17 Top-Rated Sunscreens Of 2022 That Won’t Irritate Sensitive Skin
1. Suntegrity 5-In-1 Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen
This sunscreen will protect your skin from sun damage as well as dark spots, redness, fine lines, and inflammation. This is why this sunscreen consistently ranks well in the EWG ranking system (Environmental Working Group database). This is a chemical-free tinted sunscreen that you can use as a BB cream to prime, cover, and protect your skin. Pros
100% vegan Contains active zinc oxide Hygienic packaging No parabens No phthalates and mineral oils No synthetic dyes and sulfates No chemical UV absorbers Fragrance-free Cruelty-free (PETA and Leaping Bunny certified) Non-greasy Reef-friendly
Cons None
2. Elta MD Skincare UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46
This facial sunscreen contains niacinamide that calms your sensitive skin and protects it. It is especially beneficial for those who have rosacea and acne-prone skin and discoloration issues. It is incredibly lightweight and easy to apply. Pros
Dermatologist-recommended Non-comedogenic Fragrance-free Paraben-free Zinc oxide-based Available in both tinted and untinted versions Oil-free Sensitivity-free
Cons None
3. St. Botanica Vitamin C Mineral Based Sunscreen
The St. Botanica Vitamin C Mineral-Based Sunscreen provides complete UV protection with its broad spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ formula. The water-resistant sunscreen is formulated using a blend of the lemon peel oil, orange peel, amla fruit, licorice, turmeric, saffron, tamarind seed, rose flower, sandalwood, and vitamins B3, C, and E. It is rich in antioxidants and keeps your skin protected against free radicals. Pros
Suitable for all skin types Paraben-free Sulfate-free Mineral oil-free Silicone-free
Cons None
4. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen
This is a mineral-based sunscreen that is free of harmful chemicals. It is a broad spectrum sunscreen, and the best part is, the bottle turns blue when exposed to UV rays. In this way, it also reminds you to reapply sunscreen. Pros
No parabens No artificial fragrance Dermatologist recommended Water-resistant formula Reef-safe No harmful chemicals
Cons None
5. Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen
Product claims
Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen is formulated with Purescreen technology that prevents the harmful effects of sun rays by reflecting them. The mineral sunscreen has titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as the active ingredients that offer a broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays The sunscreen offers SPF of 60, is water-resistant, and free of dyes, harsh chemicals, and oils.. The gentle and non-greasy formula spreads evenly on the skin and keeps the skin hydrated. Pros
Naturally-sourced minerals Water-resistant for 80 minutes Hypoallergenic Dermatologist-recommended Fragrance-free Oil-free PABA-free
Cons None
6. Banana Boat Simply Protect Sensitive Sunscreen Spray
The Simply Protect Sensitive Sunscreen Spray by Banana Boat comes with broad-spectrum coverage of SPF 50 to prevent sunburn, photoaging, and other damaging skin concerns. It is formulated with homosalate, zinc oxide, octocrylene, and octisalate, and is also water-resistant. The lightweight and non-greasy formula ensures an even application, while the spray bottle makes it mess-free. Moreover, it is also free from harmful substances such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it a safe choice. Pros
Lightweight Naturally-sourced zinc Non-greasy Hypoallergenic Dermatologist-tested Fragrance-free Paraben-free Reef-friendly
Cons
May not be suitable for dry skin
7. SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen
This sunscreen is perfect for normal, combination, and sensitive skin types. It is a tinted sunscreen that contains 100% mineral filters that are incredibly gentle on your skin. It provides a broad spectrum of coverage and gives a radiant finish. It contains plankton extracts that boost your skin’s resistance to the stress induced by UV rays and heat. Pros
Contains zinc oxide Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes) Non-comedogenic Paraben-free Fragrance-free Doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin Non-oily
Cons None
8. MD SolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense
This is a mineral-based sunscreen, which means it doesn’t contain UV-absorbing chemicals that often irritate sensitive skin. It has an oil-free formula and contains ceramides. It locks in moisture and keeps your skin hydrated. This sunscreen also helps repair your skin’s natural barrier and prevents photoaging. Pros
Safe for kids (6 months and older) Fragrance-free Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes) Non-comedogenic Contains antioxidants Non-oily
Cons None
9. CETAPHIL Sheer Mineral Sunscreen
The CETAPHIL Sheer Mineral Sunscreen is specially formulated for sensitive skin and infused with vitamin E and prebiotics. It is designed with a gentle microbiome formula to protect your skin’s delicate microbiome and lock in moisture to keep the skin hydrated. This sunscreen has an SPF of 30 and has actives like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It has a lightweight and non-greasy formula with no residue and is also water-resistant. Additionally, it is free from oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate, making it reef-friendly. Pros
Lightweight Non-greasy Hypoallergenic Clinically-tested for sensitive skin Accepted by the National Eczema Association Fragrance-free Paraben-free Chemical-free Mineral-oil-free
Cons
May leave a white cast
10. Colorscience Sunforgettable Broad Spectrum SPF 50
If you are tired of applying (and reapplying) sunscreen lotions and creams, try this lightweight mineral powder. It has a brush applicator with which you can simply dust your face, and you are good to go. It comes in a variety of shades (to match your skin tone) and protects your skin throughout the day. Pros
