Top 5 Best Sunscreen For Dry Skin 2024

Sunscreen is an essential component of any skincare regimen, most notably during the summer season when solar rays are at their peak. However, all sunscreens are not equally effective, and identifying the right one for your skin can pose a problem. Particularly for people having dry skin, an unsuitable sunscreen can heighten dryness, resulting in skin that feels constricted and uneasy.

When it comes to choosing the best sunscreen for dry skin, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to look for a sunscreen that is specifically formulated for dry skin. These sunscreens often contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help to hydrate and moisturize the skin while protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays.

Another important consideration is the texture of the sunscreen. Dry skin types may benefit from a cream or lotion-based sunscreen, as these formulas tend to be more hydrating than gels or sprays. Additionally, you’ll want to look for a sunscreen that is fragrance-free, as fragrances can be irritating to dry, sensitive skin.

We understand the importance of finding the right sunscreen for your skin type. That’s why we’ve spent countless hours researching and testing a variety of sunscreens to identify the best options for those with dry skin. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and provide a detailed breakdown of what makes each product stand out.

Best Sunscreens for Dry Skin

As we all know, sunscreen is an essential part of our daily skincare routine. However, finding the right sunscreen for dry skin can be a challenge. Dry skin can be sensitive and may react to certain ingredients in sunscreens. After extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best sunscreens for dry skin. These sunscreens not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays but also hydrate and nourish your skin, leaving it smooth and supple. Check out our top picks below!

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen

Protect your dry skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 70. We highly recommend this sunscreen because of its non-greasy, matte finish and easy absorption that leaves skin feeling clean.

Pros

• Provides superior broad spectrum protection from skin-aging UVA and skin-burning UVB rays
• Formulated with Helioplex technology for powerful sun protection
• Lightweight and sheer sunscreen with Dry-Touch technology for a non-greasy, matte finish

Cons

• May leave a white cast on the skin
• Not suitable for people with oily skin
• Some users may find it too thick

We have used this sunscreen on multiple occasions and found it to be effective in preventing sunburn and protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Its non-greasy formula makes it perfect for daily use, and the travel size bottle is great for on-the-go sun protection.

This PABA-free and non-comedogenic sunscreen is also available in spray and stick forms and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for use at the pool or in the ocean. It is also the #1 dermatologist-recommended suncare brand, which makes it a reliable choice for anyone looking for a sunscreen for dry skin.

Overall, we highly recommend Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 70 for anyone looking for a non-greasy, lightweight, and effective sunscreen for dry skin.

Paula’s Choice RESIST Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50

We highly recommend Paula’s Choice RESIST Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50 for anyone with dry skin looking for a hydrating sunscreen that also provides anti-aging benefits.

Pros

• Provides broad-spectrum sun protection with SPF 50
• Enriched with antioxidants and shea butter to nourish and hydrate dry skin
• Lightweight and non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly

Cons

• Small bottle size of 2 ounces may not last long with daily use
• Contains niacinamide, which may cause flushing or redness in some individuals
• May leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones if not blended well

This moisturizer is perfect for those who want to simplify their morning routine by combining their moisturizer and sunscreen in one step. The formula is rich and creamy, but not heavy or greasy, making it ideal for those with dry skin. It also contains antioxidants and shea butter to help nourish and hydrate the skin, while protecting it from harmful UV rays.

We love that this sunscreen has a high SPF of 50 and provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It also has anti-aging benefits, which is a great bonus. The lightweight and non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, making it easy to apply makeup over it without any pilling or sliding.

The only downside to this product is its small bottle size of 2 ounces, which may not last long with daily use. Additionally, some individuals may experience flushing or redness due to the niacinamide content. Lastly, it may leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones if not blended well.

Overall, Paula’s Choice RESIST Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50 is a great choice for anyone with dry skin looking for a hydrating sunscreen that also provides anti-aging benefits. Its lightweight and non-greasy formula makes it easy to incorporate into your daily skincare routine.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60

We highly recommend La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 for those with dry skin. This sunscreen is oil-free and won’t cause breakouts, making it perfect for those with acne-prone skin.

Pros

• The sunscreen is oil-free, so it won’t leave your skin feeling greasy or shiny.
• It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a white cast on your skin.
• The formula is fragrance-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.

Cons

• The sunscreen may leave a white cast if not applied properly.
• It may cause dryness if not used with a moisturizer.
• The formula is a bit thick, so it may take some extra effort to blend it into your skin.

We found that La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 is a great option for those with dry skin. The sunscreen is easy to apply and doesn’t leave a greasy residue on your skin. It also absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a white cast on your skin. However, it may cause dryness if not used with a moisturizer, and the formula is a bit thick, so it may take some extra effort to blend it into your skin.

