14 Best Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreens Of 2024

As a mom-to-be, you must have read every possible pregnancy-related book and made the healthiest and best choices for your baby and body. However, when it comes to skin care, you cannot afford to skip out on sunscreen, and that is why you need the best pregnancy-safe sunscreen.

While pregnant, you need to scrutinize the ingredients list on your bottle of sunscreen thoroughly to ensure that it is completely safe for your skin and the baby. As there are plenty of options available on the market, it might be daunting and overwhelming to pick the safest and best one for a pregnant person. To help you out and make your job easier, we have curated a list of the best pregnancy-safe sunscreens that are available online now. Keep reading to explore our selection!

Is Sunscreen Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes. It is safe to use sunscreen during pregnancy. The market is currently flooded with a variety of pregnancy-safe sunscreens. However, be careful of the ingredients in the product for maternity sun care. Ditch sunscreens that have harsh chemicals in them. Instead, switch to mineral-based, reef-friendly, or plant-based sunscreens. Scroll further to check our list of the best pregnancy-safe sunscreen you can buy.

14 Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreens – Our Top Picks (With Buying Guide)

1. Best Moisturizing:EltaMD UV Elements Facial Sunscreen

4.6

Image: Eltamd

BUY ON AMAZON | $30.8

The EltaMD UV Elements Facial Sunscreen has the benefits of sunscreen along with hydrating properties. This dermatologist-recommended physical sunscreen contains 10% zinc oxide and 5.5% titanium dioxide, along with ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid. Being a mineral-based sunscreen, it offers a physical barrier against the sun’s rays, reducing the risk of skin damage. It has a broad spectrum SPF 44 to protect your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays. reducing the risk of damage to your skin or stress to your baby. The slightly tinted formula is water-resistant, retains moisture, smoothens skin texture, and makes your skin younger-looking. Check out the reviewer’s experience with this product in this video for insights.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and Zinc Oxide

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 10,089 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

2. Best Gentle Formula:MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème Sunscreen

4.3

Image: Mdsolarsciences

BUY ON AMAZON | $32

This lightweight MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème Sunscreen has a mineral-based formula enriched with 17% zinc oxide and 2% titanium dioxide. It is developed with ProVention-R technology, which is a proprietary blend of antioxidants like green tea, vitamin C, and cranberry and pomegranate extracts to prevent photodamage.

This broad-spectrum, clinically-proven SPF 50 sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and the resultant sunburn and skin damage. The formula is gentle, non-irritating, and is perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It has a rich creamy texture with a matte finish that blends seamlessly without clogging your pores or leaving a white cast. You can go through this honest review on YouTube for more information on the MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème Sunscreen.

Key Ingredients: ProVention-R

Trivia

Do you believe your sunscreen is UV-resistant? Consider again because high temperatures reduce the potency of sunscreen’s active ingredients. Therefore, the longer it sits in the sun, the less effective it becomes.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 451 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.

3. Best Non-Toxic Formula:Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen

4.2

Image: Biossance

BUY ON AMAZON | $42.0

The Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen has a non-toxic, lightweight, and deeply hydrating formula. It has a broad spectrum SPF 30 and PA+++, which soothes, calms, and protects your skin from sun damage.
The sunscreen is enriched with 14% of zinc oxide and squalane and is safe for expecting mothers. This blend protects the skin’s outer barrier by hydrating it thoroughly and locking in moisture for smooth and soft skin. It is an easily blendable and non-greasy sunscreen that does not leave a white cast and gives your skin a healthy and dewy finish. Take a look at this brief review for detailed information on the Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen.

Key Ingredients: Squalane, and 14% Zinc Oxide

	EltaMD UV Elements Facial Sunscreen Best Moisturizing	MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème Sunscreen Best Gentle Formula	Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Best Non-Toxic Formula
	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now
Number of Items	1	-	-
Dimensions	1.45 x 2 x 1.56 inches	1.5 x 2.1 x 6.2 inches	-
Weight	2 Ounces.	1.7 Ounces	-
Weight	-	-	1.7 Ounces
Rating
Reviews	10,089	451	1,004
Price	$30.8	$32	$42.0

4. Best Reef-Friendly:Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion

4.6

Image: Supergoop!

BUY ON AMAZON | $18.23

The Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion features a gentle formula with a broad spectrum SPF 50 and PA++++. This lightweight and hydrating sunscreen protect your skin from UV damage and photoaging.

The sunscreen is enriched with scientifically formulated and antioxidant-rich ingredients like sunflower extract and rosemary leaf extract, which help to nourish and protect your skin. This non-toxic, reef-friendly sunscreen is water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It absorbs instantly into your skin without feeling greasy or leaving any white cast after application.

