14 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in 2023

By now, everyone is aware that using sunscreen every day is one of the most crucial components of good skincare. We cannot stress this enough: protecting your skin now will make all the difference in the future. Hyperpigmentation and fine wrinkles frequently result from the way our skin is handled early on. That’s why sunscreen is always a must-have when it comes to skincare. Since those become so quickly irritated, those with sensitive skin are certainly battling with this problem. We created a list of the top 14 best sunscreens for sensitive skin so more people will be able to find the product they want.

EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 46

Finding a sunscreen that doesn’t hurt or irritate when you have sensitive skin might be challenging. EltaMD’s top-rated SPF won our best face sunscreens review for sensitive skin because of its mild composition that contains 9% zinc oxide, a crucial component for protecting skin from UVA and UVB radiation. Along with offering good UV protection, this dermatologist-recommended sunscreen also contains niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, and lactic acid, which moisturizes, cures acne and smoothes skin.

EltaMD UV Tinted Sunscreen

When reading EltaMD tinted sunscreen reviews, all you need to know is that it is “dry and soft to the touch and looks fabulous, yet it has SPF in it.” It reduces wrinkles and is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin. This tinted, broad-spectrum face sunscreen with zinc oxide shields your skin against UVA and UVB radiation that can cause damage while employing hyaluronic acid to give your skin the hydration it needs.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen 

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is intended to offer broad-spectrum defense from the sun’s dangerous UVA and UVB radiation. It differs from other sunscreens in that it has a special formula that feels undetectable on the skin and is lightweight, oil-free, and distinctive. Furthermore, it is made to be non-comedogenic, which means that it won’t clog pores or lead to outbreaks. Supergoop! Unseen sunscreen ingredients consist of octisalate and homosalate, which absorb UVB rays. Vitamin E, which is high in antioxidants, has also been included in the mix to help shield the skin from environmental aggressors. It contains avobenzone, a chemical sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UVA radiationvery well.

Cerave Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen

Numerous sunscreens make the promise to be invisible, but instead, they leave behind a powdery, ghostly appearance. This sunscreen works wonders on both the face and body and applies sheer. Hyaluronic acid that moisturizes, ceramides that repair the skin’s barrier and lock in moisture, and niacinamide that soothes and calms irritated, reactive skin are all present in this product. Reviewers really like how little is used and how effortlessly it absorbs. Many people even remark on how beautifully it layers beneath makeup.

Kinship Self Reflect Sunscreen

The fact that this well-liked mineral SPF with 22.4% zinc oxide works as a moisturizer, primer, and sunscreen all in one receives amazing reviews. It also incorporates a plant-based probiotic to maintain the skin barrier and keep the skin protected. This product contains moisturizing jojoba esters, the potent antioxidant turmeric to soothe irritated, patchy, and acne-prone skin, and turmeric. Moreover, it enhances brightness and blurs the skin’s appearance.

Aveeno Protect + Soothe Mineral Sunscreen Stick

This is a fantastic choice if you want a straightforward, simple-to-apply sunscreen that stays on. The skin can get dry from mineral formulae, but this SPF 50 contains oat essence, which helps to keep the skin’s moisture barrier intact and return the pH to normal. It is mess-free, portable, and enables quick application while traveling. Some critics do point out that it has a thick consistency, making it difficult to mix and perhaps leaving a white cast.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios HA Mineral Moisturizer

Consider this a sunscreen that may protect the skin while also potentially transforming it and combating the harmful effects of the sun. While certain mineral-based sunscreens can be dehydrating, this creamy formulation incorporates hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol to moisturize. It also contains an antioxidant complex made of the tropical leaf extract senna alata, which guards against free radicals that can result in wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

This 100% mineral SPF is so delicate that we consider it to be the best sunscreen for children. The solution from La Roche-Posay is non-irritating, remains put on the skin, and doesn’t leave a greasy feeling. It’s constructed of silica, which absorbs extra oil and lessens shine, and it contains the Cell-Ox Shield technology that the firm has developed. This offers broad-spectrum UV protection and antioxidant defense, preserving youthful-looking skin for longer.

Cocokind Silk SPF 30

When it comes to sunscreen, comfort is crucial since people who care about their skin frequently wear them and they cover valuable skin surface area. Banana flower, which is rich in polysaccharides, is used in this lightweight hybrid product to help hydrate skin. Users adore the smooth feel and radiant finish it leaves behind. It absorbs nicely and doesn’t leave a white cast, among other benefits.

