Comparing Sunscreen Leaders: Drmtlgy and Top 3 Alternatives to EltaMD Favorites

Drmtlgy sunscreens lined up next to EltaMD sunscreens for comparison.

Published on September 05, 2023

By Terry

Here at SKINSKOOL, our extensive database houses almost 46,000 skincare products, making it quite a feat for any single brand to stand out. Yet, that's precisely what DRMTLGY has managed to do. Its products consistently rank as bestsellers via our site. Intrigued by this pattern, we decided to dive deeper into what’s making DRMTLGY stand out and after some reverse digging we discovered that it’s a whopping competitor to EltaMD sunscreen, producing 3 of the top INCI ingredient list matches to EltaMD sunscreen bestsellers including popular EltaMD tinted sunscreen and EltaMD UV Clear.

EltaMD UV Elements Broad Spectrum SPF 44 vs. Drmtlgy Physical Tinted Moisturizer SPF 44

Drmtlgy Physical Tinted Moisturizer SPF 44 is the highest INCI compare match on the SKINSKOOL platform for the EltaMD UV Elements Broad Spectrum SPF 44.

Key Comparisons:

  1. Type of Sunscreen: Both are physical or mineral-based sunscreens that have a tint.
  2. SPF Protection Factor: the same at SPF 44
  3. Protection: Both offer broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, but Drmtlgy also claims protection against infrared and blue light.
  4. Water Resistance: Drmtlgy has a longer water resistance claim (up to 80 minutes) compared to EltaMD (up to 40 minutes).
  5. Skin Type: Both are suitable for all skin types, but Drmtlgy explicitly mentions acne-prone skin.
  6. Additional Benefits: Both formulas are oil-free, and have hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and iron oxides for extra protection and skincare benefits.

EltaMD Tinted UV Elements Broad Spectrum SPF44.

Drmtlgy Physical Tinted Moisturizer SPF44 comparison to EltaMD Tinted UV Elements Broad Spectrum SPF44 on SKINSKOOL.

Ingredients Comparison

EltaMD UV Elements Broad Spectrum SPF 44 is known for its robust formula featuring 10.0% Zinc oxide and 5.7% Titanium dioxide. Interestingly, Drmtlgy's Physical Tinted Moisturizer SPF 44 closely matches these active ingredients with 10% Zinc Oxide and 5.5% Titanium Dioxide. Furthermore, both products contain water, sodium hyaluronate, and ascorbyl palmitate in their inactive ingredients list.

Price Comparison

While EltaMD tinted sunscreen retails for around $40 for a 2-ounce bottle, DRMTLGY's alternative comes in less at approximately $28 for the same amount. 

Verdict

We don’t often see formulas match up so closely. When it comes to the active ingredients and essential additions, DRMTLGY's Physical Tinted Moisturizer gives EltaMD UV Elements Broad Spectrum SPF 44 a run for its money, practically twinning. The critical factor that sets DRMTLGY apart is its much friendlier price tag. (not to mention the extra 20% off you can get using code SKINSKOOL)

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 vs. Drmtlgy Broad Spectrum SPF 45

Drmtlgy Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is one of the top INCI ingredient list matches for the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 on the SKINSKOOL platform.

Key Comparisons:

  1. Type of Sunscreen: Both are chemical sunscreens, non tinted.
  2. Sun Protection Factor: Similar, SPF 46 vs SPF 45
  3. Protection: Both offer broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Drmtlgy also mentions infrared protection.
  4. Targeted Skin Types: EltaMD targets acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin, while Drmtlgy is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.
  5. Additional Benefits: Both contain Niacinamide, EltaMD states it’s for improving discoloration, and Drmtlgy states it’s for skin brightening.
  6. Formula: Both are non-comedogenic. Drmtlgy is oil-free and fragrance-free, while EltaMD is lightweight and leaves no residue.

EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF46.

Drmtlgy Broad Spectrum SPF45 comparison to EltaMD on SKINSKOOL platform.

Ingredients Comparison

For those who swear by EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, it's essential to note that DRMTLGY's Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is hot on its heels. EltaMD's version includes 9.0% Zinc oxide and 7.5% Octinoxate, while DRMTLGY ups the game with 12.00% Zinc Oxide and maintains 7.50% Octinoxate. Additionally, both products feature niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and tocopheryl acetate in their ingredient lists. 

