There’s no shortage of sunscreen options at the drugstore, but sometimes finding the perfect match for your skin’s needs can be overwhelming. Below, we’ve created a helpful guide to the best drugstore sunscreens for sensitive skin.
Our Recommendations
1. Sport 100% Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+
Banana Boat Sunscreen for Sun Protection
Banana Boat Sport 100% Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+
This drugstore sunscreen uses 100% mineral sunscreen filters (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It is water resistant, making it a great choice for hanging out at the pool or doing physical outdoor activities.
This affordable sunscreen is one of the best mineral sunscreens for those on a budget. It contains only mineral sunscreen filters, and is also free of fragrances. This makes this option a particularly good choice for those with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Water resistant (for up to 80 minutes)
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance
Cons
- May leave a white cast on some skin tones
This fragrance-free sunscreen has the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, meaning it’s suitable for those with eczema.
Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Dimethicone, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Beeswax, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Disodium EDTA
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Nov. 9, 2021.
2. Anthelios SPF 50 Gentle Lotion Mineral Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50 Gentle Lotion Mineral Sunscreen
This is one of the best La Roche-Posay mineral sunscreens for the face and body, particularly if you have sensitive skin. 100% mineral UV filters protect the skin while minimizing the risk of irritation.
This water-resistant sunscreen uses the power of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (mineral UV filters) to protect the skin from the sun. It blends easily into the skin, and leaves a non-greasy, soft finish.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Water resistant (up to 80 minutes)
Cons
- May leave a white cast on some skin tones
This sunscreen contains senna alata, which provides antioxidant protection. It defends against free radicals that can accelerate the development of signs of aging.
Titanium Dioxide 5%, Zinc Oxide 15%, Water, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Isohexadecane, Isononyl Isononanoate, Dicaprylyl Ether, PEG-30, Dipolyhydroxystearate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Ethylene/Acrylic Acid, Copolymer, Triethylhexanoin, Silica, Poly C10-30, Alkyl Acrylate, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Diethylhexyl, Syringylidenemalonate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Stearate, Chlorphenesin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Alumina, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Tocopherol, P-Anisic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Propylene Carbonate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cassia Alata Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin.
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American Academy of Dermatology. "https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/sunscreen-patients/is-sunscreen-safe"
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021.
3. Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50
If you have more sensitive skin, this mineral face sunscreen may be the best option for you. Mineral UV filters block the sun’s rays, and antioxidants further help protect the skin.
This sunscreen contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – two mineral UV filters – that help protect the skin from the sun. It is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a matte finish.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Water resistant (up to 40 minutes)
Cons
- May leave a white cast on some skin tones
This sunscreen contains senna alata, which provides antioxidant protection. It defends against free radicals that can accelerate the development of signs of aging.
Titanium Dioxide 6% (sunscreen), Zinc Oxide 5% (sunscreen), Undecane, Triethylhexanoin, Isohexadecane, Nylon-12, Caprylyl Methicone, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Phenethyl Benzoate, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Silica, Tridecane, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Dicaprylyl Ether, Talc, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Aluminum Stearate, Pentylene Glycol, PEG-9 Olydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Alumina,Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Magnesium Sulfate, Propylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, PEG-8 Laurate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Tocopherol, Propylene Carbonate, Cassia Alata Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin, Benzoic Acid, PEG-9.
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021.
4. Mineral SPF Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection and Moisturization
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid
This product is a moisturizer and mineral sunscreen in one, and is great for daily use. SPF 30 protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, and hyaluronic acid works to hydrate.
This sunscreen is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which helps maintain moisture levels in the skin. It also contains glycerin and vitamin B5 (panthenol), which further moisturize and soothe the skin. This sunscreen uses 100% mineral filters (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide), which are generally better tolerated by sensitive skin.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Not water resistant (use a water resistant sunscreen when swimming or sweating)
- May leave a white cast on some skin tones
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this sunscreen contains senna alata, a tropical leaf extract. This ingredient provides antioxidant protection, defending against free radicals that can accelerate the development of signs of aging.
