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You probably already take a lot of measures to keep your rosacea flare-ups to a minimum. You eat the right foods and manage your stress.

But are you using the right sunscreen? Being out in the sun is already a common trigger for rosacea. If you have rosacea, you’ll need to take a few extra precautions when you pick out a sunscreen.

Sun exposure is a very common trigger for flare-ups of rosacea. UV rays can cause rosacea to become more apparent on the cheeks and can cause cell growth in blood vessels. This can lead to small, noticeable vessels on the surface of the skin. However, there are different types of rosacea that show up on the skin in different ways.

Flare-ups with aggressive symptoms can be caused by using a sunscreen that contains certain chemical absorbers.

People with the skin condition often complain of stinging and burning in their faces and eyes after using certain sunscreens. Preservatives and It is a scent.s can cause a flare-up.

“It is important to find a sunscreen that protects your skin from the sun and isn’t harsh on it.”

In this article, we look into what ingredients to look for, factors and considerations before you make your purchase, and some top recommendations for rosacea-safe sunscreens.

Learning the difference between physical and chemical sunscreens can help you keep a baseline of what sunscreens are best for you. The two types are not what they seem. This guide will help you remember.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified ingredients in sunscreens in categories:

  • Category I: “GRASE,” which stands for generally recognized as safe and effective. Only titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are Category I.
  • Category II: non-GRASE. Two ingredients are classified as Category II: Para-aminobenzoic acid is a component of the para- benzoic acid. and trolamine salicylate, which have been banned by the FDA.
  • Category III: requires further evaluation. Category III ingredients include dioxybenzone is a drug., sulisobenzone, oxybenzone is a drug., Avobenzone is avobenzone., cinoxate, octinoxate, octisalate, homosalate, padimate, ensulizole, meradimate, and octocrylene. All these ingredientes are being re-evaluated by the FDA due to systemic absorption, as well as not being reef-safe.

Physical (inorganic) sunscreen

If you want to reduce the incidence of flare-ups, you should use this type of sunscreen.

Physical sunscreen is sometimes called “inorganic” because of its ingredients. It seems like a synonym for good for you. If you have the skin condition, you won\’t see that with these types of sunscreen.

Physical sunscreens are typically made with zinc oxide and titanium oxide. These ingredients, often in combination with other synthetic ingredients, act as a barrier to both UVA and UVB rays by reflecting and scattering them away from your skin.

Zinc oxide and titanium oxide are not created by nature. Baking soda is used in the lab to make zinc oxide, which is used in sunscreen.

Keep in mind that tiny particles in physical sunscreens may not fully break down when you rub them into your skin. This can cause your skin to have a whitish sheen to it. There are more widely available Mineral-based sunscreen.s that are tinted and don’t give off too much white cast.

Physical sunscreens use other chemicals to make it easier to apply to your face. These may be hard to take. There are other ingredients besides zinc oxide and titanium oxide that may cause a flare-up of a skin condition.

Chemical (organic) sunscreen

“This category includes sunscreens that don’t use zinc oxide or titanium oxide to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Chemicals that absorb light before entering your skin are included.”

The chemical makeup of the main ingredients in the sunscreen is what the term refers to, so don\’t let the “organic” label fool you.

Chemical sunscreen sinks into your skin and reacts with UV rays that make contact with your skin. The UV rays are turned into harmless byproducts like heat.

The compounds used to achieve this effect are potentially skin irritants.

  • oxybenzone is a drug.
  • octinoxate
  • Octisalate
  • Avobenzone is avobenzone.

As there have been recent studies and an FDA notice on the safety of these ingredients in higher amounts, it may be best to steer clear of chemical sunscreens if you have rosacea.

of the following sunscreens contain any It is a scent.s, Alcohol.s, or other artificial ingredients known to cause flare-ups. They’re picked based on top consumer reviews. We shopped from trusted brands and include a good price range.

We looked at other factors as well.

  • Application. Does it apply quickly and easily? What kind of applicator does the product use?
  • Water-resistance levels. Some sunscreens are not water-resistant, while others have a water-resistance range of 40 to 80 minutes before they need to be reapplied.
  • Ingredients that gently help other skin concerns. Some options include a tint for evening out skin tone, and others include soothing ingredients and even antioxidants.
  • Product size. We point out size (when it matters). Some reviewers complain about bottle size. Some brands offer multiple sizes.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $15
  • $$ = $15–$35
  • $$$ = over $35

If you are ready to compare the pros and cons of all the options for sunscreen for the skin with the condition, this is a good place to start.

