16 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin 2025, Tested and Reviewed

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If you’ve got a reactive complexion, even a basic SPF can feel risky. Hello, stinging, redness, or irritation. That’s why dermatologists say the best sunscreens for sensitive skin should offer both broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays and include calming ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to help strengthen and soothe inflamed areas.

To find the formulas that actually deliver, we spoke to dermatologists about what to look for, then tested the top picks ourselves. The standout? EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen. It’s lightweight, quick to absorb, and is a consistent favorite among both experts and editors. While it’s suitable for all skin types, it also contains niacinamide to help protect finicky skin.

Additionally, we’ve included top-rated SPFs that work for a variety of different needs, whether you want something tinted, anti-aging, or hydrating enough to replace your moisturizer. Because when sunscreen actually works with your skin, wearing it every day becomes a lot easier.

The best sunscreens for sensitive skin, at a glanceBest Overall: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, $42Best Drugstore: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Face Sheer Tint (SPF 30), $14Best for Acne-Prone Skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen (SPF 60), $33Best for Eczema: Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Sun Fluid (SPF 50+), $44Best for Kids: Blue Lizard Sensitive Face Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 30), $11Best Overall: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen (SPF 46)Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen

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EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen (SPF 46)

Ask any dermatologist what the best sunscreen is, and there’s a high probability they’ll name-drop EltaMD. Every dermatologist we’ve spoken to (dozens and dozens) recommends this formula, whether it’s for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, or dry skin. “It’s easy to apply and absorbs into my skin readily—no greasy residue whatsoever,” says Debra Ibrahim, DO, co-owner of Aesthetica Medspa in New Jersey.

Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley agrees: “The SPF is creamy but ultralight and doesn’t leave any sticky residue in its wake—ideal for layering under makeup daily. Despite the high 46 SPF, it’s largely transparent and won’t leave any white cast. I also love that the UVA/UVB-blocking formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes—all good sunscreens should be, IMO.” (You could also opt for the EltaMD tinted sunscreen, which has all the same great characteristics of the clear option.)

Type: MineralKey ingredients: Zinc oxide, octinoxate, niacinamideSPF: 46Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Lightweight; nongreasyWhat could improve: On the more expensive sideBest Drugstore Sunscreen: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Face Sheer Tint (SPF 30)Original photo from Jenifer Calle testing CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen with Sheer Tint

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CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Face Sheer Tint (SPF 30)

Want a hardworking drugstore sunscreen? Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City, recommends this physical sunscreen for all skin types. It offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection and hydrating ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to help moisturize the skin barrier. It’s lightweight, noncomedogenic, and formulated with sensitive skin in mind. Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, agrees, noting that the fragrance-free formula is gentle enough for the most sensitive of skin. “Besides all-mineral protection, the base delivers skin-repairing ceramides to protect the outer skin layer,” he says.

This is a favorite of Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle, who uses it for a no-makeup, beach-day look. “The consistency is thick, but after some rubbing, it settles in nicely and leaves a gorgeous glow,” Calle says. If you’re not into tinted sunscreens, it’s also available in an untinted formula.

Type: MineralKey ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, ceramides, hyaluronic acidSPF: 30Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Light coverage; nontacky formulaWhat could improve: Formula is a bit thickBest Sunscreen for Highly Irritable Skin: Vanicream Facial Moisturizer (SPF 30)Original photo from Miah Hardy testing Vanicream Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30

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Vanicream Facial Moisturizer (SPF 30)

Vanicream Facial Moisturizer is the sunscreen Chris Adigun, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, recommends to folks who have extremely sensitive skin. “My patients who are allergic to basically everything can tolerate this one,” she says. It’s vegan, lightweight, noncomedogenic, and free of dyes, fragrances, gluten, and parabens. Plus, it’s accepted by the National Eczema Association and features moisturizing ceramides in its formulation.

Type: MineralKey ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 30Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Great for those with eczema; works for many types of sensitive skinWhat could improve: Strong white castBest Sunscreen for Eczema: Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Sun Fluid (SPF 50+)Original photo from Alexis Berger testing Dr.Jart+ Every Sun Day Sun Fluid

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Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Sun Fluid (SPF 50+)

“This moisturizing sunscreen is a game changer for those with eczema,” says Dr. Idriss. “Fragrance-free and lightweight, it delivers a hydrating, radiant finish without leaving a white cast, making it perfect for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.” Berger says the cooling, thin, hydrating texture of the Sun Fluid is super-soothing to her itchy and painful eczema patches. “I tend to get flares on my upper arms, and this sunscreen feels great when I lather it on. It’s easy to forget that it’s actually sunscreen and not a straight-up eczema cream,” she says.

