Sensitive skin requires sunscreens that provide effective protection without causing irritation. Here’s a list of the best sunscreens for sensitive skin, with gentle, non-irritating formulas featuring ingredients that soothe and protect.
1. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
- Type: Mineral and Chemical
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, niacinamide
- Why It’s Great: Known for its gentle formula, EltaMD UV Clear is fragrance-free and contains niacinamide, which helps calm sensitive skin. It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and great for those with acne-prone skin.
2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
- Why It’s Great: This mineral sunscreen is ideal for sensitive skin with its high zinc oxide content, providing broad-spectrum protection. It’s also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it a top pick for sensitive, reactive skin.
3. Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Sunscreen SPF 50
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, oat extract
- Why It’s Great: Formulated specifically for sensitive skin, this mineral sunscreen is fragrance-free, non-greasy, and enriched with oat extract, which soothes and calms the skin.
4. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, zinc oxide
- Why It’s Great: CeraVe’s mineral sunscreen contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which hydrate and help maintain the skin barrier. Its gentle, fragrance-free formula is ideal for dry and sensitive skin types.
5. Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
- Why It’s Great: This sunscreen is free of common irritants like fragrance, parabens, and dyes, making it a good choice for very sensitive skin. It’s dermatologist-recommended and ideal for those with skin sensitivities or allergies.
6. Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
- Why It’s Great: Made for sensitive skin, Blue Lizard’s formula is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and has no chemical filters. Its packaging changes color in the presence of UV rays, serving as a reminder to apply sunscreen when exposed.
7. Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, marula oil, sunflower seed oil
- Why It’s Great: This fragrance-free sunscreen is made without essential oils or silicones, making it a great option for sensitive skin. The marula oil provides extra hydration, and it leaves no white cast despite its mineral formulation.
8. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, aloe vera
- Why It’s Great: Thinkbaby’s sunscreen is specifically designed for sensitive skin and is safe for both babies and adults. It’s free of chemical filters, fragrance, and parabens, making it gentle and effective for everyday use.
9. Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, squalane
- Why It’s Great: This sheer, fragrance-free sunscreen uses squalane, a hydrating ingredient that mimics skin’s natural moisture, making it gentle and moisturizing. It’s lightweight and blends well without a white cast, even on sensitive skin.
10. Avene Mineral Light Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Type: Mineral
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, Avene thermal spring water
- Why It’s Great
- This lightweight mineral sunscreen is formulated with Avene’s soothing thermal spring water, which calms and hydrates sensitive skin. It’s non-greasy, non-irritating, and free of fragrance and parabens.
Each of these sunscreens provides broad-spectrum protection while being gentle on sensitive skin. Choose a formula that matches your hydration needs and skin type, and remember to apply and reapply for full sun protection.
