14 Best Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreens Of 2023 With A Buying Guide
Protect the skin from UV damage with these sunblocks that are safe for your fetus.
Expertise: Cosmetic Dermatology
Experience: 7 years
Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine. H... more
Shiboli Chakraborti Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with three years of experience. As an editor, she ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
As a mom-to-be, you must have read every possible pregnancy-related book and made the healthiest and best choices for your baby and body. However, when it comes to skin care, you cannot afford to skip out on sunscreen, and that is why you need the best pregnancy-safe sunscreen.
While pregnant, you need to scrutinize the ingredients list on your bottle of sunscreen thoroughly to ensure that it is completely safe for your skin and the baby. As there are plenty of options available on the market, it might be daunting and overwhelming to pick the safest and best one for a pregnant person. To help you out and make your job easier, we have curated a list of the best pregnancy-safe sunscreens that are available online now. Keep reading to explore our selection!
Top Picks
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Best Reef-Friendly Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion $18.23 ON AMAZON Read More › $18.23 ON AMAZON - 5
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Best For Sensitive Skin La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen-Gentle Lotion $31.99 ON AMAZON Read More › $31.99 ON AMAZON - 6
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Best Non-Greasy Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen $24.99 ON AMAZON Read More › $24.99 ON AMAZON - 8
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Best Lightweight Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion $15.75 ON AMAZON Read More › $15.75 ON AMAZON - 9
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Best Anti-Inflammatory Acure Radically Rejuvenating SPF Day Cream $16.84 ON AMAZON Read More › $16.84 ON AMAZON - 10
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Best Skin-Friendly Thinksport Everyday Face Mineral Sunscreen $12.99 ON AMAZON Read More › $12.99 ON AMAZON
In This Article
Is Sunscreen Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes. It is safe to use sunscreen during pregnancy. The market is currently flooded with a variety of pregnancy-safe sunscreens. However, be careful of the ingredients in the product. Ditch sunscreens that have harsh chemicals in them. Instead, switch to mineral-based, reef-friendly, or plant-based sunscreens. Scroll further to check our list of the best pregnancy-safe sunscreen you can buy.
14 Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreens For Face And Body – Our Top Picks For 2023
Best Moisturizing:EltaMD UV Elements Facial Sunscreen
The EltaMD UV Elements Facial Sunscreen has the benefits of sunscreen along with hydrating properties. This physical sunscreen contains 10% zinc oxide and 5.5% titanium dioxide, along with ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid. It has a broad spectrum SPF 44 to protect your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays. reducing the risk of damage to your skin or stress to your baby. The slightly tinted formula is water-resistant, retains moisture, smoothens skin texture, and makes your skin younger-looking. For an honest review of the EltaMD UV Elements Facial Sunscreen, click on this video.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and Zinc Oxide
Pros - Tinted
- Moisturizing
- Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
- Gentle
- Non-Comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Not suitable for all skin tones
- Expensive
Best Gentle Formula:MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème Sunscreen
This lightweight MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème Sunscreen has a mineral-based formula enriched with 17% zinc oxide and 2% titanium dioxide. It is developed with ProVention-R technology, which is a proprietary blend of antioxidants like green tea, vitamin C, and cranberry and pomegranate extracts to prevent photodamage.
This broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen protects your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays, sunburn, and skin damage. The formula is gentle, non-irritating, and is perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It has a rich creamy texture with a matte finish that blends seamlessly without clogging your pores or leaving a white cast. You can go through this honest review on YouTube for more information on the MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème Sunscreen.
Key Ingredients: ProVention-R
Pros - Lightweight
- Matte finish
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Leaves a white cast
- May cause rashes or dry skin
TriviaBest Non-Toxic Formula:Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen
The Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen has a non-toxic, lightweight, and deeply hydrating formula. It has a broad spectrum SPF 30 and PA+++, which soothes, calms, and protects your skin from sun damage.
