that. By the end, you will know exactly which EltaMD sunscreen was formulated for your skin, why it will feel different from anything you have tried at the drugstore, and how to build it into a routine that works.
Why EltaMD Is Different from Over-the-Counter Sunscreens
EltaMD is a physician-dispensed skincare brand. Its formulations are developed in collaboration with dermatologists and dispensed through licensed medical practices. This distinction matters for several reasons.
Every EltaMD formula is built on a micronized zinc oxide base. Zinc oxide is a physical mineral UV filter that works by reflecting and scattering UV rays at the surface of the skin. Unlike many chemical sunscreen actives, zinc oxide is non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and effective immediately on application. It is the ingredient dermatologists trust most for sensitive, reactive, post-procedure, and acne-prone skin.
At the drugstore, zinc-based sunscreens often leave a visible white cast and a heavy texture. EltaMD's micronized formulation process breaks zinc oxide particles down to a size that blends transparently into the skin without the cast, without the weight, and without interfering with makeup or skincare layering.
The EltaMD Sunscreen Collection: What Each Formula Does
EltaMD's facial sunscreen line is designed so each product addresses a specific set of skin concerns. Understanding the differences helps ensure patients are using the formula that was actually built for their skin, not simply the most visible or most talked-about option.
The most recommended EltaMD formula for acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin. Contains 5% niacinamide to visibly reduce blemishes and discoloration, alongside micronized zinc oxide and sodium hyaluronate. Lightweight, matte finish. Available in tinted and untinted versions.
Best for: Acne-prone, oily, rosacea, sensitive, normal, and hyperpigmented skin
EltaMD's newest breakthrough for acne-prone skin. Features 5% niacinamide and the proprietary Zinc-AOX Pro Technology. Clinically proven to reduce visible blemishes, excess oil, and pore size over time. Transparent natural finish suitable for daily wear under makeup.
Best for: Active acne, oily skin, enlarged pores, blemish-prone skin
A lightweight, hydrating formula powered by hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. Designed for daily use on normal to dry skin and gentle enough for post-procedure recovery. Available in tinted and untinted. Works as a moisturizer and sunscreen in one step.
Best for: Normal, dry, combination, and post-procedure skin
A 100% mineral, tinted antioxidant-enriched formula proven gentle enough for post-procedure and reactive skin. Blocks 56% of HEV blue light. Contains vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, bisabolol, and ginger root to calm redness and support recovery. Water resistant to 40 minutes.
Best for: Sensitive, post-procedure, reactive, redness-prone skin
Formulated for outdoor activity, sweat, and water exposure. Water resistant to 80 minutes, does not drip into eyes, and contains vitamin E as an antioxidant. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free. Ideal for patients with active outdoor routines.
Best for: Active lifestyles, outdoor sports, swimming, high sun exposure
How to Choose the Right EltaMD Sunscreen for Your Skin Type
The most common mistake patients make when choosing a sunscreen is selecting by SPF number rather than by formulation. A sunscreen with the wrong base for your skin type is one you will skip. The following guide matches each major skin type and concern to the EltaMD formula designed for it.
Both are oil-free and non-comedogenic. UV Clear SPF 46 is ideal for daily acne management and tone evening. The Blemish-Prone SPF 50 is the stronger clinical choice for patients with active breakouts, excess oil, or enlarged pores.
UV Clear SPF 46 calms redness and reduces blemishes with niacinamide. UV AOX Elements goes further with bisabolol and ginger root specifically formulated to reduce visible redness and support reactive skin.
The hyaluronic acid base delivers lightweight, lasting hydration throughout the day. Works as a one-step moisturizer and sunscreen for patients who prefer a simplified morning routine.
Both work well for combination skin. UV Clear is better if the T-zone is oily or if there is any blemish history. UV Daily is the better choice when hydration is the primary priority.
Clinically proven gentle enough for skin recovering from Morpheus8, laser, chemical peels, and injectable treatments. The antioxidant complex also supports the healing process by neutralizing free radical activity during recovery.
Water resistant to 80 minutes, designed for sustained outdoor exposure, swimming, and perspiration. Best layered over a daily skincare routine on high-activity days or weekends.
The Ingredients That Set EltaMD Apart
Understanding what is in a sunscreen helps patients make informed decisions and recognize the clinical value of a physician-grade formula compared to mass-market alternatives.
