Best face sunscreen for sensitive skin dermatologist recommended

Reviews

Updated September 08, 2022

Ask any dermatologist what their ultimate skin care rule is, and they’ll usually tell you it’s to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen on a daily basis. “Broad-spectrum” refers to sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which contribute to skin damage in different ways. While UVA rays are responsible for breaking down collagen and elastin in the skin—leading to premature fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging—UVB rays cause sunburns and skin cancers. Research shows that a whopping 90 percent of premature skin aging is due to sun exposure. This, coupled with the fact that sun exposure can lead to a range of different cancers, is precisely why wearing SPF and reapplying every two hours, especially during peak daylight hours, is important. 

What are the different types of sunscreen?

There are two primary types of sunscreen: chemical and physical, also known as mineral. Chemical sunscreens contain filters like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone (which garner flak for their impact on coral reefs). Physical or mineral SPFs are typically made with titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or a blend. The downside to physical UV filters is they can be difficult to rub in and leave a white cast behind on your skin.

“Chemical sunscreens are made up of filters that are absorbed into the skin, where they then absorb the UV rays and create a chemical reaction that changes the rays into heat, which is then released from the skin,” says Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York. Physical sunscreens work by sitting on top of the skin to scatter and deflect UV rays, physically blocking them from penetrating. 

Dr. King prefers noncomedogenic (see: non-pore-clogging) mineral sunscreens, as she says they’re less likely to irritate sensitive skin. With that said, most experts will tell you the best sunscreen is the one you actually use.

Here are some excellent dermatologist-approved mineral and chemical sunscreens to consider:

Our Picks

Top Pick

Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum

Best For Acne-Prone Skin

Highly recommended by dermatologists, Elta’s ultra-gentle, fragrance-free formula glides on like silk and features hyaluronic acid to keep skin hydrated, plus lactic acid to smooth and control shine. Experts commonly recommend this formula for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Pros

• Super gentle
• Non-greasy

Cons

• Might drip white if you sweat

Specs

Type Chemical

Fragrance None

SPF 46

Volume 1.7 ounces

Worth A Look

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection

Best For Workout Lovers

Dr. King is a fan of ColorScience because it’s convenient to use on-the-go, glides seamlessly onto the skin, and comes in handy when you’re outdoors and need to reapply often. “It’s also rich in antioxidants, less likely to run into the eyes, and water-resistant for 80 minutes,” Dr. King says.

Pros

• Convenient for travel
• Sweat-resistant

Specs

Type Mineral

Fragrance None

SPF 50

Volume 0.63 ounces

Item model number I0111517

Popular

Mele No Shade Sunscreen Oil

Best For Dark/Deep Skin Tones

This feather-light SPF elixir sinks into the skin quickly. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, routinely recommends this sunscreen—especially to people with darker skin tones, as it applies completely clear. “It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing, and won’t leave the skin feeling greasy or with a residue,” she says.

Pros

• Designed by dermatologists of color
• Lightweight

Cons

• Feels greasy until it fully absorbs

Specs

Type Chemical

Fragrance None

SPF 30

Volume 1 ounce

Best Value

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

Best For Sensitive Skin

Blue Lizard’s top-rated formula contains aloe vera, shea butter, sunflower seed oil, and vitamin E, to help protect against the common drying effects of mineral filters (in this case, both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide). Dr. King recommends this option to patients with sensitive skin because it’s free of fragrances and parabens (a category of preservatives), which can be irritating.

Pros

• Thick consistency helps with coverage
• Long-lasting

Cons

• You have to work hard to fully rub it in or it will leave a white cast

Specs

Type Mineral

Fragrance None

SPF 50+

Volume 5 ounces

Item model number SADHB131

Popular

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

Best For Total Transparency

Beloved by experts, beauty editors, and influencers alike, Supergoop is invisible and feels more like a lightweight silky primer than a sunscreen. It’s also scent-free and features soothing agents like meadowfoam seed and frankincense.

Pros

• Lightweight and silky consistency
• Works very well under makeup

Cons

• Not as effective for oily skin types

Specs

Type Chemical

Fragrance None

SPF 40

Volume .68 or .1.7 Ounces

Also Tested

ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion

Best For Existing Sun Damage

Another recommendation from Dr. Garshick, ISDIN tinted mineral sunscreen is packed with peptides, which are strings of amino acids that form the building blocks of essential proteins needed by the skin, like collagen and elastin. It also features antioxidants and what she calls “DNA repairsomes” to help repair existing sun damage. This unique feature can aid in improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while simultaneously protecting the skin from UV and blue light damage (which comes from the sun as well as our devices).

