Finding the right SPF for sensitive skin can be a challenge. Many sunscreens can cause irritation, redness, or breakouts, making it tricky to get the protection you need without compromising comfort. However, wearing sensitive sunscreen is crucial to help prevent sunburn, premature ageing, and skin cancer, regardless of your skin type. In this blog post, we’ll share seven tips for choosing and wearing SPF that will keep your sensitive skin protected and calm.
Table of Contents
1. Choose a Mineral Sunscreen
When it comes to sensitive sunscreen, mineral-based formulas are often the best choice. Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients that protect against UVA & UVB rays. These ingredients have calming and soothing properties, making them less likely to cause irritation and the ideal SPF for sensitive skin.
Mineral sunscreens are particularly gentle, making them ideal for those prone to redness, rashes, or flare-ups. Look for labels that say “mineral” or “physical” sunscreen for the safest options.
2. Opt for Fragrance-Free and Hypoallergenic Formulas
Fragrances and other additives in skincare products are common culprits of skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin. To minimise the risk of irritation, choose sensitive sunscreen that is labelled as fragrance-free or unscented. These sunscreens are less likely to trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate skin conditions like eczema or rosacea.
Hypoallergenic formulas are also designed to reduce the risk of irritation. While no product can guarantee it won’t cause a reaction, hypoallergenic sunscreens are generally formulated with fewer potential irritants, making them a safer bet for sensitive skin.
3. Go for Broad-Spectrum Protection
Whether you have sensitive skin or not, it’s important to use a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can lead to premature ageing and contribute to skin cancer, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn.
Sensitive skin is often more vulnerable to sun damage, making broad-spectrum protection essential. Make sure your sensitive sunscreen is labelled as offering broad-spectrum coverage to ensure you’re fully protected from all types of UV radiation.
4. Use SPF 30 or Higher
While it may be tempting to use a lower SPF to avoid potential irritation, sensitive skin needs ample protection from harmful UV rays. Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of at least 30, which blocks around 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPFs, such as SPF 50, offer even more protection and are particularly helpful for fair or easily sunburned skin.
Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF that is specifically formulated for sensitive skin to give yourself the best chance of avoiding both irritation and sun damage.
5. Patch Test Before Applying
Before slathering a new sunscreen all over your face or body, it’s a good idea to do a patch test. Apply a small amount of sunscreen on a less visible area, such as behind your ear or on your inner forearm, and wait 24 hours to see if any irritation occurs. If your skin reacts well, you can confidently use it more broadly.
This step is especially important for people with sensitive skin, as it helps you avoid an unexpected reaction on larger areas of your skin.
6. Choose Hydrating Formulas
Sensitive skin can sometimes be dry and prone to flakiness or tightness. A sensitive sunscreen with hydrating ingredients can help soothe and protect your skin. Look for sunscreens that contain moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera. These ingredients help to lock in moisture and prevent your skin from drying out, keeping it calm and comfortable.
Hydrating formulas are particularly important if your sensitive skin tends to be reactive or if you’re spending long hours in the sun, which can strip moisture from your skin.
7. Reapply Regularly
Reapplying sunscreen is just as important as the initial application. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Sensitive skin can burn easily, so staying on top of reapplication helps prevent sunburn and skin damage.
Carry your sensitive sunscreen with you so you can reapply throughout the day. Consider using a spray or stick formula for easy, mess-free touch-ups.
Sensitive skin requires special care, but that doesn’t mean you should skip using SPF. By choosing a sensitive sunscreen that’s gentle, mineral-based, and hydrating, you can help to protect your skin from the sun without irritation. Remember sunscreen is just one part of sun safety and you should also wear protective clothing and seek shade.