Key Ingredients: Sunflower extract and Rosemary leaf extract

5. Best For Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen-Gentle Lotion

4.2

Image: La Roche-posay

Now 23% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $24.74

The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen-Gentle lotion is formulated with cell-ox shield technology, a combination of SPF 50 and antioxidants to provide broad-spectrum protection. It also contains 15% zinc oxide and 5% titanium dioxide which act as mineral sunscreen filters that reflect and scatter UVA and UVB rays from your skin to shield and protect it from damage.
The formula has a matte finish but leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth without greasiness. It is dermatologist-tested and free of any harsh chemicals and harmful toxins, making it the best sunscreen for pregnant women and people with sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients: Cell-ox shield technology, 15% Zinc Oxide and 5% Titanium Dioxide

6. Best Quick-Absorbing:Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

4.3

Image: Alba Botanica

BUY ON AMAZON | $5.39

The Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen has a fragrance-free formula that offers a broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30. This is a vegetarian and lightweight formula made with botanical ingredients that allow for quick absorption. It contains chamomile and aloe vera juice that nourishes the skin and soothes it from sunburns while preventing premature signs of aging. In addition, it offers a non-greasy finish and stays water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Titanium dioxide, Chamomile, and Aloe vera

Trivia

We always look for the SPF number when purchasing sunscreen, but have you ever wondered what it stands for? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. A higher number means greater protection for your skin against sun damage.

7. Best Non-Greasy:Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

4.5

Image: Blue Lizard

BUY ON AMAZON | $24.99

The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen gives your skin complete protection from harmful UV rays. This mineral-based sunscreen for pregnant women has SPF 30+ and provides head-to-toe sun protection.
The non-greasy formula is enriched with 5% titanium dioxide, and 10% zinc oxide, which act as the perfect reflectors on your skin to scatter the harmful UV rays. The sunscreen comes with smart cap technology, which turns the tube cap blue under strong UV rays. In this way, it indicates when the sun is strong and when you should avoid sun exposure.

Key Ingredients: 5% Titanium Dioxide and 10% Zinc Oxide

8. Best Lightweight:Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion

4.4

Image: Sun Bum

Now 13% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.23

The Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion has a lightweight and non-greasy formula that seeps into your skin without feeling sticky. The natural zinc-based mineral sunscreen has SPF 50 and protects your skin from UV damage. The product is free from harsh chemicals and is suitable for both pregnant women and kids. This lightweight and natural formula has a matte finish and is gluten and cruelty-free.

Key Ingredients: Zinc-based minerals

9. Best Anti-Inflammatory:Acure Radically Rejuvenating SPF Day Cream

3.6

Image: Acure

Now 2% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.99

The Acure Radically Rejuvenating SPF Day Cream contains antioxidants and minerals, which nourish your skin. It has a broad spectrum SPF 30 that ensures protection from sun damage.

The day cream is enriched with zinc-based mineral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of turmeric, ferulic acid, and vitamin C. The botanical ingredients of the formula decrease the risk of skin cancer and premature aging caused by UV exposure.

Key Ingredients: 15.5% Zinc Oxide, Turmeric, Ferulic acid, and Vitamin C

10. Best Skin-Friendly:Thinksport Everyday Face Mineral Sunscreen

4.3

Now 18% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $10.68

The Thinksport Everyday Face Mineral Sunscreen contains skin-friendly ingredients and is lightweight and comfortable on the skin. It is formulated with nano-zinc oxide and has a broad spectrum coverage of SPF 30.

The sunscreen protects your skin from UV damages and is slightly tinted to cover blemishes and spots to make your skin look smooth. This rich formula works perfectly as a makeup base. It blends easily with your skin tone and does not feel sticky or oily.

Key Ingredient: Nano zinc oxide

11. Best Water-Resistant:COOLA Mineral Body Sunscreen

4.5

Image: Coola

BUY ON AMAZON | $32

The COOLA Mineral Body Sunscreen has an organic and plant-based formula. It is hydrating and gentle even on the most sensitive skin. The formula is enriched with the antioxidant and moisturizing qualities of safflower oleosomes. It also contains red raspberry seed oil and buriti oil to promote collagen formations and prickly pear extract that provides anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits. All these ingredients fight harmful free radicals to keep your skin healthy and youthful. The mineral sunscreen contains 14.5% non-nano zinc oxide to protect your skin from the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays. It is lightweight, non-greasy, and perfect for everyday use.

Key Ingredients: Safflower oleosomes, Red Raspberry seed oil, Prickly pear extract, Buriti oil, and 14.5% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide

12. Best Oil-Free:CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen

3.8

Image: Cera Ve

Now 10% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.48

The CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen is dermatologically-tested and approved. This sunscreen is 100% mineral-based, lightweight, and has a non-greasy texture, which makes it perfect for everyday use.
It is enriched with the 3 essential ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II, which help in restoring and maintaining the skin’s natural protective barrier. The sunscreen also contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide which helps to lock in moisture all day long. The sunscreen works efficiently to block out harmful UV rays.

