7 Best Sunscreens For Keratosis Pilaris To Buy In 2024, Expert-Approved
For shielding your skin from UV radiation and soothing dry, irritated skin.
Diane Howard, RN, is a certified cosmetic nurse and the founder of Esthetic Finesse. She has received extensive training under esteemed physicians and nurses in the valley. After recognizing that esthetic medicine demands a creative mastery akin to that found in other art forms, Diane established Esthetic Finesse to showcase her exclusive brand of beauty services.
Read full bio of Diane Howard
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.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition also known as ‘chicken skin’. The best sunscreens for keratosis pilaris should offer multiple skin benefits. Whether using mineral or chemical sunscreens, it is a must that it is a skin-friendly formula. Your sunscreen should not only have broad-spectrum SPF but also be moisturizing, nourishing, waterproof, and have anti-inflammatory ingredients for enhanced redness reduction and balanced protection.
In keratosis pilaris, the skin develops small red or white bumps that are not really harmful or painful. But, people with keratosis pilaris tend to have extremely dry skin that gets itchy and agitated quite easily. So, make sure your sunscreen has soothing ingredients.
In this article, we have listed the best sunscreens for keratosis pilaris that will take care of your skin’s needs without further irritating it or causing bumps. So, go ahead and check them out now!
In This Article
7 Best Sunscreens For Keratosis Pilaris
1. Best Hypoallergenic: Sun Bum Original SPF 50
The Sun Bum Original SPF 50 is an ideal everyday sunscreen lotion with dual moisturizing and sun protection. It is enriched with vitamin E that provides antioxidant benefits, and liquidates free radicals, thereby preventing premature aging. This dermatologist-tested, vitamin-infused sunscreen is enriched with the proprietary Sun Bum Original scent to enhance the sensory appeal and is loved by reviewers online.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, and Octocrylene 10.00%,
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Moisturizing
- Hypoallergenic
- Reef-friendly
- Water-resistant
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- PABA-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 22,214 reviews claiming its efficacy.
2. Best Long-Lasting: Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Lotion
If you are looking for a high-performance sunscreen made specifically for athletes and sports enthusiasts who sweat in the sun while playing outdoors, go for the Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Lotion. It is clinically proven to provide long-lasting, broad-spectrum SPF 50 sun protection with superior sweat and water resistance, all this without running into your eyes! This sunscreen features a lightweight and breathable formula that absorbs quickly into the skin.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.7%, Homosalate 9.0%, Octisalate 4.5%, and Octocrylene 6.5%
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Long-lasting
- No white cast
- Quick absorbing
- Easy to spread
- Reef-friendly
- Water-resistant
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
Cons
- None
"I love that this sunscreen resists water and sweat. It shields my skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays. It does not make my skin greasy. The formula leaves my skin looking clear and radiant."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 11,269 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
3. Best For All Skin Types: EltaMD Skincare UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
For athletes, swimmers, golfers, or skiers subjected to prolonged sun exposure every day, a specially designed sunscreen like the EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 is an ideal choice. This mineral-based sunscreen is enriched with zinc oxide for broad-spectrum coverage and the organic compound of octinoxate that increases UV protection. It also contains tocopheryl acetate or vitamin E that minimizes free radical damage to prevent visible signs of aging and has garnered positive reviews online. This transparent sunscreen is ideal for all skin types and ensures zero white casts.
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Octinoxate, and Tocopheryl acetate (Vitamin E)
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Expensive
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With 10,079 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Best Hypoallergenic | Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Lotion Best Long-Lasting | EltaMD Skincare UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 Best For All Skin Types | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 0.6 Pounds | 0.82 Pounds | - |
| Dimensions | 4 x 6 x 2 inches | 1.85 x 3.05 x 8 inches | 1.4 x 2 x 7 inches |
| Weight | 9.6 Ounces | - | 3 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 22,214 | 11,269 | 10,079 |
| Price | $18.49 | $9.97 | $28 |
4. Best Lightweight: MD Solar Sciences Mineral Crème SPF 50
If you are looking for a 100% mineral sunscreen with a rich and luxurious cream formula, go for the MD Solar Sciences Mineral Crème. This lightweight sunscreen spreads easily and provides a gentle application for acne-prone, rosacea-prone, and sensitive skin while drying to a true matte finish. It is ideal for all skin tones as it leaves no white cast and doubles as a makeup primer by blurring out imperfections.
This clinically proven formula is enriched with nature-derived Eco-cert zinc oxide to prevent photo-aging and skin cancer. Additionally, the antioxidant-rich extracts of green tea, cranberry fruit, and pomegranate work to combat damage from sun rays and free radicals.
Key Ingredients: Non-Nano Zinc oxide, Vitamin C, Green tea extract, Cranberry fruit extract, Pomegranate extract
Pros
- No white cast
- Gentle formula
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Water-resistant
- Vegan
- Reef-safe
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 451 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
5. Best For Sensitive Skin: Blue Lizard Australian Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
The reef-safe sensitive mineral sunscreen by Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen provides complete face and body protection. This SPF 30 formula is enriched with a combination of zinc oxide and titanium oxide to deliver broad-spectrum sun protection from up to 97% of the sun’s harmful rays. It is also ideal for people struggling with sensitive skin issues, rosacea, or eczema while being safe for your children as well.