Titanium Dioxide (5.5%), Zinc Oxide (10%), Water, Glycerin, Isohexadecane, Isononyl Isononanoate, Dicaprylyl Ether, Peg-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Dimethicone, Caprylyl Methicone, Ethylene/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Triethylhexanoin, Silica, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Panthenol, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Stearate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Chlorphenesin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Alumina, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol, P-Anisic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Propylene Carbonate, Cassia Alata Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin.
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021. -
Accessed Aug. 23, 2021.
5. Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection and Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
This creamy moisturizer contains mineral-based SPF to protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. It also contains hydrating and replenishing ingredients to soften dry skin.
This SPF moisturizer uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, two mineral sunscreens that are suitable for sensitive skin. It also contains a blend of antioxidants, ceramides, and peptides that help to soften, protect, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
Cons
- Some reviewers note it feels greasy on the skin
- Not water-resistant
The ceramides in this moisturizer help to restore the moisture barrier and strengthen the skin, while the peptides help provide anti-aging benefits.
Titanium Dioxide 3.85%, Zinc Oxide 3.12% (mineral sunscreens), Water (Aqua), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient/texture-enhancing), Isononyl Isononanoate (texture-enhancing), Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil (apricot oil/non-fragrant oil/emollient), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration/texture-enhancing), Glyceryl Stearate (emollient/texture-enhancing), PEG-100 Stearate (emollient/texture-enhancing), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Pentylene Glycol (hydration), Cetearyl Alcohol (emollient/texture-enhancing), Dimethicone (hydration), Glycine Soja Sterols (emollient), VP/Eicosene Copolymer (texture-enhancing), Avena Sativa Kernel Extract (oat extract/skin-soothing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Allantoin (skin-soothing) , Tocopheryl Acetate (antioxidant), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Superoxide Dismutase (antioxidant), Ubiquinone (antioxidant), Ceramide NG (hydration/skin replenishing), Methicone (hydration), Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (skin-restoring), PEG-10 Dimethicone (texture-enhancing), Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract (cucumber extract/skin-soothing), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (emollient/texture-enhancing), Tribehenin (skin-restoring), PEG-10 Phytosterol (texture-enhancing), Sorbitan Stearate (texture-enhancing), Polyhydroxystearic Acid (texture-enhancing), Alumina (texture-enhancing), Polysorbate 20 (texture-enhancing), Aluminum Stearate (texture-enhancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Chlorphenesin (preservative).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 4, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Aug. 4, 2021.
6. Resist Super Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Daily Sun Protection
Paula’s Choice Resist Super Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
This lightweight, lightly-tinted product is one of the overall best Paula’s Choice sunscreens. It contains mineral sunscreen filters that protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, as well as calming ingredients and protective antioxidants.
This lightweight SPF 30 sunscreen has a matte finish and is great for daily use. It contains mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide), which is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin, since mineral sunscreens are less likely to irritate the skin compared to chemical sunscreens.
Pros
- Matte finish
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May leave a white cast on darker skin tones
- Not water-resistant
This sunscreen contains bisabolol and willow bark extract, which calm the skin and alleviate redness. It also contains a blend of antioxidants to further protect against environmental aggressors. It’s important to note that this sunscreen is not water-resistant, which means it shouldn’t be used for swimming or sports.
Zinc Oxide 13% (broad-spectrum sunscreen agent), Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), PEG-12 Dimethicone (texture enhancer), PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone (texture enhancer), Lauroyl Lysine (skin-conditioning agent),Sodium Chloride (stabilizer), Trihydroxystearin (texture-enhancing), Dimethicone Crosspolymer ( suspending agent), Resveratrol (antioxidants), Quercetin (antioxidants), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidants), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Adenosine (skin-restoring), Bisabolol (skin-soothing), Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract (skin-soothing), Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract (antioxidant), Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract (astaxanthin/antioxidant), Hydrolyzed Corn Starch (texture-enhancing/mattifying agent), Polysorbate 80 (texture-enhancing), Hydrated Silica (texture-enhancing/mattifying agent), Triethoxycaprylylsilane (texture enhancer), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient texture enhancer), Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate (texture enhancer), Caprylyl Glycol (preservatives), Hexylene Glycol (preservatives), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservatives), Iron Oxide (CI77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Phenoxyethanol (preservatives).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021.
