17 Best Sunscreens For Sensitive Skin To Try, According To An Expert – 2024

Skin-friendly and chemical-free products that offer perfect protection against UV rays.

Reviewed by Raisa Zarin, Licensed Esthetician
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Medha Deb, Integrated MA  • 

If you have sensitive skin, picking the right sunscreen can be challenging. The best sunscreens for sensitive skin not only provide effective sunburn prevention with good SPF but also feature soothing ingredients and calming properties. Unfortunately, most sunscreens are formulated with skin-irritating chemicals that block UV rays. However, there are a few brands that cater to people with sensitive skin. Here is a list of the 17 best sunscreens for sensitive skin you can buy online. Read on!

ProductsCheck Price
Suntegrity 5-In-1 Moisturizing Face SunscreenPrice on Amazon
Elta MD Skincare UV Clear Broad SpectrumPrice on Amazon
St. Botanica Vitamin C Mineral Based SunscreenPrice on Amazon
Blue Lizard Australian SunscreenPrice on Amazon
Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen
Price on Amazon
Banana Boat Simply Protect Sensitive Sunscreen Spray
Price on Amazon
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SunscreenPrice on Amazon
MD SolarSciences Mineral Moisture DefensePrice on Amazon
CETAPHIL Sheer Mineral Sunscreen
Price on Amazon
Colorscience Sunforgettable Broad SpectrumPrice on Amazon
Vanicream Sunscreen SportPrice on Amazon
Neutrogena Sensitive Skin SunscreenPrice on Amazon

17 Top-Rated Sunscreens Of 2024 That Won’t Irritate Sensitive Skin

1. Suntegrity 5-In-1 Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen

Product Claims

This sunscreen will protect your skin from sun damage as well as dark spots, redness, fine lines, and inflammation. This is why this sunscreen consistently ranks well in the EWG ranking system (Environmental Working Group database). This is a chemical-free tinted sunscreen that you can use as a BB cream to prime, cover, and protect your skin. But if you still need more reasons to go ahead with this product, then don’t hesitate to explore it further on Amazon and read various reviewers vouching for it.

Item Weight: 2 Ounces | Product Dimensions: 1 x 2 x 6.25 inches

Pros

  • 100% vegan
  • Contains active zinc oxide
  • Hygienic packaging
  • No parabens
  • No phthalates and mineral oils
  • No synthetic dyes and sulfates
  • No chemical UV absorbers
  • Fragrance-free
  • Cruelty-free (PETA and Leaping Bunny certified)
  • Non-greasy
  • Reef-friendly

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"This sunscreen offers light coverage and a sheer skin tint. I use it as my daily foundation but wish the SPF was higher. It’s a fine sunscreen and moisturizer combination which is worth the investment."

protip_icon Quick Tip
Apply the 5-In-1 face sunscreen as a skin care routine step to protect your skin and create a smoother base for your makeup.

2. Elta MD Skincare UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46

Product Claims

This facial sunscreen contains niacinamide that calms your sensitive skin and protects it. It is especially beneficial for those who have rosacea and acne-prone skin and discoloration issues. It is incredibly lightweight and easy to apply.

Item Weight: 1.58 Ounces | Product Dimensions: 1.63 x 1.63 x 7 inches

Pros

  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Zinc oxide-based
  • Available in both tinted and untinted versions
  • Oil-free
  • Sensitivity-free

Cons

None

protip_icon Quick Tip
Apply a suitable amount of the sunscreen as the last step of your skin care routine or alone about 30 minutes before stepping out in the sun.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 12,002 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.

3. St. Botanica Vitamin C Mineral Based Sunscreen

The St. Botanica Vitamin C Mineral-Based Sunscreen provides complete UV protection with its broad spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ formula. The water-resistant sunscreen is formulated using a blend of the lemon peel oil, orange peel, amla fruit, licorice, turmeric, saffron, tamarind seed, rose flower, sandalwood, and vitamins B3, C, and E. It is rich in antioxidants and keeps your skin protected against free radicals. Raisa Zarin, a licensed esthetician says, “The ingredients give this product an added benefit of brightening the skin.”

Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches | Weight: 4.16 Ounces

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Silicone-free

Cons

None

Suntegrity 5-In-1 Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen
Elta MD Skincare UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46
St. Botanica Vitamin C Mineral Based Sunscreen
Weight 2 Ounces 1.58 Ounces-
Dimensions 1 x 2 x 6.25 inches 1.63 x 1.63 x 7 inches 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches
Weight-- 4.16 Ounces
Rating
Reviews-12,00277
Price-$39$400
Buy NowBuy NowBuy Now

4. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen

Product Claims

This is a mineral-based dermatologist-recommended sunscreen that is free of harmful chemicals. It is a broad spectrum sunscreen, and the best part is, the bottle turns blue when exposed to UV rays. In this way, it also reminds you to reapply sunscreen.

Product Dimensions: 6.75 x 1.5 x 2.75 inches | Weight: 9.36 Ounces

Pros

  • No parabens
  • No artificial fragrance
  • Dermatologist recommended
  • Water-resistant formula
  • Reef-safe
  • No harmful chemicals

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"The sunscreen effectively protected me during a beach vacation, without any breakouts or hives. The effectiveness is excellent. I wore it daily while on the beach and it didn’t burn. This sunscreen may feel a little greasy at first but soaks in like a lotion. It is unscented and does not leave a white cast."

5. Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen

4.4
Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen Image: Neutrogena

Product claims

Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen is formulated with Purescreen technology that prevents the harmful effects of sun rays by reflecting them. The mineral sunscreen has titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as the active ingredients that offer a broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. This dermatologist-recommended sunscreen offers high SPF protection of 60, is water-resistant, and free of dyes, harsh chemicals, and oils. The gentle and non-greasy formula spreads evenly on the skin and keeps the skin hydrated.

Item Weight: 3 Ounces | Product Dimensions: 5.51 x 2.76 x 1.18 inches

Pros

  • Naturally-sourced minerals
  • Water-resistant for 80 minutes
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Fragrance-free
  • Oil-free
  • PABA-free

Cons

None

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

There are more than 4,567 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.

6. Banana Boat Simply Protect Sensitive Sunscreen Spray

4.5
Banana Boat Simply Protect Sensitive Sunscreen Spray Image: Banana Boat

The Simply Protect Sensitive Sunscreen Spray by Banana Boat comes with broad-spectrum coverage of SPF 50 to prevent sunburn, photoaging, and other damaging skin concerns. It is formulated with homosalate, zinc oxide, octocrylene, and octisalate, and is also water-resistant. The lightweight and non-greasy formula ensures an even application, while the spray bottle makes it mess-free. Moreover, this fast-absorbing sunscreen is also free from harmful substances such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it a safe choice.

Item Weight: 6 Ounces | Product Dimensions: 2.09 x 4.2 x 7.36 inches.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Naturally-sourced zinc
  • Non-greasy
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Reef-friendly

Cons

  • May not be suitable for dry skin

Our Tester's Experience

"The sunscreen applies white but blends in after rubbing. The formula is safe and doesn't cause any allergic reactions. This does not leave residue on my skin and is suitable for people with skin sensitivities."


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 2,907 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.

7. SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen

Product Claims

This sunscreen is perfect for normal, combination, and sensitive skin types. It is a tinted sunscreen that contains 100% mineral filters that are incredibly gentle on your skin. It provides a broad spectrum of coverage and gives a radiant finish. It contains plankton extracts that boost your skin’s resistance to the stress induced by UV rays and heat.

