What to Look for in the Best Daily Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

Choosing the right sunscreen is essential to protect sensitive skin while avoiding irritation or breakouts.

1. Gentle, Non-Irritating Ingredients

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Opt for sunscreens labeled as hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, which are less likely to cause redness or stinging. Avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol, and synthetic dyes that can trigger sensitivity.

2. Mineral vs. Chemical Filters

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Mineral (physical) sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often better tolerated by sensitive skin than chemical filters. They create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface instead of being absorbed.

3. Broad-Spectrum Protection

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Ensure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and irritation caused by sun exposure.

4. Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Formula

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Look for daily sunscreens that are lightweight and labeled non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores or contribute to breakouts—especially important if your sensitive skin is also prone to acne.

  1. 1
    UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46
    3,028 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Protect and calm your sensitive skin with this tinted sunscreen designed to improve discoloration and breakouts due to acne and rosacea.
  2. 2
    Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    2,596 REVIEWS
    A lightweight sunscreen serum with Collagen Peptide that helps protect against sun damage and helps visibly correct early signs of aging.
  3. 3
    EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
    1,352 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Formulated with 5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to help reduce the appearance of blemishes and discoloration on your skin.
  4. 4
    Powder-Me Dry Sunscreen SPF 30
    1,173 REVIEWS
    Nourish, protect and soothe your skin with this broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for body, face and scalp. 
  5. 5
    UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50
    1,041 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    100% mineral sunscreen designed to protect, recover and strengthen sensitive and post-procedure skin.**
  6. 6
    UV Skin Recovery Broad Spectrum SPF 50
    908 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A 100% mineral sunscreen designed to protect, recover and strengthen sensitive and post-procedure skin.
  7. 7
    Super Fluid Daily UV Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
    737 REVIEWS
    A lightweight facial sunscreen with SPF 50+ and pollution protection.
  8. 8
    Diamond Luminous UV Defense Light Tinted Fluid SPF 40
    409 REVIEWS
    This daily UV defender with 100% mineral filters provides UVA/UVB protection and rejuvenating benefits, plus a natural, glowing touch of color to your skin.
  9. 9
    Glowscreen SPF 40

    Supergoop!

    4,470 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Prime and protect your skin with this multitasking SPF 40 that leaves your skin glowing. 
  10. 10
    Classic Whip SPF 30

    Vacation

    371 REVIEWS
    “Dessert For Your Skin” SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse

What to Look for in the Best Daily Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

Choosing the right sunscreen is essential to protect sensitive skin while avoiding irritation or breakouts.

1. Gentle, Non-Irritating Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Opt for sunscreens labeled as hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, which are less likely to cause redness or stinging. Avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol, and synthetic dyes that can trigger sensitivity.

2. Mineral vs. Chemical Filters

Citrus catapult arrow

Mineral (physical) sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often better tolerated by sensitive skin than chemical filters. They create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface instead of being absorbed.

3. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Ensure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and irritation caused by sun exposure.

4. Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Formula

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for daily sunscreens that are lightweight and labeled non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores or contribute to breakouts—especially important if your sensitive skin is also prone to acne.