Pros

• Protects against both sun and screens
• Tinted to prevent white cast

Cons

• Not good for those sensitive to fragrance
• Tint color might not match your skin tone

Specs

Type Mineral

Fragrance Unscented fragrance

SPF 50

Volume 3.4 ounces

Splurge

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60

Best For Face + Body

La Roche-Posay’s dual-purpose fragrance-free formula is great for both face and body as it’s nonirritating, weightless, and absorbs quickly. This sunscreen has nabbed multiple awards and features the French brand’s famed Cell-Ox Shield technology, which combines UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants to defend against sun damage and signs of premature aging.

Pros

• Doesn’t have sunscreen smell
• Offers great coverage

Specs

Type Chemical

Fragrance None

SPF 60

Volume 5 ounces

Worth A Look

Skinbetter Science’s Sunbetter Sheer Sunscreen Lotion

Best For All Skin Types

Skinbetter’s ultra-high level SPF recommended by Dr. King is all-mineral, made with non-nano actives (meaning it won’t penetrate your skin) to give it a smooth, creamy texture. Oil-free, scentless, and safe for all skin types, it can be worn alone or under makeup for both sun protection and a subtle priming effect.

Pros

• Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
• Lightweight, barely-there feeling

Specs

Type Mineral

Fragrance None

SPF 70

Volume 7 ounces

Worth A Look

DRMTLGY Physical Universal Tinted Moisturizer

Best For Light Coverage

If you’re looking for a tinted formula, DRMTLGY offers sheer, air-light coverage that blends into all skin tones. It contains skin-boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin E to nourish while it protects. It’s also worth noting that the brand has a 60-day money-back guarantee, so if you’re not a fan or it doesn’t work for your skin tone, you can get reimbursed.

Pros

• Tinted and sheer
• Hydrating thanks to key ingredients like hyaluronic acid
• 60-day window to return it

Cons

• Not great for fairer skin types

Specs

Type Chemical

Fragrance None

SPF 46

Volume 1.7 ounces

Worth A Look

Brush on Block Powder Sunscreen

Best For On-The-Go

Brush On Block is totally translucent so you don’t have to worry about it looking blotchy or uneven on your skin. It’s compact, making it great for keeping in your bag when you’re out and about and need to reapply, especially if you don’t want to disturb your makeup.

Pros

• Comes with brush for easy application
• Refillable container

Cons

• You have to wash the applicator brush

Specs

Type Mineral

Fragrance Chamomile

SPF 30

Volume 12 ounces

Also Tested

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream 

Best For Redness-Prone Skin

Formulated with soothing aloe and antioxidant-rich vitamin E, this creamy, cucumber-scented chemical sunscreen by COSRX is gentle on sensitive skin and offers full broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. Because it’s extremely hydrating and calming, it’s an excellent option for dry and reactive complexions. It’s also completely weightless.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to apply
• Creamy consistency

Cons

• Not good for acne-prone skin

Specs

Type Chemical

Fragrance Cucumber

SPF 50

Volume 1.6 ounces

Popular

Babyganics Baby Sunscreen Lotion UVA UVB Protection

Best For Kids

This soothing kid-safe lotion contains a blend of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block skin-damaging rays, along with ingredients like vitamin E and glycerin. These help calm and nourish skin, while offering a dose of antioxidant protection.

Pros

• Good for entire family
• Tear-free

Cons

• Need to rub in thoroughly to avoid white cast

Specs

Type Chemical

Fragrance None

SPF 50

Volume 6 ounces

Worth A Look

Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist

Best For Spraying On

Countersun spray-on sunscreen comes out white to help guide application, but it blends in seamlessly without feeling heavy, sticky, or chalky. It dries in minutes, and unlike some spray options, it’s ultra-gentle, thanks to a cocktail of non-nano zinc oxide, sunflower seed oil, safflower seed oil, and aloe vera juice.

Pros

• Non-aerosol misting spray
• Dries quickly

Cons

• Must be sprayed on hands before being applied to face

Specs

Type Mineral

Fragrance Citrus

SPF 30

Volume 6 ounces

Popular

Tula Brightening Serum Skin Tint Sunscreen

Best Tinted

This makeup/skincare hybrid comes in 30 different shades, so you’re sure to find a tiny that works for your skin. Its lightweight formula promotes glowing skin and offers 12 hours of sun protection. Collagen, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides help moisturize and protect your skin barrier.

