Dermatologists recommend a simple, mineral-based sunscreen for people with sensitive skin. “Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free choices are good bets, as are mineral-only sunscreens with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide,” Rachel Westbay, a dermatologist at Marmur Medical, tells Bazaar. “This is because the active ingredients in most chemical sunscreens can be fairly irritating for those with sensitive skin. Alcohols and preservatives should also be avoided.”
Shop the Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
What is indisputable is that whatever your skin sensitivities are—extreme dryness, frequent breakouts, eczema—wearing sunscreen daily is imperative. “The most important thing you can do to slow the signs of aging and prevent the development of skin cancer is the regular use of sunscreen,” explains Heather D. Rogers, dermatologist and co-founder of Modern Dermatology. “Since this is such an important step, it is worth spending the time and money to find a sunscreen that agrees with your skin.” Ahead, we’ve tapped a few dermatologists and skin experts, plus tested dozens of top-rated formulas, to assemble the list below of the best sunscreens that offer high-factor protection from UVA and UVB rays—and are comfortable on even the most sensitive skin.
Pros
- Available at the drugstore
- 100% mineral
- Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Matte finish
Cons
- The runny texture can make it messy to apply.
Beloved French pharmacy brand La Roche-Posay makes the best, most gentle sunscreen, according to Westbay. “The brand’s sunscreens contain newer filters that provide long-lasting UVA protection,” she explains. “La Roche-Posay is one of the few companies with products sold in the U.S. with this type of UVA protection. This particular sunscreen is a favorite of mine because it is 100 percent mineral with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, is fast-absorbing, provides a matte finish, and does not leave a white cast the way many mineral-only formulations do.”
One customer says: “I only wear mineral sunblocks (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide), and am always looking for something gentle enough for rosacea and mature skin. I am fair-skinned, so I did not find a white cast on my skin. I apply it several minutes after moisturizing, and it goes on very smoothly and feels wonderfully soothing on my skin.” —Andie
Pros
- Strengthens the skin barrier
- Vegan
Cons
- Contains fragrance
While no one likes a sunscreen that leaves a white cast, some do prefer a formula that enhances their skin and provides a subtle glow. For those people, Rogers recommends the Self Reflect Moisturizing Sunscreen from Kinship. Not only has this sunscreen won countless beauty awards over the years, Rogers says it’s also one of the only reflective, glow-giving formulas on the market that is gentle enough for very sensitive or breakout-prone skin.
One customer says: “The best sunscreen ever!! No white cast, no toxic smell, easy to apply and rub in, gives a nice glow, and best of all protects my face!” —Kristen
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Water resistant up to 80 minutes
- Includes probiotics to protect the skin’s microbiome
- Wears nicely under makeup
Cons
- Small bottle
Cetaphil’s sunscreen is a must-have at under $13 per bottle. “It contains broad-spectrum SPF 50 to reflect both UVA and UVB rays, to help prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer and early signs of aging due to sun exposure,” says Westbay. “The formula is serumlike and blends in translucent, even on the darkest of skin tones. It dries to a hydrating, yet matte finish ideal for application under makeup, thanks to the moisturizing properties of vitamin E.”
One customer says: “Not only does [using this sunscreen] allow me to have confidence that my skin is protected with an SPF of 50, it also blends so well with my makeup and other skincare products! It is also cost-efficient. I would invest in this gem again.” —Natalie
Pros
- Noncomedogenic
- Contains niacinamide
- Acts as a primer for makeup
Cons
- Over $50
Westbay recommends this Clark’s Botanicals sunscreen to patients with sensitive skin who experience dryness and acne. “This broad-spectrum, noncomedogenic mineral sunscreen contains many hydrating ingredients that make it a great choice for sensitive skin,” she says. “Besides 15 percentzinc oxide, it contains hyaluronic acid and marine algae to instantly hydrate, plump, and minimize wrinkles, and niacinamide to minimize the appearance of pores and stimulate the skin’s lipid barrier.”