The sunscreen is enriched with 14% of zinc oxide and squalane. This blend protects the skin’s outer barrier by hydrating it thoroughly and locking in moisture for smooth and soft skin. It is an easily blendable and non-greasy sunscreen that does not leave a white cast and gives your skin a healthy and dewy finish. Take a look at this brief review for detailed information on the Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen.
Key Ingredients: Squalane, and 14% Zinc Oxide
Pros - Lightweight
- Dewy finish
- Broad-spectrum of SPF 30 and PA +++
- Blends easily
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Reef-safe
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Non-toxic formula
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
- May cause a slight burning sensation
Best Reef-Friendly:Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion
The Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion features a gentle formula with a broad spectrum SPF 50 and PA++++. This lightweight and hydrating sunscreen protect your skin from UV damage and photoaging.
The sunscreen is enriched with antioxidant-rich ingredients like sunflower extract and rosemary leaf extract, which help to nourish and protect your skin. This non-toxic, reef-friendly sunscreen is water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It absorbs instantly into your skin without feeling greasy or leaving any white cast after application.
Key Ingredients: Sunflower extract and Rosemary leaf extract
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy finish
- Quick absorbing formula
- Leaves no white cast
- Mild fragrance
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Reef-friendly
- Does not irritate or sting
- Waterproof
- Sweat proof
- Value for money
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
Best For Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen-Gentle Lotion
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen-Gentle lotion is formulated with cell-ox shield technology, a combination of SPF 50 and antioxidants to provide broad-spectrum protection. It also contains 15% zinc oxide and 5% titanium dioxide which act as mineral sunscreen filters that reflect and scatter UVA and UVB rays from your skin to shield and protect it from damage.
The formula has a matte finish but leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth without greasiness. It is free from any harsh chemicals and harmful toxins, making it the best sunscreen for pregnant women and sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Cell-ox shield technology, 15% Zinc Oxide and 5% Titanium Dioxide
Pros
- Non-greasy formula
- Paraben-free
- Matte finish
- Broad-spectrum of SPF 50
- Allergy tested
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Leaves a white cast
- Slightly expensive
Best Quick-Absorbing:Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
The Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen has a fragrance-free formula that offers a broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30. This is a vegetarian, lightweight, and quick-absorbing formula made with botanical ingredients. It contains chamomile and aloe vera juice that nourishes the skin and soothes it from sunburns while preventing premature signs of aging. In addition, it offers a non-greasy finish and stays water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Titanium dioxide, Chamomile, and Aloe vera
Pros - Non-greasy
- Absorbs quickly
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Reef-friendly
- Octinoxate-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Strong smell
TriviaBest Non-Greasy:Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen gives your skin complete protection from harmful UV rays. This mineral-based sunscreen for pregnant women has SPF 30+ and provides head-to-toe sun protection.
The non-greasy formula is enriched with 5% titanium dioxide, and 10% zinc oxide, which act as the perfect reflectors on your skin to scatter the harmful UV rays. The sunscreen comes with smart cap technology, which turns the tube cap blue under strong UV rays. In this way, it indicates when the sun is strong and when you should avoid sun exposure.
Key Ingredients: 5% Titanium Dioxide and 10% Zinc Oxide
Pros
- Lightweight
- Hydrating properties
- Non-irritation formula
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Reef-friendly
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Toxins-free
- Dermatologists tested
Cons
- Feels heavy on the skin
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
Best Lightweight:Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
The Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion has a lightweight and non-greasy formula that seeps into your skin without feeling sticky. The natural zinc-based mineral sunscreen has SPF 50 and protects your skin from UV damage. The product is free from harsh chemicals and is suitable for both pregnant women and kids. This lightweight and natural formula has a matte finish and is gluten and cruelty-free.
Key Ingredients: Zinc-based minerals
Pros
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Reef-friendly
- Vegan
- Hypoallergenic
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Value for money
- Pleasant fragrance
- Dermatologists tested
Cons
- Leaves a white cast
Best Anti-Inflammatory:Acure Radically Rejuvenating SPF Day Cream
The Acure Radically Rejuvenating SPF Day Cream contains antioxidants and minerals, which nourish your skin. It has a broad spectrum SPF 30 that ensures protection from sun damage.
