17 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin 2025, Tested and Reviewed
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When you have sensitive skin, thinking about the redness and irritation youâre bound to experience after putting on daily SPF may feel almost as worrisome as any sunburn. But sunscreen is a must, and thereâs good news for the easily irritated: There are truly gentle formulas out there that are still hardworking enough to protect you from the sunâs UVA and UVB rays. Many of the best ones even contain skin care ingredients, such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, all of which have soothing, calming properties. To help you find the best sunscreen for sensitive skinâthe ones that both lend sun protection and treat your skin with more TLCâwe spent months talking to dermatologists about what formulas are less likely to cause the unpleasant flare-ups and stinging side effects. Then we put the top contenders to the test, tasking Glamour editors and testers to slather them on, spend some time in the sun, and report back. After months of wear tests, our top pick is the EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen. Itâs such a great sunscreen that we were hard-pressed to find a derm who didnât totally rave about it. It is lightweight, absorbs readily, has a smooth and silky finish, and is suitable for all skin types. But if youâre looking for an option thatâs tinted or antiaging, we also have winning SPF options for every type of sensitive-skin need.
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 Mineral Zinc Oxide SPF 50, $40Best Daily Moisturizer With SPF: Eucerin Face Immersive Hydration Daily Face Lotion, $17Best Anti-Aging: Tula Ultimate Sun Serum PentaPeptide Sunscreen, $32Your sensitive-skin sunscreen questions, answeredWhat sunscreen is best for sensitive skin?
If you have sensitive skin, opt for mineral sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, since theyâre generally less irritating to the skin and donât cause adverse reactions, says Dr. Engelman. âUnlike chemical sunscreens, which need to absorb into the skin to work effectively, mineral sunscreens provide a physical barrier that remains on the skinâs surface,â says Dr. Singh. âThis difference minimizes the risk of allergic and irritant reactions by preventing the activation of immune responses in the epidermis.â Mineral formulas also tend to be fragrance-free, noncomedogenic, and noninflammatory, says Dr. Engelman. Read âno harsh ingredients like oxybenzone.â
When shopping for sunscreen for sensitive skin, you can also look for key features like hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formulas. If you have dry, sensitive skin, look for hydrating ingredients such as 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 theyâre less likely to clog pores and lead to breakouts.
Is SPF 50 too much for sensitive skin?
The level of SPF you need is not determined by skin type. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreen (which protects against UVA and UVB rays) with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30, regardless of skin type, says Dr. Singh. Many dermatologists, however, tell us this is just a baseline, noting that SPF 50 is preferable across the board.
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EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Face Sunscreen (SPF 46)
Ask any dermatologist what the best sunscreen is, and thereâs a high probability theyâll name-drop EltaMD. Every dermatologist weâve spoken to (dozens and dozens) recommends this formula, whether itâs for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, or dry skin. âItâs easy to apply and absorbs into my skin readilyâno greasy residue whatsoever,â says Debra Ibrahim, DO, co-owner of Aesthetica Medspa in New Jersey.
Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley agrees: âThe SPF is creamy but ultralight and doesnât leave any sticky residue in its wakeâideal for layering under makeup daily. Despite the high 46 SPF, itâs largely transparent and wonât leave any white cast. I also love that the UVA/UVB-blocking formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutesâall good sunscreens should be, IMO.â (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 side2/17
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. Itâs 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. âBesides all-mineral protection, the base delivers skin-repairing ceramides to protect the outer skin layer,â he says.
This is a favorite of Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle, who uses it for a no-makeup, beach-day look. âThe consistency is thick, but after some rubbing, it settles in nicely and leaves a gorgeous glow,â Calle says. If youâre not into tinted sunscreens, itâs 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 thick3/17
La Roche Posay Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide (SPF 50)
Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Shafer Clinic in New York City, praises La Roche Posay Anthelios, because it boasts broad-spectrum SPF 50 and is fragrance-free, oil-free, and noncomedogenic. âI love how it is fast-absorbing and has a matte finish,â she says.