Best rosacea-tested sunscreen

Daylong Extreme SPF 50+ Lotion

  • Price: $$
  • Key ingredients: tinsorb M, tinsorb S, liposoms, aloe vera, vitamin E
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 50
  • Sizes available: 1.69-ounce (oz.) bottle

This preservative and It is a scent.-free sunscreen has been tested for performance on rosacea-prone skin. One small 2017 study showed that this lotion was well-tolerated by the study’s subjects.

The study was funded by the producer and developer of the lotion, but there were no conflicts of interest.

This pick has promising Google reviews, has a high SPF level, keeps out harsh chemicals, and the formula also uses aloe vera and vitamin E for nourishment. It may be tough to find a larger bottle though; some Amazon shoppers say they receive a smaller bottle than advertised.

Pros

  • The results were good in a study.
  • SPF 50 for UV rays.
  • Also works as a cleanser.
  • SPF is broad-spectrum.
  • It contains a substance for soothing properties.

Cons

  • price
  • There are some possible side effects.
  • “The study was funded by the sunscreen’s producer.”
  • Several new chemicals that are approved in Europe but not by the FDA are in this.
  • contains Alcohol., which can dry out the skin
Shop now at Walmart

Best face and body stick sunscreen for rosacea

Thinkbaby Sunscreen Stick

  • Price: $
  • Key ingredients: zinc oxide
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 30.
  • Sizes available: 0.64-oz. stick

Although this product’s name brand implies it’s only for use on babies, the manufacturer says on its website that adults can use this gentle sunscreen and get the same benefits.

Sunscreen sticks are convenient for applying SPF on the go, with less mess than using a lotion. Mineral sunscreen sticks are intended for facial use, but can be applied to the body as well.

The formula has a water-resistance time of 80 minutes and is made of zinc oxide.

Pros

  • SPF 30.
  • It has a feel that is not oily or greasy.
  • It is easy to transport and convenient to use.
  • Mineral-based sunscreen.
  • No perfumes.

Cons

  • price
  • It may not spread as quickly as lotion.
Shop now at Amazon

Best pollution-protection sunscreen for rosacea

Murad City Skin Broad-Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen

  • Price: $$-$$$
  • Key ingredients: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 50
  • Sizes available: 0.6-oz. bottle or 1.7-oz. bottle

This mineral sunscreen is intended for use on the face, neck, and chest. It’s formulated to address aging concerns, and the brand encourages it for other uses, too — to protect from pollution and blue light and, of course, outdoor UVA and UVB rays.

The brand says it’s safe for sensitive skin types and leaves behind a pearlized finish. It’s also cruelty-free and free from It is a scent.s, There is a substance called parabens., and, of course, chemical sunscreen.

Two things to note here, though, are the size and price. The Amazon option is only a 0.6-oz bottle, but there’s a bigger version available on the brand’s website and at Ulta. The bigger option is a 1.7-oz bottle that comes at a much higher price.

Pros

  • “It doesn’t cause stinging or burning when it gets into your eyes, a symptom reported with use of many physical sunscreens.”
  • It is a light formula.
  • Your skin color is visible.
  • There is multiple anti-oxidants in it.

Cons

  • price
  • A small bottle on Amazon.
Shop now at Amazon

Best smart sunscreen for rosacea

Blue Lizard Sunscreen

  • Price: $$
  • Key ingredients: zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 50
  • Sizes available: 8.75-oz. bottle

When it is time to lather up again, sunscreen is called “Smart” and reminds you. The bottle of this high SPF mineral sunscreen has a dye that turns it blue or pink when it\’s time to apply.

It is easy to forget that you need to reapply every 2 hours to keep yourself protected. The sunscreen is free from It is a scent.s and is resistant to water for up to 80 minutes.

Pros

  • SPF is broad-spectrum. 50 protection
  • The bottle changes colors when hit by harmful UV rays.
  • “It’s relatively inexpensive for a sunscreen that’s good for people with skin problems.”

Cons

  • It may need to be rubbed in for a white cast to disappear.
Shop now at Blue Lizard

Best face stick sunscreen for rosacea

Raw Elements Face Stick Certified Natural Sunscreen

  • Price: $
  • Key ingredients: non-nano zinc oxide, sunflower oil, cocoa butter, vitamin E
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 30.
  • Sizes available: 0.5-oz. stick

The mineral sunscreen stick has some unusual highlights, and is intended for use on your face. There are some things to know about this stick.

