Best Sunscreens For Sensitive Skin

The 5 Best Sunscreens For Sun Sensitive Skin

by Heidi | Nov 13, 2022 |Skincare Health Tips |

There are a few sunscreens on the market that are specifically designed for people with sun sensitive skin. These sunscreens typically have a higher SPF than regular sunscreens, and they may also contain ingredients that help to soothe and protect the skin. Some of the best sunscreens for sun sensitive skin include the following: 1. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 3. Aveeno Positively Radiant SPF 50 Sheer Daily Moisturizer 4. CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 50 5. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50 Each of these sunscreens contains ingredients that are beneficial for sun sensitive skin, and they all have a high SPF that will help to protect the skin from the suns harmful rays.

The hydrating formula will leave your skin feeling soft and supple, while also protecting it from UV and blue light damage. Furthermore, EltaMA UV Clear Facial Sunscreen is dermatologist-approved to help calm and clear up your skin. The Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion is still the best sunscreen on our list. Aveeno Positively Mineral Sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide and has a long shelf life against UVA and UVB rays. Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen contains hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic ingredients.

Best Stick: Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunstick

Sunscreen sticks are a more convenient option for certain areas, especially your face, as they can easily get into small and sensitive areas, such as your under-eye and the creases near your nose and mouth. They are also a great solution for treating areas more prone to burning, such as the lips, nose, earlobes and around the eyes, notes Dr. Camp.

This mineral sunscreen offers SPF 50 protection and is conveniently sized for travel.

âBuy it:â â Target.com Walmart.com

How To Choose The Best Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin

When in doubt, choose mineral: In general, people with sensitive skin have a bit more luck with a mineral or physical sunscreen compared to products with chemical filters . Instead, look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide on the label, which protects by providing a physical shield between the skin and the suns harmful rays, says Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and the Hamptons. By contrast, chemical filters absorb those UV rays and reduce the amount that penetrates the skin. However, both are considered safe to use by the American Academy of Dermatology.

Avoid fragrances:Some sunscreens may be formulated with certain fragrances to provide a pleasing scent, but this can lead to irritation, redness, and sensitivity for certain people, says Dr. Garshick. For this reason, some patients may actually be able to tolerate a chemical filter-containing sunscreen, but not the fragrance or botanical that it is combined with.

Go oil-free: Having acne-prone skin is no excuse to skip sunscreen, as blemishes and dark marks that are left behind after a breakout will only get darker and more noticeable with sun exposure, says Dr. Garshick. Instead, try an SPF that is oil-free and noncomedogenic, meaning its formula wont clog the pores. Pay attention to the consistency, as liquids and gel-like formulas often feel lighter on oily skin.

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What Sunscreen Do Dermatologists Recommend For Sensitive Skin

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There are a few sunscreens that dermatologists recommend for sensitive skin. These sunscreens are typically free of fragrances, dyes, and other irritating ingredients. Some of the sunscreens that dermatologists recommend include EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46, Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer SPF 30, and CeraVe Ultra-Light Lotion SPF 30.

When using the wrong formula, your skin may experience rashes, dryness, irritation, and breakouts. If you have sensitive skin, you should use mineral sunscreen containing zinc or titanium oxide as a photoprotective ingredient. Because these products stay on the skins surface, they are less likely to cause irritation. La Roche Posay Anthelos Clear Skin Sunscreen contains iron oxides, which may help to protect the skin from blue light damage. TIZO 3 Mineral Sunscreen for Face is made of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, and it is fragrance and essential oil-free. If youre looking for a skin care product that wont break the bank, Blue Lizard is the one to go with. Dr.Audrey Kunin recommends CoTz for people with sensitive skin. Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 50 is water and sweat-resistant and formulated with mineral oils. Eye Radiance Cream SPF 30 is appropriate for contact lens wearers as a Dermatologically Defining Eye Cream SPF 30.

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Best For Dark Skin Tones: Black Girl Sunscreen Spf 30

• No physical SPF

Made by a woman of color for people of color, this wallet-friendly moisturizing lotion is ideal for dark skin tones. The zinc-free formula absorbs quickly without a white cast, plays well under makeup, and provides SPF 30 protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

Type: Chemical | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone: 3%, Homosalate: 10%, Octisalate: 5%, Octocrylene: 2.75% | SPF: 30 | Size: 3 fluid ounces | Free Of: Parabens, fragrance, oxybenzone, octinoxate | Water-Resistant: 80 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Yes

Price at time of publish: $16

The Best Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin Is Tough On Uv Rays But Gentle On Your Face

All products featured on GQ are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

It’s easy to overlook the best sunscreen for sensitive skin, which is funny, because guys with irritation-prone skin are often the most ingredient-conscious shoppers. They know that the slightest inclusion of irritating ingredients could lead to hives, itching, pain, or breakouts. They know to go easy on exfoliation, avoid fragrances, search for easy-on-the-skin face washes. But too often, when a beach day hits, that flies out the window and they use whatever sunscreen is on hand at the drug store. Which is just fine for preventing sunburnbut can lead to a week of bad skin. If that sounds like you, condolencesand here’s our guide to sunscreen for sensitive-skinned dudes.

