What to look for in the best sunscreen for sensitive skin

Choosing the right sunscreen is essential to protect sensitive skin without causing irritation or discomfort.

1. Gentle, Non-Irritating Ingredients

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Look for sunscreens labeled as hypoallergenic or formulated specifically for sensitive skin. Avoid fragrances, dyes, parabens, and alcohol, which can trigger irritation or allergic reactions.

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. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays rather than absorbing them.

3. Broad-Spectrum Protection

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Ensure your sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage while keeping your skin calm and protected.

4. Texture and Finish

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Sensitive skin can react to heavy or greasy formulas. Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic options that absorb easily without clogging pores or leaving a white cast.

  1. 1

    Supergoop!

    171 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    The iconic 100% invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen that's non-irritating and doubles as a primer.
  2. 2
    2,220 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Protect and calm your sensitive skin with this tinted sunscreen designed to improve discoloration and breakouts due to acne and rosacea.
  3. 3

    Solara Suncare

    105 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. 
  4. 4
    37 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Groundbreaking sunscreen and mattifying fluid with a physical SPF 50 broad spectrum protection in a transparent finish.
  5. 5
    138 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Weightless, tinted sunscreen formulated with 100% physical filters and zinc oxide, providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection for radiant skin.
  6. 6
    705 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    For oil-free sun protection with just a touch of color, this lightly tinted UV Physical is a healthy choice.
  7. 7
    71 REVIEWS
    Reduces the appearance of dark spots and balances uneven skin tone, using naturally brightening, medical grade ingredients.
  8. 8
    26 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Protect, rejuvenate, and soothe irritated skin with this 100 percent mineral facial sunscreen.
  9. 9

    Indie Lee

    266 REVIEWS
    Perfect for beach days and outdoor activities, this mineral sunscreen has 20% uncoated Zinc Oxide for broad spectrum SPF 30 protection.
  10. 10
    322 REVIEWS
    Oil-free, ultra-lightweight mineral sunscreen providing SPF 50 protection against sun damage and premature aging.

What to look for in the best sunscreen for sensitive skin

Choosing the right sunscreen is essential to protect sensitive skin without causing irritation or discomfort.

1. Gentle, Non-Irritating Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for sunscreens labeled as hypoallergenic or formulated specifically for sensitive skin. Avoid fragrances, dyes, parabens, and alcohol, which can trigger irritation or allergic reactions.

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. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays rather than absorbing them.

3. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Ensure your sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage while keeping your skin calm and protected.

4. Texture and Finish

Citrus catapult arrow

Sensitive skin can react to heavy or greasy formulas. Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic options that absorb easily without clogging pores or leaving a white cast.