The brand says that you can apply this product underwater if you want to, and that it takes pride in its water-resistance time.

The company says that you can apply either heavy and opaque or completely into the skin with the applicator.

Pros

  • It is easy to transport a stick container.
  • There are some certified organic ingredients in this.
  • The percentage of non-nano zinc oxide is high.
  • It is certified cruelty-free and comes in a sustainable packaging.

Cons

  • price
  • It was reported that it left a white sheen on your skin.
Shop now at Amazon

Best lip sunscreen for rosacea

Vanicream Lip Protectant/Sunscreen SPF 30.

  • Price: $
  • Key ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 30.
  • Sizes available: 0.35-oz. tube

It is easy to forget that lips need sun protection. This broad-spectrum option from Vanicream protects your lips from the sun and keeps them moist.

It uses the same sunscreens as the other items on the list, but it is free from the harmful rays of the sun.

  • They dyes.
  • It is a flavoring.
  • The substance is called formaldehyde.
  • It is a scent.
  • There is a drug called lanolin.
  • There is a substance called parabens.

Pros

  • Highly rated for lip protection for people with rosacea.
  • Good for protecting lips from the sun.
  • It is water- resistant up to 80 minutes.

Cons

  • It was reported that it had a plastic-like smell.
  • On certain skin types, it can be oily.
  • It may leave a sheen on your lips.
Shop now at Amazon

Best It is very moist. sunscreen for rosacea

Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30. PA +++

  • Price: $$-$$$
  • Key ingredients: non-nano zinc oxide, squalane, water lily
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 30.
  • Sizes available: 1.7-oz. bottle or 3.38-oz. bottle

It is nice when you find a product that can do multiple things. The vegan mineral sunscreen is formulated for daily moisturization and protection from the sun. The brand says this pick can replace your daily moisturizer.

The formula uses zinc oxide at 14 percent and includes squalane to boost moisture and water lily for calming skin after it’s exposed to heat.

One thing to note: Some users have mentioned an allergic reaction, so it may be wise to patch test before applying to larger areas.

The sunscreen is on sale for $29.40, which is a decrease of $48 from its usual price.

Pros

  • lightweight
  • It is very moist.
  • A finish that leaves a lustrous sheen.
  • 14 percent zinc oxide.

Cons

  • Not water resistant.
  • “Doesn’t protect against blue light.”
  • It is possible that a patch test is needed before use.
Shop now at Biossance

Best mineral and chemical sunscreen for rosacea

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

  • Price: $$$
  • Key ingredients: zinc oxide, octinoxate
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 46
  • Sizes available: 1.7-oz. bottle

This lightweight, unscented sunscreen uses both physical and chemical sunscreen ingredients, but it’s formulated with sensitive, acne-prone, and rosacea skin types in mind.

It uses zinc oxide (mineral sunscreen ingredient) at 9 percent and a common chemical UV filter known as octinoxate. This ingredient is used at the maximum concentration level approved by the FDA, which is 7.5 percent.

If you’d like to read our full review of this sunscreen, we get into the details of how well it applies and performs for sensitive skin types.

“The biggest benefits are how it applies, holds up well during workouts, and doesn’t leave a white cast. The chemical UV filter is a downside.”

There’s also a tinted version of this product available at a slightly higher price.

Pros

  • Good coverage and sun protection.
  • It is reasonably priced for high-quality ingredients.
  • It is pleasant and nongreasy.
  • It contains vitamins and acids that can help decrease inflammation.

Cons

  • Some people have reported some problems.
  • The chemical UV filter is included.
  • Not water resistant.
Shop now at EltaMD

Best tinted sunscreen for rosacea

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50

  • Price: $$
  • Key ingredients: titanium dioxide, vitamin E
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 50
  • Sizes available: 1.7-oz. bottle

Adding a tint to your SPF can make your skin look darker, and some people may choose to not wear makeup. The tinted option from La Roche-Posay can be used under makeup.

This mineral sunscreen is said to leave a matte finish, so it may be a nice pick for oily skin types. It’s noncomedogenic, so it shouldn’t clog your pores. It’s also free from oils, There is a substance called parabens., and It is a scent.s.

It is not likely to suit all skin tones.

Pros

  • lightweight
  • “It’s not greasy.”
  • fast-adjusting
  • Mineral-based.
  • 11 percent titanium dioxide.

Cons

  • Only comes in one shade.
  • Water resistant for 40 minutes.
Shop now at Amazon

Best sunscreen for rosacea with antioxidants

DERMA E Sun Defense Mineral Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 30.