Overall, we highly recommend La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 for those with dry skin who are looking for a sunscreen that won’t cause breakouts and won’t leave their skin feeling greasy or shiny.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion

Protect your dry skin with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, the perfect sunscreen for daily use that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen lotion is formulated with Helioplex Technology that helps to prevent premature aging and sunburns. It is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Pros

• This sunscreen is lightweight and non-greasy, making it perfect for daily use.
• It is formulated with Helioplex Technology that provides superior broad-spectrum protection.
• The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Cons

• Some users have reported that this sunscreen leaves a white cast on their skin.
• The sunscreen may not be suitable for sensitive skin.
• The lotion may feel a bit sticky on the skin.

We highly recommend Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion for those looking for a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection. It is perfect for daily use and outdoor activities.

This sunscreen lotion is easy to apply and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. It is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for swimming and other outdoor activities.

However, some users have reported that this sunscreen leaves a white cast on their skin, and it may not be suitable for sensitive skin. Additionally, the lotion may feel a bit sticky on the skin.

Overall, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion is a great option for those looking for a reliable sunscreen for dry skin.

EltaMD UV Facial Sunscreen Moisturizer

We highly recommend the EltaMD UV Facial Sunscreen Moisturizer for those with dry skin who are looking for a daily sunscreen that provides hydration without feeling greasy.

Pros

• Provides instant hydration to your skin with Hyaluronic Acid and locks in moisture to keep your skin feeling soft.
• Non-greasy face sunscreen with Zinc Oxide is designed for daily use and may be worn alone or under makeup.
• This vegan facial moisturizing sunscreen is fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic.

Cons

• May leave a slight white sheen on the skin.
• Travel size sunscreen is only 3 ounces.
• A bit pricey compared to other sunscreens.

EltaMD UV Facial Sunscreen Moisturizer is a great choice for those with moderate to dry skin types needing a moisture boost. The sunscreen is formulated with Zinc Oxide, which provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Hyaluronic Acid helps to hydrate the skin and lock in moisture, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple.

The sunscreen is non-greasy and can be worn alone or under makeup. It is also fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. The travel size sunscreen is TSA-approved, making it perfect for travel and everyday on-the-go activities.

Overall, the EltaMD UV Facial Sunscreen Moisturizer is a great choice for those with dry skin who are looking for a daily sunscreen that provides hydration without feeling greasy.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best sunscreen for dry skin, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some things to consider:

SPF Level

The SPF level of a sunscreen is an important factor to consider. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and refers to the amount of protection the sunscreen provides against UVB rays. We recommend choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which provides adequate protection for most people.

Moisturizing Ingredients

Since dry skin needs extra moisture, it’s important to choose a sunscreen that contains moisturizing ingredients. Look for products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which can help hydrate and nourish the skin.

Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens

There are two main types of sunscreens: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which work by physically blocking the sun’s rays. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain ingredients like avobenzone or oxybenzone, which work by absorbing the sun’s rays.

Both types of sunscreens can be effective, but some people with dry skin may prefer physical sunscreens, as they tend to be less irritating and can provide a protective barrier on the skin.

Other Considerations

In addition to the above factors, there are a few other things to consider when choosing a sunscreen for dry skin. Look for products that are labeled “non-comedogenic,” which means they won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. You may also want to choose a sunscreen that is fragrance-free, as fragrances can be irritating to dry skin.

Overall, choosing the best sunscreen for dry skin comes down to finding a product that provides adequate sun protection while also nourishing and hydrating the skin. By considering the above factors, you can find a sunscreen that meets your needs and keeps your skin looking and feeling healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in a sunscreen suitable for dry skin?

When looking for a sunscreen suitable for dry skin, we recommend selecting a product that contains hydrating ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides. These ingredients help to lock in moisture and prevent the skin from drying out. Additionally, look for sunscreens that are labeled as “moisturizing” or “hydrating” to ensure that they are specifically formulated for dry skin.

How do I select a sunscreen that won’t leave a white cast on dry skin?

To avoid a white cast, we recommend selecting a sunscreen that is formulated with micronized zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients are less likely to leave a visible residue on the skin. Additionally, look for sunscreens that are labeled as “sheer” or “invisible” to ensure that they blend seamlessly into the skin.

Can you recommend hydrating sunscreens that are ideal for daily use on the face?

Yes, we recommend selecting a sunscreen that is specifically formulated for use on the face and contains hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide. Some of our top picks for hydrating sunscreens for daily use on the face include La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen, and Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen.

What are the top sunscreen options for dry and sensitive skin types?

For dry and sensitive skin types, we recommend selecting a sunscreen that is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and formulated with gentle ingredients. Some of our top picks for dry and sensitive skin types include CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen, Vanicream Sunscreen, and EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen.

Which sunscreens are recommended by dermatologists for dry skin?

Dermatologists often recommend sunscreens that are formulated with hydrating ingredients and offer broad-spectrum protection. Some of the top sunscreen recommendations from dermatologists for dry skin include EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50, and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 100+.

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