With picks from Drunk Elephant, CeraVe, EltaMD, and more
We all know how important it is to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every single day, but what’s less often spoken about is sunscreen formulas for those with rosacea. Rosacea is a common condition where the skin flushes more easily, resulting in redness, sensitivity, and an uneven texture.1
Once triggers are identified, rosacea can be managed pretty well, but sunscreen presents a tricky topic because formulas often contain sensitizing ingredients (such as fragrance and chemical filters). But as facialist and aesthetician Melanie Grant explains, those with rosacea are also highly susceptible to sun damage and UV radiation, which will break down collagen and elastin and contribute to inflammation, so it’s extremely important to find an SPF formula that protects without irritating.
Melaine’s clients have benefited from regular LED light therapy, which has been shown to be effective and involves no recovery time. In addition to reducing inflammation, increasing hydration, and stimulating collagen and elastin for a firmer, more resilient complexion with less redness, LED also has the backing of a skin expert. She advises against using sunscreen when using LED light therapy, as it will block the LED light therapy from maximizing its full potential.
We conducted hours of research on the best sunscreens for rosacea, evaluating each formula on type (mineral or chemical) and SPF level, and active ingredients. We also tested a few picks in our New York City testing labs and for two weeks consistently at home. After trying ourselves and consulting with board-certified dermatologists, we landed on these picks to give you the best in show.
Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen for Face SPF 50
Leave it to the French to create a gentle, milky, high-protection sunscreen that doesn’t aggravate the skin or cause flare-ups. Fragrance and paraben-free, it’s a great choice for all complexions given its natural finish and lightweight texture (which isn’t easy for a 50+ zinc-based product).
Best MineralI: SDIN Eryfotona Actinica Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen
A mineral formula that has no white cast, absorbs easily, and doesn’t leave the skin greasy can be hard to come by, but this sunscreen from Isdin fits the bill. This is one of the more popular mineral options on the market—because it’s able to protect the skin without being difficult to apply or leaving a chalky residue. Formulated with photolyase, a DNA enzyme that works to repair prior sun damage, the Eryfotona Actinica sunscreen will help heal the skin as it protects from UV rays.
We tried the formula for ourselves, and we loved that it had a lightweight, watery texture that absorbed seamlessly without leaving a sheen or white finish. It left the skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated, and it didn’t pill under or over makeup when applied and reapplied. The finish was somewhat glowy, but it didn’t leave us looking shiny or slick. We also loved that it didn’t irritate sensitive skin or eyes. While it does have fragrance, it was pleasant and not too overpowering.
Best Liquid: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen
This pick from Summer Fridays is the perfect liquid formula—it has a lightweight, milky texture that absorbs instantly with a barely-there finish, and doesn’t feel heavy or thick on the skin. It’s a mineral sunscreen that protects with zinc oxide, but it also includes soothing ingredients like squalane and chamomile, as well as antioxidants like vitamin E to shield the skin from free radical damage.
Upon our first application, we found that it had a consistency similar to a serum or tinted moisturizer, meaning that it spread easily and absorbed smoothly without leaving a cast. Even though the texture is somewhat runny, it has an almost matte finish with a subtle glow. After applying, we noticed that it didn’t leave a residue or any stickiness behind. Throughout the day, we loved that it never settled into fine lines or made us more greasy (even on oily skin).
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Hero Cosmetics Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30
This weightless, breathable sunscreen from Hero Cosmetics was formulated specifically for acne-prone skin, made with mineral blocker zinc oxide that is non-comedogenic and non-irritating. Because it has a lightweight texture that absorbs easily, it won’t sit on top of the skin or leave a cast. We loved that it had a moist, silky feel upon the first application, and gave the skin a subtle glow that lasted all day. It only took two pumps to cover the entire face, and its subtle green tint neutralized some redness but still absorbed into the skin completely. It didn’t cause any irritation or dryness throughout the day, making it another great choice for sensitive skin types as well.
Best for Dark Skin Tones: Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Since so many sunscreens on the market can leave a white cast, it can be more difficult for those with darker skin tones to find the perfect formula that won’t leave them looking like a ghost. As the name suggests, Black Girl Sunscreen was formulated specifically for those with dark skin—so it dries completely clear and won’t leave a chalky finish.
Our first impression of the sunscreen was that it had a creamy, almost mousse-like texture that blended in effortlessly without leaving any streaks—providing a healthy, natural-looking glow. It doesn’t leave a cakey finish, instead it absorbs how your standard moisturizer would. It gets bonus points from us for being super hydrating as well as water-resistant for 80 minutes.
Best Multitasking: Iris & Romeo Weekend Skin SPF 50 + Vitamin C + Glow
If you only have time to put on one skincare product in the morning, you’ll want to make it this one. This multitasking sunscreen is formulated with vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide in order to brighten, smooth wrinkles, and protect the skin from environmental free radicals—as well as reef-safe zinc oxide that protects from both UVA and UVB rays. When we tested it ourselves, we were obsessed with the luminous glow that it gave us, which never looked greasy or sweaty. It had an ultra-light consistency that instantly melted into the skin, and it was hydrating and didn’t leave any white cast. Our only complaint is that we wished the glow lasted a little longer throughout the day, but we still think the formula is top-notch nonetheless.
