7 Best Sunscreens That Do Not Stain The Clothes, As Per An Expert – 2024
It is time you try skin care products that do not ruin your favourite dresses.
Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa has 9 years of experience. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society, and a member of the Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation Inc, Philippine Society of Venereologists, Inc, Philippine Medical Association, Rheumatologic Dermatology Society, and International Society of Dermatology.
Read full bio of Patricia Gaile Espinosa
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
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While bathing suits and bikinis are made to resist stains and chemicals, your everyday clothes might get stained from the sunscreen you put on your skin. Finding the best sunscreen that doesn’t stain your clothes is not easy. But there are some great options out there that protect both your clothes and your skin. The reason why you get these stains from chemical sunscreen in the first place is due to the presence of the chemical avobenzone. Avobenzone is an ingredient that absorbs the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. While that is beneficial in the long run, it also leaves you with those pesky stains that don’t go away. That is why you should opt for clothes-friendly sunscreens that are free of avobenzone.
I sought advice from Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD, Dermatologist, and compiled a list of the top sunscreens that don’t stain your clothes and leave your skin looking happy and smooth! Scroll down to learn about these amazing sunscreens.
In This Article
7 Best Recommended Non-Staining Sunscreens
1. Best Quick-Absorbing: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen
The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen is equipped with Helioplex Technology and SPF45 to offer broad-spectrum protection to your skin from UVA and UVB rays without the involvement of chemical UV filters. Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD, Philippine Dermatological Society, says, “Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects the skin from both ultraviolet A and B rays. UVA is mainly responsible for photoaging, while UVB causes sunburns on the skin.” This oil-free sunscreen is well-trusted by dermatologists . The non-comedogenic sunscreen makes it an ideal choice for those with oily or sensitive skin types. The new and improved quick-absorbing sunscreen is oxybenzone-free and helps in reducing the risk of cancer and sunburns when used as suggested. The Dry Touch Technology ensures that the sunscreen glides easily on the skin without feeling greasy. This matte-finish, lightweight sunscreen for sensitive skin is non-comedogenic, quick-absorbing, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. This video will help guide you about the features of the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen.
Paris B, a beauty blogger, shares, “The nice thing about it is that it’s non-greasy once you work it into your skin. The cream is thick but it spreads easily and absorbs quickly. I applied the sunblock before I left on my daily walkabouts sometimes under the hot sun and I did not experience any burning or reddening of my skin. I was suitably impressed by this considering I did not top up my sunscreen during the day (i).”
Also Recommended By: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen has also made it to the lists by Skinblog.[1]7 Best Sunscreens That Do Not Stain The Clothes. SkinBlog. https://skinblog.net/7-best-sunscreens-that-do-not-stain-the-clothes/
Pros
- Comes in spray and stick forms
- For daily use
- Spreads easily
- Lightweight
- Quickly absorbed
- Water-resistant
- Travel-friendly
- Dermatologist-tested
- Oxybenzone-free
- PABA-free
Cons
- Leaves white cast.
- Not sweatproof
"This sunscreen applies smoothly without feeling greasy. I apply it under my makeup, especially during outdoor activities. It spreads easily and does not leave a white residue or require rubbing on my skin. The formula gets absorbed quickly and doesn't leave the skin feeling sticky. It is a good choice for daily use."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 11,404 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
2. Best Water-Resistant: Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen
This Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen from Hawaiian Tropic has broad-spectrum SPF30 to protect the skin from damaging UV rays. Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD, Philippine Dermatological Society, says, “Sun protection factor (SPF) is a measure of the amount of time a sunscreen will protect you from UV rays. Having SPF 30 means that the sunscreen blocks about 97% of UV rays. It is still recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.” This luxurious and non-greasy formula includes shea butter and mango fruit extracts as active ingredients that leave your skin moisturized and radiant, garnering several positive reviews online. This water-resistant formula is recommended for oily skin and features a tropical scent derived from a combination of passionflower, mango, guava, coconut, and plumeria that offers a beachy feel. This non-staining sunscreen provides water resistance for up to 80 minutes and is enriched with skin-nourishing antioxidants like vitamins C and E.