Can be used alone or on makeup Chemical-free Water-resistant formula Travel-friendly Suits all skin types (even hypersensitive skin)
Cons None
11. Vanicream Sunscreen Sport
The formula of this sunscreen is pure love for sensitive skin. It is good for skin that is prone to breakouts, rashes, and hives. It has a non-greasy formula that will not weigh your skin down. Pros
No synthetic dyes No artificial fragrance No lanolin No parabens No formaldehyde Gluten-free Oil-free Water-resistant (for 80 minutes)
Cons None
12. OLAY Complete UV365 Daily Moisturizer With Sunscreen
The OLAY Complete UV365 Daily Moisturizer With Sunscreen is unscented and has SPF 30 to prevent sun damage. It is also infused with Vitamin E, B3,B5, and aloe vera to soothe and hydrate your skin, making it an ideal moisturizer too.The blend of vitamins and aloe vera condition your skin to maintain its overall health and youthful appearance. It also protects your sensitive skin from 97% of the ultraviolet sun rays with its SolarSheer technology. Pros
Has SPF 30 Lightweight Non-comedogenic Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation Fragrance-free Oil-free Non-greasy Dermatologist-tested
Cons None
13. SkinMedica Essential Defense Everyday Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 47
This lightweight sunscreen does not clog your skin pores and offers the highest sun protection. It contains antioxidants that keep your skin healthy and glowing. It protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Pros
Non-comedogenic Lightweight Easy to apply
Cons None
14. CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen
The CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen is 100% mineral-based and recommended by dermatologists. The broad-spectrum SPF 30 protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen contains three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that protect your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Pros
Lightweight Gentle formula Non-greasy Non-comedogenic Paraben-free Oxybenzone-free Allergy-tested Dermatologist recommended Fragrance-free Safe for kids
Cons
Might leave a white cast
15. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry-Touch Sunscreen
This sunscreen doesn’t feel sticky on your skin and is ideal for acne-prone skin. It contains avobenzone, which is an FDA-approved chemical for protecting the skin from UVA rays. It is formulated with advanced cell-ox shield technology and is suitable for sensitive skin. Pros
Fragrance-free Paraben-free Non-greasy Dermatologist-tested Allergy-tested Non-comedogenic
Cons
Leaves an ashy residue on the skin.
16. innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen
The innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen has a water-based formula offering broad-spectrum protection of SPF 36. It is infused with sunflower seed oil and green tea that helps to hydrate, soothe, and nurture your skin. The lightweight sunscreen is easy to spread and blend for getting a protected and glowing skin. Additionally, the sunscreen leaves no white cast and is suitable for all skin types. Pros
Reef-friendly Lightweight Water-based formula No white cast Wears well under makeup
Cons None
17. Aveeno Active Naturals Protect + Hydrate Broad Spectrum SPF 70
This ultra-moisturizing sunscreen lotion protects your skin against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula of this sunscreen contains oats extracts that keep your skin hydrated, protect the skin barrier, and also calm it down. This sunscreen is perfect for daily use. Pros
Oil-free Non-comedogenic
Cons
Contains PEG-100
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach and writes research-based product reviews for StyleCraze. She has curated this list of the best sunscreens for sensitive skin after checking a wide range of products available on the market and scrolling through user reviews on trusted online forums. These sunscreens are free of harmful and irritating chemicals and contain hypoallergenic ingredients. Moreover, they are non-sticky and non-comedogenic. Why does sunscreen irritate my skin? Sunscreens contain several active ingredients that react differently to each skin type. If you are allergic to certain chemicals, you may experience severe irritation and redness. Also, synthetic fragrances and preservatives in the formula may cause itchiness. Is mineral sunscreen better for sensitive skin? Yes. Mineral sunscreens contain anti-irritants like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that create a protective barrier and prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin. What sunscreen should I use if I am allergic? Use the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry-Touch Sunscreen if you are allergic. This allergy-tested product is infused with cell-ox shield technology, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It is also free of potential irritants like paraben and synthetic fragrances. Which is better for sensitive skin, sunscreen or sunblock? Sunscreens absorb UV rays and prevent sun damage, whereas sunblocks block the UV rays from hitting your skin. Both work effectively to protect your skin from the harsh sun. Therefore, select a formula based on your skin needs, but filter products that contain irritants. How do I know if I am allergic to sunscreen? You are allergic to the product if you feel itchy or have a stinging sensation on your skin after applying sunscreen. Also, if your skin turns red after application, the formula is not suitable for your skin. Why does my face sting when I put on sunscreen? If you have sensitive skin or eczema, toxic irritants in sunscreens may react to your skin and cause a stinging sensation. Can I use both sunscreen and sunblock for sensitive skin? No. Do not use sunscreen and sunblock together for sensitive skin. Using both may cause product buildup, dry skin, and turn both products ineffective. Therefore, choose any one formula free of toxins with a broad spectrum.
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