The 14 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin That Are Dermatologist Approved
Back before any of us knew any better, we thought of sunscreen as something that you only needed to use when you were spending a lot of time in the sun. You know, like beach days and vacation. Thankfully, a lot of us have wisened up to the fact that we all need sun protection 365 days a year, even on cloudy, gloomy days, and it's easier now than even since there are many ±±sunscreens for sensitive skin. (Another reason to wear it every day? There’s the possibility that the blue light from our various tech screens is causing damage.)
- Audrey Kunin, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of DERMAdoctor
- Purvisha Patel, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare
Best sunscreens for sensitive skin at a glance
- Best chemical sunscreen: La Roche Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen SPF 60, $20
- Best for face: Elta MD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $41
- Best for pregnancy: TIZO 3 Mineral Sunscreen for face SPF 40, $43
- Best moisturizing: Kinship Self Reflect Probiotic Moisturizing Sunscreen Zinc Oxide SPF 32, $28
- Best for families: Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sensitive SPF 30+, $15
- Best roll-on: Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, $18
- Best splurge: Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35 PA+++, $70
- Best for eczema: CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, $14
- Best sheer: Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30, $34
- Best budget: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunscreen Broad Spectrum - SPF 60+, $10
- Best for sports: Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 50, $20
- Best with minimal white cast: CoTz Sensitive SPF 40 Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB, $28
- Best eye cream with SPF: Dermatologically Defining Eye Radiance Cream SPF 30, $32
- Best for the body: Supergoop! PLAY Everyday SPF 30 Lotion, $34
If you forget to wear the stuff, it’s not just an irritating sunburn that you have to worry about, but also wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots, not to mention, more detrimental effects like skin cancer. The thing is, not all sunscreens are the same, especially if you’re someone with sensitive, reactive, or even acne-prone skin. The wrong formula can cause rashes, dryness, irritation, and breakouts—which are annoying to deal with period, but especially when you’re trying to do a good thing and protect your skin from those harmful UV rays! Plus, the right formula should be able to stack easily with your serums, primer, and foundation.
What to look for in sunscreen if you have sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin, you're better off with mineral sunscreens. According to Dr. Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, people with sensitive skin should opt for mineral sunscreens that have zinc or titanium oxide as the photo protective ingredient. “These ingredients are safer for you as they stay on the surface of the skin and are not absorbed into the body, as chemical sunscreen ingredients are,” she explains. “Chemical sunscreens can be irritating to skin with an impaired barrier, such as in those with sensitive skin. They work by absorbing UV radiation, versus mineral blocks that deflect the light.”
What to avoid in a sunscreen if you have sensitive skin
When it comes to certain ingredients to watch out for, Patel says to specifically steer clear of four: oxybenzone and PABA, or para-aminobenzoic acid, a once-common sunscreen ingredient. Both of these chemicals are known to cause allergic reactions and are potential hormone disruptors. You’ll also want to avoid sunscreens containing fragrance, as they have the potential to irritate sensitive skin as well.
Ahead, find the best sunscreens for sensitive skin. Hot tip via Patel: Remember the shot glass rule when it comes to application. “Use two fingers for the face, a shot glass for the top half of the body and a shot glass for the lower body,” she says. For more sun protection options, check out our tested sunscreens and spray sunscreens for your face.
The best sunscreens for sensitive skin
Patel recommends this as a daily sunscreen (in both tinted and non-tinted versions) because it contains iron oxides, which is a specific ingredient that may help protect against that blue light damage done during screentime. This particular sunscreen is oil-free, making it a great fit for anyone who is prone to clogged pores and breakouts.
What reviews say: “This product was recommended to me by a friend who is an esthetician. My face reacts poorly to all other facial sunscreen. This goes on light and immediately feels like a soft powder. It gives better sun protection than any other product I’ve tried.” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 60
Type: Chemical
Active ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate
Pros:
- Oil-free
- Helps absorb excess oil
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can leave a white cast
This is a very popular, award-winning sunscreen that Patel (and many other derms, plus Hailey Bieber!) recommends. It contains niacinamide, which can help fight breakouts and free radicals, and is fragrance free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic, making it a great sunscreen for your face.
What reviews say: “I wish I knew about this sunscreen sooner! I have sensitive skin, have gone through product after product to find anything to not Make my skin break out. This product is ultra gentle, feels super great on my skin and under makeup, light in texture, and doesn’t smell terrible. If you’re looking for a staple this is it.” — SkinStore customer
SPF level: 46
Type: Chemical
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, octinoxate
Pros:
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can leave a white cast
Another favorite of Patel’s, this matte, water-resistant sunscreen (which comes in both tinted and non-tinted options) is made with both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, and is free from fragrances, essential oils, and preservatives. It’s dermatologist-recommended and also makes for a good pregnancy-safe sunscreen option.