A blogger says, “First of all, the texture is absolutely perfect. It’s smooth and creamy, and doesn’t leave you feeling overly oily. It doesn’t leave a white cast, and it’s oil-free. The second quality (which makes it enjoyable) is all thanks to the pleasant (but mild) fragrance of this sunscreen. Oh yeah, and this sunscreen is also reef-safe (doesn’t contain oxybenzone) and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, in case you actually are heading to the beach (ii).”
Pros
- Nourishing formula
- Tropical fragrance
- Water-resistant
- Dermatologically tested
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Oil-free
Cons
- May cause itching.
- Leaves a white residue.
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 10,463 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
3. Best Mineral-Based Formula: BLUE LIZARD Australian Sunscreen
BLUE LIZARD’s Australian Sunscreen is specially crafted for sensitive skin types. The fragrance-free sunscreen has a mild yet effective water-resistant formula that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that act like tiny mirrors to reflect harsh UV radiation away from the skin and prevent the rays from entering. Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD, Philippine Dermatological Society, says, “Sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are considered physical sunscreens. These protect the skin by physically blocking or reflecting the sun’s harmful rays.” This broad-spectrum sunscreen is equipped with SPF30, is dermatologically recommended, and offers water resistance for up to 40 minutes. The bottle turns blue to indicate the need to apply sunscreen when you are out in the harsh sun. Check this video for a detailed review of the Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen.
Pros
- Mineral-based formula
- Unscented
- Water-resistant
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Reef-safe
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Leaves a white cast.
| Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Best Quick-Absorbing | Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen Best Water-Resistant | BLUE LIZARD Australian Sunscreen Best Mineral-Based Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 0.5 Pounds | 0.5 Pounds | 0.31 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 6 x 3.5 x 1.63 inches | 2.75 x 1.4 x 6.55 inches | 6.3 x 2.8 x 1.4 inches |
| Number of Items | - | 1 | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 11,404 | 10,463 | 6,137 |
| Price | $13.97 | $8.16 | $13.21 |
4. Best Non-Oily: Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen
Thinksport SPF 50+ is an avobenzone-free sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It uses a non-nano zinc oxide formulation with an average particle size of >100microns to provide the desired protection from the sun. Its dermatologist-recommended, non-greasy formula is absorbed instantly without leaving any obtrusive smell and provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance. This video of the tester’s experience will inform you about the ingredients, usage, merits, or demerits of the Thinksport Safe Sunscreen.
Pros
- Non-oily
- No chemical absorbers
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- PABA-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- 1,4 dioxane-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Leaves a white cast.
- Not easy to apply.
RememberWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 3,222 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
5. Best Reef-Friendly: Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Lotion
TheUltra Sport Sunscreen Lotion from Banana Boat has a clinically proven formula with broad-spectrum SPF 50+ to provide adequate UVA and UVB protection. This sunscreen is ideal for outdoor activities and sports enthusiasts. It has a breathable formula that provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance. This sunscreen is for all skin types, won’t run into your eyes, never feels greasy, and keeps you active and protected. It is an effective sunscreen that leaves no white cast and is loved by reviewers online.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sweat-resistant
- Water-resistant
- Non-greasy
- Breathable
- Reef-friendly
- Suitable for kids
- Pleasant scent
- No burning sensation
Cons
- Difficult to spread
6. Best Hypoallergenic: Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Sunscreen
Aveeno’s Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Sunscreen is a non-irritating and zinc oxide-based daily sunscreen formula. This hypoallergenic, invisible sunscreen is gentle on sensitive and delicate skin and is equipped with broad-spectrum SPF 50 for maximum skin protection. It contains oats that nourish and protect the skin and help maintain healthy skin. This non-comedogenic formula has an ultralight texture that provides a sheer, matte finish. This residue-free face and body sunscreen gets absorbed quickly and offers up to 80 minutes of sweat and water resistance, garnering positive reviews online.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sweat-resistant
- Water-resistant
- Transparent sunscreen
- Oil-free
- Non-irritating
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Non-comedogenic
- For daily use
- Dermatologically approved
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- May cause a burning sensation.