EltaMD Sunscreen Comparison: Key Differences at a Glance
| Formula | SPF | Key Ingredients | Best For | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UV Clear | SPF 46 | Zinc oxide, niacinamide 5%, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid | Acne-prone, rosacea, oily, sensitive | Matte, lightweight |
| UV Clear Blemish-Prone | SPF 50 | Zinc oxide, niacinamide 5%, Zinc-AOX Pro Technology | Active acne, oil control, pore refinement | Transparent, natural |
| UV Daily | SPF 40 | Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E | Dry, normal, combination, post-procedure | Sheer, hydrating |
| UV AOX Elements | SPF 50 | 100% mineral zinc, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, bisabolol, ginger | Sensitive, post-procedure, redness-prone | Tinted, luminous |
| UV Sport | SPF 50 | Zinc oxide, vitamin E | Active lifestyles, outdoor use | Water-resistant 80 min |
Why Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable After Aesthetic Treatments
At R+H Aesthetic Medicine, every provider on our team, Heidi, PA-C; Alicia, PA-C; Katie, NP-BC; Tiffany, PA-C; Joni, RN; and Genevie, RN, discusses sunscreen as part of the treatment conversation, not as a separate afterthought. This is because the return on every aesthetic investment a patient makes is directly tied to how well they protect their skin from UV-induced damage in between visits.
- After Morpheus8 or energy-based treatments, the skin is in an active healing phase. UV exposure during this window can cause hyperpigmentation, delay healing, and compromise the collagen remodeling response the treatment was designed to create. UV AOX Elements SPF 50 is our most commonly recommended formula in this context.
- After neurotoxin or filler, daily sunscreen use prolongs the quality and appearance of results by preventing the cumulative photoaging that degrades skin quality and accelerates the need for retreatment. Any EltaMD formula matched to the patient's skin type is appropriate.
- For patients using active skincare ingredients such as retinoids, AHAs, or niacinamide serums, daily SPF is a clinical requirement. These ingredients increase photosensitivity, and unprotected sun exposure directly counteracts their benefits.
- For patients managing hyperpigmentation or melasma, no topical treatment is effective without rigorous daily sun protection. UV triggers melanin production, and even brief unprotected exposure can reverse weeks of treatment progress.
Patients across Roseville, West Sacramento, and Lake Tahoe experience meaningfully different sun exposure environments. Lake Tahoe's high elevation increases UV intensity significantly compared to sea level. Roseville and Sacramento's hot, sunny climate creates a long high-UV season. Year-round SPF is not a seasonal recommendation for our patients. It is a daily clinical standard.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly for Full Protection
Safety. Comfort. Results. Luxury.
Look Your Best and Most Refreshed.
Frequently Asked Questions About EltaMD Sunscreens
What is the best EltaMD sunscreen for acne-prone skin?
The two best EltaMD options for acne-prone skin are UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 and the newer UV Clear Blemish-Prone and Oil Balancing SPF 50. UV Clear SPF 46 is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and contains 5% niacinamide to reduce blemishes and discoloration while delivering broad-spectrum protection. The Blemish-Prone SPF 50 is EltaMD's newest formula, clinically proven to reduce visible blemishes, excess oil, and pore size over time using the proprietary Zinc-AOX Pro Technology. Both are appropriate for daily wear and suitable under makeup.
Is EltaMD good for sensitive skin?
Yes. EltaMD is widely regarded as the standard for sensitive skin sunscreens. Every formula is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and built on a micronized zinc oxide base, which is the preferred mineral active for reactive skin. UV AOX Elements SPF 50 goes furthest for sensitivity, containing bisabolol and ginger root to calm visible redness. UV Clear SPF 46 is also appropriate for sensitive skin and rosacea. Both are dermatologist-tested and commonly recommended following cosmetic procedures.
Which EltaMD sunscreen should I use after Morpheus8 or a laser treatment?
UV AOX Elements SPF 50 is the most commonly recommended EltaMD formula following energy-based treatments like Morpheus8, laser resurfacing, or chemical peels. It is 100% mineral, clinically proven gentle enough for post-procedure skin, and contains calming actives including bisabolol and ginger root to support recovery while providing full broad-spectrum protection. Your provider will advise on exactly when to begin applying sunscreen after your specific procedure.
What is the difference between UV Clear SPF 46 and UV Daily SPF 40?
