The 5 Best Expert-Approved Sunscreens For Eczema (2024) – Buying Tips
These eczema-friendly sunscreens can keep your skin safe and without the risk of irritation.
Yolanda, MPAS, PA-C, has a medical license from the state of California and certification from the National Commission on Certification of PAs. She is a member of the California Academy of PAs, American Academy of PAs, and the American Med Spa Association.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli 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.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 5 yearsAditi 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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Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda
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People who have eczema deal with inflammation and dryness daily. Their eczematous skin needs protection from the sun to not get aggravated. You can protect your skin by using some of the best sunscreens for eczema available on the market.
Sunscreens made for eczematous skin contain natural minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are non-irritating, skin-friendly, and soothing. These are usually harmful allergens and dye-free sunscreens that also contain replenishing and moisturizing agents that keep your skin safe and healthy. All the sunscreens mentioned in this post are hypoallergenic and gentle on all skin types. In addition, they are free from chemical aggravants and toxic ingredients like synthetic fragrances, oxybenzone, and parabens.
Keep scrolling down to check out the 5 top sunscreens that provide gentle SPF (sun protection factor) and may help manage your eczema. We also have listed the pros and cons of each product. Continue reading and choose your pick.
In This Article
5 Best Sunscreens For Eczema (2024) – Reviews
1. Best Lightweight Formula:Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral Sunscreen
If you need a Natural sunscreen for eczema sufferers, try the Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral Sunscreen lotion. It is made with a powerful blend of hydrating mineral ingredients that are gentle, even on sensitive skin. The active ingredients are naturally sourced and free of oils, parabens, and fragrance. These 100% natural ingredients are hypoallergenic and perfect for sensitive skin. This lightweight lotion spreads easily on the skin and forms a protective layer on it. It reflects the harmful UVA and UVB rays. This Neutrogena liquid SPF 50 sunscreen can be used under makeup. Its ultra-light formula is sweat- and water-resistant for 80 minutes and does not clog pores. This non-comedogenic sunscreen is perfect for delicate skin. This hypoallergenic sunscreen has been awarded the seal of approval from the National Eczema Association. The product is perfect for you if you are looking for a soothing sunscreen for redness-prone skin.
Pros
- Made with 100% naturally sourced ingredients
- Sweat- and water-resistant
- Oil-free
- Broad spectrum SPF 50
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- PABA-free
Cons
- Leaves a white cast on the skin
Quick Tip2. Best Sun Protection:CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion With SPF 50
CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion offers broad spectrum sun protection factor for sensitive skin. This sensitive skin sunscreen contains extracts from oats that are gentle on dry, itchy, and irritated skin. It has soothing and nourishing properties that are helpful in treating skin conditions such as eczema. The glycerin in it keeps dry and flaky skin moisturized and smooth. This lightweight sunscreen was developed by dermatologists with SPF 50, ceramides, and niacinamides. Ceramides and niacinamide help in repairing and restoring the natural skin barrier. They also help in keeping the skin hydrated and protected. This moisturizing and water-resistant sunscreen has an oil-free formula.
Pros
- SPF 50
- Repairs the natural barrier
- Lightweight
- Soothes dry and sensitive skin
- Hydrates the skin
- Oil-free
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
Cons
- Does not spread evenly
Pro Tip3. Best Oil-Free Formula:EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen contains zinc oxide. The 9% transparent zinc oxide in it provides coverage from both UVA and UVB rays. It helps soothe sensitive, itchy, and inflamed skin. This oil-free and paraben-free sunscreen is recommended by board-certified dermatologists for people prone to acne, rosacea, and discoloration. The lightweight and silky formula gets absorbed easily into the skin. It contains lactic acid and niacinamide; the lactic acid gently exfoliates and nourishes the skin while the niacinamide in the sunscreen helps repair the skin’s protective barrier. This fragrance-free sunscreen protects, repairs, and calms dry and sensitive skin by hydrating it. It does not contain oils, parabens, or fragrances and leaves no residue. To find out more about EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen, check out this video of the reviewer’s experience. This one can surely be a great addition to your daily skin care routine!
