If the thought of adding daily SPF to your skin care routine sends shivers down your spine, the best sunscreens for sensitive skin can help. These formulas won’t cause the unpleasant flare ups, redness, and stinging side-effects. To help find the best ones, we tapped dermatologists for their most tried-and-true products—the ones they recommend to all of their patients with easily irritated skin—plus, tested and reviewed Glamour favorites.
The best sunscreens for sensitive skin, at a glance
What sunscreen is best for sensitive skin?
If you have sensitive skin, opt for mineral sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, since they’re generally less irritating to the skin and don’t cause adverse reactions, says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Unlike chemical sunscreens, which need to absorb into the skin to work effectively, mineral sunscreens provide a physical barrier that remains on the skin’s surface,” says Deeptej Singh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Albuquerque, New Mexico. “This difference minimizes the risk of allergic and irritant reactions by preventing the activation of immune responses in the epidermis.” Mineral formulas also tend to be fragrance-free, noncomedogenic, and non-inflammatory, says Dr. Engelman. Read: No harsh ingredients like oxybenzone.
When shopping for sunscreen for sensitive skin, you can also look for key features like hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. If you have dry, sensitive skin look for hydrating ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid for skin barrier moisturization and niacinamide for soothing, anti-inflammatory benefits. If your skin is acne-prone, you may want to target oil-free formulas, since they’re less likely to clog pores and lead to breakouts. And don’t forget to peep the level of SPF. “The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreen (protects against UVA and UVB rays) with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30,” says Dr. Singh. And if you’re active or getting intense sun exposure, use a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher, and make sure to reapply every two hours.
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
