Among the range of skin types, people with sensitive skin find it hard to choose the right skin care products. This is because sensitive skin reacts sooner to heat, pollution, and even specific ingredients. Exposure to UV rays will also lead to redness and stinging sensation, which leads to rashes on the skin and even inflammation.
In such cases, according to dermatologists, getting your hands on gentle, zero fragrance, and mineral based sunscreen helps in protecting the skin without causing any kind of irritation. Picking the right sunscreen not just protects but also strengthens the overall skin barrier.
In this blog, you will get to know the best sunscreen for sensitive skin dermat recommended versions. Along with this, tips & tricks with some common questions and answers in detail.
What are the Dermatologist Recommended Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin?
|
Sl.No |
Sunscreen |
SPF Type |
Why It’s Good for Sensitive Skin |
|
1 |
Deyga SPF 30 and SPF 50 Sunscreen |
SPF 30 and SPF 50 – Mineral |
Natural, chemical free, zinc oxide based, calms & protects |
|
2 |
La Shield SPF 40 Gel Sunscreen |
SPF 40 – Mineral |
Fragrance free, non comedogenic, dermatologist tested |
|
3 |
Bioderma Photoderm Max |
SPF 50+ |
Suitable for sensitive & intolerant skin |
|
4 |
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc |
SPF 50 – Mineral |
100% zinc oxide, gentle & water resistant |
|
5 |
Cetaphil Sun Light Gel |
SPF 50+ |
Ultra lightweight, for sensitive & reactive skin |
|
6 |
Avene Very High Protection |
SPF 50+ |
Thermal spring water, soothing on red skin |
|
7 |
Re’equil Ultra Matte SPF 50 |
SPF 50 |
Fragrance free, hypoallergenic |
|
8 |
Fixderma Shadow SPF 30+ |
SPF 30 |
Designed for sensitive & post procedure skin |
|
9 |
Episoft AC Sunscreen |
SPF 30 |
Lightweight, non greasy, calming formula |
|
10 |
Minimalist SPF 50 Multi Vitamin Sunscreen |
SPF 50 |
No dyes, no fragrance, gentle for daily use |
Why Sensitive Skin Needs Special Sunscreen?
Sensitive skin generally has a weaker skin barrier, which is why they react sooner than other skin types. When the barrier becomes weak/fragile, they make your skin more reactive to UV rays, heat, and even pollution at times.
Here are some of the key causes of damages in sensitive skin type:
1. UV Rays Triggers Skin Damage Faster
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People with sensitive skin tend to react instantly when exposed to UV rays. Some of the causes include: skin redness, irritation, inflammation, patches on the skin, and even signs of aging.
-
Helps in reducing redness and irritation in skin
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In such a case, using a proper sunscreen works as a wall between rays and skin. They help in preventing the rays from penetrating deeper into the skin.
2. Prevents Pigmentation & Skin Darkening
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As sensitive skin gets exposed to sunlight faster, they tend to produce more melanin.
-
The excess melanin production helps in various skincare concerns like uneven skin tone, dark patches, and even the sensitivity marks on the skin.
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Ensure to use broad spectrum sunscreen everyday in AM routine to reduce these skincare issues.
3. Strengthens Skin Barrier Over Time
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For healthy and improving natural skin barrier, using a good mineral sunscreen is a better choice.
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When using consistently,your skin is less reactive, hydrated better, and looks more balanced.
4. Essential for Post Treatment Skin
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If you had taken any skin treatments like chemical peels, laser treatment, waxing, acne treatment, etc the skin will be initially sensitive.
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In such a case, skipping sunscreen is such a bad idea!
What are the Do’s and Don’t for Sunscreen on Sensitive Skin?
|
Do’s |
Don’ts |
|
Choose mineral based sunscreen (zinc oxide / titanium dioxide) |
Don’t use harsh chemical sunscreens like oxybenzone if your skin reacts easily |
|
Look for fragrance free, alcohol free formulas |
Don’t use strongly scented or heavily perfumed sunscreens |
|
Pick SPF 30– SPF 50 with PA+++ or PA++++ |
Don’t choose SPF below 30 for daily protection |
|
Always patch test before applying all over the face |
Don’t try a new sunscreen on irritated or broken skin directly |
|
Use the 2 finger rule for face & neck |
Don’t apply a pea size amount – it’s not enough |
|
Apply 15–20 minutes before sun exposure |
Don’t step into the sun immediately after applying |
|
Reapply every 2–3 hours when outdoors |
Don’t assume one application lasts all day |
|
Choose soothing ingredients (aloe vera, chamomile, centella) |
Don’t use sunscreens with exfoliating acids |
|
Use gentle hands while applying |
Don’t rub or pull sensitive skin while spreading |
|
Cleanse with a mild face wash at night |
Don’t sleep with sunscreen on your face |
|
Use even on cloudy or indoor (window) days |
Don’t skip sunscreen when indoors near windows |
What you should know if you have Sensitive Skin?
-
Check and know how your skin triggers for certain conditions like fragrance, change of water, dust, oil, etc.
-
Never miss the patch test when you introduce new skincare products for your face.
-
Simple skincare routine with right products work best.
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Ensure to pick products which skin barrier friendly like oatmeal, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, etc.
-
Mineral sunscreen will be safer than physical ones.
-
Never cleanse more than twice in a day.
-
Check if your products are pH friendly.
-
Be consistent with your skincare routine.
Conclusion
People with sensitive skin need more protection and care than others. In such a case, choosing skincare products from brands like Deyga helps in keeping your skin calm because of their natural and pure ingredients.
When you feel any itching, burning, or stinging sensation, immediately wash off and follow up with a moisturizer alone. In an AM routine, never miss incorporating sunscreen in your skincare routine.
FAQs :
Which sunscreen is best for extremely sensitive skin?
Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide like Deyga or Neutrogena Sheer Zinc work best for extremely sensitive skin.
Can I use sunscreen daily if I have sensitive skin?
Yes, daily use is essential especially in the AM routine. Choose fragrance free, alcohol free, non comedogenic formulas.
Will sunscreen cause breakouts on sensitive skin?
Not if it is non comedogenic and mineral based. Gel or lightweight formulas work best. Picking the right sunscreen matters the most!
Is SPF 30 enough for sensitive skin?
Yes for daily use. SPF 50 is recommended for outdoor exposure or extreme sun. If you are in doors, use SPF 30 sunscreen.
Should I remove sunscreen at night?
Absolutely. Use a gentle cleanser or double cleanse to avoid clogged pores and irritation. Make sure to double cleanse while using sunscreen.