The day cream is enriched with zinc-based mineral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of turmeric, ferulic acid, and vitamin C. The botanical ingredients of the formula decrease the risk of skin cancer and premature aging caused by UV exposure.
Key Ingredients: 15.5% Zinc Oxide, Turmeric, Ferulic acid, and Vitamin C
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petroleum-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Dermatologists tested
Cons
- Greasy formula
Best Skin-Friendly:Thinksport Everyday Face Mineral Sunscreen
The Thinksport Everyday Face Mineral Sunscreen contains skin-friendly ingredients and is lightweight and comfortable on the skin. It is formulated with nano-zinc oxide and has a broad spectrum coverage of SPF 30.
The sunscreen protects your skin from UV damages and is slightly tinted to cover blemishes and spots to make your skin look smooth. This rich formula works perfectly as a makeup base. It blends easily with your skin tone and does not feel sticky or oily.
Key Ingredient: Nano zinc oxide
Pros
- Oil-free
- Tinted
- Water-resistant
- Non-greasy
- Avobenzone-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- 1, 4 dioxane-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- PABA-free
- Pleasant fragrance
- Ideal for everyday use
Cons
- Feels heavy on the skin
- Not suitable for humid weather
Best Water-Resistant:COOLA Mineral Body Sunscreen
The COOLA Mineral Body Sunscreen has an organic and plant-based formula. It is hydrating and gentle even on the most sensitive skin. The formula is enriched with the antioxidant and moisturizing qualities of safflower oleosomes. It also contains red raspberry seed oil and buriti oil to promote collagen formations and prickly pear extract that provides anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits. All these ingredients fight harmful free radicals to keep your skin healthy and youthful. The mineral sunscreen contains 14.5% non-nano zinc oxide to protect your skin from the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays. It is lightweight, non-greasy, and perfect for everyday use.
Key Ingredients: Safflower oleosomes, Red Raspberry seed oil, Prickly pear extract, Buriti oil, and 14.5% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
Pros
- Sheer finish
- Hydrating and nourishing formula
- Water-resistant
- Fragrance-free
- Reef-friendly
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Dermatologists tested
Cons
- Expensive
- Leaves a slight white cast
Best Oil-Free:CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
The CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen is dermatologically tested and approved. This sunscreen is 100% mineral-based, lightweight, and has a non-greasy texture, which makes it perfect for everyday use.
It is enriched with the 3 essential ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II, which help in restoring and maintaining the skin’s natural protective barrier. The sunscreen also contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide which helps to lock in moisture all day long. The sunscreen works efficiently to block out harmful UV rays.
Key Ingredients: Ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II, Hyaluronic acid, and Niacinamide
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Hydrating formula
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50
- Water-resistant
- Oxybenzone-free
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Chemical-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Leaves a white cast
Best Non-Comedogenic:Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Mineral Sunscreen
The Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Mineral Sunscreen has a 100% mineral active formula with a broad spectrum SPF 50, which prevents sunburn and sun damage. It is formulated with the dry-touch technology and zinc oxide, which makes the formula lightweight, clean, and non-greasy.
This product is free from harsh chemicals and skin irritating agents.
Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide
Pros - Gentle on the skin
- Water-resistant
- Oil-free
- PABA-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Artificial dye-free
- Artificial color-free
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- Clinically tested
Cons
- Does not blend easily
- Leaves white cast
Best Non-Irritating Formula:Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen
Image: Neutrogena The Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen has an ultra-light, fast-absorbing, and highly protective formula. It is developed with Purescreen Technology, which is a 100% blend of naturally sourced, sun protecting active ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
This formula has a broad spectrum SPF 60 that protects your skin from the harsh and damaging effects of the UV rays. Its mineral-based ingredients prevent sunburn and photodamage. The hypoallergenic formula does not clog the pores, cause irritation, or has an overpowering fragrance.