Biore Watery Essence Sunscreen

This water-based Bioré sunscreen from Japan, renowned for its dewy textures and imperceptible clean protection, evolved into the BIORÉ watery essence sunscreen. This feather-light watery essence with sunscreen, which has SPF 50 UVA & UVB, distributes easily and absorbs right away to moisturize and aid with UV protection. Along with offering your skin weightless hydration for smooth, healthy skin, it also offers good sun protection.

Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50

Tatcha’s The Silk sunscreen SPF 50 will be adored by those who want dewy, nourished skin. Zinc oxide is used in this mineral-based tinted sunscreen to deflect UV rays, and because we’re talking about Tatcha, it also has many additional skin-care advantages. Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and silk extract, which has nourishing sericin and fibroin, are all included in the opulent composition. 

Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+

In contrast to chalkier, mineral-based sunscreens, the Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Mineral sunscreen SPF 50+ has a light, quick-drying texture that leaves skin with a satiny, luminous finish. This zinc oxide-based sunscreen also contains vitamin E to fight free radicals (i.e., skin-damaging chemicals from environmental factors like sunshine and pollution) and hydrate skin for a supplier appearance and smoother feel.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55

This oil-free Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen SPF 55 is one of your finest options for effective sun protection if breakouts are a problem. This fragrance-free face product is a favorite among many due to how soothing it is on the skin while having chemical sunscreen filters. And it features a translucent, non-greasy consistency that will give oily skin a matte finish.

Ultra Violette, Clean Screen

Any expert on sunscreen will be well-versed in Ultra Violette; in fact, we’d argue it’s one of the companies that made using SPF fashionable (because it is). Despite its playful packaging, this delicate recipe has been specially modified for people with sensitive skin. It is exquisitely creamy and applies smoothly to moisturize dry areas while also offering broad-spectrum UV protection. It’s one of the greatest products for sensitive skin available since it is fragrance-free and contains titanium dioxide, a mineral filter.

Being prone to redness and easily irritated by components in a number of skincare products, sensitive skin may be challenging. This can include sunscreens, which frequently aggravate sensitive skin since they include chemical active components designed to protect against environmental and solar harm. However, that doesn’t make us stop using sunscreen. With the help of this list, we hope you can choose a product that works for both your skin and your wallet.

12 OF THE BEST WATER BASED PRIMERS, ACCORDING TO MAKEUP ARTISTS 

In the world of makeup, a good primer is the unsung hero. It creates a smooth canvas for your foundation, helps it last longer, and can even address specific skin concerns. But with so many primers on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for a lightweight and hydrating option, then a water-based primer might be the perfect fit. Here’s a look at some of the top picks according to makeup artists, designed to give your foundation a flawless finish and keep it looking fresh all day long.

WHAT IS A WATER BASED PRIMER?

A water-based primer is a makeup product formulated with water as the main ingredient, unlike silicone-based primers. This makes them:

Hydrating: The water content helps keep your skin from drying out, which can be especially beneficial for those with normal, dry, or combination skin. If your skin is too dry, pay attention to adding a moisturizing mask to your face, especially Korean face masks for hydrated and glowy skin.

Lightweight: Water-based primers feel lighter on the skin compared to silicone-based ones.

Less likely to clog pores: The lighter formula is generally less likely to clog pores, making them a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

BEST WATER BASED PRIMERS

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

If you’re looking for a water-based primer that ticks all the boxes, the MILK MAKEUP Hydro Grip Primer is a popular choice among makeup artists. This award-winning gel primer is all about longwear hydration. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide plump and hydrate the skin, while blue agave extract acts like a magnet to grip your makeup for up to 12 hours. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and free of common irritants like silicone, oil, fragrance, and gluten, making it suitable for most skin types.

ILIA, TRUE SKIN RADIANT PRIMING SERUM 

Focusing on more than just makeup application, ILIA’s True Skin Radiant Priming Serum bridges the gap between skincare and cosmetics. This silicone-free formula is a great option for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer a natural approach. It combines skincare benefits with a priming effect. Packed with nourishing ingredients, the serum helps to firm, moisturize, and soothe the skin while protecting it from environmental aggressors. It also boasts a subtle, radiant finish that creates a flawless base for your makeup. Like other water-based primers, it’s lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving a soft, touchable feel.

PEACE OUT INSTANT PORE PERFECTOR

Peace Out’s Instant Pore Perfector goes beyond just a basic water-based primer. While it is lightweight and formulated without pore-clogging silicone, it offers more than just hydration. This multitasking product acts as a primer and a treatment in one. The key ingredient is a special hyaluronic acid blend that plumps and hydrates skin, instantly blurring the appearance of pores. It also tackles redness with its formula containing niacinamide. But Peace Out doesn’t stop there.  This product boasts long-term benefits too, with ingredients like mushroom extract that work to refine skin texture over time. So, if you’re looking for a water-based primer that minimizes pores, reduces redness, and offers lasting results, the Peace Out Instant Pore Perfector could be your new makeup must-have.

