The 5 Best Expert-Approved Sunscreens For Eczema (2024) – Buying Tips

These eczema-friendly sunscreens can keep your skin safe and without the risk of irritation.

Reviewed by Yolanda Moore, MPAS, PA-C
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Aditi Naskar, MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness
Fact-checked by Arshiya Syeda, BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

People who have eczema deal with inflammation and dryness daily. Their eczematous skin needs protection from the sun to not get aggravated. You can protect your skin by using some of the best sunscreens for eczema available on the market.

Sunscreens made for eczematous skin contain natural minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are non-irritating, skin-friendly, and soothing. These are usually harmful allergens and dye-free sunscreens that also contain replenishing and moisturizing agents that keep your skin safe and healthy. All the sunscreens mentioned in this post are hypoallergenic and gentle on all skin types. In addition, they are free from chemical aggravants and toxic ingredients like synthetic fragrances, oxybenzone, and parabens.

Keep scrolling down to check out the 5 top sunscreens that provide gentle SPF (sun protection factor) and may help manage your eczema. We also have listed the pros and cons of each product. Continue reading and choose your pick.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Lightweight Formula:Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral SunscreenPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Sun Protection:CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion With SPF 50Price on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Oil-Free Formula:EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial SunscreenPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Water-Resistant Formula:Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 30Price on Amazon
Best Non-Greasy Formula:La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra-Light Sunscreen FluidPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart

5 Best Sunscreens For Eczema (2024) – Reviews

1. Best Lightweight Formula:Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral Sunscreen

If you need a Natural sunscreen for eczema sufferers, try the Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral Sunscreen lotion. It is made with a powerful blend of hydrating mineral ingredients that are gentle, even on sensitive skin. The active ingredients are naturally sourced and free of oils, parabens, and fragrance. These 100% natural ingredients are hypoallergenic and perfect for sensitive skin. This lightweight lotion spreads easily on the skin and forms a protective layer on it. It reflects the harmful UVA and UVB rays. This Neutrogena liquid SPF 50 sunscreen can be used under makeup. Its ultra-light formula is sweat- and water-resistant for 80 minutes and does not clog pores. This non-comedogenic sunscreen is perfect for delicate skin. This hypoallergenic sunscreen has been awarded the seal of approval from the National Eczema Association. The product is perfect for you if you are looking for a soothing sunscreen for redness-prone skin.

Product Dimensions: 7.15 x 3.35 x 1.36 inches | Weight: 1.4 Ounces

Pros

  • Made with 100% naturally sourced ingredients
  • Sweat- and water-resistant
  • Oil-free
  • Broad spectrum SPF 50
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Fragrance-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • PABA-free

Cons

  • Leaves a white cast on the skin

protip_icon Quick Tip
Use two or three fingers to apply the product on your face and neck in gentle circular motions for the best coverage.

2. Best Sun Protection:CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion With SPF 50

CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion offers broad spectrum sun protection factor for sensitive skin. This sensitive skin sunscreen contains extracts from oats that are gentle on dry, itchy, and irritated skin. It has soothing and nourishing properties that are helpful in treating skin conditions such as eczema. The glycerin in it keeps dry and flaky skin moisturized and smooth. This lightweight sunscreen was developed by dermatologists with SPF 50, ceramides, and niacinamides. Ceramides and niacinamide help in repairing and restoring the natural skin barrier. They also help in keeping the skin hydrated and protected. This moisturizing and water-resistant sunscreen has an oil-free formula.

Product Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.38 x 4.92 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

Pros

  • SPF 50
  • Repairs the natural barrier
  • Lightweight
  • Soothes dry and sensitive skin
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Oil-free
  • Lightweight
  • Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)

Cons

  • Does not spread evenly

protip_icon Pro Tip
During the warmer months, place the sunscreen in the refrigerator to cool the product for a refreshing finish.

3. Best Oil-Free Formula:EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen contains zinc oxide. The 9% transparent zinc oxide in it provides coverage from both UVA and UVB rays. It helps soothe sensitive, itchy, and inflamed skin. This oil-free and paraben-free sunscreen is recommended by board-certified dermatologists for people prone to acne, rosacea, and discoloration. The lightweight and silky formula gets absorbed easily into the skin. It contains lactic acid and niacinamide; the lactic acid gently exfoliates and nourishes the skin while the niacinamide in the sunscreen helps repair the skin’s protective barrier. This fragrance-free sunscreen protects, repairs, and calms dry and sensitive skin by hydrating it. It does not contain oils, parabens, or fragrances and leaves no residue. To find out more about EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen, check out this video of the reviewer’s experience. This one can surely be a great addition to your daily skin care routine!

Item Weight: 1.58 Ounces | Product Dimensions: 1.63 x 1.63 x 1.5 inches

Pros

  • Soothes and protects acne-prone skin
  • Leaves no residue
  • Fragrance-free
  • Oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Provides antioxidant protection
  • Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Poor-quality pump

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With 6,387 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.

Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral Sunscreen
Best Lightweight Formula
CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion With SPF 50
Best Sun Protection
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen
Best Oil-Free Formula
Dimensions 7.15 x 3.35 x 1.36 inches 2.6 x 1.38 x 4.92 inches 1.63 x 1.63 x 1.5 inches
Weight 1.4 Ounces 1.6 Ounces-
Weight-- 1.58 Ounces
Rating
Reviews2,3819476,387
Price$23.98$39.95$41

4. Best Water-Resistant Formula:Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 30

4.4

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen contains active colloidal oatmeal that soothes and relieves itchy and irritated skin. It helps in restoring the natural pH balance of the skin. This eczema-friendly sunscreen also helps in repairing the skin’s protective natural barrier and preventing moisture loss. Its Enviroguard Technology delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection. This lightweight formula is quickly absorbed by the skin and does not clog pores. It protects your skin from sun damage and prevents premature aging. This oil-free formula is sweat- and water-resistant for 80 minutes. It is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation and is safe for eczema sufferers or other skin conditions. The broad-spectrum sunscreen leaves your skin feeling smooth, soft, and healthy. It comes in handy travel-size packaging that helps you protect and nourish your skin on the go. If you are still unsure, check out this honest unboxing review and learn more about the tester’s experience.

Product Dimensions: 1.26 x 2.39 x 6.68 inches | Weight: 3.86 Ounces

Pros

  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
  • Broad spectrum coverage SPF 30
  • Water- and sweat-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
  • Prevents premature aging
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Soothes the skin
  • Oil-free
  • Travel-friendly
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Texture can be improved

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 3,273 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

5. Best Non-Greasy Formula:La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid

4.3

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Sunscreen lotion protects the skin from free-radical and sun damage. This oil-free sunscreen has been tested on sensitive skin. It contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50 protection. This 100% advanced mineral face sunscreen gets absorbed quickly and does not leave a white residue. Its non-greasy and lightweight formula blends well. The oxybenzone-free broad-spectrum sunscreen creates a great matte finish and can be used under makeup. It is dermatologist-tested.

Item Weight: 0.11 Pounds | Product Dimensions: 1.91 x 0.97 x 5.5 inches

Pros

  • Broad spectrum SPF 50
  • Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
  • Lightweight
  • Oxybenzone-free
  • No white cast
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Non-greasy
  • Suitable for sensitive skin type

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Grainy texture

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 663 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.

*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

That was our round-up of the top sunscreens that may help manage your eczema. We have also made a simple checklist to help you choose the right sunscreen for skin conditions like eczema, dryness, flaking, itching, inflammation, and other environmental factors. Check it out below!

What To Look For In A Sunscreen For Eczema

  1. NEA’s Seal Of Acceptance: National Eczema Association awards certain products with its seal of acceptance based on their safety and efficacy.
  2. SPF Level:It is advisable to use an SPF 30 sunscreen or above
  3. Mineral-Based UV Filters: Sunscreens with mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are better for the skin as they do not irritate your skin. Unlike traditional sunscreens, they do not absorb the UV rays but act as physical filters that reflect and scatter the harmful UV rays.
  4. Broad Spectrum Protection: Make sure the sunscreen offers broad spectrum coverage and sun protection. It should protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Look for board-certified dermatologist-recommended or dermatologically tested products.
  5. Alcohol-Free: Alcohol has a drying effect on the skin. It should be avoided in skin care products. Dry skin is more susceptible to eczema flare-ups and premature signs of aging.

Infographic: Tips To Apply Sunscreen The Right Way

Sunscreens shield your skin from harmful UV rays. They are a must-have for all, but even more so for people with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. If you are one of those with vulnerable skin barriers, it is imperative that you apply sunscreen thoroughly and religiously to all exposed skin. Check out the infographic below for more information.

Tips To Apply Sunscreen The Right Way (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

If you have eczema, you are probably dealing with sensitive and sore skin. The good part is that there are many sunscreens available nowadays, especially for eczematous skin. They are enriched with natural minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are non-irritating, skin-friendly, and soothing to be added to your everyday skin care routine easily. Try the Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral Sunscreen for a gentle formulation, and those with acne-prone skin should try the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen. Even the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is good for individuals looking for a fast-absorbing solution. These are also usually Oxybenzone-free and Octinoxate-free sunscreens. The sunscreens reviewed in the list are hypoallergenic, have anti-inflammatory properties, and are free from chemical aggravants. Do check out the NEA’s Seal Of Acceptance, SPF level, and Broad Spectrum Protection while looking for a sunscreen for eczema.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach who has good knowledge about how your skin behaves in response to different skincare products. She has gone through in-depth reviews and customers’ feedback to bring you a specially curated list of the best sunscreens for eczema-prone skin. These hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and allergy-tested sunscreens are specially formulated with natural oils and skin-friendly ingredients to help keep your skin well-moisturized while providing the required sun protection as well.


Recommended Articles


Was this article helpful?
thumbsupthumbsdown
The following two tabs change content below.

Latest Articles