These two formulas serve different skin types. UV Clear SPF 46 is formulated for oily, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin. It is oil-free with a matte finish and contains niacinamide to address blemishes and discoloration. UV Daily SPF 40 is formulated for normal, dry, and combination skin. It is powered by hyaluronic acid and functions as both a moisturizer and sunscreen in one step. If your skin tends to be oily or breakout-prone, UV Clear is the better choice. If your skin tends toward dryness or tightness, UV Daily is the better match.
Does EltaMD UV Clear leave a white cast?
No. EltaMD uses micronized zinc oxide, which means the mineral particles have been reduced to a size that blends transparently into most skin tones without a white or gray cast. UV Clear is available in both untinted and tinted versions. The tinted formula provides additional tone correction for patients who prefer light coverage or want to address redness or uneven skin tone.
Can I use EltaMD sunscreen if I wear makeup?
Yes. EltaMD sunscreens are formulated to layer cleanly under makeup. The lightweight textures and non-greasy finishes across the UV Clear, UV Daily, and UV AOX Elements formulas make them compatible with foundation, tinted moisturizer, and powder. Many patients find the tinted versions of UV Clear and UV AOX Elements provide enough coverage to reduce or eliminate the need for additional foundation.
What SPF do dermatologists recommend for daily use?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 for daily use. All EltaMD facial formulas meet or exceed this threshold. For patients in high-altitude environments like Lake Tahoe, or those with a history of sun damage, hyperpigmentation, or skin cancer, SPF 46 to SPF 50 provides an additional margin of protection that is clinically appropriate.
Should I still wear sunscreen on cloudy days or when working indoors?
Yes to both. Up to 80% of UV rays pass through cloud cover, meaning overcast days still expose unprotected skin to meaningful UV levels. UVA rays, which are primarily responsible for photoaging and skin cancer risk, also penetrate glass, meaning time spent driving or near windows constitutes real UV exposure. Daily application regardless of weather or indoor versus outdoor plans is the clinical standard we recommend for all patients.
Is EltaMD safe to use while pregnant?
EltaMD formulas built on mineral zinc oxide are generally considered among the safest sunscreen options during pregnancy, as zinc oxide is not systemically absorbed through intact skin in the same way some chemical UV filters are. However, any skincare changes during pregnancy should be reviewed with your OB-GYN or healthcare provider before beginning. Our team can also assist with guidance during your consultation at any R+H location.
How much sunscreen should I apply to my face?
The standard recommendation is approximately a nickel-sized amount, roughly a quarter teaspoon, for the face alone, covering the face, neck, and ears. Studies consistently show that most people apply less than half the amount required to achieve the SPF level listed on the label. Applying a generous, even layer is as important as the formula itself.
Can EltaMD help with hyperpigmentation or melasma?
Daily sunscreen use is the most critical intervention in any hyperpigmentation or melasma management protocol. UV exposure triggers melanin production, and even brief unprotected exposure can undo weeks of topical brightening treatment progress. UV Clear SPF 46 contains niacinamide, which has established clinical evidence for reducing the appearance of discoloration and uneven skin tone, making it a particularly well-suited choice for patients managing pigmentation concerns alongside sun protection.
Where can I purchase EltaMD sunscreens?
EltaMD is a physician-dispensed brand available exclusively through licensed medical practices. It is not sold at drugstores, department stores, or general retail. Purchasing through R+H Aesthetic Medicine ensures product authenticity and access to clinical guidance on which formula is right for your skin. EltaMD is available at all three R+H locations in Roseville, West Sacramento, and Lake Tahoe, as well as through our online product offerings at rhmedicine.com/products.
What skincare benefits do BEAUTY BANK members receive at R+H?
BEAUTY BANK members receive exclusive perks that make investing in medical-grade skincare significantly more valuable. Current member benefits include Botox at $11 per unit and Dysport at $3.70 per unit (compared to the regular rate of $14 per unit and $4.70 per unit), one complimentary ZO Skin Health Stimulator Peel per year valued at $249 (redeemable after three months of membership), and a one-time 20% discount on all medical-grade skincare and supplements once per year (also redeemable after three months). For patients building or upgrading a skincare routine with EltaMD, that annual skincare discount alone can represent meaningful savings. Ask our team about enrolling at any R+H location.
Our monthly specials are updated regularly and include savings across EltaMD skincare, treatments, and more. Promotions change each month, so check current offers before purchasing or booking.