MD SolarSciences Mineral Moisture DefensePros
  • Contains zinc oxide
  • Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin
  • Non-oily

Cons

None

8. MD SolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense

  • Contains zinc oxide
  • Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin
  • Non-oily

Cons

None

8. MD SolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense

Pros

  • Contains zinc oxide
  • Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin
  • Non-oily

Cons

None

8. MD SolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense

Pros

  • Contains zinc oxide
  • Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin
  • Non-oily

Cons

None

8. MD SolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense

Product Claims

This is a mineral-based sunscreen, which means it doesn’t contain UV-absorbing chemicals that often irritate sensitive skin. It has an oil-free formula and contains ceramides. It locks in moisture and keeps your skin hydrated. This sunscreen also helps repair your skin’s natural barrier and prevents premature aging.

Item Weight: 4 Ounces | Product Dimensions: 1.7 x 2.2 x 7.2 inches

Pros

  • Safe for babies and kids (6 months and older)
  • Fragrance-free
  • Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Contains antioxidants
  • Non-oily

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"This sunscreen rubs easily and is perfect for day-to-day casual exposure. It protects my skin and doesn't stain clothes. It applies smoothly without leaving a white film."

9. CETAPHIL Sheer Mineral Sunscreen

4
Cataphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Image: Cetaphil
Now 42% Off

The CETAPHIL Sheer Mineral Sunscreen is specially formulated for sensitive skin and infused with vitamin E and prebiotics. It is designed with a gentle microbiome formula to protect your skin’s delicate microbiome and lock in moisture to keep the skin hydrated. This clinically-tested sunscreen has an SPF of 30 and actives like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It has a lightweight and non-greasy formula with no residue and is also water-resistant. Additionally, it is free from oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate, making it reef-friendly.

Item Weight: 0.24 Pounds | Product Dimensions: 1.24 x 2.4 x 5.52 inches.

Colorscience Sunforgettable Broad Spectrum SPF 50Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Clinically-tested for sensitive skin
  • Accepted by the National Eczema Association
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Chemical-free
  • Mineral-oil-free

Cons

  • May leave a white cast

Our Tester's Experience

"The sunblock doesn't irritate my skin. It offers good coverage and makes it a valued protective solution."


10. Colorscience Sunforgettable Broad Spectrum SPF 50

  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Clinically-tested for sensitive skin
  • Accepted by the National Eczema Association
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Chemical-free
  • Mineral-oil-free

Cons

  • May leave a white cast

Our Tester's Experience

"The sunblock doesn't irritate my skin. It offers good coverage and makes it a valued protective solution."


10. Colorscience Sunforgettable Broad Spectrum SPF 50

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Clinically-tested for sensitive skin
  • Accepted by the National Eczema Association
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Chemical-free
  • Mineral-oil-free

Cons

  • May leave a white cast

Our Tester's Experience

"The sunblock doesn't irritate my skin. It offers good coverage and makes it a valued protective solution."


10. Colorscience Sunforgettable Broad Spectrum SPF 50

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Clinically-tested for sensitive skin
  • Accepted by the National Eczema Association
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Chemical-free
  • Mineral-oil-free

Cons

  • May leave a white cast

Our Tester's Experience

"The sunblock doesn't irritate my skin. It offers good coverage and makes it a valued protective solution."


10. Colorscience Sunforgettable Broad Spectrum SPF 50

Product Claims

If you are tired of applying (and reapplying) sunscreen lotions and creams, try this lightweight mineral powder. It has a brush applicator with which you can simply dust your face, and you are good to go. It comes in a variety of shades (to match your skin tone) and protects your skin throughout the day.

Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 4 inches | Weight: 0.35 Ounces

Pros

  • Can be used alone or on makeup
  • Chemical-free
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Water-resistant formula
  • Travel-friendly
  • Suits all skin types (even hypersensitive skin)

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"This product provides effective sun protection while not causing any breakouts. It leaves a radiant, natural finish. I would consider purchasing it again."

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 3,284 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

11. Vanicream Sunscreen Sport

Product Claims

The formula of this sunscreen is pure love for sensitive skin. It is good for skin that is prone to breakouts, rashes, and hives. It has a non-greasy formula that will not weigh your skin down.

