Best Sunscreens for Dry Skin
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable for anyone looking to shield their skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays. But for those with dry skin, finding the right formula can be a real challenge. Many sunscreens can leave already parched complexions feeling even more tight and uncomfortable.
Fortunately, plenty of sunscreen options are specifically formulated for dry skin types. These moisturizing formulas help nourish and hydrate while still providing robust broad-spectrum protection.
Here are 5 of the best sunscreens for dry skin, with details on pricing, reviews, and ratings:
1. Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with Sunscreen
Price: $14.99 for 4 oz
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Review Highlights: “This sunscreen is lightweight and doesn’t leave a greasy or shiny finish. It has my dry skin hydrated all day without clogging my pores.” – Sarah, 36.
This oil-free formula from Cetaphil packs a powerful punch, providing broad-spectrum SPF 35 protection while deeply hydrating the skin. The unique formula features microscopic soft-focus powders that benefit control shine and minimize the appearance of pores. Gentle enough for even the most sensitive complexions, this sunscreen is a dream for dry skin types.
2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen
Price: $33.50 for 1.7 oz
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Review Highlights: “I have dehydrated, eczema-prone skin, and this sunscreen is a game changer. It goes on silky smooth and never leaves my face feeling tight or flaky.” – Emily, 28.
For an ultra-nourishing sunscreen that won’t irritate sensitive skin, look no further than this mineral formula from La Roche-Posay. It is expressed with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide mineral filters, providing broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection without harsh chemical actives. Adding La Roche-Posay’s signature prebiotic thermal spring water helps strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier for long-lasting hydration.
3. Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Face Sunscreen
Price: $10.99 for 3 oz
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Review Highlights: “I’m impressed with how well this sunscreen hydrates my dry, flaky skin. It leaves my face feeling plump and dewy, not at all greasy or heavy.” – Lisa, 42
Aveeno is a tried-and-true brand for formulas that cater to dry, sensitive complexions. This broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen is no exception. It blends nourishing colloidal oatmeal and skin-soothing ceramides to deeply moisturize while shielding against UV damage.
4. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
Price: $15.99 for 3 oz
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Review Highlights: “I have dehydrated, flaky skin, and this sunscreen is a game-changer. It hydrates my complexion without feeling heavy or greasy.” – Olivia, 31.
CeraVe is beloved by dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts for its gentle, barrier-supporting formulas. This mineral sunscreen is no exception. It provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection with a boost of essential ceramides to reinforce the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The non-irritating, fragrance-free formula is perfect for even the most sensitive dry skin types.
5. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Sunscreen
Price: $11.99 for 1.7 oz
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Review Highlights: “I was impressed by how well this sunscreen hydrates my chronically dry skin. It sinks in quickly and leaves my face feeling plump and dewy, never greasy.” – Samantha, 25
Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost line is beloved for its ability to quench thirsty skin, and this sunscreen variant is no exception. Formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid, this broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula provides powerful UV protection while intensely moisturizing the complexion. The lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture leaves skin with a healthy, radiant glow.
How to Select the Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin?
Once it comes to finding the perfect sunscreen for dry skin, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for sunscreens that contain nourishing, hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and colloidal oatmeal. These help replenish and strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier.
Mineral vs. Chemical Filters: Mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide by way of the active ingredients tend to be gentler on dry skin than chemical filters like avobenzone or oxybenzone. Mineral formulas are less likely to irritate.
Texture and Finish: Avoid heavy, greasy sunscreens that dehydrate dry skin. Opt for lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas that provide a luminous, dewy finish rather than a matte or powdery look.
SPF and Broad-Spectrum Protection: No matter your skin type, with a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 offers protection against UVA and UVB rays is essential.
With so many moisturizing, hydrating sunscreen options, finding the perfect formula for dry skin has never been more straightforward. With these critical considerations, you can protect and nourish your complexion all season.