What reviews say: “This sunscreen smooths on with a surprisingly silky feel. It is not a heavy cover, but more like a light weight foundation.” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 40
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Titanium oxide, zinc oxide
Pros:
- Lightweight
- No dyes or fragrances
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the tinted version is too dark
This easy-to-apply, chemical-free sunscreen goes on so smoothly, it almost acts like a primer underneath makeup. Not only does it contain zinc oxide as its main photo-protective ingredient, but it also has the antioxidant turmeric as well as the brand’s signature plant-based probiotic for even more protection. One thing to point out is that it does have a light vanilla scent (there’s a new rose version as well), so if your skin can handle light fragrances this is a fun choice.
What reviews say: “As someone with problematic, skin prone to breakouts, I am thrilled to have found a sunscreen that does not clog pores, provides great coverage, and doesn’t leave a white cast on my face. On days I wear makeup, I use it as a primer!” — Ulta customer
SPF level: 32
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
Pros:
- Can be used as a moisturizer, primer, and sunscreen
- Contains a probiotic
- Clean ingredients and no fragrances
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can leave skin feeling greasy
If you’re looking for a sensitive skin option that won’t break the bank, look no further than this chemical-free sunscreen from Blue Lizard. It’s water-resistant, so you can wear it in the pool without worry, and the bottle changes to blue when it’s exposed to the sun so you have a pretty cool reminder to apply it. There are no chemicals, fragrances, or parabens, and it’s safe to use even on kids.
What reviewers say: “This is what my dermatologist recommended. So far it works great. Not all oily, easy to spread and no funky smells. Whitens up your skin a bit. I have gone through a couple bottles and no sunburns.” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 30
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
Pros:
- Easy to apply
- Water-resistant
- No fragrances, parabens, or chemical ingredients
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can leave a white cast
- Can be slightly greasy
Made with zinc oxide and free from chemicals like formaldehyde, oxybenzone, parabens, octinoxate, silicones, and more, sensitive-skin peeps will love this mineral sunscreen as long as they don’t mind a subtle white tint. The sunscreen is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, the roll-on application makes for an easier, less messy way to get some sun protection quickly when you head outside.
What reviews say: “This sunscreen is lightweight, non-greasy, and fragrance-free. Because it’s zinc-based, it does leave a little white cast on your skin (like all zinc based products). I REALLY like the roll-on version because it is so easy to apply exactly where you need it! I also appreciate the fact that is is reef friendly!” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 50
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium oxide
Pros:
- Pros:
- Roll-on application is less messy
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight and non-greasy
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can leave a white cast
This luxe sunscreen is easy to apply, and is free from parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, homosalate, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and more. It’s lightweight and leaves a matte finish, and it also blurs pores, so it’s great underneath makeup or on a bare face. It contains ingredients such as silk extract, Japanese wild rose, and loquat leaf extract to smooth, protect, and calm skin.
What reviews say: “I LOVE THIS PRODUCT!! I have struggled for years to find a sunblock for my sensitive face. With this product, my eyes don’t water and nose doesn’t run. I feel like I am putting silk on my face. It goes on smoothly, no white cast and not oily. I am totally protected from the sun with this product. Simply the best!” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 35
Type: Chemical
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, octisalate
Pros:
- Matte finish
- Lightweight, can be worn under makeup
- Contains ingredients like silk extract and Japanese wild rose to protect and smooth skin
Cons:
- Expensive
A great choice for people with eczema and delicate skin, this mineral sunscreen contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, plus three essential ceramides that help hydrate the skin and restore the barrier. It’s oil and fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and boasts recommendations from both the Skin Cancer Foundation and National Eczema Association.
What reviews say: “The lotion/cream is medium-thick so requires dabbing it on in spots around your face, then patting and blending it in. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly it blended. There is a slight sheer white sheen initially, but it goes invisible as your body warms it up. It’s lightweight as they claim and it is not greasy feeling. With the added ceramides and niacinamide my face never feels dry.” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 50
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
Pros:
- Contains ceramides to restore skin barrier
- Contains hyaluronic acid to moisturize skin
- Dermatologist developed
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can leave a white cast
Drunk Elephant’s beloved sunscreen contains no chemical screens or silicones. Instead, it uses zinc oxide to protect skin from UV damage, so it’s the perfect choice for anyone whose skin is prone to irritation. It goes on sheer, which makes it great for everyday use. Plus, it contains antioxidants such as sunflower shoot extract, algae extract, and raspberry seed oil to help protect your skin against damaging environmental factors.