Pros
- Soothes and protects acne-prone skin
- Leaves no residue
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Provides antioxidant protection
- Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Expensive
- Poor-quality pump
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 6,387 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
| Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral Sunscreen Best Lightweight Formula | CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion With SPF 50 Best Sun Protection | EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen Best Oil-Free Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 7.15 x 3.35 x 1.36 inches | 2.6 x 1.38 x 4.92 inches | 1.63 x 1.63 x 1.5 inches |
| Weight | 1.4 Ounces | 1.6 Ounces | - |
| Weight | - | - | 1.58 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,381 | 947 | 6,387 |
| Price | $23.98 | $39.95 | $41 |
4. Best Water-Resistant Formula:Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen contains active colloidal oatmeal that soothes and relieves itchy and irritated skin. It helps in restoring the natural pH balance of the skin. This eczema-friendly sunscreen also helps in repairing the skin’s protective natural barrier and preventing moisture loss. Its Enviroguard Technology delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection. This lightweight formula is quickly absorbed by the skin and does not clog pores. It protects your skin from sun damage and prevents premature aging. This oil-free formula is sweat- and water-resistant for 80 minutes. It is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation and is safe for eczema sufferers or other skin conditions. The broad-spectrum sunscreen leaves your skin feeling smooth, soft, and healthy. It comes in handy travel-size packaging that helps you protect and nourish your skin on the go. If you are still unsure, check out this honest unboxing review and learn more about the tester’s experience.
Pros
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
- Broad spectrum coverage SPF 30
- Water- and sweat-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- Prevents premature aging
- Non-comedogenic
- Soothes the skin
- Oil-free
- Travel-friendly
- Hydrates the skin
- Affordable
Cons
- Texture can be improved
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 3,273 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
5. Best Non-Greasy Formula:La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Sunscreen lotion protects the skin from free-radical and sun damage. This oil-free sunscreen has been tested on sensitive skin. It contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50 protection. This 100% advanced mineral face sunscreen gets absorbed quickly and does not leave a white residue. Its non-greasy and lightweight formula blends well. The oxybenzone-free broad-spectrum sunscreen creates a great matte finish and can be used under makeup. It is dermatologist-tested.
Pros
- Broad spectrum SPF 50
- Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
- Lightweight
- Oxybenzone-free
- No white cast
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for sensitive skin type
Cons
- Expensive
- Grainy texture
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 663 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
That was our round-up of the top sunscreens that may help manage your eczema. We have also made a simple checklist to help you choose the right sunscreen for skin conditions like eczema, dryness, flaking, itching, inflammation, and other environmental factors. Check it out below!
What To Look For In A Sunscreen For Eczema
- NEA’s Seal Of Acceptance: National Eczema Association awards certain products with its seal of acceptance based on their safety and efficacy.
- SPF Level:It is advisable to use an SPF 30 sunscreen or above
- Mineral-Based UV Filters: Sunscreens with mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are better for the skin as they do not irritate your skin. Unlike traditional sunscreens, they do not absorb the UV rays but act as physical filters that reflect and scatter the harmful UV rays.
- Broad Spectrum Protection: Make sure the sunscreen offers broad spectrum coverage and sun protection. It should protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Look for board-certified dermatologist-recommended or dermatologically tested products.
- Alcohol-Free: Alcohol has a drying effect on the skin. It should be avoided in skin care products. Dry skin is more susceptible to eczema flare-ups and premature signs of aging.
Infographic: Tips To Apply Sunscreen The Right Way
Sunscreens shield your skin from harmful UV rays. They are a must-have for all, but even more so for people with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. If you are one of those with vulnerable skin barriers, it is imperative that you apply sunscreen thoroughly and religiously to all exposed skin. Check out the infographic below for more information.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
If you have eczema, you are probably dealing with sensitive and sore skin. The good part is that there are many sunscreens available nowadays, especially for eczematous skin. They are enriched with natural minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are non-irritating, skin-friendly, and soothing to be added to your everyday skin care routine easily. Try the Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Mineral Sunscreen for a gentle formulation, and those with acne-prone skin should try the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen. Even the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is good for individuals looking for a fast-absorbing solution. These are also usually Oxybenzone-free and Octinoxate-free sunscreens. The sunscreens reviewed in the list are hypoallergenic, have anti-inflammatory properties, and are free from chemical aggravants. Do check out the NEA’s Seal Of Acceptance, SPF level, and Broad Spectrum Protection while looking for a sunscreen for eczema.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach who has good knowledge about how your skin behaves in response to different skincare products. She has gone through in-depth reviews and customers’ feedback to bring you a specially curated list of the best sunscreens for eczema-prone skin. These hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and allergy-tested sunscreens are specially formulated with natural oils and skin-friendly ingredients to help keep your skin well-moisturized while providing the required sun protection as well.
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