One customer says: “This sunscreen is nothing like other mineral ones I’ve tried. It is lightweight and there is no white cast. I used it under makeup and it acted like a smoothing primer. It never felt heavy or greasy, and I forgot that I used it.” —Leslie
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Defends against blue light and pollution
- Large bottle
- Wears well under makeup
Cons
- Takes a minute or two to absorb
This souped-up mineral sunscreen melts into the skin without leaving a white cast, and contains a blend of antioxidants (like vitamin C and licorice) that help block pollution, blue light, and UVA and UVB rays. It also contains skincare extras like kiwi and licorice to boost skin’s radiance with each use.
One customer says: “I use this every morning as a last step before makeup. It feels great on my skin, has an undetectable scent, and absorbs quickly and fully. Instant glow! I will keep buying this product as long as Paula keeps making it!” —Kay
Pros
- Lightweight
- Hydrating
Cons
- Over $40
If you’re looking for a protective, light, translucent sunscreen, Westbay recommends this one by Colorescience. “This mineral sunscreen is one of the sheerest sheer formulations,” she says. “It’s ultra-lightweight but not drying, and combines non-nano zinc oxide with powerful hydrators, and protects not only from UV light, but also blue light, infrared, free radicals, and pollution, all of which can wreak particular havoc on skin barriers.”
One customer says: “Astonishingly good sunscreen. [It] has zero fragrance, and does not pill or [cause] breakouts—even [on] my hypersensitive skin. There is no reason or excuse left for me not to use sunscreen. Very happy with this.” —Su
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Noncomedogenic
Cons
- Not water-resistant
Dermatologists are obsessed with EltaMD—and for good reason. The EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, in particular, remains a staple for those of us obsessed with elegant sun protection. “I’ve been a fan for many years and regularly recommend this one to facial clients, as it’s suitable for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, and even dry skin,” says Ian Michael Crumm, a celebrity esthetician and co-host of the BeautyCurious podcast.
One customer says: “I’ve been using this sunscreen for over 10 years. The formulation is amazing and glides on [my] skin so smoothly. It doesn’t feel gross or sticky like some sunscreens do. I tried a popular brand advertising sunscreen makeup and it clogged my skin. I will never switch again and will continue to use my Elta MD!” —Melanie
Pros
- Highly water-resistant, up to 80 minutes
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Over $50
If you’re looking for a sunscreen that leans into the latest science, try this tinted one from Neova. In a clinical study, the brand found that the addition of photolyase, a DNA-repair enzyme, to a traditional sunscreen base contributes to the prevention of ultraviolet-radiation-induced DNA damage and cell death—when applied topically to human skin. Beyond its superior skin protection, Crumm finds the tinted formula to be suitable for sensitive skin.
One customer says: “I struggled for years trying to find a sunscreen for my face that wouldn’t irritate me, make me break out, or cause a rash. [Then] I found this one. It’s perfect for my sensitive skin and doesn’t feel heavy, and the tint doesn’t make me look like a ghost.” —Shirley
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Best Foundation With Sunscreen
Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30
Pros
- 17 versatile shades
- Great natural coverage
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Runny texture can be messy to apply
- Might be too glowy for oily skin
The best sunscreen is the one you’ll wear every day—and this foundation-sunscreen hybrid is so genius that it makes the drag that is sunscreen application rather fun. Tower 28’s whole brand is built around creating products that are safe for sensitive and reactive skin, so this cult-favorite tinted sunscreen uses 100 percent mineral non-nano sunscreen, plus soothing white sage and prickly pear extract. It gives the prettiest glow to skin with medium coverage, like an upgraded tinted moisturizer. “I went through a whole tube of this tinted sunscreen because I couldn’t stop reaching for it in the morning,” says Bazaar beauty director Jenna Rosenstein. “The shade range is impressive, and the formula leaves skin looking so beautiful, you’ll forget about the SPF 30 protection.”