View Our Current Specials Shop EltaMD and All Skincare Products Explore BEAUTY BANK Membership
Flexible financing options are available to help make your skincare investment work for your budget. Learn more about our financing options here.
The Sunscreen Your Skin Deserves
Sun protection is the most evidence-based anti-aging intervention available without a prescription. It is also the one that most patients implement improperly, inconsistently, or not at all, largely because the products they have tried did not feel good on their skin.
EltaMD solves that. With a formula engineered for every skin type, a zinc oxide base trusted by dermatologists, and textures that genuinely work under makeup, in humidity, and in high-UV environments like those our patients experience across Roseville, West Sacramento, and Lake Tahoe, EltaMD removes every barrier to daily use.
At R+H Aesthetic Medicine, we believe the results we achieve together in our treatment rooms are only half the equation. What you do every morning is the other half. LOOK YOUR BEST AND MOST REFRESHED begins with the most important product in your skincare drawer. Make it one you will actually reach for.
THE BEST YOU is protected skin. Every single morning.
Explore Our Current Promos and Book Your Appointment
Not sure which EltaMD formula is right for your skin? Our clinical team can guide you during any consultation or skincare appointment. Browse our full product range online or call any of our three locations today.
Shop All Skincare and Supplements at R+H View Our Current Specials Self-Book Online Now
Call or Text Us to Book Your Appointment:
Lake Tahoe: (530) 237-4730
Roseville: (916) 209-0545
West Sacramento: (916) 617-2331
The Number One Dermatologist-Recommended
Professional Sunscreen Brand
Available at R+H Aesthetic Medicine · Roseville · West Sacramento · Lake Tahoe
Skincare Education
The Right Sunscreen Is Not the One You Will Wear. It Is the One You Will Actually Use Every Day.
R+H Aesthetic Medicine · Roseville · West Sacramento · Lake Tahoe
Most patients know they should wear sunscreen daily. Very few actually do. The reason is almost never awareness of sun damage. It is texture. It is the white cast. It is the breakouts. It is the greasy film that sits on top of the skin all day. It is reaching for a product that was designed for someone else's skin type.
EltaMD exists to solve exactly that problem. As the number one dermatologist-recommended professional sunscreen brand, EltaMD formulates each product to a clinical standard and then engineers the texture, finish, and active ingredients around a specific skin type and concern. The result is a lineup where there is a genuinely right answer for nearly every patient, not a compromise.
At R+H Aesthetic Medicine, we recommend and carry EltaMD sunscreens because sun protection is not separate from the results we achieve with our treatments. It is the foundation those results rest on. Every filler, every neurotoxin session, every Morpheus8 treatment, and every skincare investment you make is either protected or undermined by what you put on your face each morning.
Daily broad-spectrum SPF is the single most evidence-based anti-aging intervention available without a prescription. It is also the one most patients skip.
R+H Aesthetic Medicine Clinical Team
This guide exists to change that. By the end, you will know exactly which EltaMD sunscreen was formulated for your skin, why it will feel different from anything you have tried at the drugstore, and how to build it into a routine that works.
Why EltaMD Is Different from Over-the-Counter Sunscreens
EltaMD is a physician-dispensed skincare brand. Its formulations are developed in collaboration with dermatologists and dispensed through licensed medical practices. This distinction matters for several reasons.
Every EltaMD formula is built on a micronized zinc oxide base. Zinc oxide is a physical mineral UV filter that works by reflecting and scattering UV rays at the surface of the skin. Unlike many chemical sunscreen actives, zinc oxide is non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and effective immediately on application. It is the ingredient dermatologists trust most for sensitive, reactive, post-procedure, and acne-prone skin.
At the drugstore, zinc-based sunscreens often leave a visible white cast and a heavy texture. EltaMD's micronized formulation process breaks zinc oxide particles down to a size that blends transparently into the skin without the cast, without the weight, and without interfering with makeup or skincare layering.
The EltaMD Sunscreen Collection: What Each Formula Does
EltaMD's facial sunscreen line is designed so each product addresses a specific set of skin concerns. Understanding the differences helps ensure patients are using the formula that was actually built for their skin, not simply the most visible or most talked-about option.
The most recommended EltaMD formula for acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin. Contains 5% niacinamide to visibly reduce blemishes and discoloration, alongside micronized zinc oxide and sodium hyaluronate. Lightweight, matte finish. Available in tinted and untinted versions.
