Why Drunk Elephant’s New 3-Shade Sunscreen Is Going Viral

Heat, humidity, and melting makeup have become familiar challenges, especially for anyone who still skips sunscreen because formulas often feel heavy or leave a greyish cast. As dermatologists frequently remind, consistent UV protection is the foundation of healthy skin, yet many people struggle to find an SPF that feels effortless for daily use.

The rising demand for lightweight sunscreens with a touch of coverage has opened the door for hybrid products that protect while subtly evening the complexion. The difficulty comes when mineral sunscreens feel thick or unblendable, making them less appealing for beginners.

Drunk Elephant steps into this gap with a refreshed version of its Umbra Sheer Mineral Cream SPF, now available in three adaptive shades designed to suit a wider range of skin tones. The updated texture aims to blend more easily, offering a natural finish that works well on its own or under makeup.

This introduction sets the stage for why the relaunch is gaining attention and what makes the new formulation a promising option for anyone looking for a comfortable, beginner-friendly mineral sunscreen.

The Updated Formula: Gentle Mineral Protection With Added Skin Benefits

Umbra Cream has been part of Drunk Elephant’s lineup since 2013, and its latest version brings a more refined and sensitive-skin-friendly approach. The formula relies on 20 percent zinc oxide, a mineral filter widely recommended by dermatologists for stable UVA and UVB protection when properly dispersed on the skin. This concentration supports its PA+++ rating, making it suitable for daily sun exposure.

To strengthen its antioxidant benefits, the sunscreen includes astaxanthin, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (a stable vitamin C derivative), and ubiquinone. These ingredients help defend the skin from environmental stressors, an advantage often highlighted by experts for long-term skin health.

Comfort is a key focus. Lightweight plant oils like jojoba and soothing green tea extract help maintain moisture and reduce the dryness sometimes associated with mineral SPF. According to dermatologist Dr. Lina Mercer, “a blend of emollients and antioxidants can make mineral sunscreen feel smoother and more wearable.”

One of the most challenging aspects of mineral formulas is their tendency to clump or sit unevenly on the skin. The upgraded Umbra Cream aims to solve this with a more flexible texture that layers cleanly under makeup and feels easy enough for everyday use.

The Shades: Three Flexible Options for Everyday Skin Tones

Drunk Elephant introduces Umbra Cream in three versatile shades designed to adapt to a wide range of skin tones while maintaining a sheer, easy-to-blend finish. The goal is simple: reduce white cast without turning the sunscreen into a heavy foundation substitute.

The updated lineup includes:

• Umbra Sheer – a very light tint with a soft pink undertone that helps neutralize dullness and brighten the complexion.
• Umbra Tinte – a medium golden tone that adds natural warmth without looking overly tinted.
• Umbra Cocoa – a warm bronze shade made for deeper skin tones while still keeping the finish breathable and not mask-like.

Beauty experts note that tinted mineral sunscreens can subtly balance uneven tone, making them ideal for minimal-makeup routines. The flexibility of these shades also stands out. Each can be worn individually or mixed to achieve a more personalized finish.

For example, blending Umbra Sheer with a touch of Umbra Cocoa can create a soft sun-kissed glow, a technique dermatologists often recommend for achieving a healthy radiance without extra makeup layers.

The Reviews

1. Umbra Sheer: Lightweight, Sweat-Resistant Sunscreen for Active Lifestyles

For runners and outdoor enthusiasts, finding the perfect sunscreen is essential. Abby Dupes, an associate editor and avid runner, emphasizes three key qualities: smooth application without streaks, strong adherence during sweat, and broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. She usually prefers chemical filters for convenience and comfort during exercise.

Umbra Sheer from Drunk Elephant stands out by delivering a natural, almost invisible finish. Unlike many zinc oxide sunscreens that leave a white cast, this formula blends seamlessly into the skin, making it suitable for everyday wear. Abby notes that even after intense workouts or splashes of water, the sunscreen stays intact without smudging.

Infused with raspberry seed and marula oils, Umbra Sheer also hydrates while protecting, keeping skin comfortable under heat and perspiration. Meeting all her criteria, Abby considers Umbra Sheer her go-to sunscreen for daily outdoor activities and plans to repurchase it. Its combination of lightweight feel, durability, and gentle hydration makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking reliable, natural-looking sun protection.

2. Umbra Tinte: Mineral Sunscreen with a Natural, Flawless Finish

Umbra Tinte is celebrated as a mineral sunscreen that balances comfort with subtle visual enhancement. Users report that its gentle tint softens the white cast often associated with zinc oxide without adding heavy color, creating a natural, fresh look. This makes it perfect for those who want UV protection without a makeup-like finish.

Beauty experts note that lightly tinted sunscreens can double as a summer foundation alternative, providing sun protection while keeping the skin lightweight. Umbra Tinte’s mineral formula blends effortlessly and offers a subtle blurring effect, giving the skin a smooth, refined texture.

For a warmer glow, some users mix Umbra Tinte with pigment-rich products like Drunk Elephant’s D-Bronzi Drops. Dermatologists recommend applying SPF generously first before layering other products to maintain effective UV defense. With its versatility and gentle tint, Umbra Tinte is ideal for daily use, helping skin look flawless while staying protected under the sun.

3. Umbra Cocoa: Warm Bronze Shade for Radiant, Natural-Looking Skin

The latest shade, Umbra Cocoa, offers a warm bronze glow while maintaining a lightweight feel. Olivia Hancock highlights its soft, soothing texture, ideal for those with sensitive skin. Although Drunk Elephant advises generous application, Cocoa’s higher pigmentation compared to other shades allows for a natural finish when applied carefully.

On first use, Umbra Cocoa instantly livens up the complexion with an even bronze radiance, eliminating the white cast common in mineral sunscreens. Dermatologists note that pigmented formulas can subtly mask minor imperfections and boost confidence without heavy makeup.

Olivia observes that while Umbra Cocoa might not be the go-to for daily bare-face wear, it’s perfect as a luminous base for makeup. Its warm tones enhance glow, making it ideal for outdoor events or occasions requiring a radiant finish. Combining sun protection with a flattering bronze tint, Umbra Cocoa adds a healthy, natural radiance to any skincare or makeup routine.