One customer says: “I have been wearing this for four weeks now and I love it. It has enough coverage to even out my rosacea, but not so much as to look ‘makeup-y.’ I highly recommend.” —TwinsBoys4Me
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sweat-resistant
- Pregnancy-safe
Cons
- Lightly fragranced
For those with sensitive skin looking for a multifunctional sunscreen that doubles as makeup primer, this one by California-based skincare brand Mama Sol is a great option. The mineral formula with SPF 30 also features specific antioxidants and natural extracts that offer additional moisturizing and skin-smoothing benefits. It’s safe for use during pregnancy, and for nursing moms or anyone with sensitive skin.
One customer says: “I’ve researched and sampled dozens of sunscreens over the years and this is the only one that truly moisturizes, works beautifully under makeup, and doesn’t leave you feeling sticky. My skin glows. Even more, every ingredient is made by nature and has the most inviting fragrance.” —Libby
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Meet the Experts
• Heather D. Rogers, M.D., is a double board-certified dermatologist and the co-founder of Modern Dermatology.
• Rachel Westbay, M.D., F.A.A.D, is a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical.
• Ian Michael Crumm is a celebrity esthetician and the co-host of the podcast BeautyCurious.
Should I wear sunscreen if I have sensitive skin?
While it can be frustrating to experience slight stinging, burning, or general discomfort after applying sunscreen, protecting your skin from the sun's UVA and UVB rays is nonnegotiable. If your daily sunscreen is causing or exacerbating skin sensitivities, try one of the aforementioned gentle formulas and ensure that your skin is properly hydrated before applying it. “Always apply a moisturizer before, even if the product says it is a moisturizer, because zinc can be drying and it sits on top of the skin,” explains Rogers. The moisturizer will almost act as a buffer against irritation. “You want to get hydrating ingredients [on your skin] first,” the dermatologist adds.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
How do I choose a sunscreen for sensitive skin?
When shopping for the best sunscreen for sensitive skin, look out for the phrase broad-spectrum. “It means they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays age the skin, while UVB rays burn it, and both can contribute to skin cancer," explains Crumm. Additionally, you want to make sure your sunscreen for sensitive skin has an SPF of 30 or higher, the recommendation set by the American Academy of Dermatology.
For people with sensitive skin, Crumm adds, sunscreens with potential irritants like alcohol, fragrances, and preservatives should be avoided. With sunscreen filters, mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are usually well-tolerated by sensitive skin as they are less likely to irritate.
Factors like consumer testing and approval are important as well. “Look for products that have been tested and approved by reputable dermatological organizations or have undergone consumer testing for sensitive skin,” Crumm says. “Products endorsed by the Skin Cancer Foundation with the seal of approval are preferred.”
Finally, be mindful of expiration dates on your sunscreen, as expired sunscreen won’t provide adequate protection. When testing a new formula, conduct a patch test on the inside of your wrist to ensure you don’t experience irritation or a skin reaction.
Shop More Summer Beauty Tips From Bazaar’s Editors
- Get Rid of Pool Hair With These Best Shampoos for Chlorine Removal
- 6 Gorgeous Summer 2024 Hair Trends to Try Right This Second
- 10 Best Sunscreen Oils to Score a Healthy Glow This Summer
- 40 Ultra-Cool Summer Nail Designs to Try in 2024
- The 10 Best Bronzing Drops for a Natural Sun-Kissed Glow
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Why trust Harper’s Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, hair care, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Megan Decker
Megan Decker is a beauty and lifestyle writer and editor, and the former beauty editor at Refinery29, where she oversaw the site’s beauty trend coverage. In addition to regularly contributing to Harper's Bazaar, she also writes for Refinery29, Byrdie, PS, various newsletters, and other publications. She lives on the Upper East Side and you can often find her reading, picnicking, or strolling in Central Park.