Sun care for sensitive skin, although important, can be challenging due to the potential for adverse reactions from certain ingredients commonly found in sunscreens.
Many people with sensitive skin experience irritation, dryness, or even breakouts when using the wrong type of sunscreen, which deters many from this crucial protective step.
To help navigate this tricky landscape, I’ve compiled a list of 20 sunscreens specially designed for sensitive skin.
The products you’ll find below have been carefully formulated to provide effective sun protection while minimizing the risk of skin irritation or discomfort.
They feature gentle, nourishing, and skin-soothing ingredients, broad-spectrum coverage, and in many cases, added benefits like antioxidant protection.
Whether you prefer a mineral-based lotion, a lightweight fluid, or a tinted formula, there’s an option here for you.
So let’s dive in and discover the 20 sunscreens for sensitive skin that combine safety, comfort, and high-quality sun protection.
Bioderma – Photoderm Max Aqualift SPF 50+
Best sunscreen for combination, oily, and sensitive skin.
The Bioderma Photoderm Max Aqualift SPF 50+ is a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with the use of gentle and non-irritating chemical filters.
Formulated specifically for combination, oily, and sensitive skin, this sunscreen leaves a slightly mattified, dry-touch finish and works great as a primer under makeup.
Bioderma – Photoderm AR SPF 50+ Tinted Cream
Best sunscreen for rosacea and sensitive skin.
The Bioderma Photoderm AR SPF 50+ Tinted Cream is a tinted sunscreen specifically designed for individuals dealing with rosacea, redness, and sensitive skin.
It provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with the use of gentle chemical filters, along with a soothing and anti-redness effect from components such as ectoin, an extremolyte, or a stress-protection molecule that protects the skin from environmental aggressors while strengthening its barrier.
The tinted formula blends seamlessly into the skin, providing light coverage and a natural, healthy-looking glow, making it excellent for everyday wear on its own and under makeup.
Avène – Tinted Mineral Fluid SPF 50+
Best sunscreen for dry and sensitive skin.
The Avène Tinted Mineral Fluid SPF 50+ is a mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with the use of zinc oxide.
The formula is enriched with skin-soothing ingredients such as Avène Thermal Spring Water, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent choice for those with dry, sensitive skin.
The blendable tint creates a natural golden glow while seamlessly covering redness and pigmentary imperfections, while the water-resistant capacity makes this sunscreen perfect for everyday wear and outdoor activities.
Paula’s Choice – Redness Relief SPF 30 Mineral Moisturizer
Best esthetician recommended sunscreen for sensitive skin.
The Paula’s Choice CALM Redness Relief SPF30 Mineral Moisturizer is a mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with the use of titanium dioxide.
Formulated specifically for sensitive skin, this sunscreen also contains soothing ingredients such as licorice extract and allantoin to calm redness and irritation.
The formula is on the heavier side; however, it still absorbs quickly into the skin while leaving a minimal, easily coverable white cast.
It can also double as a moisturizer, making it perfect for daily use under makeup.
It is also fragrance-free, making it a top pick among estheticians for their clients dealing with sensitive skin.
Paula’s Choice – Shine-Free Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30
Best sunscreen for dry and sensitive skin.
The Paula’s Choice Shine-Free Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30 is a lightweight and sheer mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with the use of zinc oxide.
It is specifically formulated for dry, sensitive skin and contains several softening and moisturizing emollients to keep the skin hydrated and nourished.
The formula also has a glowy finish and works great as a makeup base for added luminosity.
It is also fragrance-free, making it perfect for sensitive skin; however, due to the high emollient content, it may not be the best for those with acne.
Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++
Best Korean sunscreen for sensitive skin.
The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++ is a Korean sunscreen formulated with natural ingredients such as rice extract and probiotics to reduce redness and irritation in sensitive skin.
It offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with the use of gentle chemical filters, along with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Furthermore, the sunscreen is also loaded with soothing ingredients, such as green tea and kelp extracts, as well as brightening and barrier-repairing niacinamide.
Suitable for all skin types, the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF 50 leaves a hydrated, glowy finish once absorbed.
La Roche-Posay – Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50
Best sunscreen for all skin types and sensitive skin.
The Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50 by La Roche-Posay is a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection without irritating the skin.
Packed with lightweight hydrators, emollients, and skin-soothing antioxidants, the sunscreen has a runny consistency that spreads easily on the skin and leaves a hydrated, glowy finish once absorbed.
It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, and is fragrance-free, making it ideal for those with easily irritated skin.
La Roche-Posay – Anthelios 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Best sunblock for sensitive skin.
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios 100% Mineral Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 30 is a mineral-based sunblock that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with the use of titanium dioxide.