Pros

• Breathable and long-lasting
• Buildable coverage
• Moisturizing

Cons

• Very small tube of product

Specs

Type Chemical

Fragrance None

SPF 30

Volume 1 ounce

Compare

Top Pick

Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum

Best For Acne-Prone Skin $39.00 Buy Now

Pros

• Super gentle
• Non-greasy

Cons

• Might drip white if you sweat

Type

Chemical

Fragrance

None

SPF

46

Volume

1.7 ounces

Worth A Look

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection

Best For Workout Lovers $29.00 Buy Now

Pros

• Convenient for travel
• Sweat-resistant

Type

Mineral

Fragrance

None

SPF

50

Volume

0.63 ounces

Popular

Mele No Shade Sunscreen Oil

Best For Dark/Deep Skin Tones $19.99 Buy Now

Pros

• Designed by dermatologists of color
• Lightweight

Cons

• Feels greasy until it fully absorbs

Type

Chemical

Fragrance

None

SPF

30

Volume

1 ounce

Best Value

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

Best For Sensitive Skin $14.98 Buy Now

Pros

• Thick consistency helps with coverage
• Long-lasting

Cons

• You have to work hard to fully rub it in or it will leave a white cast

Type

Mineral

Fragrance

None

SPF

50+

Volume

5 ounces

Popular

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

Best For Total Transparency $20 Buy Now

Pros

• Lightweight and silky consistency
• Works very well under makeup

Cons

• Not as effective for oily skin types

Type

Chemical

Fragrance

None

SPF

40

Volume

.68 or .1.7 Ounces

Also Tested

ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion

Best For Existing Sun Damage $66.50 Buy Now

Pros

• Protects against both sun and screens
• Tinted to prevent white cast

Cons

• Not good for those sensitive to fragrance
• Tint color might not match your skin tone

Type

Mineral

Fragrance

Unscented fragrance

SPF

50

Volume

3.4 ounces

Splurge

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60

Best For Face + Body $35.99 Buy Now

Pros

• Doesn’t have sunscreen smell
• Offers great coverage

Type

Chemical

Fragrance

None

SPF

60

Volume

5 ounces

Worth A Look

Skinbetter Science’s Sunbetter Sheer Sunscreen Lotion

Best For All Skin Types $75.00 Buy Now

Pros

• Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
• Lightweight, barely-there feeling

Type

Mineral

Fragrance

None

SPF

70

Volume

7 ounces

Worth A Look

DRMTLGY Physical Universal Tinted Moisturizer

Best For Light Coverage $25.95 Buy Now

Pros

• Tinted and sheer
• Hydrating thanks to key ingredients like hyaluronic acid
• 60-day window to return it

Cons

• Not great for fairer skin types

Type

Chemical

Fragrance

None

SPF

46

Volume

1.7 ounces

Worth A Look

Brush on Block Powder Sunscreen

Best For On-The-Go $34.00 Buy Now

Pros

• Comes with brush for easy application
• Refillable container

Cons

• You have to wash the applicator brush

Type

Mineral

Fragrance

Chamomile

SPF

30

Volume

12 ounces

Also Tested

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream 

Best For Redness-Prone Skin $16.00 Buy Now

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to apply
• Creamy consistency

Cons

• Not good for acne-prone skin

Type

Chemical

Fragrance

Cucumber

SPF

50

Volume

1.6 ounces

Popular

Babyganics Baby Sunscreen Lotion UVA UVB Protection

Best For Kids $17.34 Buy Now

Pros

• Good for entire family
• Tear-free

Cons

• Need to rub in thoroughly to avoid white cast

Type

Chemical

Fragrance

None

SPF

50

Volume

6 ounces

Worth A Look

Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist

Best For Spraying On $39.00 Buy Now

Pros

• Non-aerosol misting spray
• Dries quickly

Cons

• Must be sprayed on hands before being applied to face

Type

Mineral

Fragrance

Citrus

SPF

30

Volume

6 ounces

Popular

Tula Brightening Serum Skin Tint Sunscreen

Best Tinted $40.00 Buy Now

Pros

• Breathable and long-lasting
• Buildable coverage
• Moisturizing

Cons

• Very small tube of product

Type

Chemical

Fragrance

None

SPF

30

Volume

1 ounce

FAQs

What is the best sunscreen for sensitive skin?

We like the sunscreens from Blue Lizard, which contain aloe vera, shea butter, sunflower seed oil, and vitamin E.). Dermatologist Dr. King recommends this option to patients with sensitive skin because it’s free of fragrances and parabens (a category of preservatives).

What is the best sunscreen for darker skin tones?

The Unseen sunscreen from Supergoop melts into the skin and doesn't leave a white cast. After years of testing, we think this is the best one for skin with more melanin.

What sunscreen do dermatologists recommend for sensitive skin?

What SPF do dermatologists recommend for face?

Which sunscreen is best according to dermatologist?

What is the safest SPF for face?