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, both EltaMD and Drmtlgy target the premium skincare market, but Drmtlgy offers a more budget-friendly option. EltaMD's sunscreen is priced at $40 for a 2-ounce bottle, equating to $20 per ounce. On the other hand, Drmtlgy's option comes in at $26 for a 1.7-fluid-ounce bottle, which breaks down to approximately $15.29 per ounce. While both brands offer high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreens with additional skincare benefits, Drmtlgy (extra 20% off using code SKINSKOOL) provides a more cost-effective solution, costing nearly 25% less per ounce compared to EltaMD. This price difference can be a significant factor considering how much sunscreen people go through per month if applying as much as you should.

Verdict

Both the EltaMD Clear and the Drmtlgy Broad Spectrum offer comprehensive sunscreen protection with only a minor difference in Zinc oxide concentration. Again, DRMTLGY wins when it comes to offering a highly similar product at a significantly reduced price.

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 vs. Drmtlgy Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46

Drmtlgy Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 is the highest INCI match comparable for the EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 on the SKINSKOOL platform.

Key Comparisons:

  • Type of Sunscreen: Both are tinted sunscreens containing zinc oxide and octinoxate.
  • Protection: Both offer broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Drmtlgy additionally claims infrared radiation and blue light protection.
  • Targeted Skin Types: EltaMD targets various skin types but specifically those prone to blemishes and discoloration. Drmtlgy is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • Additional Benefits: Both contain Niacinamide but for different stated purposes. EltaMD aims to use niacinamide to reduce blemishes and discoloration, whereas Drmtlgy aims to use niacinamide for overall skin brightening and moisturization.
  • Formula: Both are lightweight. Drmtlgy provides sheer color coverage, while EltaMD offers a sheer tint for even skin tone and is fragrance-free and paraben-free.

EltaMD Tinted UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF46.

Drmtlgy Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF46 comparison to EltaMD on SKINSKOOL platform.

Ingredients Comparison

If you are an enthusiast of EltaMD tinted sunscreen and the UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, DRMTLGY's Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 could be your new go-to. The active ingredients of both products are closely matched: EltaMD's version features 9.0% Zinc Oxide and 7.5% Octinoxate, while DRMTLGY offers 12% Zinc Oxide and 7.5% Octinoxate. Both brands also feature skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

Price Comparison:

In terms of pricing, Drmtlgy offers a more budget-friendly option, priced at about $16.47 per ounce as compared to EltaMD's $25.29 per ounce. The cost-effectiveness clearly leans towards Drmtlgy, especially considering that both products offer broad-spectrum SPF 46 protection. Depending on your specific skincare needs—whether that involves targeting specific skin issues like acne and discoloration or a more universal approach—the lower price per ounce of Drmtlgy may be a more appealing option.

Verdict

One SKINSKOOL community member mentioned experiencing a stinging sensation around their eyes with the Drmtlgy product, a concern they didn't have with the EltaMD product. However, such experiences are highly individual, emphasizing the importance of a personal trial. Notably, many users passionately advocate for the Drmtlgy alternative. While both products deliver similar tinted sunscreen benefits ingredient-wise, DRMTLGY stands out for its cost-effectiveness. (Incidentally, make sure you take advantage of an extra 20% off using the code SKINSKOOL)

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving world of skincare, DRMTLGY is making notable waves, particularly when it comes to offering viable alternatives to well-established products like those from EltaMD. While individual experiences with any product can vary, the overall trend suggests that DRMTLGY is indeed a contender worth considering in the sunscreen arena. Skinskool's discovery platform, with its meticulous approach to product analysis and comparison, proves invaluable for those on the hunt for new skincare favorites or alternatives. As always, personal trials remain crucial, but armed with Skinskool's insights, consumers can make more informed decisions in their skincare journey.

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Terry

Co-Founder of SKINSKOOL, the world’s first & only IP-protected, tech-driven beauty marketplace dedicated to empowering consumer discovery, comparison and purchasing based on objective ingredient and pricing information.