ELTAMD, UV DAILY TINTED BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 40 

EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 falls into a different category compared to the other products mentioned so far. It’s not specifically a primer, but rather a tinted sunscreen. While it can provide some smoothing and evening of skin tone due to the tint, its primary function is sun protection.

This product is a good option if you’re looking to streamline your morning routine. It combines broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection with a hint of color, potentially eliminating the need for a separate sunscreen and primer.  However, it’s important to note that sunscreen should always be applied generously and evenly, which might not be ideal if you’re aiming for a lightweight priming effect.

If you have dry or combination skin and prioritize sun protection, the EltaMD UV Daily Tinted could be a good fit. However, for those seeking a dedicated primer with pore-minimizing or other targeted benefits, this product might not be the best choice.

ARMANI BEAUTY LUMINOUS SILK HYDRATING MAKEUP PRIMER

Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer is a luxurious option for those seeking a radiant and hydrating base. This lightweight formula, suitable for all skin types, combines skincare and makeup benefits.  Like other water-based primers, it provides a surge of hydration with ingredients like shea butter and glycerin, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple.

However, where the Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer truly shines is in its ability to enhance radiance. It utilizes a unique technology to capture and reflect light, creating a subtle, natural glow that complements your foundation. This primer is perfect for achieving the signature “lit-from-within” look that Armani Beauty is known for. If you have dull or dry skin and want a primer that promotes a radiant and flawless canvas, the Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer is definitely worth considering.

MAYBELLINE, FACESTUDIO MASTER PRIMER 

Maybelline’s Facestudio Master Primer is a drugstore favorite that offers a budget-friendly option in the world of water-based primers. This color-correcting primer comes in a variety of targeted versions to address specific concerns.

Looking for a blurring effect to minimize pores and imperfections? They have a “Blur + Smooth” version. Want to combat redness? Try the “Blur + Redness Control.”  Each version utilizes lightweight, water-based formulas to create a smooth canvas for makeup application while addressing your unique skin concerns.

Given the variety of options and its affordable price point, the Maybelline Facestudio Master Primer is a great choice for those who want to experiment with water-based primers and find the perfect fit for their skin type and makeup goals.

TOO FACED HANGOVER REPLENISHING FACE PRIMER

Targeting those late nights and early mornings, Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer promises to be your beauty sleep in a bottle. This hydrating, water-based primer is formulated to combat the signs of fatigue and dehydration. Enriched with coconut water, electrolytes, and probiotics, it aims to revive and replenish your skin, leaving it looking bright and healthy.

Whether you’ve had a long day or a short night, the Hangover Primer aims to create a smooth and dewy canvas for your makeup. If you have dry skin or tend to experience dehydration, and want a hydrating primer with a touch of radiance, this Too Faced option could be worth a try.

SMASHBOX, PHOTO FINISH PRIMERIZER+ 

Smashbox’s Photo Finish Primerizer+ is a multi-tasking primer that combines the benefits of hydration with skincare-inspired ingredients. This water-based formula features a key ingredient: triple hyaluronic acid. This powerhouse hydrator plumps and hydrates the skin for up to 72 hours, ensuring a smooth and comfortable canvas for makeup application.

But the Photo Finish Primerizer+ goes beyond just hydration. It also boasts niacinamide, a vitamin B3 that helps strengthen the skin’s barrier and protect it from environmental aggressors like pollution and blue light.  This primer is suitable for all skin types, but those with dry or dehydrated skin might especially appreciate its long-lasting hydration benefits.

SHISEIDO SYNCHRO SKIN SOFT BLURRING PRIMER

Shiseido’s Synchro Skin Soft Blurring Primer is a water-based primer that promises a flawless, soft-focus finish. Designed to be lightweight and universally flattering, it tackles multiple concerns to create the perfect canvas for your makeup. Its Light Diffusion Technology utilizes light-diffusing powders to blur imperfections and create a smooth, airbrushed appearance.  

For those with oily skin, mattifying peptides and sebum-absorbing powder work together to keep shine in check throughout the day. But hydration isn’t forgotten –  the formula boasts ingredients that provide up to 8 hours of moisture, ensuring a comfortable wear. So, if you’re looking for a water-based primer that minimizes imperfections, controls shine, and keeps your makeup looking fresh all day long, the Shiseido Synchro Skin Soft Blurring Primer is definitely worth considering.

