How to choose a sunscreen for sensitive skin

Caring for sensitive skin can be challenging, especially when it comes to protecting it from the sun. But what does it really mean to have sensitive skin? Sensitive skin is skin that overreacts to stimuli that would not normally affect other skin types. It can take the form of redness, itching, dryness or even peeling in response to cosmetic products or actives, changes in weather or sun exposure.

Properly protecting sensitive skin from the sun is crucial not only to avoid sunburn but also to prevent premature aging and maintain a healthy skin barrier. In this article, we dig into the best tips and products for sun protection and sensitive skin so you can enjoy the sun without compromising your skin health.

How to care for sensitive skin?

Taking proper care of sensitive skin is essential to keeping it healthy and not irritated. As we said, sensitive skin tends to react more easily to environmental factors such as sun exposure, so it is crucial to adopt a dedicated skincare routine that prioritises sun protection.

In addition to using sunscreens suitable for sensitive skin that offer broad-spectrum protection, you need to limit direct sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day when UV rays are strongest and most damaging, and consider supplementing your protection with accessories like hats, sunglasses and protective clothing to further minimise direct sun exposure.

What's the best sunscreen for sensitive skin?

When choosing the best sunscreen for sensitive skin, it's important to consider several factors to ensure effective and irritation-free protection.

First, make sure it delivers high broad-spectrum protection, protecting against both UVA and UVB rays, as well as blue and infrared light. This ensures complete defence against the sun damage that can trigger reactions in sensitive skin.

Sunscreens can be made with chemical or physical filters. Chemical filters must be suitable and specifically tested for sensitive skin, ensuring effective protection without compromising skin tolerance. Physical filters are ideal for more reactive skin or conditions such as rosacea, since they create a physical barrier on the skin without penetrating it.

Sunscreen texture can vary depending on the filters it is made with. Products formulated with chemical filters tend to have light textures that are quickly absorbed, while ones with physical filters tend to be denser, but once properly applied and spread do not necessarily leave white traces.

Some products include additional actives such as prebiotics to balance the skin microbiota, or compounds similar to vitamin D that help maintain the barrier function.

Buying sunscreen for sensitive skin

At MartiDerm, we recognise the importance of offering sun protection options specifically tailored to the needs of sensitive skin. Our Sun Care range guarantees broad-spectrum protection, providing complete defence against sun damage.

Within our selection, we highlight three main products suitable for sensitive skin:

Active [D] Fluid SPF50+

Active [D] Fluid SPF50+ offers very high facial protection with a broad-spectrum formula (UVA, UVB, HEV and IR). Its light and fast-absorbing texture ensures a non-sticky, non-greasy application ideal for daily use even under make-up. It has been formulated without alcohol and is dermatologically tested on sensitive skin, guaranteeing high tolerance.

Clinical studies have shown that 97% of users say it has a light, fluid texture, 97% report it leaves no sticky feel and 81% say it moisturises their skin*.

Mineral [D] Fluid SPF50+

Mineral [D] Fluid SPF50+ is a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen that uses exclusively mineral or physical filters, making it ideal for minimising the risk of allergies and reactions in sensitive, reactive skin.

Its formulation free from chemical filters and perfume and with prebiotics that help balance the skin microbiota makes it a safe and effective choice. It also includes chicory extract, a vitamin D like active that helps renew epidermal cells and restore the skin's barrier function.
In terms of texture, after correct application it absorbs completely, without leaving any white residue, making it a practical and convenient choice for daily use.

Clinical studies have shown that 87% of users report it leaves no white traces after application, 80% say it is fast-absorbing and 73% experience skin comfort after use*.

Active [D] Body Lotion SPF50+

For the care and protection of sensitive skin, Active [D] Body Lotion SPF50+ offers a high-protection solution with an invisible finish and a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture. It is suitable for the whole family, including children over the age of 3, and is alcohol-free, ensuring a gentle and safe formula for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

Clinical studies show that 90% of volunteers found the texture to be fluid and lightweight, 95% said it left their skin more hydrated and 93% noted its fast absorption and invisible finish***. These results ensure it offers effective and comfortable protection for carefree fun in the sun.

In short, protecting sensitive skin from the sun is essential to maintaining its long-term health and well-being. By taking the right steps, you can enjoy the sun knowing your skin is well cared for and protected.

Check out our Sun Care range and choose the product that best suits your needs for healthy, glowing skin year-round.

References:

*Use test under dermatological and ophthalmological control. Subjective assessments. Ref: VV_CC-HUT/30XT2(DF)A_071_21_002.
**Use test under dermatological and ophthalmological control. Subjective assessment. Ref: VV_CC-HUT30XT2(DF)A_071_22_002.
***Use test under dermatological control. Subjective assessment. Ref: E220380.