Also Check: What To Do For Dry Skin

Take The Guesswork Out Of Your Skincare With Curology

Ready for an AHA moment in your skincare routine? If so, your Curology dermatology provider can help you determine which to try based on your skin type and skin goals when you sign up for a free consultation. Just upload selfies with updates periodically so they can monitor for any possible signs of irritation. The trial-and-error process is a delicate but necessary part of your unique skincare journey, and were here for you every step of the way.

Not yet a member? Getting started is easy. Best of all, your first month of Curology is on usjust pay $4.95 * to cover shipping and handling, and weve got the rest. Youll receive your personalized prescription formula designed to target your specific skin concerns at no extra cost, and your dermatology provider will include other Curology products that they think will help take the guesswork out of skincare.

How Do You Choose The Best Sunscreen For Your Face

Dermatologists agree that the best sunscreen for you is the one you apply consistently. Body sunscreens will work the same on your face, but they might feel heavy. Face sunscreens tend to have lighter and thinner formulas.

One thing to keep in mind is that, if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, a mineral sunscreen may be a better option for you. This is because mineral sunscreens can help prevent clogged pores.

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Best Luxury: Dr Brandt Skincare Liquid Sun Shield Daily Brightening Mineral Sunscreen Spf 50

• Antioxidant-rich plankton extract boosts radiance

• Lightweight and non-irritating

• Thick and gooey

Dr. Brandt’s Liquid Sun Shield promises gentle yet effective mineral protection with non-nano zinc oxide, but it doesn’t stop there. This top-shelf tincture softens with shea butter and boosts radiance with antioxidant-rich plankton extract.

Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 17% | SPF: 50 | Size: 1.7 fluid ounces | Free Of: Fragrance, parabens | Water-Resistant: No | Cruelty-Free: No | Yes

Price at time of publish: $65

Choose A Sunscreen To Avoid Skin Reactions

If you are allergic to sunlight, you must choose a sunscreen with a specific formula to avoid any potential skin reactions. Neutrogenas Neutrogena Zinc Sheer sunscreen is a zinc oxide-only sunscreen that is suitable for all skin types and has no skin reaction risk, according to Zeichner. When you wear sunglasses and protective clothing, you will also protect your skin from the sun. Wearing sunscreen on a daily basis can help you minimize how much time you spend in the sun. It does not protect you from sun allergies, but it can help you reduce how much time you spend in the sun.

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Cetaphil Sun Spf 50+ Gel

This lightweight gel sunscreen from Cetaphil is specifically designed to give sensitive skin much-needed sun protection. It ticks all of the boxes: non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and water-resistant. You can apply it daily on your face and body and forget that its there, thanks to its non-greasy formula.

Cetaphil Sun SPF 50+ Gel, P872, Watsons

Best Sunscreen For Faces In 2022

These lightweight formulas blend into the skin and protect against wrinkles, discoloration and skin cancer.

Sarah Mitroff

Managing Editor

Sarah Mitroff is a Managing Editor for CNET, overseeing our health, fitness and wellness section. She’s written for Wired, MacWorld, PCWorld, and VentureBeat.

Mercey Livingston

CNET Contributor

Mercey Livingston is a health and wellness writer and certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She’s written about fitness and wellness for Well+Good, Women’s Health, Business Insider, and Prevention.com among others. When not writing, she enjoys reading and trying out workout classes all over New York City.

• Price alerts on for Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense SPF

According to dermatologists at the American Academy of Dermatology and the Skin Cancer Foundation, the most important thing you can do to help slow down visible signs of aging is to wear wear sunscreen daily. And that doesn’t mean just using whatever sunscreen is the cheapest at your local drug store. You need to choose a sunscreen that suits your activities, complexion type and skin care rituals for the best protection and care.

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Who This Is For

Its likely that everyone would benefit from using sunscreen on their face each day, including people with darker skin tones. This is an easy and inexpensive way to help prevent skin cancer and wrinkles. Even if you live somewhere thats often overcast or you work indoors, your skin still sees UV exposure, according to dermatologists we spoke with. I put it on every single day, dermatologist Rachel Herschenfeld, of Dermatology Partners, told us. I will leave the house in smelly workout wear, but I never leave the house without my sunscreen.

