What sunscreen is best for sensitive skin?

For those who struggle with sensitive, easily irritated skin, finding the right sunscreen can be daunting. It can be hard to know if a certain formula may make you breakout, give you a rash, or make your skin itchy or irritated. Many times, this results in an expensive experiment of trial and error to find the best protection for your skin. So, what’s the best bet to be sun-safe and sensitive-skin smart? There are a few tried and true ways to reduce the risk of adverse reactions to sunscreen so read on to find out how!

First and foremost – opt for a mineral sunscreen. Mineral sunscreen, also referred to as physical sunscreen, uses minerals to provide a shield against harmful UV rays. Mineral sunscreens also tend to be gentler on the skin and less likely to cause rashes or other sensitivities, when compared with chemical sunscreens. Look for powerful skin-protecting minerals including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide excellent protection from UV radiation, without the potentially toxic environmental or absorption concerns related to chemical UV filters.

Look for a sunscreen without fragrance added. Fragrance mixes added to sunscreens contain many potential contact allergens, and if you have sensitive skin, you may be easily irritated by any number of components in the fragrance mix. When in doubt, go for a fragrance-free sunscreen to reduce the risk of developing an itchy or irritating rash.

Lastly, with a new sunscreen formula, as with any new product, it may be helpful to apply a test application before using more broadly. If you have sensitive skin, I recommend applying enough product to cover a quarter-sized swath of skin in an area that is less cosmetically sensitive than your face, such as the inner arm, or abdomen, once daily for a week. If you don’t develop any irritation after that one-week trial period, then you can start to use the product more broadly. Of course, it is also helpful to add in only one new product at a time, so that if you do develop any irritation, you can easily identify the culprit.

Although finding the perfect sunscreen match may be easier for some than for others, the benefits of daily, consistent use of a sunscreen that both protects and feels good on your skin is one of the best investments you can make for your overall skin health. The right formula can make the process of applying sunscreen something that you actually look forward to, leading to a foundational part of your daily routine to protect, revive, and renew your skin!

Dr. Meghan with #MDTips