Formulated specifically for sensitive skin, this sunblock has a heavy consistency and is perfect for outdoor activities, including water sports, as it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Additionally, due to the high zinc oxide content, the Anthelios 100% Mineral Sunscreen does leave quite a severe white cast, which may be harder to cover up on deeper skin tones.
However, it is still a great option for those looking for high UV protection while outdoors and suitable for even the most sensitive of skin types.
Aveeno – Positively Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Best sunscreen for sensitive skin.
The Aveeno Positively Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a fantastic sensitive skin sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as main protective filters against UV damage.
The lightweight formula dries sheer with a velvety matte finish and leaves a slight white cast due to the mineral filters.
It’s also sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and it has SPF 50, which means it’s suitable for outdoor activities.
Lastly, the Aveeno Positively Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is free of alcohol and fragrance and a budget-friendly option for those with sensitive skin who don’t want to compromise on sun protection.
Vanicream – Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Best for dry and sensitive skin.
The Vanicream Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is a lightweight mineral sunscreen that applies smoothly and hydrates the skin without leaving a sticky residue behind.
It’s formulated with non-nano zinc oxide for broad-spectrum UV protection, and while it doesn’t leave a terrible white cast, medium and dark skin tones may notice it more than pale skin.
Similar to the Aveeno sunscreen above, the Vanicream Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is also free of alcohol and fragrance, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive skin and a practical, everyday sunscreen for dry skin.
Elta MD – Physical Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 41
Best for sensitive, redness-prone skin.
The Elta MD Physical Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 41 is a lightly tinted, mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
It has an oil-free formula that leaves a velvety finish on the skin and a complexion-adjusting tint that effortlessly covers up redness and discoloration.
Fragrance-free and non-irritating, the Physical Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 41 is perfect for redness-prone, sensitive, and reactive skin and can be worn on its own or under makeup.
Colorescience – Sheer Matte Sunscreen Brush SPF 30
Best for combination, oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.
The Colorescience Sheer Matte Sunscreen SPF 30 is a convenient, brush-on sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection with a blend of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Its sheer, lightweight formula applies smoothly without leaving a white cast, and it’s fragrance-free, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Additionally, the sunscreen is also non-comedogenic and fantastic for oily and acne-prone skin, as doubles up as a setting powder and is particularly convenient for when you need that extra oil control throughout the day.
RELATED: Best Powder Sunscreens With High SPF
Neutrogena – Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50
Best for dry, sensitive skin.
The Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50 is a gentle, mineral-based sunscreen containing zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection.
This sunscreen offers a dry-touch, non-greasy formula that’s slightly matte and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a noticeable white cast.
With its fragrance-free formula, this product is an excellent choice for all skin types, particularly sensitive and reactive skin.
Versed – Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 35
Best for dry, combination, and sensitive skin.
The Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 35 is a nourishing sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection with the use of zinc oxide.
Not only does it protect from harmful UV rays, but the tinted formula also contains skin-softening ingredients such as vitamin E and moringa extract to help protect the skin from environmental aggressors.
Its creamy consistency spreads easily once applied and leaves a hydrated, non-greasy finish that evens out the complexion and blurs out imperfections.
Finally, the rich, fragrance-free formula makes it suitable for all skin types, including those with dry and sensitive skin.
Garnier – Super UV Daily Invisible Face Serum SPF 50 +
Best for dry and sensitive skin.
The Garnier Super UV Daily Invisible Face Serum SPF 50+ is a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection with the use of gentle chemical filters.
This serum-like sunscreen absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast or heavy residue, making it an excellent option for those with dry and sensitive skin who prefer a lighter texture without compromising on sun protection.
Fantastic for daily wear under makeup or on its own, the formula is also free of fragrance and budget-friendly, making it a highly recommended option for those with sensitive skin.
Round Lab – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
Best sunscreen for all skin types and sensitive skin.
The Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen is a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection with the use of gentle and non-irritating chemical filters.
Enriched with birch juice, this sunscreen provides hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin, while the addition of brightening niacinamide and vitamin C helps even out the skin tone and target hyperpigmentation.
With a sheer, non-sticky finish and zero white cast, the Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen is fantastic for all skin types, and the fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula also caters to sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Ultra Violette – Lean Screen SPF 50+ Mattifying Zinc Sunscreen
Best sunscreen for normal, combination, and sensitive skin.
The Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF 50+ Mattifying Zinc Sunscreen is a mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection with the use of zinc oxide.
It has a heavier, moisturizing formula that glides on the skin smoothly and dries down to a semi-matte finish, while the shade-adapting tint helps even out the skin tone.