Best Drugstore: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Face Lotion
Made using both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this simple facial sunscreen is bolstered with niacinamide and ceramides in the formula that can help to firm up the skin barrier and prevent irritation.2 It’s quite thick but does sink in, leaving the skin soft and velvety once absorbed.
Best for Acne-Prone Skin, Runner-Up: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Derms and celebs alike are big fans of this SPF from Ulta MD, probably because it’s designed specifically for pigmented, oily and acne-prone skin types. It’s formulated with zinc oxide and octinoxate, plus niacinamide, lactic acid, and hyaluronic acid meant to help refine the skin and prevent congestion.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense SPF 30
This blend, rich in zinc oxide, antioxidants, and oils, promises to protect and nourish fragile skin. Light and creamy, it absorbs well and is free from potential ingredient triggers like fragrance, essential oils, and oxybenzone.
Best for Combination Skin: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
This new launch from Dr. Dennis Gross is made using a clear form of zinc oxide, so it blends well with zero white cast. It’s also rich in nourishing sea buckthorn, so you’ll feel hydrated and soft while you’re wearing it.3
Best for Fair to Medium Skin Tones: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment
This stuff is magic when it comes to neutralizing the redness associated with rosacea. The secret lies in the green-ish undertone and the inclusion of soothing Centella in the formula–both of which are meant to reduce redness and even out tone. It’s quite rich, so it works great on drier complexions.
Best for Dry Skin: Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen
Parched skin types will relish in this creamy SPF offering from Biossance. Rich in the brand’s signature squalane, this formula promises to help calm and moisturize stressed-out skin while protecting it from UV rays.
Best for Normal Skin: Skinceuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30
We’ve never met a Skinceuticals product we didn’t like! The Physical UV Defense is a great all-rounder, thanks to the fact it has a natural-feeling finish. It’s completely physical and specifically formulated for sensitive, post-procedure skin, making it suitable for those with rosacea.
Best for a Dewy Finish: Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF 30
If you don’t want to irritate the skin but still want a dewy finish, this Dermalogica pick is top-notch. Formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the fragrance-free cream applies beautifully, leaving the skin soft, hydrated, and most importantly, protected.
Best for Mature Skin: Murad Environmental Shield City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen
For mature skin, we recommend Murad. In addition to broad-spectrum SPF protection, the brand’s City Skin Sunscreen contains special environmental protection technology that safeguards your complexion from multiple causes of damage and photo-aging. Not only that, but the subtle color-correcting tint helps conceal rosacea.
Best Budget: Blue Lizard Sensitive Face Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
On a budget? Blue Lizard is an excellent choice. Formulated specifically for sensitive and reactive skin, this sunscreen is not only free of fragrance, but it also contains soothing ingredients like green tea extract to offer a calming, anti-inflammatory effect.4
Final Verdict
Sunscreen is a personal skincare choice and really comes down to your complexion goals and desired finish. But with that being said, there are three standouts in the above list that we’ve crowned team Byrdie favorites. First of all, there’s La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen For Face SPF 50 for its light, hydrating, skin-soothing formula that just so happens to be appropriately priced. Then there’s Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46—the best SPF for troublesome, sensitive skin. And finally, Skinceuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 because it’s a great all-rounder that sinks in fast, feels good, and won’t trigger redness.
How We Researched
To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best products on the market in this category, evaluating their key features—like ingredients, shade range, or design—in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. We then used this research to assign a star rating from one to five (five being the best; one being the worst) to certain products on the list.
What to Look for When Buying Sunscreen for Rosacea-Prone Skin
Chemical vs. Physical Filters
While there are always exceptions to the rule, Grant suggests that those who have rosacea opt for physical (also called mineral or inorganic sunscreens), as they are typically less irritating than those containing physical UV filters. A couple of our favorite mineral formulas include La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 and Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30.
“Reach for a mineral-based formula with calming, restorative zinc oxide or titanium dioxide,” says Grant. “For those of us with sensitive skin or rosacea, always test a new product behind your ear or on the side of your neck before slathering it all over your face.” Mineral sunscreens come in liquid, cream, and powder formulas.
Skin Soothers
On the flip side, calming ingredients are great to look out for when buying sunscreen. Grant suggests reaching for a formula that contains niacinamide, peptides, panthenol, ceramides, green tea extract, and fatty acids to help boost barrier function and soothe the complexion.
For instance, CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 contains both niacinamide and ceramides, while Blue Lizard Sensitive Face Mineral Sunscreen calls on green tea extract to calm the skin.
Fragrance-Free Formula
“It’s important to avoid ingredients that will cause further irritation to the skin, including fragrance,” says Grant. Dr. Dennis Gross All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 is a great unscented option that’s unlikely to irritate reactive skin types.
FAQ
What are the benefits of sunscreen for rosacea?
According to a survey by the National Rosacea Society, sun exposure was a top trigger for rosacea flare-ups in 81 percent of patients who participated and was connected to visible blood vessels and redness.5 Sensitive, non-chemical sunscreens that protect against UVA and UVB rays can prevent skin damage and keep your rosacea at bay.
How often should you apply sunscreen for rosacea?
The National Rosacea Society says sunscreen takes 15 to 30 minutes to set in and work effectively, so you’ll want to apply it before you’re exposed to the sun rather than when you find yourself outdoors.6 Regardless of the SPF listed, sunscreen typically only lasts for 2 hours according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.6 Remember to reapply it regularly to prevent skin damage as well as rosacea flare-ups.