LAURA MERCIER, PURE CANVAS PRIMER 

Laura Mercier’s Pure Canvas Primer is another strong contender in the water-based primer category. This silicone-free formula caters to a variety of skin types, offering a breathable, hydrating base for your makeup. Like many water-based primers, it boasts long-lasting wear – up to 16 hours according to the brand –  helping your makeup stay fresh and vibrant throughout the day.

While Laura Mercier offers a few variations within the Pure Canvas line, the core benefit remains consistent:  hydration.  The Pure Canvas Primer aims to improve the look of bare skin over time with its skincare-infused formula. This makes it a great option for those who want a primer that goes beyond makeup application and offers a touch of skincare benefit.

HONEST BEAUTY EVERYTHING PRIMER, GLOW

Honest Beauty’s Everything Primer, Glow caters to those who want a radiant, all-in-one base. This water-based primer is infused with hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that plumps and smooths the skin’s surface. But the glow doesn’t stop there. Mica, a light-reflecting mineral, gives your skin a subtle, luminous finish, perfect for achieving a dewy look. Honest Beauty doesn’t forget about nourishment – the primer also includes a blend of fruit extracts like watermelon, apple, and lentil, along with two types of hyaluronic acid to provide deep and lasting hydration.  This vegan and cruelty-free option is suitable for all skin types and aims to prep, brighten, and hydrate your skin for a fresh, healthy-looking complexion that’s primed for flawless makeup application.

MAKE UP FOR EVER, STEP 1 PRIMER SHINE CONTROL 

Designed for normal, combination, and oily skin types, Make Up For Ever’s Step 1 Primer Shine Control is a mattifying water-based primer. This lightweight formula minimizes shine and mattifies the complexion, creating a smooth canvas for makeup application. It’s formulated without oil or silicone, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types. If you struggle with excess oil throughout the day and want a water-based primer that keeps shine in check, Make Up For Ever’s Step 1 Shine Control Primer could be a great choice.

BENEFITS OF USING A WATER-BASED PRIMER

Water-based primers offer a variety of advantages over their traditional, solvent-based counterparts. Here’s a breakdown of some key benefits:

Lightweight and Breathable: Water-based primers feel lighter on the skin compared to silicone-based ones. This is because they use water as the main solvent, resulting in a more comfortable and breathable wear, especially beneficial for normal, dry, or combination skin types.

Hydration Hero:  Many water-based primers are packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. This helps to keep your skin from drying out throughout the day, ensuring a smooth and plump canvas for makeup application.

Less Likely to Clog Pores: Due to their lighter, water-based formula, these primers are generally less likely to clog pores compared to silicone-based primers. This makes them a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Farewell to Fumes:  Water-based primers are known for their low odor or lack thereof. This is a major benefit for those who are sensitive to strong smells or have respiratory concerns.

Easy Cleanup:  Cleaning up after application is a breeze with water-based primers. Simply use soap and water to wash away any residue from your brushes or sponges. No harsh solvents or special cleansers are required.

WHEN NOT TO USE A WATER-BASED PRIMER?

While water-based primers offer many advantages, there are situations where they might not be the best choice. Here’s when you might want to consider a different primer option:

VERY OILY SKIN

If you have extremely oily skin, a water-based primer might not provide enough mattifying power to control shine throughout the day. In this case, a mattifying silicone-based primer could be a more effective option for shine control.

SEALING STAINS

Water-based primers aren’t the strongest when it comes to sealing stubborn stains like watermarks or tannins on wood. If you’re priming a surface with such stains, a solvent-based primer might be necessary to create a good barrier.

EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS

Water-based primers may not be the most durable option for very humid or cold environments. If you’ll be wearing makeup in extreme weather, a more heavy-duty, weatherproof primer might be a better choice.

CRACKED OR DAMAGED SURFACES

For surfaces with cracks or significant damage, a water-based primer might not fill in the gaps effectively. Opt for a thicker, filler primer in these cases to create a smooth and even base.

CONCLUSION

So, that concludes our look at 12 of the best water-based primers according to makeup artists.  With a variety of options to choose from, there’s a perfect primer out there for almost any skin type and makeup need. Whether you’re looking for long-lasting hydration, a radiant finish, or shine control, a water-based primer can provide a smooth, prepped canvas for flawless makeup application.  Consider your skin type, makeup goals, and budget when making your choice, and don’t be afraid to experiment to find the water-based primer that works best for you!