Additionally, it’s also enriched with antioxidants and skin-softening emollients for extra nourishment and hydration while being free of irritating fragrance and alcohol, which makes it perfect for normal, combination, and sensitive skin.
Unfortunately, even though the finish is slightly mattifying, the Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF 50+ Mattifying Zinc Sunscreen isn’t the best choice for oily and acne-prone skin due to the potentially comedogenic emollients it contains.
Hero Cosmetics – Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30
Best sunscreen for acne-prone, sensitive skin.
The Hero Cosmetics Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 is an ultra-lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen specifically designed for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
With a gel texture that absorbs quickly without leaving any residue, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection with the use of zinc oxide while also containing soothing and antioxidant-rich ingredients such as green tea extract and bisabolol to calm inflammation caused by acne and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
RELATED: Best Sunscreens For Acne Prone Skin
Colorescience – Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
Best sunscreen for all skin types and sensitive skin.
The Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50 is a mineral-based sunscreen that offers high protection from UVA/UVB, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation.
It has a unique tinted formula that adapts to all skin types and is enriched with antioxidants, such as niacinamide, bisabolol, and mushroom extract, that help even out the complexion and improve skin health.
Additionally, the lightweight formula is also non-comedogenic and free of irritants such as fragrance, which makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
SkinMedica – Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35
Best sunscreen for normal, dry, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.
The SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35 is a mineral sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
The formula, which is fragrance-free and lightweight, provides comfortable wear without leaving any white residue on application and is suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Loaded with antioxidants and soothing components such as green tea extract, this nourishing sunscreen helps protect the skin from environmental stressors while improving its overall appearance.
What Causes Sensitive Skin?
Here are some of the most common causes of sensitive skin:
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to have sensitive skin.
- Environmental Factors: Extreme weather conditions, pollution, and exposure to harsh chemicals or irritants in the air can cause skin to become more sensitive.
- Skin Disorders or Allergies: Conditions like eczema, rosacea, and allergic contact dermatitis can cause skin to be sensitive.
- Over-Exfoliation or Over-Cleansing: Using skincare products too frequently or using products that are too harsh for your skin can strip its natural oils, leading to sensitivity.
- Age: As we age, our skin becomes thinner and loses its elasticity, which can make it more prone to sensitivity.
- Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as during menstruation or pregnancy, can make skin more sensitive.
- Diet and Lifestyle: Poor nutrition, stress, lack of sleep, and certain lifestyle habits like smoking can also contribute to skin sensitivity.
If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to identify what triggers your skin reactions so you can avoid those triggers.
It’s also helpful to use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products and to keep your skin moisturized and protected from external aggressors.
How Do I Choose Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin?
Here are the best ways to choose sunscreen for sensitive skin:
Opt for Mineral Sunscreens: These sunscreens use physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on top of the skin and deflect harmful UV rays. They’re less likely to cause skin reactions compared to chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, which absorb into the skin and can sometimes cause irritation.
Non-comedogenic Formulas: Non-comedogenic sunscreens won’t clog your pores, which is beneficial if you have sensitive skin due to acne.
Moisturizing Ingredients: If you have dry or sensitive skin, choose a sunscreen with moisturizing ingredients that create a protective seal on the surface and prevent external aggressors from causing irritation.
Broad-Spectrum Protection: This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause skin aging, burns, and skin cancer.
High SPF: Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of UVB rays. However, if you have extremely fair or sensitive skin, you may want to opt for a higher SPF for better protection.
How to Know If a Sunscreen Is Not Suitable for Sensitive Skin?
Here are a few symptoms that your sunscreen is not suitable for sensitive skin:
Skin Irritation or Allergy: If after applying the sunscreen, you experience itching, redness, burning, or stinging, it might be an indication that the product is not suitable for your sensitive skin. To prevent this, you can do a patch test at home by applying the sunscreen to a small area of your skin to see if any reaction develops.
Breakouts: Some sunscreens can clog pores leading to acne breakouts. If you have acne-prone skin that’s sensitive and reactive, make sure to opt for non-comedogenic formulas.
Dryness or Itchiness: Certain sunscreens can cause dryness and itchiness. If you have dry or sensitive skin, look for sunscreens that contain moisturizing and non-irritating ingredients.
Presence of Certain Ingredients: Sunscreens containing fragrance, parabens, oxybenzone, or octinoxate can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin, it’s best to avoid sunscreens that contain these ingredients.
Skin Burning: If you notice your skin is burning after applying sunscreen, it could be a sign that the sunscreen isn’t suitable for your skin type.
My name is Simone and I am a certified skin specialist. I created this website to teach my readers how to take great care of their skin and I also like to occasionally share my honest opinions on skincare products I’ve tried. You can learn more about me here.
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