Our tester agrees: âSometimes it feels impossible to find a mineral sunscreen that doesnât leave a white cast, but since this one is lightly tinted, you donât have that problem. I like that thereâs no excess rubbing required, because the whole process is gentler on my face.â
Type: MineralKey ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 50Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Doesnât leave a white cast; suitable for the body and faceWhat could improve: Some users say it stings their eyes4/17
Eucerin Face Immersive Hydration Daily Face Sunscreen (SPF 30)
Eucerin is another drugstore brand youâll hear a lot when talking about formulations for sensitive skin, and Deeptej Singh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Albuquerque, stands behind its SPF. Sure, this is a chemical sunscreen, but itâs formulated specifically with sensitive skin in mind. Itâs both fragrance-free and noncomedogenic, plus it contains nourishing antioxidants to keep skin happy. âThis moisturizer with sunscreen contains a dual molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, offering deep hydration along with superficial plumping,â says Dr. Zeichner.
Earley, who has perpetually dry skin, likes how smooth the lotion feels on her skin. Itâs not thick and greasy, but itâs substantial enough to feel it really soaking in, she tells Glamour. âI immediately saw a notable difference in the texture of my skin, and I love the single step of applying this lotion in the morning and then stepping out of the house fully protected from the sun for a couple of hours.â
Type: ChemicalKey ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocryleneSPF: 30Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Contains a host of antioxidants to nourish skin; fragrance-free and noncomedogenic; widely availableWhat could improve: Some users say it leaves a slight white cast.5/17
Tula PentaPeptide Sunscreen Broad Spectrum (SPF 50)
Hereâs a 2023 Glamour Beauty Award winner that won best face sunscreen for its antiaging benefits. Glamour senior beauty editor Ariana Yaptangco likes that itâs a serum with SPF, not a lotion. It contains prebiotics that help improve the skinâs textureâminimizing fine linesâand wild butterfly ginger to counteract the effects of blue light and pollution. Best of all? No white cast in its wake. âOn days when I donât feel like wearing foundation, I can wear this for a hydrated glow without worrying about greasy or chalky residue,â says Yaptangco.
On the downside, one tester found the formula a bit runny and recommends moving quickly to minimize any messâthough this isnât necessarily a bad thing, since the consistency means a little bit goes a very long way.
Type: MineralKey ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, S6Pro Complex, wild butterfly ginger rootSPF: 50Oil-free: YesWhat we love: High SPF; has antiaging benefits beyond sun protectionWhat could improve: Formula is very runny6/17
SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair Sunscreen (SPF 35)
Great for combination and oily skin, SkinMedicaâs SPF 35 is oil-free, noncomedogenic, hypoallergenic, and fragrance- and paraben-free. Itâs more invisible than most too. âThis product contains titanium dioxide and micronized zinc oxide, which leaves less of a white residue,â 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. âItâs a little expensive, but itâs my holy grail,â she says. âSeriously, it actually feels weightless on my skin and doesnât cause any of the flare-ups or redness that Iâm used to.â
Type: MineralKey ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxideSPF: 35Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Light tint; suitable for sensitive skinWhat could improve: Pricier than others7/17
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint (SPF 40)
Celebs love it, derms love it, editors love it, and weâre confident youâll love it too. Another skin care and sunscreen hybrid, this tinted moisturizer with SPF comes in an extensive and inclusive 30 shades. Our testers love how smooth it goes onâjust like a serumâso you can easily apply it with your fingers and achieve a dewy glow with a touch of coverage.
Dermatologists tell us the ingredients are up to snuff too. âIt provides broad-spectrum SPF 40 coverage using zinc oxide, as well as a blend of hyaluronic acid, squalane, and niacinamide to help hydrate and soothe the skin,â says Dr. Garshick. Itâs also gluten-free, oil-free, and free of silicones, fragrance, and chemical sunscreen filters, she adds.
Type: MineralActive ingredient: Zinc oxideSPF: 40Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Lightweight; hydrating; radiant finishWhat could improve: Not for oily skin8/17
Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer (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 SPFâderms say you should wear at least SPF 30, and this everyday lotion qualifies. âWith a mattifying finish, this SPF 30 daily moisturizer helps control shine while protecting skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation,â says Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York.
Our testers say itâs a great layering product for makeup and confirm it doesnât irritate sensitive skin. Glamour contributor Danielle Sinay notes that the oil-free formula doesnât get shiny, even during long walks outside. Itâs 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 types9/17
Blue Lizard Sensitive Face Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 30)
Parents may often reach for this formula as a baby sunscreen, but dermatologists tell us itâs 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 sunâs UV rays.