Product Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 8 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces

Pros

  • No synthetic dyes
  • No artificial fragrance
  • No lanolin
  • No parabens
  • No formaldehyde
  • Gluten-free
  • Oil-free
  • Water-resistant (for 80 minutes)

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"I use this sunscreen daily for its remarkable protection. Its vanishing quality is a plus, leaving no white layer on the skin."

12. OLAY Complete UV365 Daily Moisturizer With Sunscreen

4.5

The OLAY Complete UV365 Daily Moisturizer With Sunscreen is unscented and has SPF 30 to prevent sun damage. It is also infused with Vitamin E, B3,B5, and aloe vera to soothe and hydrate your skin, making it an ideal moisturizer too.The blend of vitamins and aloe vera condition your skin to maintain its overall health and youthful appearance. It also protects your sensitive skin from 97% of the ultraviolet sun rays with its SolarSheer technology.

Number of Items: 2 | Product Dimensions: 1.32 x 1.32 x 5.75 inches | Weight: 5.2 Ounces

Pros

  • Has SPF 30
  • Lightweight
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
  • Fragrance-free
  • Oil-free
  • Non-greasy
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

None

13. SkinMedica Essential Defense Everyday Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 47

Product Claims

This lightweight sunscreen does not clog your skin pores and offers the highest sun protection. This sunscreen with antioxidants can keep your skin healthy and glowing, protecting you from both UVA and UVB rays. Not to mention, the brand is also supported by clinical data, thus promising visible results with daily use.

Item Weight: 52.5 Grams

Pros

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to apply

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"This sunscreen gets absorbed easily and lasts all day. I even put it very close to my eyes and have never had any eye sensitivity. It blends into the skin and doesn’t leave you greasy. Perfect for brown skin."

14. CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen

4
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Image: Cerave
Product Claims

The CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen is 100% mineral-based and recommended by dermatologists. The broad-spectrum SPF 30 protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen contains three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that protect your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Moreover, the product is also tested for allergens, so you can be safe from possible allergic reactions.

Product Dimensions: 1.5 x 2.95 x 7.01 inches | Weight: 5.92 Ounces.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Gentle formula
  • Non-greasy
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Oxybenzone-free
  • Allergy-tested
  • Dermatologist recommended
  • Fragrance-free
  • Safe for kids

Cons

  • Might leave a white cast

15. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry-Touch Sunscreen

Product Claims

This sunscreen doesn’t feel sticky on your skin and is ideal for acne-prone skin. It contains avobenzone, which is an FDA-approved chemical for protecting the skin from UVA rays. It is formulated with advanced cell-ox shield technology and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Item Weight: 50 Milligrams

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Non-greasy
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Allergy-tested
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

  • Leaves an ashy residue on the skin.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 2,137 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

16. innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen

4.5
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Image: Innisfree

The innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen has a water-based formula offering broad-spectrum protection of SPF 36. It is infused with sunflower seed oil and green tea that helps to hydrate, soothe, and nurture your skin. The lightweight sunscreen is easy to spread and blend for getting a protected and glowing skin. Additionally, the sunscreen leaves no white cast and is suitable for all skin types.

Number of Items: 1 | Product Dimensions: 2 x 3 x 6 inches | Weight: 2.89 Ounces.

Pros

  • Reef-friendly
  • Lightweight
  • Water-based formula
  • No white cast
  • Wears well under makeup

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"This formula blends easily on my skin and absorbs into it like a dream. It never causes my combination skin to break out. I love that it adds a healthy glow to my skin but never leaves a white cast or greasy residue. However, it has a strong fragrance, which can get overwhelming after a certain time."

17. Aveeno Active Naturals Protect + Hydrate Broad Spectrum SPF 70

Product Claims

This ultra-moisturizing sunscreen lotion protects your skin against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula of this sunscreen contains oats extracts that keep your skin hydrated, protect the skin barrier, and also calm it down. Suitable for adults engaging in outdoor activities or sports, this sunscreen is an ideal choice for daily use.

