Best Face Sunscreen For Dry Skin

What to Look for in the Best Face Sunscreen for Dry Skin

Choosing the right face sunscreen can help protect your skin from UV damage while also addressing dryness and sensitivity.

1. Hydrating Ingredients

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Look for sunscreens that include moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. These help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier and prevent further dryness throughout the day.

2. Gentle Formulation

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Opt for formulas that are free from alcohol, fragrances, or harsh chemicals, as these can irritate or exacerbate dryness. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often well-tolerated by dry skin types.

3. SPF Level

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Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF30 to ensure adequate protection against UVA and UVB rays. Higher SPF levels may be beneficial if you have fair or sensitive skin prone to sunburn.

4. Texture and Finish

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Creamy or lotion-based sunscreens tend to be more hydrating than gels or sprays. A dewy or radiant finish can also give dry skin a healthy glow, rather than emphasizing flakiness.

  1. 1
    Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+

    $45
    2,551 REVIEWS
    A lightweight sunscreen serum with Collagen Peptide that helps protect against sun damage and helps visibly correct early signs of aging.
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  2. 2
    Glow Stick SPF 50

    Supergoop!

    Glow Stick SPF 50

    $32
    583 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A sunscreen that offers glow-boosting hydration and invisible broad-spectrum UV protection.
    View full details
  3. 3
    Shake Shake SPF 50 Mineral Milk

    Vacation

    Shake Shake SPF 50 Mineral Milk

    $27
    174 REVIEWS
    Vacation® Shake Shake SPF 50 Mineral Milk is the mineral face sunscreen you’ve been waiting for.
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  4. 4
    UV Facial Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+

    EltaMD

    UV Facial Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+

    $35
    152 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Elegant and silky on your skin, this fluffy moisturizing sunscreen may be used every day or after facial treatments.
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  5. 5
    PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation Refill SPF 20/15

    Jane Iredale

    PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation Refill SPF 20/15

    $46
    2,646 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Our #1 best-selling one-step foundation, concealer and sunscreen that blurs lines and nourishes skin with weightless, medium-to-full coverage and a second-skin finish. 
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  6. 6
    Play Everyday Lotion With Sunflower Extract SPF 50

    Supergoop!

    Play Everyday Lotion With Sunflower Extract SPF 50

    $68
    2,106 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Our original broad spectrum SPF 50 lotion for face and body. 
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  7. 7
    Play Everyday Lotion With Sunflower Extract SPF 50

    Supergoop!

    Play Everyday Lotion With Sunflower Extract SPF 50

    $24
    2,099 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A fast-absorbing, non-greasy, water and sweat-resistant, and broad-spectrum SPF 50 lotion for face and body.
    View full details
  8. 8
    Superscreen Hydrating Daily Cream SPF 40

    Supergoop!

    Superscreen Hydrating Daily Cream SPF 40

    $48
    984 REVIEWS
    A first-of-its-kind moisturizer that provides intense hydration and SPF 40 with antioxidants and skin repair actives
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  9. 9
    Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30

    $70
    353 REVIEWS
    A 24-hour, light-textured daily hydrator that leaves skin comfortable and visibly well-balanced, particularly in harsh weather conditions.
    View full details
  10. 10
    Guardian Angel SPF 50

    Solara Suncare

    Guardian Angel SPF 50

    $56
    111 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Formulated for sensitive skin, this pillowy and protective serum-quality SPF 50 milk is loaded with 12 skin compatible actives to help plump and energize while protecting against the sun, blue light and pollution. 
    View full details

What to Look for in the Best Face Sunscreen for Dry Skin

Choosing the right face sunscreen can help protect your skin from UV damage while also addressing dryness and sensitivity.

1. Hydrating Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for sunscreens that include moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. These help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier and prevent further dryness throughout the day.

2. Gentle Formulation

Citrus catapult arrow

Opt for formulas that are free from alcohol, fragrances, or harsh chemicals, as these can irritate or exacerbate dryness. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often well-tolerated by dry skin types.

3. SPF Level

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF30 to ensure adequate protection against UVA and UVB rays. Higher SPF levels may be beneficial if you have fair or sensitive skin prone to sunburn.

4. Texture and Finish

Citrus catapult arrow

Creamy or lotion-based sunscreens tend to be more hydrating than gels or sprays. A dewy or radiant finish can also give dry skin a healthy glow, rather than emphasizing flakiness.

When it comes to finding the best face sunscreen for dry skin, it's essential to choose a product that not only provides sun protection but also nourishes and hydrates the skin. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which sunscreen will work best for your specific needs. That's why we've compiled a list of top-rated face sunscreens for dry skin, based on user reviews. Whether you're looking for a lightweight formula or a moisturizing sunscreen with added skincare benefits, this curated selection will help you find the perfect option to keep your skin protected and healthy.

FAQ

What features should I look for in a face sunscreen for dry skin? + -

When choosing a face sunscreen for dry skin, look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Creamy or lotion-based formulas are often more moisturizing than gels or sprays.

Can I use a moisturizer and sunscreen together if I have dry skin? + -

Yes, you can layer a moisturizer under your sunscreen to provide extra hydration. Some sunscreens are also formulated with moisturizing properties, which can help simplify your routine.

Are mineral or chemical sunscreens better for dry skin? + -

Both mineral and chemical sunscreens can work for dry skin, but mineral sunscreens with added emollients may offer more hydration. Look for formulas labeled as 'hydrating' or 'moisturizing' regardless of the type.

How often should I reapply face sunscreen if my skin is dry? + -

It's recommended to reapply face sunscreen every two hours when exposed to the sun, regardless of your skin type. If your skin feels tight after reapplication, consider using a hydrating mist before reapplying.

Can tinted sunscreens be suitable for dry skin? + -

Yes, many tinted sunscreens are formulated with moisturizing ingredients and can provide both sun protection and hydration. Look for options specifically designed for dry or sensitive skin.