Key Ingredients: Titanium oxide 8% and Zinc oxide 10%
Pros
- Eases eczema
- Non-irritating
- Water-resistant
- Sweat-resistant
- Reef-safe
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
Cons
- None
6. Best Anti-Aging Benefits: Replenix Sheer Mineral Face Sunscreen
Perfect for even the most sensitive skin type, the Replenix Sheer Physical Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 Plus is sure to be your go-to. This formula is a proprietary dermatologist-developed cream that comes with a superior broad-spectrum SPF 50+ to give UVA and UVB protection. The sheer mineral formula features medical-grade micronized zinc oxide which is ultra-light on the skin and gets absorbed instantly.
It also contains green tea polyphenol technology along with an advanced tri-antioxidant blend of clinical-grade resveratrol and vitamin A and vitamin E which aids in soothing and calming redness and sensitive skin. The antioxidant properties of this cream also provide anti-aging benefits and protect your skin from free radical damage by protecting its natural moisture barrier.
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sheer finish
- Smooth and quick-absorbing
- Provides UVA/UVB protection
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Anti-aging properties
- Combats free radical damage
Cons
- Contains photosensitizers
"This sunscreen applies smoothly to my skin and soothes it. It minimizes the appearance of sun damage on my skin. I like how lightweight it feels on my skin. The formula does not leave a white cast."
Remember7. Best Hydrating: Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen
The dual-action formula of Aveeno Protect + Hydrate sunscreen is an effective solution for people with dehydrated skin. It provides intense 24-hour hydration and broad-spectrum SPF 60 sun protection while also eliminating signs of aging. It is enriched with an antioxidant-rich prebiotic triple oat complex that helps maintain the skin’s pH levels, strengthen its natural moisture barrier, and soothe sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, and Octocrylene
Pros
- Sweat-resistant
- Non-drying
- Waterproof
- Oil-free
- Lightweight
- Oxybenzone free
- Dye-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- None
Sun protection plays a pivotal role in our skin care routines. Whether you are indoors or outdoors, lathering up against the sun’s harmful rays is a must! If you have dry, itchy patches from keratosis pilaris, don’t forget to apply a sunscreen lotion after exfoliating dead skin cells, moisturizing, and applying a keratolytic.
Find out how to select the best formula for yourself in the next section.
How To Choose The Best Sunscreen For Keratosis Pilaris
- Go mineral: Not that chemical sunscreens are bad for sensitive skin, there is a chance that filters like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octisalate may aggravate skin conditions for certain people. So, it is best to focus on mineral or physical sunscreens or a combination of chemical and physical sunscreens as they are less likely to irritate your skin. Look for zinc oxide or titanium oxide on the ingredient label when looking for a mineral sunscreen.
- Choose hydrating formulas: Skin conditions like keratosis pilaris need a 2-in-1 sunscreens that contains skin-soothing and hydrating ingredients like omega fatty acids, colloidal oatmeal, and ceramides. They offer the benefits of both sunscreens and daily moisturizers in one formula for dehydrated skin.
- Avoid fragrances: Added artificial fragrances may provide a pleasing scent to the sunscreen, but it may lead to aggravated keratosis pilaris for certain people, including increase in irritation, redness, and sensitivity. So, it is best to stick to fragrance-free formulas regardless of whether you choose chemical or physical sunscreens.
, certified cosmetic nurse and the founder of Esthetic Finesse, suggests, “For those with sensitive skin, finding the right sunscreen is even more crucial. When choosing a sunscreen for sensitive skin, go for ones labeled as hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested. These formulations are specially made to minimize the chance of irritation and allergic reactions. Also, pick sunscreens that offer broad spectrum protection, keeping your skin safe from UVA and UVB rays.”
Infographic: Key Ingredients To Look For In A Sunscreen For Managing Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris causes rough patches and bumps on the skin, and the UV rays can deteriorate the condition. Thus, using a dedicated sunscreen can both protect the skin against sun damage and help relieve the symptoms. But, how do you choose a formula among so many options? Check out the infographic below to find what key ingredients you must look for when buying sunscreen for Keratosis Pilaris.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Keratosis Pilaris or chicken skin condition requires special care before going out in the sun. Only broad-spectrum SPF does not help, such skin requires proper hydration. To properly care for skin with this condition, your sunscreen should be made with skin-loving ingredients that keep the skin hydrated without causing irritation or further breakouts and the appearance of bumps. Go for the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 for anti-aging and antioxidant benefits. If you experience prolonged sun exposure, the EltaMD Skincare UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 would be an apt choice, while the Replenix Sheer Mineral Face Sunscreen is perfect for people with sensitive skin. The products mentioned in our list ease eczema, have lightweight and fast-absorbing formulas, and do not leave a white cast on the skin. They are also water-resistant, reef-safe, and chemical-free. Remember, you should avoid formulas that have an overwhelming fragrance and are not skin-friendly. Opt for sunscreens that have multiple positive reviews and conduct a patch test to check for allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sunscreen good for keratosis?
Yes, sunscreen is good for keratosis. Not only it prevents further sun damage but it also reduces keratosis.
How long does it take for keratosis pilaris to go away?
It takes 4-6 weeks for keratosis pilaris to go away completely if you are treated properly.
Does keratosis pilaris get worse with age?
No. Keratosis pilaris improves naturally by the age of 30.
What is the main cause of keratosis pilaris?
The main cause of keratosis pilaris is the excess keratin in your skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborty is a certified skincare coach that uses her expert knowledge of product formulations and ingredients to bring you, the readers, the leading products in skincare. She sifted through hundreds of reviews online and put together this list of the best sunscreens for keratosis pilaris. These sunscreens are made of ingredients that reduce inflammation, moisturize and soothe your skin.
Read full bio of Diane Howard
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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