Product Dimensions: 1.26 x 2.39 x 6.68 inches | Weight: 0.04 Ounces

Pros

  • Oil-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Contains PEG-100
Our Tester's Experience

"The sunscreen blends well after thorough application. It is slightly perfumed but not overpowering. It creates an oily texture on my face and is slightly uncomfortable when it gets in my eyes. However, it does a fantastic job of safeguarding my skin and leaves it feeling pleasantly hydrated and bright."

Infographic: Buying A Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin: Things To Remember

Sensitive skin requires more care than a regular skin type. When it comes to protection from UV rays, it’s essential not to use sunscreen that contains toxic chemicals that might save you from harmful sun rays but leave you with more allergies. So, picking the right sunscreen becomes a necessity for people with sensitive skin. Keep scrolling through the infographic below to learn how to do it.

Buying A Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin: Things To Remember (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

Sunscreens are an ideal way to protect your skin from sun damage. But sensitive skin needs additional attention and love. You should focus on the sunscreens that are formulated especially for your skin type and are validated by leading dermatologists. Additionally, it does help to check for reviewer’s experiences when contemplating a product so as to see the range of users. Unfortunately, regular sunscreens are infused with chemical ingredients that might protect the skin but can trigger allergies. Thanks to the brands offering sunscreens that cater to sensitive skin. Whether going outside or staying indoors, you need sunscreen with at least minimal SPF value. If you want to minimize your skin care routine, the Suntegrity 5-In-1 Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen is an excellent multifunctional, all-in-one product. People with sensitive skin can opt for the lightweight Elta MD Skincare UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46, while the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry-Touch Sunscreen is suitable for oily, acne-prone skin and offers a matte finish. The products listed in our article come with SPF 30 and more. Consider investing in sunscreens that are free from phthalates, parabens, synthetic dyes, and other harmful chemicals. And avoid sunscreens that may dry out the skin. Finally, ensure to do a patch test before topical application or opt for dermatologist-recommended sunscreens for your sensitive skin.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach and writes research-based product reviews for StyleCraze. She has curated this list of the best sunscreens for sensitive skin after checking a wide range of products available on the market and scrolling through user reviews on trusted online forums. These sunscreens are free of harmful and irritating chemicals and contain hypoallergenic ingredients. Moreover, they are non-sticky and non-comedogenic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does sunscreen irritate my skin?

Sunscreens contain several active ingredients that react differently to each skin type. If you are allergic to certain chemicals, you may experience severe irritation and redness. Also, synthetic fragrances and preservatives in the formula may cause itchiness.

Is mineral sunscreen better for sensitive skin?

Yes. Mineral sunscreens contain anti-irritants like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that create a protective barrier and prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin.

What sunscreen should I use if I am allergic?

Use the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry-Touch Sunscreen if you are allergic. This allergy-tested product is infused with cell-ox shield technology, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It is also free of potential irritants like paraben and synthetic fragrances.

Which is better for sensitive skin, sunscreen or sunblock?

Sunscreens absorb UV rays and prevent sun damage, whereas sunblocks block the UV rays from hitting your skin. Both work effectively to protect your skin from the harsh sun. Therefore, select a formula based on your skin needs, but filter products that contain irritants.

How do I know if I am allergic to sunscreen?

You are allergic to the product if you feel itchy or have a stinging sensation on your skin after applying sunscreen. Also, if your skin turns red after application, the formula is not suitable for your skin.

Why does my face sting when I put on sunscreen?

If you have sensitive skin or eczema, toxic irritants in sunscreens may react to your skin and cause a stinging sensation.

Can I use both sunscreen and sunblock for sensitive skin?

No. Do not use sunscreen and sunblock together for sensitive skin. Using both may cause product buildup, dry skin, and turn both products ineffective. Therefore, choose any one formula free of toxins with a broad spectrum.


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