  • Price: $$
  • Key ingredients: zinc oxide, aloe vera, vitamin C, green tea
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 30.
  • Sizes available: 2-oz. bottle

Some sunscreens include antioxidants, which is a nice way to multitask your skin care needs as long as the formula is gentle. This clear mineral sunscreen is gentle but it’s for your face only.

It is vegan, non-GMO, and free of wheat, soy, and other harmful substances.

The formula has a high percentage of clear zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

It tosses in soothing aloe vera, and includes skin-happy antioxidants, such as vitamin C (known for its help with hyperpigmentation) and green tea, which may help skin fend off environmental stressors.

Pros

  • Both are vegan and cruelty-free.
  • It includes skin-beneficial antioxidants, such as green tea and vitamins C and C.
  • free from There is a substance called parabens., sulfates, and mineral oil
  • 20 percent zinc oxide.

Cons

  • Only for use on the face.
  • may leave a white cast
Shop now at Amazon

Best drugstore sunscreen for rosacea

Vanicream Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50

  • Price: $$
  • Key ingredients: zinc oxide
  • SPF ranges offered: SPF 50
  • Sizes available: 3-oz. bottle

You can find drugstore options easily on the go, so a drugstore pick can give you peace of mind. This sunscreen is all mineral and uses 12 percent zinc oxide.

It’s free from There is a substance called parabens., It is a scent.s, and gluten. It’s also noncomedogenic, and is said to be safe and gentle on sensitive skin types. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Some reviewers say the product leaves a white cast. Some mineral sunscreens are easier to fully rub in than others. Reviewers with sensitive skin are very pleased with the performance of this sunscreen.

Pros

  • It is relatively affordable.
  • It is formulated for sensitive skin.
  • It is easy to find.

Cons

  • A white cast may be left behind.
Shop now at Walgreens

When buying sunscreen, there are some questions to consider.

  • Does it contain any artificial They dyes., It is a scent.s, or silicone?
  • Does it provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays?
  • Is it SPF 30. or higher for maximum protection?
  • Will it work for both faces and bodies?
  • Is it safe for adults?
  • Is it water resistant?

Other considerations

Before buying a sunscreen, you should consider some additional things.

  • Prone to acne? Choose a sunscreen that contains ingredients that won’t irritate existing pimples or skin conditions, or ones that contain safe ingredients that can treat acne.
  • Want a tinted moisturizer? Look for sunscreens that double as lotions and contain natural colors to help you achieve the color and look of your natural skin tone.
  • Want your sunscreen to double as makeup? Choose a foundation, lip balm, or BB/CC cream that contains SPF and no ingredients that can irritate rosacea.
  • Want to protect the planet? Choose a sunscreen that comes in an eco-friendly, biodegradable container. Even better, look for the B corp logo. This means that the manufacturer follows sustainable sourcing and fair business practices, such as paying suppliers and employees a living wage. You can also look for reef-safe sunscreens, which are the zinc oxide, titanium-based, and non-nano sunscreens.

Does wearing sunscreen help rosacea?

“Yes, sunscreen helps with redness. Proper sunscreen use can prevent flare-ups and keep redness from worsening when it’s a common cause of rosacea.”

How do you protect your rosacea from the sun?

The best way to keep rosacea protected from the sun is to apply a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen of SPF 30. or higher every day.

Try to find a sunscreen that’s free from chemicals, It is a scent.s, and added They dyes. or preservatives. It’s also a good idea to take other protective measures like wearing a wide-brimmed hat or other sun-protective clothing.

Does SPF from the sunscreen eliminate redness?

SPF may not eliminate redness from the skin. Suntanning daily will help prevent or decrease flares.

A safe and gentle sunscreen formula can keep redness from worsening and may prevent flare-ups since sun exposure is atrigger for rosacea.

How often should you apply sunscreen for rosacea?

Everyone should apply sunscreen every 2 hours. Even water-resistant formulas may need reapplication after 40 minutes or longer, as you may need to reapply more often if you are swimming.

It is important for people with the skin condition to wear sunscreen. Certain ingredients in sunscreen can make people with rosacea feel uncomfortable.

Remember that zinc oxide and titanium oxide are key ingredients to a good, safe sunscreen for your rosacea. Chemical sunscreens can be irritating to your skin. Other ingredients like It is a scent. and Alcohol.s can also result in flare-ups.

If you want more information about your treatment options, talk to a dermatologist.