7 Mineral sunscreens that won’t irritate sensitive skin
No excuses!
If skin sensitivity is stopping you from staying protected, fret not—we’ve rounded up the best mineral sunscreens that won’t break you out or irritate your skin!
By now, everyone knows SPF is a must—but, in case you need a reminder, here’s the TL;DR. Not only does SPF protect us from skin cancer and painful sunburns, but it can also help to stave off the signs of premature ageing.
READ: Sunscreen 101: Your guide to all things SPF
Most tend to reach for sunscreens with chemical UV filters, and for good reason—they don’t leave a white cast, making them a great option for deeper skin tones and layer well with a large range of skincare and makeup. Unfortunately, however, the filters can be irritating to some, especially around the eye area.
So, for those who are prone to breakouts and sensitivity, a mineral sunscreen might be a better option. Now, some mineral formulations are better than others—that’s why we’ve taken the liberty of rounding up our favourites, including new launches from Paula’s Choice and Supergoop! and tried-and-true favourites from Ultra Violette and Fenty Beauty.
We’ve got something for all, whether you’re in need of hydration, colour correction, or deep skin-friendly options. Find the full roundup ahead:
Paula’s Choice Calm Barrier Protect Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, RM199
This mineral-based moisturiser-sunscreen hybrid is a fabulous pick for sensitive girls, infused with skin-fortifying and soothing actives like allantoin and Centella asiatica. But, even if you’re not sensitive, it’s a great choice regardless—lightweight and sheer, the white cast on this sunscreen dissipates quickly upon application without leaving a greasy film behind.
Supergoop Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF40, RM195
Supergoop!’s iconic Unseen Sunscreen has just gotten a mineral upgrade that shares the same smooth, makeup-gripping finish as the OG. Don’t expect the exact same texture, though—while the Mineral Unseen Sunscreen feels the same once it’s all applied, the texture of the SPF is more like a viscous cloud. That said, it does glide on well and delivers up to 40 minutes of water- and sweat-resistance, making it perfect for gym or pool days.
Note: It’s not the best for deeper skin tones as it does leave a white cast, but it’s a great option for those with light to tan skin.
Ultra Violette Lean Screen Mineral Mattifying SPF 50+, RM178
This creamy, zinc-based mineral sunscreen offers super high, SPF50+ broad-spectrum protection and Kakadu plum-derived antioxidant protection. Better yet, it’s formulated with a soft matte finish that’s perfect on oily and combination skin and is completely fragrance-free to keep sensitive skin soothed and happy. Plus, it’s suited for a huge range of skin types as it doesn’t leave a white cast, so everyone is covered here!
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer, RM191
This sheer, mineral SPF is a real multitasker, powered by zinc oxide filters and infused with antioxidant-rich Kalahari melon, pore-refining niacinamide, and hydrating hyaluronic acid, aloe and baobab. Better yet, it’s a rare mineral formulation that doesn’t leave a white cast—no chalkiness or flashback, even on darker skin.
Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF30, RM269
While this sunscreen does leave a slight white cast on deeper skin, the effect is minimised thanks to the non-nano zinc oxide in the formulation that protects against blue light, UV and pollution. Plus, it helps to tackle sensitivity and redness caused by UV exposure with the brand’s soothing Bioactive Mushroom Complex.
Note: It’s best suited for dry skin types as it has quite a rich cream texture.
Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day™ Mild Sun SPF 40 PA+++
This SPF is for those with oily skin who prefer a more cream-like texture in their sunscreens. It’s lightweight and non-sticky for comfortable everyday wear, leaving a very matte finish that lasts all day. The mild formulation is suited to even the most sensitive skin, but do keep in mind that it does leave a prominent white cast so if you’re on the deeper end of the skin tone, you may want to opt for a different formulation.
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF50, RM103
If you struggle with redness and sensitivity in general, this green-tinted, hyaluronic- and cica-infused SPF is here to save your skin. The green tint cancels out unwanted redness in the face and minimises the white cast from the mineral filters, giving your skin a radiant finish that looks great even without foundation. Better yet, its texture is smooth, light and quickly absorbed—far more sophisticated than the gloopy, cakey textures usually associated with mineral SPFs.
For more beauty reads, click here.
| SHARE THE STORY | |
| Explore More |