The only way to reap the full benefits of sunscreen is to ensure that you apply enough and reapply as directed.

Most people only apply about a fourth of the right amount of sunscreen, said Amanda Doyle, a dermatologist with the Russak Dermatology Clinic in New York. She stressed that a quarter-size amount will act as a sufficient shield for the face, the neck, and a place many people forget: the ears. Even though it may not feel natural to slather sunscreen on your ears, theyre just as vulnerable to the sun as the rest of your body.

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Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Spf 50

Key features: This SPF 50 sunscreen lotion offers up to 80 minutes of water-resistant protection against UVA and UVB rays. And if you like products backed by experts, know that this sunscreen has received praise from the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Considerations: This sunscreen contains zinc oxide. It also contains Avena sativa kernel flour, an ingredient that can be an irritant or allergen for some users. However, its not in high concentrations in this product.

Active ingredient in Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Zinc Oxide Sunscreen, SPF 50:

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The 8 Best Sunscreens For Sensitive Skin Of 2022

Australian Golds Botanical Sunscreen will keep you protected without irritation

Sarah is a freelance writer with a focus on health and wellness. She has written for publications like Women’s Health, Healthline, and Parents. She taught creative writing for five years, and has a bachelor’s degree in English from Southern Connecticut State University.

Christina Oehler is a commerce editor for Verywell Health. She has a degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and has work published on sites like Health, Shape, and Brides.

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the bestproducts. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

People with sensitive skin need to protect themselves from the sun just as much as everyone else , but need to be a little more careful when shopping for sunscreen.

Eucerin Sun Age Defense Spf 50

The Eucerin Sun Age Defense SPF 50 is a great affordable sunscreen that leaves my skin moisturized and dewy without being heavy. This sunscreen made it on the list of best sunscreens for black skin because its effortless to rub in and gives me a little glow. I love how the pump dispenses as well.

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Best For Teens: Every Day Human Resting Beach Face Spf 30 Sunscreen Serum

• Hyaluronic acid adds hydration to formula

• Strong chemical scent

Everyday Humans Resting Beach Face is a great intro-to-sunscreen pick for teens, formulated with hyaluronic acid for a silky feel. The lightweight serum absorbs quickly without a white cast and leaves all skin tones with a lit-from-within glow.

Type: Chemical | Active Ingredients: Homosalate 8%, Octisalate 4%, Avobenzone 3%, and Octocrylene 2% | SPF: 30 | Size: 1.7 fluid ounces | Free Of: Parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, synthetic fragrance, animal-derived ingredients, alcohol, PABA, oxybenzone, octinoxate | Water-Resistant: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes | No

Price at time of publish: $24

Honest Company Organic Body Oil

Designed to be used on babies skin, the Honest Companys Organic Body Oil is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types. It features a blend of 95% certified organic avocado, coconut, sunflower and jojoba seed oils rich in moisturizing omegas and healing antioxidants.

The overall consistency is lightweight and non-sticky. Despite being light and simple in composition, this body oil keeps your skin feeling soft and hydrated all day long, so one application will do the trick.

Theres a fragrance-free version for ultra-sensitive skin, which is also useful if you plan on layering your signature fragrance over it. Honest also has a calming lavender scent, which is ideal for winding down at night.

Key features:

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How We Tested Them

Some of the GLAMOUR team have been using a particular brand of sunscreen for years and can vouch for the products’ efficacy. Plus, whenever a new formula comes in, we make sure we test it on a variety of skin tones, textures and types to put every claim through its paces. Other things we take into account are the scent, the texture, how easily the product is absorbed, how makeup sits on top and whether it leaves a cast.

For more shoppable beauty content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on Twitter@deniseprimbetand Instagram@deniseprimbet.

When To See A Doctor

If youve tried mineral sunscreens and formulas marketed for sensitive skin but youre still experiencing symptoms like dryness, burning, itching, or stinging, its a good idea to visit a doctor.

Finding an SPF that doesnt irritate your sensitive skin could be a process of trial and error, and your doctor should have some recommendations.

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What Spf Do Dermatologists Recommend

Dermatologists recommend people use broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen that has at least SPF 30. Some people may prefer to use sunscreens with higher SPF.

However, it is important to note that sunscreen cannot offer protection against all of the suns rays. People should still wear sun-protective clothing and sunglasses, stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day, and ensure they drink water and stay hydrated.

Ps We Did The Homework So You Dont Have To:

Donna McIntyre is a board-certified nurse practitioner at Curology. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing at MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA.

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