Type: ChemicalKey ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocryleneSPF: 50+Oil-free: NoWhat we love: Lightweight and moisturizingWhat could improve: Leaves a slightly oily and shiny finishBest Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen (SPF 60)Original photo from Jenifer Calle testing La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen SPF 50

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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen (SPF 60)

If you’re prone to breakouts, not just any sunscreen will do, and this option is a standout pick for acne-prone skin, thanks to its featherweight formula and matte finish. Dermatologist-approved, this oil-free SPF 60 shields your skin from UV damage without clogging pores or triggering blemishes. “It is important to make sure products are oil-free like this one when using on acne-prone skin,” explains Beth N. McLellan, MD, a dermatologist at the Montefiore Einstein and Melanoma Research Alliance Dermatology Advisor. With broad-spectrum protection and a non-comedogenic formula, it glides on smoothly and vanishes without a trace. Unlike heavier SPFs that can feel greasy or suffocating, this one feels like nothing on the skin and acts as an armor against sun damage. “SPF 60 is a great level of sun protection for a lightweight facial product,” the derm adds, making this a no-brainer for your daily routine.

Type: ChemicalKey ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocryleneSPF: 60Oil-free: YesWhat we love: High SPF and non-comedogenicWhat could improve: Matte finish might not be for everyoneBest Sunscreen for Dry Skin: Bareminerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream (SPF 30)Original photo from Brigitt Earley testing Bareminerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream SPF 30

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Bareminerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream (SPF 30)

Need hydration and sun protection in one step? No worries. “The sunscreen in this gel cream is mineral-based, so it is a good option for people sensitive to chemical sunscreens,” shares Dr. McLellan. “It includes squalane, which is great for dry skin.” The tinted gel cream also provides a sheer, natural finish that evens out skin tone while feeling lightweight and soothing. Perfect for dry skin types craving glow and protection, it hydrates throughout the day without feeling heavy or greasy.

Type: MineralKey ingredients: Titanium dioxide, propanediol, silica, squalaneSPF: 30Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Multiple different shadesWhat could improve: Some users mention it pills under makeupBest Sunscreen for Under Makeup: Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen (SPF 30)Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30

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Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen (SPF 30)

No more choosing between your makeup and sun protection. Thanks to its weightless mineral formula that disappears into skin without pilling, this option from Hero Cosmetics is the ultimate pick. Designed with a smooth, non-greasy texture, it creates an ideal base for makeup while offering broad-spectrum sun protection. “This is a great mineral sunscreen-based product,” says Dr. McLellan. “It works well under makeup since it has a green tinge, which can help mask facial redness or rosacea.” This makes it especially useful for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Beyond its color-correcting tint, the formula includes skin-soothing staples like niacinamide and zinc oxide to calm inflammation and reduce shine.

Type: MineralKey Ingredients: Zinc oxide, caprylic/capric triglyceride, alkane, propanediolSPF: 30Oil-free: NoWhat we love: Masks rednessWhat could improve: Some users report a slight white castBest Sunscreen for Kids: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50)Original photo from Brigitt Earley testing Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

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Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50)

Parents may often reach for this formula as a baby sunscreen, but dermatologists tell us it’s a great option for adults too. Hadley King, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, sings its praises as a noncomedogenic and paraben- and fragrance-free option. She likes that it rubs in clear and contains such hydrating ingredients as aloe vera, shea butter, sunflower seed oil, and vitamin E to moisturize the skin while it works against the sun’s UV rays.

One tester says she has fully converted to using this sunscreen. “I’ve tried dozens of options on my son’s sensitive skin, and this is the only one that didn’t leave splotchy red marks in its wake,” she says. We also like the unique packaging. The color of the cap changes gradually when exposed to the sun, serving as a gentle reminder that it’s time to rub on (or reapply) the SPF. Plus, it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Type: MineralKey ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 50Oil-free: NoWhat we love: Rubs in clear; reef-safe; noncomedogenicWhat could improve: May leave slight white cast on darker skin tonesBest Mineral Sunscreen: SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair Sunscreen (SPF 35)Original photo from Briggit Earley testing SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair Sunscreen (SPF 35)

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SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair Sunscreen (SPF 35)

Great for combination and oily skin, SkinMedica’s SPF 35 is oil-free, noncomedogenic, hypoallergenic, and fragrance- and paraben-free. It’s more invisible than most too. “This product contains titanium dioxide and micronized zinc oxide, which leaves less of a white residue,” says Carolyn Stull, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York.

Our tester has oily, shiny skin that skews extra-sensitive and says she has a hard time finding the right sunscreen but finally landed on this one. “It’s a little expensive, but it’s my holy grail,” she says. “Seriously, it actually feels weightless on my skin and doesn’t cause any of the flare-ups or redness that I’m used to.”

