Sun Safety for All: EltaMD's Deep Tint Sunscreen for Darker Skin Tones

Developing EltaMD Deep Tint

Despite common misconceptions, people with melanated skin still need to take precautions against the sun. Individuals with darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation from UVA and blue light exposure, and although the incidence of skin cancer is lower in darker skin tones, the mortality rate is higher due to later detection. Using sunscreen regularly is crucial for catching issues early and improving skin health outcomes.

To address the need for more inclusive sunscreen, EltaMD created a new Deep Tint face cream. The development of the product followed a meticulous scientific process—hypothesis, prototype, test, learn, and iterate—to ensure that the final product was shaped by many perspectives.

EltaMD scientists started with the hypothesis that a specially formulated sunscreen, using a proprietary blend of iron oxides, could eliminate the white cast on deeper skin tones while providing effective sun protection. The goal was to create a sunscreen that would blend seamlessly into a range of darker skin tones, enhancing the skin's natural appearance.

“Initially, we thought, ‘Let's take the current tint and double the levels and see what happens.’ Ultimately, it wasn't that simple,” said Devon Cocuzza, a principal scientist for the CP Skin Health organization.

The next step involved formulating prototypes that leveraged a specific ratio of iron oxides designed to be flexible and adaptive. This ratio would ultimately form the backbone of Invisible Blend Technology, ensuring the sunscreen would leave a sheer, skin-enhancing finish. 

EltaMD extensively tested the prototypes on various skin tones, specifically focusing on Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI. The Fitzpatrick skin types classify human skin color into six categories based on the skin's response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, ranging from Type I (very fair, always burns) to Type VI (deeply pigmented, never burns).

These tests were crucial to fine-tuning the formula to ensure it met the needs of people with deeper skin tones. The consumer perception study for UV Clear involved a sample size of 156 women with melanated skin, as well as additional clinical testing on 37 people over a three-month period.

“We wanted to ensure that we were trusted because we were venturing into an area beyond our existing tinted sunscreen,” said Deon Hines, a principal scientist in personal care product development at Colgate-Palmolive. “People came along with us on this journey, and their feedback and insights ultimately helped us to iterate and develop a product they approved of.”

Learn from principal scientist Deon Hines, who is passionate about creating products that cater to all skin tones. Deon has developed a groundbreaking formula that offers full sun defense without leaving a white cast. In this video, she uncovers common skin health misconceptions.

The result of these tests and iterations is EltaMD UV Clear and UV Daily Deep Tint sunscreens. Key ingredients, like niacinamide in UV Clear and hyaluronic acid in UV Daily, ensure that the sunscreens not only protect but also enhance skin health. 

These sunscreens are free from parabens, fragrances, and dyes and are non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic.

With the launch of UV Clear and UV Daily Deep Tint sunscreens, EltaMD is amplifying its outreach efforts, including supporting the Melanoma Research Foundation’s #GetNaked campaign and participating in the inaugural Women's Health Lab with our “Black, Brown & Beautifully Protected” panel. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about the importance of sun protection for all skin tones and encourage regular skin checks.

In line with Colgate-Palmolive's mission to promote a healthier future for all, EltaMD remains dedicated to creating inclusive skin health products through continuous innovation and collaboration.

EltaMD UV Clear and UV Daily Deep Tint sunscreens are now available for purchase in the United States.