Key Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide
Pros - Lightweight
- Non-irritating formula
- Water-resistant
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- PABA-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Leaves a white cast
- Feels heavy on skin
These were some of the best sunscreen formulas for pregnant women. Read on to find out what factors to consider before buying a sun protection formula during pregnancy.
How To Select The Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreen?
Here are some of the factors that you should consider while selecting the sunscreens for pregnant women:
- Mineral-Based Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens are a big NO for the moms-to-be. Always ensure that you pick skin-friendly and safe mineral-based sunscreens. They reflect and scatter the harmful UV rays from the skin and act as a protective shield. Mineral-based formulations are usually hypoallergenic and have no adverse effects on the skin, making them a good option for pregnant women with sensitive skin.
- Broad Spectrum And Water-Resistance
Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect you from the skin-damaging effects of both UVA and UVB rays. Choose a sunscreen that has a minimum of SPF 30 and a PA+++ rating. Also, ensure that the sunscreen you pick is water-resistant for up to 40 to 80 minutes.
- Read The Label
No matter what, make it a habit of reading the label. Look for the ingredients that may or may not work for you. Avoid products that may contain paraben, PEG, phenoxyethanol, alcohol, and synthetic preservatives and color to avoid skin irritation. It is better to consult a dermatologist and take product recommendations.
- Formula
Opt for oil-free, hypoallergenic, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic formula to avoid any adverse effects. Ensure that the formula you use is cream-based rather than a spray. It is best to avoid sunscreen sprays as they often do not provide adequate sun protection and may not cover the areas properly.
Given below is a quick guideline on what ingredients to avoid in your sunscreens during pregnancy.
Ingredients To Avoid In Sunscreens
Avoid buying sunscreens that may contain chemicals like:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate,
- Avobenzone
- Homosalate,
- Octisalate,
- Benzophenone-2 (BP-2), and
- Octocrylene.
These chemicals are most likely to get absorbed in your skin and cause irritation, skin allergies, Also avoid ingredients like paraben, phthalates, sulfate, and methylisothiazolinone (MIT). It is better to consult a dermatologist for pregnancy-safe sunscreen recommendations.
If you are a mom-to-be and love spending outdoor time, then make mineral-based sunscreens your priority! Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of laser medicine in New York City, says “Opting for a sunscreen high in SPF (50+) is ideal for maximal sun protection. While sunburns are manageable, too much sun damage can lead to skin cancer, which may spread and potentially cause stress to your baby. Whether you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, always go for maximal sun protection. Choose any of the best sunscreens for pregnant women given in the above list. All of these sunscreens have amazing reviews. Go ahead and pick your favorite and step out with that added layer of skin protection!
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. She has conducted extensive research on pregnancy-safe sunscreens and used her in-depth knowledge about skin care products to curate this list. The sunscreens included in the list are made with pregnancy-safe ingredients and are suitable for daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sunscreen ingredients are not safe during pregnancy?
Ingredients that make sunscreen unsafe during pregnancy are:
• Avobenzone
• Benzophenone
• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate
• PABA
• Homosalate
• Octocrylene
• 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor.
• Vitamin A
Is zinc oxide safe for pregnancy?
Yes, zinc oxide is safe for use during pregnancy. It is hypoallergenic and sits on the skin rather than getting absorbed by it.
Do you have to wear mineral sunscreen when pregnant?
Yes, sunscreen containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide is ideal for pregnant women.
Is La Roche Posay sunscreen pregnancy-safe?
No, not all La Roche Posay sunscreens are safe for pregnancy but the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen-Gentle Lotion can be used by pregnant women.
Does sunscreen cause birth defects?
Some sunscreens contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, vitamin A, and a few others. These ingredients can cause birth defects. Choose something that is pregnancy safe to protect your skin from UV rays during those months.
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