Key Ingredients: Ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II, Hyaluronic acid, and Niacinamide

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 11,946 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

13. Best Non-Comedogenic:Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Mineral Sunscreen

4.2

Image: Neutrogena

BUY ON AMAZON | $10.87

The Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Mineral Sunscreen has a 100% mineral active formula with a broad spectrum SPF 50, which prevents sunburn and sun damage. It is scientifically formulated with the dry-touch technology and zinc oxide, which makes the formula lightweight, clean, and non-greasy. This clinically-tested product is free of harsh chemicals and skin-irritating agents.

Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The extensive 8,454 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.

14. Best Non-Irritating Formula:Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen

4.4

Image: Neutrogena

BUY ON AMAZON | $8.97

The Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen has an ultra-light, fast-absorbing, and highly protective formula. It is developed with Purescreen Technology, which is a 100% blend of naturally sourced, sun protecting active ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
This formula has a broad spectrum SPF 60 that protects your skin from the harsh and damaging effects of the UV rays. Its mineral-based ingredients prevent sunburn and photodamage. The hypoallergenic formula does not clog the pores, cause irritation, or has an overpowering fragrance.

Key Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 4,567 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

These were some of the best sunscreen formulas for pregnant women. Read on to find out what factors to consider before buying a sun protection formula during pregnancy.

How To Select The Best Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreen?

Here are some of the factors that you should consider while selecting the sunscreens for pregnant women:

• Mineral-Based Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens are a big NO for the moms-to-be. Always ensure that you pick skin-friendly and safe mineral-based sunscreens and conduct a patch test before using them. These natural minerals form a skin barrier that reflects and scatters the harmful UV rays from the skin and acts as a protective shield. Mineral-based formulations are usually hypoallergenic and have no adverse effects on the skin, making them a good option for pregnant women with sensitive skin.

• Broad Spectrum And Water-Resistance

Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect you from the skin-damaging effects of both UVA and UVB rays. Choose a sunscreen that has a minimum of SPF 30 and a PA+++ rating. Also, ensure that the sunscreen you pick is water-resistant for up to 40 to 80 minutes.

• Read The Label

No matter what, make it a habit of reading the label. Look for the ingredients that may or may not work for you. To prevent potential skin irritation, it is advisable to avoid products that may contain paraben, PEG, phenoxyethanol, alcohol, and synthetic preservatives and color to avoid skin irritation. It is better to consult a dermatologist and take product recommendations.

• Formula

When selecting an everyday sunscreen, it is crucial to opt for oil-free, hypoallergenic, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic formulas that have undergone thorough testing to ensure that the product is safe and effective. Ensure that the formula you use is cream-based rather than a spray. It is best to avoid sunscreen sprays as they often do not provide adequate sun protection and may not cover the areas properly.

Given below is a quick guideline on what ingredients to avoid in your sunscreens during pregnancy.

Ingredients To Avoid In Sunscreens

Avoid buying sunscreens that may contain chemicals like:

• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate,
• Avobenzone
• Homosalate,
• Octisalate,
• Benzophenone-2 (BP-2), and
• Octocrylene.

These chemicals are most likely to get absorbed in your skin and cause irritation, skin allergies, Also avoid ingredients like paraben, phthalates, sulfate, and methylisothiazolinone (MIT). It is better to consult a dermatologist for pregnancy-safe sunscreen recommendations.

Infographic: Key Ingredients In Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreens

Hormonal changes during pregnancy may make your skin sensitive to harsh ingredients. Certain elements like oxybenzone and octinoxate in the sunscreen may irritate the skin and prove harmful to your little one. Check out the infographic below to learn more about the pregnancy-safe ingredients that help make your skin glow and protect the baby.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What sunscreen ingredients are not safe during pregnancy?

Ingredients that make sunscreen unsafe during pregnancy are:
• Avobenzone
• Benzophenone
• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate
• PABA
• Homosalate
• Octocrylene
• 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor.
• Vitamin A

Is zinc oxide safe for pregnancy?

Yes, zinc oxide is safe for use during pregnancy. It is hypoallergenic and sits on the skin rather than getting absorbed by it.

Do you have to wear mineral sunscreen when pregnant?

Yes, sunscreen containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide is ideal for pregnant women.

Is La Roche Posay sunscreen pregnancy-safe?

No, not all La Roche Posay sunscreens are safe for pregnancy but the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen-Gentle Lotion can be used by pregnant women.

Does sunscreen cause birth defects?

Some sunscreens contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, vitamin A, and a few others. These ingredients can cause birth defects. Choose something that is pregnancy safe to protect your skin from UV rays during those months.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author of this article, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. She has conducted extensive research on pregnancy-safe sunscreens and used her in-depth knowledge about skin care products to curate this list. The sunscreens included in the list are made with pregnancy-safe ingredients and are suitable for daily use.

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Dr. Schwarzburg MD

 

Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.

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Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor

 

Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.

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