Kyle Richards says she's making up for past mistakes when it comes to sunscreen. (Getty)(Amanda Edwards via Getty Images)
Talk to any dermatologist, and they'll tell you how important it is to wear sunscreen. Not only does it prevent nasty burns, but it can help you avoid sunspots, fine lines and other signs of aging. Not thrilled by the idea of getting lotioned up every day? Sunscreen for your face has evolved a lot over the years. Thick, oily formulas have yielded to lightweight, silky moisturizers, and the best tinted sunscreens are designed to help smooth out your complexion. One top-seller, loved by Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Kyle Richards, is EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Face Sunscreen.
The 1.7-ounce size is travel-ready. You can also keep it in your purse to reapply throughout the day. (FYI, doctors recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours.)
This sunscreen-moisturizer mash-up has over 17,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.
"I've tried so many moisturizing and sun-blocking creams but nothing comes close to this one," wrote one happy shopper. "It's much pricier than other options, but it's well worth it. It was originally recommended to me by my dermatologist and I wouldn't swap it out for anything else."
In an Amazon Live shopping video, Richards shared a list of her vacation essentials while in Mexico with her daughters. She calls the sunscreen "the absolute best, best, best product."
"Anywhere in the world, but especially on vacation, you know my favorite product I always talk about — everybody I know uses this," she says while holding up a bottle of the SPF 46. "I use the tinted one, so I start with this on my face before I go anywhere."
She adds that "it feels really good on your skin." However, Richards also shares that she didn't always take care of her skin, and she has sun damage that "tortures" her. Now, she's making an effort to always wear sunscreen (she also loves this one by Supergoop!) and says she wants her girls to learn from her mistakes.
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Face Sunscreen is formulated for those with sensitive skin who may be prone to acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation. It contains niacinamide, which can keep excess oil production in check and make pores appear smaller. The oil-free zinc oxide SPF comes in three levels: SPF 40, SPF 46 or SPF 50. You can wear it under your makeup or on its own, like a light foundation, thanks to its subtle tint. A pump makes it easier to dispense what you need, so you're not repeatedly sticking your fingers into a jar.
"I love this stuff!" wrote one of the 13,000-plus five-star Amazon shoppers. "It's non-drying and doesn't break me out! I was recommended it by my dermatologist. Also, I love the that it is tinted to give a little bit of a light makeup look without the effort."
"Best SPF ever for oily skin!" wrote another fan. "I have tried countless SPFs for the face and they always end up leaving my face greasy and sliding into my eyes, which stings. A dermatologist recommended this brand to me and it has been the best thing ever! It actually absorbs in my skin with zero grease and I forget it's even on. Makeup goes on perfectly on top."
"It's a savior for my sensitive eyes," said a final reviewer. "I've struggled with sunblocks that irritate my eyes, but this one is gentle and doesn't cause any burning or discomfort. I should also mention that I have oily skin, and this sunblock has been a true hero in controlling shine. ... The only drawback is its size and price. It's a tad small, and I wish it came in a larger container. But, quality often comes at a price, and I'm more than willing to invest in something that works wonders for my skin."
The tinted sunscreen comes in only one shade, so it may be harder to blend on darker skin tones. If the tint doesn't work for you, good news: There's also a clear formula.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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