Best for: Acne-prone, oily, rosacea, sensitive, normal, and hyperpigmented skin
EltaMD's newest breakthrough for acne-prone skin. Features 5% niacinamide and the proprietary Zinc-AOX Pro Technology. Clinically proven to reduce visible blemishes, excess oil, and pore size over time. Transparent natural finish suitable for daily wear under makeup.
Best for: Active acne, oily skin, enlarged pores, blemish-prone skin
A lightweight, hydrating formula powered by hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. Designed for daily use on normal to dry skin and gentle enough for post-procedure recovery. Available in tinted and untinted. Works as a moisturizer and sunscreen in one step.
Best for: Normal, dry, combination, and post-procedure skin
A 100% mineral, tinted antioxidant-enriched formula proven gentle enough for post-procedure and reactive skin. Blocks 56% of HEV blue light. Contains vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, bisabolol, and ginger root to calm redness and support recovery. Water resistant to 40 minutes.
Best for: Sensitive, post-procedure, reactive, redness-prone skin
Formulated for outdoor activity, sweat, and water exposure. Water resistant to 80 minutes, does not drip into eyes, and contains vitamin E as an antioxidant. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free. Ideal for patients with active outdoor routines.
Best for: Active lifestyles, outdoor sports, swimming, high sun exposure
How to Choose the Right EltaMD Sunscreen for Your Skin Type
The most common mistake patients make when choosing a sunscreen is selecting by SPF number rather than by formulation. A sunscreen with the wrong base for your skin type is one you will skip. The following guide matches each major skin type and concern to the EltaMD formula designed for it.
Both are oil-free and non-comedogenic. UV Clear SPF 46 is ideal for daily acne management and tone evening. The Blemish-Prone SPF 50 is the stronger clinical choice for patients with active breakouts, excess oil, or enlarged pores.
UV Clear SPF 46 calms redness and reduces blemishes with niacinamide. UV AOX Elements goes further with bisabolol and ginger root specifically formulated to reduce visible redness and support reactive skin.
The hyaluronic acid base delivers lightweight, lasting hydration throughout the day. Works as a one-step moisturizer and sunscreen for patients who prefer a simplified morning routine.
Both work well for combination skin. UV Clear is better if the T-zone is oily or if there is any blemish history. UV Daily is the better choice when hydration is the primary priority.
Clinically proven gentle enough for skin recovering from Morpheus8, laser, chemical peels, and injectable treatments. The antioxidant complex also supports the healing process by neutralizing free radical activity during recovery.
Water resistant to 80 minutes, designed for sustained outdoor exposure, swimming, and perspiration. Best layered over a daily skincare routine on high-activity days or weekends.
The Ingredients That Set EltaMD Apart
Understanding what is in a sunscreen helps patients make informed decisions and recognize the clinical value of a physician-grade formula compared to mass-market alternatives.
EltaMD Sunscreen Comparison: Key Differences at a Glance
| Formula | SPF | Key Ingredients | Best For | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UV Clear | SPF 46 | Zinc oxide, niacinamide 5%, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid | Acne-prone, rosacea, oily, sensitive | Matte, lightweight |
| UV Clear Blemish-Prone | SPF 50 | Zinc oxide, niacinamide 5%, Zinc-AOX Pro Technology | Active acne, oil control, pore refinement | Transparent, natural |
| UV Daily | SPF 40 | Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E | Dry, normal, combination, post-procedure | Sheer, hydrating |
| UV AOX Elements | SPF 50 | 100% mineral zinc, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, bisabolol, ginger | Sensitive, post-procedure, redness-prone | Tinted, luminous |
| UV Sport | SPF 50 | Zinc oxide, vitamin E | Active lifestyles, outdoor use | Water-resistant 80 min |
Why Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable After Aesthetic Treatments
At R+H Aesthetic Medicine, every provider on our team, Heidi, PA-C; Alicia, PA-C; Katie, NP-BC; Tiffany, PA-C; Joni, RN; and Genevie, RN, discusses sunscreen as part of the treatment conversation, not as a separate afterthought. This is because the return on every aesthetic investment a patient makes is directly tied to how well they protect their skin from UV-induced damage in between visits.
- After Morpheus8 or energy-based treatments, the skin is in an active healing phase. UV exposure during this window can cause hyperpigmentation, delay healing, and compromise the collagen remodeling response the treatment was designed to create. UV AOX Elements SPF 50 is our most commonly recommended formula in this context.