7. Calm Redness Relief SPF 30 Mineral Moisturizer
Paula's Choice Sunscreen for Redness and Daily Sun Protection and Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief SPF 30 Mineral Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin
This mineral-based SPF moisturizer is one of the best Paula’s Choice sunscreens for sensitive and redness-prone skin, and is even gentle enough for rosacea-prone skin. It contains additional ingredients that calm and hydrate the skin.
This is a great SPF moisturizer for sensitive and redness-prone skin, partially due to the fact that it contains mineral sunscreen (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide), which is gentler on the skin. Additionally, it has calming, hydrating, and redness-reducing plant extracts, antioxidants, and peptides.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
Cons
- Not water-resistant
Some of the nourishing and calming ingredients in this gentle formula include apricot oil, oat extract, allantoin, and vitamin E.
Titanium Dioxide 3.85%, Zinc Oxide 3.12%, Water (Aqua), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (texture-enhancing/emollient), Isononyl Isononanoate (texture-enhancing/emollient), Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil (apricot oil/non-fragrant plant oil/emollient), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), Glyceryl Stearate (emollient), PEG-100 Stearate (texture-enhancing), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Pentylene Glycol (hydration), Cetearyl Alcohol (emollient), Dimethicone (hydration), Glycine Soja Sterols (soybean/emollient), VP/Eicosene Copolymer (texture-enhancing), Avena Sativa Kernel Extract (oat extract/skin-soothing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration), Allantoin (skin-soothing), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin replenishing), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Superoxide Dismutase (antioxidant), Ubiquinone (antioxidant), Ceramide NG (hydration/skin replenishing), Methicone (hydration), Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (texture-enhancing), PEG-10 Dimethicone (texture-enhancing), Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract (cucumber extract/skin-soothing), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (emollient), Tribehenin (emollient), PEG-10 Phytosterol (texture-enhancing/emollient), Sorbitan Stearate (texture-enhancing), Polyhydroxystearic Acid (texture-enhancing), Alumina (stabilizer), Polysorbate 20 (stabilizer), Aluminum Stearate (texture-enhancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Chlorphenesin (preservative).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 4, 2021.
FAQs
Is physical sunscreen better for sensitive skin?
Physical sunscreens (also known as mineral sunscreens) are typically better tolerated by people with sensitive skin when compared to chemical sunscreens. When you’re looking into a sunscreen, you’ll know it is a mineral sunscreen if it contains zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. If the sunscreen you’re looking at also contains chemical filters (such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, or octisalate), it is not a 100% mineral sunscreen, and may not be best suited for sensitive skin.
Which sunscreen is best for dry and sensitive skin?
Of the options on this list, some of the best sunscreens for dry and sensitive skin are the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid (which contains glycerin and panthenol, in addition to hyaluronic acid), the Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 (which contains ceramides), and the Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief SPF 30 Mineral Moisturizer (which contains apricot oil, oat extract, allantoin, and vitamin E).
How do I choose the best sunscreen for my face?
When picking out a face sunscreen, it is important to consider your skin types and any skin concerns you might have. You should also think about whether you prefer a chemical or mineral sunscreen. From there, you can look for options that are formulated for your skin’s unique needs. For example, if you have sensitive skin prone to redness and you know you want a mineral formula, you’ll want to seek out a face sunscreen that targets those needs (like the Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief SPF 30 Mineral Moisturizer). You should also keep in mind if you’re looking for a face sunscreen for daily wear, or one to wear when breaking a sweat or swimming. If you’re looking for the latter, you’ll want to ensure you’re keeping an eye out for water-resistant options.
The Bottom Line
If you have sensitive skin, there are plenty of great sunscreen options for you at the drugstore. Be sure to wear your chosen sunscreen on a daily basis to protect your skin and keep it as healthy as possible.