One tester says she has fully converted to using this sunscreen. âIâve tried dozens of options on my sonâs sensitive skin, and this is the only one that didnât leave splotchy red marks in its wake,â 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 itâs time to rub on (or reapply) the SPF. Plus, itâs 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 tones10/17
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 âfamily-friendlyâ option as a great full-body sunscreen. Though itâs 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 doesnât 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 itâs thick and hard to spread.11/17
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. Itâs super lightweight, but testers found it still offered a bit more coverage than your average tinted SPF. âIf Iâm buying something thatâs tintedâwhether itâs sunscreen or foundationâyouâd better believe I want coverage,â Glamour senior West Coast editor Jessica Radloff writes in her review. âAnd this does it perfectly. My skin looks airbrushed and smooth, making it easier to apply bronzer and blush. Itâs also long-lasting.â 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 skin12/17
Supergoop Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint (SPF 50)
Supergoop products are incredibly popular among Glamour readers and editors, and the brandâs 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 âthe perfect skin product for everyday wear, rain or shine.â She likes that itâs ultralightweight (read âsuitable for oily skin!â) and noncomedogenic but offers enough coverage to blur imperfections. And with SPF 50, it offers more sun protection than your average tinted product.
Itâs also dermatologist-approved. âIf 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. Itâs also fragrance-free,â says Shereene Idriss, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Idriss Dermatology in NYC. Glamour senior editor Stephanie McNeal, a self-proclaimed âconnoisseur of skin tints,â gives it rave reviews too. âSupergoopâs Protect(tint) provides my ideal trifecta: coverage but not too much, no orange hands (key), and a little hint of dewy glow.â
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.13/17
Isdin Photo Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
A great sunscreen to wear under makeup needs to rub in easily, lack a thick or sticky texture, and not leave a white cast that youâll just need to use extra product to cover up. Glamour tester Alexis Berger is into this formulation from Isdin because it ticks all of those boxes. âBecause it uses zinc oxide, you do have to massage it in to make sure the white pigment fully blends. But itâs a thin liquid that only takes seconds to rub inâonce you do, the only evidence youâre even wearing it is the fresh scent it leaves.â
Dr. Idriss adds that itâs a great option for folks with extremely sensitive skin. âA mineral sunscreen like this one is best, as itâs less likely to irritate your skin in comparison to chemical sunscreens,â she says. âItâs also formulated with vitamin E to protect against environmental damage.â
Type: MineralKey ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 50+Oil-free: NoWhat we love: Lightweight and not sticky; smells greatWhat could improve: Pretty thin, bordering on runny14/17
EltaMD UV Stick Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
EltaMDâs UV Stick is fragrance-free, noncomedogenic, and hypoallergenic, and it makes on-the-go sun protection for the face and body an easy commitment to make. âThis all-mineral sunscreen protects the skin with zinc oxide in a formula that offers soothing benefits from vitamin E,â says Dr. Zeichner. âIts unique texture allows it to glide smoothly onto the skin without leaving behind a white cast.â
Type: MineralKey Ingredients: Transparent zinc oxideSPF: 50+Oil-free: YesWhat we love: Fragrance-free, paraben-free, noncomedogenic, hypoallergenicWhat could improve: Some users donât love the smell and say it dries out fast, making application tough.15/17
Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Sun Fluid (SPF 50+)
âThis moisturizing sunscreen is a game changer for those with eczema,â says Dr. Idriss. âFragrance-free and lightweight, it delivers a hydrating, radiant finish without leaving a white cast, making it perfect for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.â Berger says the cooling, thin, hydrating texture of the Sun Fluid is super-soothing to her itchy and painful eczema patches. âI tend to get flares on my upper arms, and this sunscreen feels great when I lather it on. Itâs easy to forget that itâs actually sunscreen and not a straight-up eczema cream,â 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 finish16/17
InnBeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow (SPF 43)
Whether youâre layering this sunscreen under makeup or just prepping for a day at the beach, Dr. Idriss says itâs a great option for sensitive skin. âItâs available in two shades that complement both light and deeper skin tones beautifully, with no white cast,â she says.
Type: MineralKey Ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 43Oil-free: NoWhat we love: Comes in multiple shades, noncomedogenic, hypoallergenicWhat could improve: Some reviewers say it was harsh on their skin17/17
Vanicream Facial Moisturizer with 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. âMy patients who are allergic to basically everything can tolerate this one,â she says. Itâs vegan; lightweight; noncomedogenic; and free of dyes, fragrances, gluten, and parabens. Plus, itâs accepted by the National Eczema Association and features moisturizing ceramides in its formulation.
Type: MineralKey Ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 30Oil-free: YesWhat we love:What could improve: Strong white cast