Type: MineralKey ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxideSPF: 35Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Light tint; suitable for sensitive skinWhat could improve: Pricier than othersBest for Oily Skin: Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer (SPF 30)Original photo from Miah Hardy testing Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer (SPF 30)

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Cetaphil Derma Control Oil Absorbing Moisturizer With Sunscreen (SPF 30)

The easiest way to make sure you apply sunscreen on the regular? Pick a face moisturizer that contains a high enough concentration of SPF—derms say you should wear at least SPF 30, and this everyday lotion qualifies. “With a mattifying finish, this SPF 30 daily moisturizer helps control shine while protecting skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York.

Our testers say it’s a great layering product for makeup and confirm it doesn’t irritate sensitive skin. Glamour contributor Danielle Sinay notes that the oil-free formula doesn’t get shiny, even during long walks outside. It’s great for frequent touch-ups throughout the day, too, she says.

Type: ChemicalKey ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocryleneSPF: 30Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Affordable; lightweight; mattifyingWhat could improve: Might be too drying for non-oily skin typesBest Body Sunscreen: Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50)Original from Brigitt Earley testing Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

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Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50)

Jeremy Brauer, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Spectrum Skin and Laser in Purchase, New York, points to this “family-friendly” option as a great full-body sunscreen. Though it’s on the thicker side, he says it blends seamlessly and is so gentle that even people with skin conditions like rosacea can comfortably use it.

Our testers compare the feel of the formula to Vaseline or Aquaphor but say it doesn’t leave any greasy residue in its wake. Those with darker skin say it goes on completely clear. Overall, testers praised the unique scent; Instead of the traditional sunscreen smell, it has a light citrus fragrance.

Type: MineralKey ingredient: Zinc oxideSPF: 50Oil-free: NoWhat we love: Lightweight; nongreasy; fragrance-free; suitable for all skin types; water-resistant for 80 minutesWhat could improve: Some users say it’s thick and hard to spread.Best Foundation With SPF: Tower 28 SunnyDays Tinted Sunscreen (SPF 30)Original photo from Jenifer Calle testing Tower 28 Beauty SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen

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Tower 28 SunnyDays Tinted Sunscreen (SPF 30)

Our editors like this sunscreen so much that it took home a 2022 Glamour Beauty Award for the best foundation. It’s super lightweight, but testers found it still offered a bit more coverage than your average tinted SPF. “If I’m buying something that’s tinted—whether it’s sunscreen or foundation—you’d better believe I want coverage,” Glamour senior West Coast editor Jessica Radloff writes in her review. “And this does it perfectly. My skin looks airbrushed and smooth, making it easier to apply bronzer and blush. It’s also long-lasting.” Radloff says she can go a full day without having to reapply (though to reap the SPF benefits, you will need to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating). The icing on the cake? The ingredient list includes prickly pear and white sage extract, which helps protect skin from blue light and free radicals, respectively.

Type: MineralKey ingredients: Zinc oxide, prickly pear extract, white sage extractSPF: 30Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Lightweight but still lends coverage; offers skin benefitsWhat could improve: Might not be suitable for very oily skinBest for Light Coverage: Supergoop Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint (SPF 50)Original photo from Jazmin Gathers testing Supergoop! Protec(tint) Daily Tint SPF 50 Sunscreen

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Supergoop Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint (SPF 50)

Supergoop products are incredibly popular among Glamour readers and editors, and the brand’s skin tint is no exception. It garners mostly positive results across the board for consistency, coverage, finish, and efficacy. Sinay likes it so much that she dubs it “the perfect skin product for everyday wear, rain or shine.” She likes that it’s ultralightweight (read “suitable for oily skin!”) and noncomedogenic but offers enough coverage to blur imperfections. And with SPF 50, it offers more sun protection than your average tinted product.

It’s also dermatologist-approved. “If you need a sunscreen for sensitive skin without a white cast, this is a standout option, offering 14 shades to perfectly match your skin tone with light, buildable coverage and a natural finish. It’s also fragrance-free,” says Shereene Idriss, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Idriss Dermatology in NYC. Glamour senior editor Stephanie McNeal, a self-proclaimed “connoisseur of skin tints,” gives it rave reviews too. “Supergoop’s Protect(tint) provides my ideal trifecta: coverage but not too much, no orange hands (key), and a little hint of dewy glow.”

Type: ChemicalKey ingredients: Zinc oxide, homosalate, octisalateSPF: 50Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Light coverage; smooths skin; breathableWhat could improve: Some users wish it offered a little more coverage.