- Does not spread easily.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 5,753 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
7. Best For Sensitive Skin: Raw Elements Certified Natural Sunscreen
The Certified Natural Sunscreen from Raw Elements is suitable for both the face and body. It has non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient and broad-spectrum SPF 30 to protect the skin against harsh and damaging UVA and UVB rays. The potent long-lasting sunscreen is ideal for all age groups as it is gentle on the skin due to being 95% organic. It is favored by several online reviewers for the same reason. This sunscreen is ideal for daily use, moisturizes the skin, and doesn’t sting the eyes. This chemical-free sunscreen is enriched with certified natural ingredients like antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that offer up to 80 minutes of water resistance.
Pros
- Suits sensitive skin
- Reef-friendly
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Nut-free
- Synthetic chemicals-free
- GMO-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
- Leaves residue
- Sticky
"This sunscreen is water-resistant and does not leave a white residue on my face. It is easy to spread all over my face and does not feel greasy. I find its thick consistency great for outdoor activities like swimming or hiking for long hours. It is ideal for daily use."
Quick TipInfographic: Things To Consider Before Buying Sunscreens That Do Not Stain Clothes
Check out the infographic given below which lists some pointers to keep in mind while buying a sunscreen that does not stain your clothes. It also helps you select a sunscreen based on factors other than just SPF value. This infographic will also assist you in selecting a formulation that works for your skin type. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
The residue on clothing left by mineral sunscreens is easier to remove when compared to the staining of clothes by chemical sunscreen. Non-staining sunscreens are always a better choice, as they not only protect your skin from sun damage but also prevent your clothes from staining. Chemical sunscreens can irritate reactive skin and also create a negative environmental impact. These sunscreens glide easily on your skin without feeling greasy. They are lightweight and get absorbed quickly, reducing the risk of staining your clothes. If you are looking for a daily use suncreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen is a good choice. For the environmentally conscious folks and those with sensitive skin, the Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen is often a go-to choice, thanks to its eco-friendly formula, while the Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen is suitable for those looking for high sun protection and safe, natural ingredients in the formula. Also, these stain-free mineral sunscreens are devoid of any harsh chemicals and free of avobenzone. They are great options to protect your clothes and skin and say no to staining without hassle.Opt for a sunscreen that has been tested by skin care enthusiasts and received positive customer reviews. Remember to do a patch test before applying!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does sunscreen stain clothes? What is the ingredient in sunscreen that stains clothes?
Yes, some versions of sunscreens can stain clothes due to the presence of avobenzone.
Should you wear sunscreen under your clothes?
Wearing sunscreen under clothes depends upon the material. If it is light cotton with a UPF of around 5, you might need to apply sunscreen.
Are oxybenzone and avobenzone the same?
No, oxybenzone and avobenzone are not the same. While oxybenzone filters both UVA and UVB rays, avobenzone blocks UVA rays.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach who knows what your skin needs to look and feel its best as per your age and skin type. Whether it’s dry skin, blemishes, or dark spots, she has in-depth knowledge of the products that can help you deal with these! She has done her research and reviewed several customer testimonials before shortlisting these sunscreens that do not stain the clothes. They not only help you get that even-toned sun-protected skin all over your face and body but also keep your clothes neat and stain-free.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
(i) My Women Stuff
https://www.mywomenstuff.com/2009/03/review-neutrogena-ultra-sheer-dry-touch-sunblock-spf50/
(ii) My Dad The Chemist
https://www.mydadthechemist.com/reviews/hawaiian-tropic-sheer-touch-sunscreen-review/
Read full bio of Patricia Gaile Espinosa
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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