- After neurotoxin or filler, daily sunscreen use prolongs the quality and appearance of results by preventing the cumulative photoaging that degrades skin quality and accelerates the need for retreatment. Any EltaMD formula matched to the patient's skin type is appropriate.
- For patients using active skincare ingredients such as retinoids, AHAs, or niacinamide serums, daily SPF is a clinical requirement. These ingredients increase photosensitivity, and unprotected sun exposure directly counteracts their benefits.
- For patients managing hyperpigmentation or melasma, no topical treatment is effective without rigorous daily sun protection. UV triggers melanin production, and even brief unprotected exposure can reverse weeks of treatment progress.
Patients across Roseville, West Sacramento, and Lake Tahoe experience meaningfully different sun exposure environments. Lake Tahoe's high elevation increases UV intensity significantly compared to sea level. Roseville and Sacramento's hot, sunny climate creates a long high-UV season. Year-round SPF is not a seasonal recommendation for our patients. It is a daily clinical standard.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly for Full Protection
Safety. Comfort. Results. Luxury.
Look Your Best and Most Refreshed.
Frequently Asked Questions About EltaMD Sunscreens
What is the best EltaMD sunscreen for acne-prone skin?
The two best EltaMD options for acne-prone skin are UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 and the newer UV Clear Blemish-Prone and Oil Balancing SPF 50. UV Clear SPF 46 is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and contains 5% niacinamide to reduce blemishes and discoloration while delivering broad-spectrum protection. The Blemish-Prone SPF 50 is EltaMD's newest formula, clinically proven to reduce visible blemishes, excess oil, and pore size over time using the proprietary Zinc-AOX Pro Technology. Both are appropriate for daily wear and suitable under makeup.
Is EltaMD good for sensitive skin?
Yes. EltaMD is widely regarded as the standard for sensitive skin sunscreens. Every formula is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and built on a micronized zinc oxide base, which is the preferred mineral active for reactive skin. UV AOX Elements SPF 50 goes furthest for sensitivity, containing bisabolol and ginger root to calm visible redness. UV Clear SPF 46 is also appropriate for sensitive skin and rosacea. Both are dermatologist-tested and commonly recommended following cosmetic procedures.
Which EltaMD sunscreen should I use after Morpheus8 or a laser treatment?
UV AOX Elements SPF 50 is the most commonly recommended EltaMD formula following energy-based treatments like Morpheus8, laser resurfacing, or chemical peels. It is 100% mineral, clinically proven gentle enough for post-procedure skin, and contains calming actives including bisabolol and ginger root to support recovery while providing full broad-spectrum protection. Your provider will advise on exactly when to begin applying sunscreen after your specific procedure.
What is the difference between UV Clear SPF 46 and UV Daily SPF 40?
These two formulas serve different skin types. UV Clear SPF 46 is formulated for oily, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin. It is oil-free with a matte finish and contains niacinamide to address blemishes and discoloration. UV Daily SPF 40 is formulated for normal, dry, and combination skin. It is powered by hyaluronic acid and functions as both a moisturizer and sunscreen in one step. If your skin tends to be oily or breakout-prone, UV Clear is the better choice. If your skin tends toward dryness or tightness, UV Daily is the better match.
Does EltaMD UV Clear leave a white cast?
No. EltaMD uses micronized zinc oxide, which means the mineral particles have been reduced to a size that blends transparently into most skin tones without a white or gray cast. UV Clear is available in both untinted and tinted versions. The tinted formula provides additional tone correction for patients who prefer light coverage or want to address redness or uneven skin tone.
Can I use EltaMD sunscreen if I wear makeup?
Yes. EltaMD sunscreens are formulated to layer cleanly under makeup. The lightweight textures and non-greasy finishes across the UV Clear, UV Daily, and UV AOX Elements formulas make them compatible with foundation, tinted moisturizer, and powder. Many patients find the tinted versions of UV Clear and UV AOX Elements provide enough coverage to reduce or eliminate the need for additional foundation.
What SPF do dermatologists recommend for daily use?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 for daily use. All EltaMD facial formulas meet or exceed this threshold. For patients in high-altitude environments like Lake Tahoe, or those with a history of sun damage, hyperpigmentation, or skin cancer, SPF 46 to SPF 50 provides an additional margin of protection that is clinically appropriate.
