Do you often find that your skin reacts strangely to sunscreen? Does it burn, sting, or even break out each time you lather up before going out in the sun?
Many with sensitive skin feel that they have to choose between painful skin irritation and avoiding the sun altogether. Or they spend those hours they could be in the sunshine scanning labels to make sure their sunscreen doesn’t have any ingredients that can react negatively when applied.
Here’s the good news: having sensitive skin doesn’t mean you can’t get out and enjoy the benefits of natural vitamin D.
The key is knowing why your skin reacts in a certain way, and what types of skin barrier-repairing products you should buy.
Why Does My Sink Burn When Using Sunscreen?
Sunscreen works to create a barrier between your skin and the potentially harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun.
But for those with sensitive skin, this barrier can also trap in heat and sweat, causing irritation and discomfort. This is often due to certain ingredients commonly found in traditional sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octocrylene.
You may think that the culprit is the sunscreen itself, and while there are some products that use ingredients that can react negatively with certain skin types, it’s more likely that your skin is already irritated and sensitive to begin with.
When the sunscreen is applied, the barrier can trap in moisture and heat, which can irritate sensitive skin and even cause breakouts. This can be even more problematic for those with acne-prone skin, as the extra oil and sweat trapped under the sunscreen can clog pores and lead to more breakouts.
So, what is a person with sensitive skin supposed to do when it comes to protecting themselves from the sun?
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens
As you shop for sunscreen for sensitive skin, you’ll want to know what ingredients are being used in each type. There are primarily two types of sunscreens on the market today: mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen. Each has its own benefits – and for those with sensitive skin, potential downsides.
What are Mineral Sunscreens?
Mineral sunscreens are made up of natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These minerals work together to create a physical barrier on your skin's surface.
Think of them as tiny mirrors that reflect and scatter UV rays away from your skin before they can cause damage. Rather than absorbing into the skin, mineral sunscreens sit on top of it and deflect harmful rays.
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They sit on top of your skin rather than being absorbed, which significantly reduces the risk of irritation
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They start working immediately upon application – no need to wait 15-20 minutes before sun exposure
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Zinc oxide has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can actually help calm irritated skin while protecting it
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They're less likely to clog pores when formulated correctly, making them suitable for acne-prone, sensitive skin
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They help repair your skin barrier rather than potentially compromising it
You may remember the chalky mineral sunscreens that felt as though they would never rub in, leaving you with a white cast and sticky residue.
Modern mineral sunscreens now feature micronized particles and tinted formulations that blend seamlessly into all skin tones while providing powerful skin barrier-repairing protection.
What are Chemical Sunscreens?
Chemical sunscreens work differently. They contain synthetic compounds (like avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone) that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
While you can avoid the more filmy and heavy feeling by using chemical sunscreens, some people with acne-prone or sensitive skin may experience adverse reactions.
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They penetrate your skin to work, potentially triggering reactions in sensitive individuals
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They generate heat as they convert UV rays, which can worsen redness and irritation
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Many chemical filters are known allergens – oxybenzone is one of the most common skin allergens in sunscreens
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They can further damage an already compromised skin barrier in some sensitive skin types
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They require application 15-30 minutes before sun exposure to become effective
The heat-generating aspect could be an issue if you have conditions like rosacea or heat-triggered sensitivity. That warming sensation many people feel when applying chemical sunscreens? That's exactly what your sensitive skin doesn't need.
Hybrid Formulations
Some newer sunscreens combine both approaches, using lower concentrations of gentle chemical filters alongside mineral protection. These hybrids aim to provide the cosmetic elegance of chemical formulas with some of the gentleness of minerals.
For those whose skin cannot tolerate pure mineral formulations (some find them drying), a hybrid with skin-barrier supporting ingredients might be an option that works for you.
Eva Naturals is Your Partner in Sun Damage Prevention and Repair
Knowing what type of sunscreen to buy for sensitive skin can help you prevent the worst in sunscreen sensitivity while still enjoying your time outdoors. But finding the best skincare is only half the battle.
A comprehensive approach to skincare includes preparing your skin before sun exposure and providing intensive repair afterward. Our lineup of skincare solutions can help you keep your skin feeling young, vibrant, and fresh – even after a day in the sun.
Niacinamide Vitamin B3 Serum (2 oz)
Before heading into the sun, prep your sensitive skin with our Niacinamide Vitamin B3 Serum. This serum strengthens your skin barrier function, making it more resilient against environmental stressors and reducing inflammation and redness.
Even with diligent sun protection, some UV exposure is inevitable. Our Vitamin C Plus Serum is formulated to neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure that can continue damaging skin for hours after sun exposure.
This customer favorite is effective and gentle enough for sensitive skin types that normally can't tolerate vitamin C serums.
For those serious about combating and preventing sun damage, our Firm & Glow Skincare Bundle provides a complete system for sensitive skin recovery:
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Peptide Complex Serum rebuilds and strengthens the skin barrier that UV rays can compromise
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Niacinamide Serum reduces inflammation and redness from sun exposure
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Vitamin C Serum works on existing sun damage while providing antioxidant protection
When used together, these three serums create a powerful barrier-repairing routine that protects against future damage and addresses existing concerns.
You Don’t Have To Sacrifice Fun In The Sun with Sensitive Skin
If your skin burns and stings with traditional sunscreens, it’s good to know you have options! Opting for mineral formulations with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are your best friend, and even a bit of sunscreen is better than none at all.
Remember – the risks of unprotected sun exposure aren’t worth skipping your sunscreen. And for the before and after care, make sure to invest in skincare products that protect and rejuvenate sensitive skin from start to finish.