Sun & Tan
Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

The Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin 2026

By Hannah Liddle - 3 years ago | Updated 1 week ago

However, taking care in the sun isn't easy for those with super sensitive skin types and can often have an adverse effect, causing stinging, rashes, inflammation and itchiness. That's why we've taken a deep dive into the best sunscreens for sensitive skin...

After doing some digging into what causes irritations, we discovered that there are two types of SPF – physical and chemical.

Chemical sun cream is absorbed into the skin, where it then soaks up UV rays before releasing them from the body. Usually made with a variety of chemical combinations, these formulas cause big reactions with sensitive skin types.

Physical sunscreen (also known as mineral sunscreen) is usually made from titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. It sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays away from us. The main downside here is that you'll be chilling on the beach with a completely white face...not cool.

Whether you have sensitive skin or are allergic to some of the chemical ingredients in SPF, finding a sun cream that works for you is painful and by no means fun.

If you're allergic, or think you could be, we highly recommend finding out exactly what it is you’re allergic to so that you can save yourself the pain and hassle of trial and error. And always test patch sun creams beforehand by putting a small amount in the crease of your arm 24 hours in advance.

With all of that in mind, we want to make sure everyone – yep, even you with the most sensitive skin – can enjoy the sun without having to worry about reactivity. So, we’ve gathered a list of the best sunscreens for sensitive skin which will stop UV rays and flare ups in their tracks.

Best sunscreen for sensitive skin with acne and redness

EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

£40.50

A cult favourite for sensitive, acne-prone and redness-prone skin, EltaMD UV Clear is formulated to protect without clogging pores or causing flare-ups. This broad-spectrum sunscreen combines gentle UV filters with niacinamide to help calm visible redness and support a more even-looking complexion. The lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and sits comfortably on skin, making it easy to wear every day. It’s particularly popular with those managing sensitivity alongside breakouts or rosacea, thanks to its breathable feel and skin-soothing ingredients.

Heliocare 360 AK Fluid

£26.39 £33.00 (21% off)

A non-comedogenic formula is a must if you have easily clogged pores and acne-prone skin. This light fluid treats actinic keratosis (scaly, sun-induced patches) while offering full-spectrum sun protection. It's also packed with antioxidants and a trio of DNA repair enzymes for improving your skin barrier and repairing damage from within.

Best sunscreen for sensitive skin that feels like moisturiser

Beauty of Joseon Rice Sunscreen With Rice Water & Prebiotic Complex SPF 50+

£12.40 £15.95 (23% off)

This modern sunscreen blends high-level sun protection with a skincare-first formula that’s well-suited to sensitive skin. Enriched with rice water and a prebiotic complex, it helps support the skin barrier while delivering SPF 50+ protection against UV damage. The texture is lightweight and lotion-like, absorbing smoothly without leaving a white cast or heavy residue. Gentle, hydrating and easy to layer, it’s a great option for sensitive skin types that want a sunscreen that feels more like daily moisturiser than traditional sun cream. Count us in!

CosRx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50

£13.29 £26.00 (49% off)

To calm and soothe sensitive skin against harsh sun damage, the CosRx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 is an absolute star and one to have on your radar. Featuring the holy grail for redness and irritation, aloe vera, it's a cult hit for a reason.

Best mineral sunscreen for sensitive skin

Clarins Mineral Sun Care Fluid SPF 30 Face

£23.50 £30.50 (23% off)

Designed with reactive and delicate skin in mind, this lightweight mineral sunscreen offers reliable daily protection without irritation. The 100% mineral filter formula helps shield skin from UVA and UVB rays while avoiding the stinging or redness that chemical filters can sometimes trigger. Its fluid texture blends easily into skin, leaving a smooth, comfortable finish that works well under makeup. Infused with Clarins’ plant-based expertise, it also supports skin comfort throughout the day, making it a solid option for sensitive complexions that prefer a simpler, fragrance-light approach to sun care.

DCL Antioxidant Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

£40.00 £48.00 (17% off)

For a bit of a splurge, get yourself a tube of DCL Antioxidant Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30. The zinc oxide in this sun cream will protect your skin from damage and ageing, while vitamins and antioxidants refine any texture and fine lines. If your skin's feeling a bit irritated, the chamomile in this cream will soothe while vitamin E hydrates.

Best sunscreen for sun allergy and heat rash

Eucerin Sun Allergy Protect Gel-Cream SPF 50+

£18.40 £23.00 (20% off)

If it's the sun itself you're allergic to, we have to recommend Eucerin once again. Their Sun Allergy Protect Gel-Cream SPF 50+ protects your skin from sun damage caused by free radicals while also using antioxidants to support your skin's own protection system to prevent the trigging of sun allergy.

Best sunscreen for extra sensitive and eczema-prone skin

Avène Sun Care Very High Protection Cream SPF 50+

£17.20 £22.50 (24% off)

Avène sun protection is the perfect choice for soothing and hydrating stressed out skin. Not only does it help protect you from harmful rays, but it also prevents skin issues caused by sun exposure, such as dark spots and premature ageing.

Best sunscreen for sensitive body skin

Bioderma Photoderm Lait ULTRA SPF 50+ For Sensitive Skin

£20.69 £25.00 (18% off)

Bioderma is a dermatologist-recommended brand that is always producing great skin-loving products, so if you have sensitive and blemish-prone skin, their Photoderm Lait ULTRA is the perfect solution.

FAQs About Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

What type of sunscreen is best for sensitive skin?

Mineral (physical) sunscreens are often better tolerated by sensitive skin. They sit on the surface and reflect UV rays, rather than absorbing into the skin like chemical filters.

Can chemical sunscreens irritate sensitive skin?

Yes. Some chemical UV filters can cause stinging, redness or itching, especially when combined with fragrance or alcohol and used on reactive skin.

Is mineral sunscreen always better for sensitive skin?

Not always, but it’s often a safer choice. Some modern chemical sunscreens are designed specifically for sensitive skin, so checking ingredient lists and patch testing is important.

Why does sunscreen sting my face?

Stinging is often caused by chemical filters, fragrance, alcohol or a compromised skin barrier. Delicate areas, especially around the eyes, are more prone to irritation.

Should people with sensitive skin patch test sunscreen?

Yes. Apply a small amount to the inner arm or behind the ear and wait 24 hours before full use to help identify potential reactions.

Does sensitive skin still need SPF every day?

Absolutely. UV exposure can worsen redness, sensitivity and barrier damage, making daily sunscreen especially important for reactive skin types.

Can sunscreen help prevent flare-ups in sensitive skin?

Yes. Consistent sun protection helps reduce UV-triggered inflammation and redness, supporting a calmer, more stable skin barrier over time.

Typically made from minerals and free from fragrances and irritating chemicals, these sun creams for sensitive skin are here to help you get through summer with ease. Don't forget to top up on hair sun protection too, so you're prepped from top to toe. Need to hydrate your skin post-sun? Discover The Best After Sun Products and keep that tan glowing for longer. Want an eco-friendly solution? Browse The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens You Need for 2022. Don't forget to shop out suncream sale for discounts on your favourite skin solutions too!