Here's How to Pick Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
This is your friendly but firm reminder that you should be applying sunscreen daily. Rain or shine, no matter what skin tone, it is arguably the the most important step in your beauty routine. It’s even more important if you have sensitive skin and tend to burn up before you can even say, “It’s so nice out!”
So, what should you look for in a sunscreen? “Physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are best for sensitive skin because they don’t irritate as easily as chemical sunscreens do,” explains dermatologist Rachel Nazarian of Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. “Also look for ingredients that are naturally calming and anti-inflammatory-think niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and green tea extract-which can soothe easily inflamed skin.” Or don't, because we've already done the work for you ahead.
Avene
dermstore.com
$36.00
This sunscreen's minerals (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) work by deflecting the sun's UV rays. The water-resistant formula delivers eight hours of coverage and, because it's a silky fluid that absorbs almost instantly, it can be layered seamlessly under makeup.
La Roche-Posay
amazon.com
$29.99
Mineral blockers zinc and titanium dioxide do most of the heavy-lifting, but a non-irritating blend of chemical screens help amp up the protective factor in this non-comedogenic, fragrance-free liquid.
CoTZ
target.com
$22.99
This sunscreen offers an impressive 20 percent blast of zinc oxide that miraculously sits sheerly atop the skin. Glycerin and vitamin E ensure it feels quenching, not dry or gritty.
Neutrogena
target.com
$8.99
The mineral-based sunscreen is completely naturally sourced to provide UVA/UVB protection. While some non-chemical blockers can be greasy or thick, Neutrogena’s broad spectrum protection is particularly matte and sheer.
Supergoop!
sephora.com
$48.00
A sunscreen that’s also a serum and a perfume. Apart from the UVA, UVB, and IRA ray protection, the product boasts unique oat-beta-glucan that delivers lasting moisture and helps fight the sun’s effects after prolonged exposure. The added lemon, orange, and basil team up for a zippy citrus scent. It's important to note this product is not chemical-free, but still provides gentle, non-irritating protection.
Shiseido
sephora.com
$42.00
If it’s good enough for children (they are our future) this should be just fine for your sensitive skin. For starters, it's free of chemical agents, fragrance, and alcohol. And the sun protection factor comes from the mineral-based formula, but it also contains Shiseido’s WetForce technology which actually makes the sunscreen more powerful for 15 minutes after exposure to water or sweat.
Vanicream
amazon.com
This lightweight formula absorbs into the skin quickly, but won’t clog your pores or leave any of that embarrassing chalky residue. Zinc oxide creates a barrier that reflects and absorbs UVA and UVB rays. The product also uses omega fatty acids and vegetable squalane to combat redness and irritation.
Suntegrity
amazon.com
$24.00
The secret ingredient in this sunscreen? Green tea. The zingy leaves work to protect against free-radical damage as zinc oxide repels and absorbs rays. The formula also includes soothing aloe vera and cucumber.
Blue Lizard
amazon.com
$15.84
The 10 percent zinc oxide base shields your skin for the UV rays and works to absorb the heat. Plus, the patented BPA-free plastic cap is UV photo-sensitive so it changes color when harmful rays are present-a handy visual reminder to lather up.
EltaMD
dermstore.com
$30.00
This brand is a favorite among dermatologists. The mineral-based formula is free from irritating chemicals and utilizes zinc oxide to ward off UVB and UVA rays. It's scent free and doesn't leave any white residue. After just one use, you'll want to give in to the hype.
Badger
amazon.com
$13.59
Badger's active mineral sunscreen is an organic option that contains sunflower oil, seabuckthorn oil, and beeswax to hydrate and support the skin. It's organic-certified and full of fatty acids and antioxidants that reduce inflammation and calm sensitive skin.
NYDG Skincare
dermstore.com
$98.00
A skincare splurge that won't send your sensitive skin into a complete meltdown. Key ingredients squalane and argan provide protection against environmental skin stressors, like pollution, while ginseng stimulates collagen growth and improves texture.
Here's How to Pick Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
This is your friendly but firm reminder that you should be applying sunscreen daily. Rain or shine, no matter what skin tone, it is arguably the the most important step in your beauty routine. It’s even more important if you have sensitive skin and tend to burn up before you can even say, “It’s so nice out!”
So, what should you look for in a sunscreen? “Physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are best for sensitive skin because they don’t irritate as easily as chemical sunscreens do,” explains dermatologist Rachel Nazarian of Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. “Also look for ingredients that are naturally calming and anti-inflammatory-think niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and green tea extract-which can soothe easily inflamed skin.” Or don't, because we've already done the work for you ahead.
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