What reviewers say: “This was recommended to me by an acne-focused brand. I have tried a ton of daily SPFs, both high end and drug store, but none compare to this! I have acne prone skin and SPFs usually break me out, but this stuff never does! Its very lightweight and doesn’t have a weird SPF smell.” — Sephora customer
SPF level: 30
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
Pros:
- Sheer finish
- Contains antioxidants
- Fragrance-free
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it feels heavy
This hypoallergenic sunscreen from Neutrogena is formulated for sensitive skin types and it’s wallet-friendly, too. It’s oil-free, lightweight, and non-greasy and has no fragrance, oils, or harsh chemical ingredients. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can use it at the pool or beach.
What reviews say: “Wore in Mexico and it prevented me from burning, not greasy, next to no smell, I have very sensitive skin and was not bothered by this, did not clog the pores.” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 60+
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Titanium oxide, zinc oxide
Pros:
- Affordable
- Oil and fragrance-free
- Water-resistant
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can leave a white cast
This is another affordable sunscreen option that was specifically designed for those with sensitive skin. It’s water and sweat-resistant, so whether you’re going for a swim or out on a hike, you’ll stay protected for up to 80 minutes. Irritation-free and formulated using naturally-sourced zinc oxide active ingredient, this sunscreen absorbs quickly, and stays put for up to 80 minutes. It’s also unscented.
What reviews say: “I really like this facial sunscreen! It’s white and rather opaque upon application but after it dries down it does become a bit more transparent. I really like to use some of this sunscreen and a dab of my foundation mixed in and applied to my face as an easy summer foundation. A good product that I will repurchase! No eye irritation! — Amazon customer
SPF level: 50
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Sweat- and water-resistant
- Unscented
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can leave a white cast
CoTz stands for “contains only titanium and zinc,” and the brand uses no chemical filters. Dr. Audrey Kunin, a dermatologist and founder of DERMAdoctor, recommends this reef-friendly mineral sunscreen, especially for people with sensitive skin. It has no parabens, fragrances, oils, or preservatives and blends nicely into the skin. It has 20% zinc oxide, but many reviewers say it leaves a minimal white cast for a mineral sunscreen.
What reviews say: “As a darker-skinned person, I have been on a mission to find a mineral sunscreen that is water-resistant with no chalky white cast and no sticky feeling AND no annoying fragrance. This one ticks all the boxes and it’s very impressive that it wears so elegantly with 20% zinc oxide in the formula.” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 60
Type: Mineral
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
Pros:
- Minimal white cast
- Water-resistant
- No dyes, fragrances, or oils
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it feels greasy
One part of your face you may forget to put sunscreen on: the under-eye area. Dr. Kunin says this mineral based sunscreen is approved by both dermatologists and ophthalmologists and is even appropriate for contact lens wearers. It has broad spectrum SPF 30 and can also help smooth, hydrate, and brighten the delicate eye area.
What reviews say: “It’s lightweight, yet effective. Eye creams with higher SPF have the best of both worlds. A little goes a long way. Highly recommended.” — Dermadoctor customer
SPF level: 30
Type: Chemical
Active ingredients: Titanium oxide, zinc oxide
Pros:
- Designed for delicate eye area
- Hypoallergenic
- Lightweight
Cons:
- More expensive
When you’re out in the sun all day applying and reapplying sunscreen, you don’t want your body to feel greasy. This Supergoop! sunscreen is lightweight and fast-absorbing, and it’s sweat- and water-resistant up to 80 minutes to keep up with all your activities. It has a light scent (from natural ingredients, and not synthetic fragrances) that’s more pleasant than the traditional sunscreen scent.
What reviews say: “I love how silky smooth this product is! It is so lightweight and absorbs so well into your skin. It is easy to spread all over without using a ton of product. It’s so light, you don’t feel weighted down on already hot, humid days. It smells AMAZING and doesn’t burn when you put it on.” — Amazon customer
SPF level: 30
Type: Chemical
Active ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Water- and sweat-resistant
- Contains ingredients like sunflower extract and rosemary & rice bran extracts to protect and calm skin
Cons:
- Light scent
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