If you have hypersensitive skin, a rule of thumb for protecting it: the fewer chemicals, the better. Finding SPF options without skin irritants like parabens, fragrances, and dyes helps prevent painful flare-ups and poion-ivy-level itching. Natural sunblocks are your best bet—here, our top picks.
Vanicream Sensitive Skin Sport Suncreen
Vanicream's formula comes highly recommended from allergists and dermatologists for skin that's prone to breakouts and hives. It's a winner if you hate the chalkiness of other zinc-based sunscreens since it soaks in cleanly and leaves a dewy finish. Plus, it's safe enough to use on your lips and eye area. Vanicream Sensitive Skin Sport Suncreen, $15; amazon.com.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen
It's pricy, but this mineral sunscreen is worth the splurge for its extra sun-shield coverage and feathery touch. La Roche-Posay's formula won't leave a greasy sheen, and a little goes a long way. La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Face, $34; amazon.com.
Elta MD UV Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
EltaMD's broad-spectrum sunblock is an ideal choice for people with an olive or tan complexion since it's already lightly tinted—be careful with blending if you're extra pale. People with dry skin or eczema should wear natural oils before applying the sunscreen as it tends to soak up moisture quickly (though it goes on smoothly). EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41, $24; amazon.com.
TotLogic Natural Sunscreen
Founder and mother-of-two Jill Taft crafted this kid-friendly formula by blending together plant and mineral-based ingredients in her kitchen. The result? A soothing zinc-based mixture that includes ingredients like coconut oil, aloe leaf, mint, and lavender. TotLogic Natural Sunscreen, $18; amazon.com.
MDSolar Sciences Mineral Crème Sunscreen
MDSolar Sciences' mineral cream formula is like a fruit salad for your skin: lightweight and packed with antioxidants. It goes on matte—a tall order for most sunblocks—and boasts anti-inflammatory ingredients like vitamin C, green tea, cranberry, and pomegranate extract. MDSolar Sciences Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen, $30;