Should I still wear sunscreen on cloudy days or when working indoors?
Yes to both. Up to 80% of UV rays pass through cloud cover, meaning overcast days still expose unprotected skin to meaningful UV levels. UVA rays, which are primarily responsible for photoaging and skin cancer risk, also penetrate glass, meaning time spent driving or near windows constitutes real UV exposure. Daily application regardless of weather or indoor versus outdoor plans is the clinical standard we recommend for all patients.
Is EltaMD safe to use while pregnant?
EltaMD formulas built on mineral zinc oxide are generally considered among the safest sunscreen options during pregnancy, as zinc oxide is not systemically absorbed through intact skin in the same way some chemical UV filters are. However, any skincare changes during pregnancy should be reviewed with your OB-GYN or healthcare provider before beginning. Our team can also assist with guidance during your consultation at any R+H location.
How much sunscreen should I apply to my face?
The standard recommendation is approximately a nickel-sized amount, roughly a quarter teaspoon, for the face alone, covering the face, neck, and ears. Studies consistently show that most people apply less than half the amount required to achieve the SPF level listed on the label. Applying a generous, even layer is as important as the formula itself.
Can EltaMD help with hyperpigmentation or melasma?
Daily sunscreen use is the most critical intervention in any hyperpigmentation or melasma management protocol. UV exposure triggers melanin production, and even brief unprotected exposure can undo weeks of topical brightening treatment progress. UV Clear SPF 46 contains niacinamide, which has established clinical evidence for reducing the appearance of discoloration and uneven skin tone, making it a particularly well-suited choice for patients managing pigmentation concerns alongside sun protection.
Where can I purchase EltaMD sunscreens?
EltaMD is a physician-dispensed brand available exclusively through licensed medical practices. It is not sold at drugstores, department stores, or general retail. Purchasing through R+H Aesthetic Medicine ensures product authenticity and access to clinical guidance on which formula is right for your skin. EltaMD is available at all three R+H locations in Roseville, West Sacramento, and Lake Tahoe, as well as through our online product offerings at rhmedicine.com/products.
What skincare benefits do BEAUTY BANK members receive at R+H?
BEAUTY BANK members receive exclusive perks that make investing in medical-grade skincare significantly more valuable. Current member benefits include Botox at $11 per unit and Dysport at $3.70 per unit (compared to the regular rate of $14 per unit and $4.70 per unit), one complimentary ZO Skin Health Stimulator Peel per year valued at $249 (redeemable after three months of membership), and a one-time 20% discount on all medical-grade skincare and supplements once per year (also redeemable after three months). For patients building or upgrading a skincare routine with EltaMD, that annual skincare discount alone can represent meaningful savings. Ask our team about enrolling at any R+H location.
Our monthly specials are updated regularly and include savings across EltaMD skincare, treatments, and more. Promotions change each month, so check current offers before purchasing or booking.
View Our Current Specials Shop EltaMD and All Skincare Products Explore BEAUTY BANK Membership
Flexible financing options are available to help make your skincare investment work for your budget. Learn more about our financing options here.
The Sunscreen Your Skin Deserves
Sun protection is the most evidence-based anti-aging intervention available without a prescription. It is also the one that most patients implement improperly, inconsistently, or not at all, largely because the products they have tried did not feel good on their skin.
EltaMD solves that. With a formula engineered for every skin type, a zinc oxide base trusted by dermatologists, and textures that genuinely work under makeup, in humidity, and in high-UV environments like those our patients experience across Roseville, West Sacramento, and Lake Tahoe, EltaMD removes every barrier to daily use.
At R+H Aesthetic Medicine, we believe the results we achieve together in our treatment rooms are only half the equation. What you do every morning is the other half. LOOK YOUR BEST AND MOST REFRESHED begins with the most important product in your skincare drawer. Make it one you will actually reach for.
THE BEST YOU is protected skin. Every single morning.
Explore Our Current Promos and Book Your Appointment
Not sure which EltaMD formula is right for your skin? Our clinical team can guide you during any consultation or skincare appointment. Browse our full product range online or call any of our three locations today.
Shop All Skincare and Supplements at R+H View Our Current Specials Self-Book Online Now
Call or Text Us to Book Your Appointment:
Lake Tahoe: (530) 237-4730
Roseville: (916) 209-0545
West Sacramento: (916) 617-2331
