By Jia Lissa 
Whether dryness stems from the weather, aging skin, hormonal changes, or medication, the best sunscreens for dry skin provide instant relief and hydration, smoothing flakiness and rough patches while leaving an illuminating glow. "When choosing a sunscreen for dry or sensitive skin, it’s important to find one that protects and hydrates the skin barrier," says Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati. These can include ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, or ceramides, which attract and lock in moisture while soothing irritation, says Ashley McGuinness, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chesterfield, Missouri. Both chemical and mineral sunscreens fit the hydrating bill; however, mineral UV filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are overall kinder to sensitive skin.
Allure editors test tons of sunscreen formulas—both chemical and mineral—all year round, but these are the formulas that go beyond UV protection, offering moisturizing ingredients and antioxidants that give you a glowing, hydrated complexion. We’re spilling our top picks that glide on like a dream while keeping your skin moisturized all day.
Understanding Dry Skin and Sunscreen Needs
Dry skin, medically known as xerosis, is a common condition characterized by a lack of moisture in the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis. This can manifest as tightness, roughness, flaking, itching, and a dull appearance. The causes are varied and can include environmental factors like low humidity, harsh soaps, hot showers, and prolonged exposure to wind or cold. Aging also plays a role, as skin naturally produces less oil and retains less water over time. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause, can further exacerbate dryness. Certain medications, such as diuretics or retinoids, can also have a dehydrating effect on the skin.
Sunscreen is a critical component of any skincare routine, regardless of skin type, but its role becomes even more vital for dry skin. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture, worsening dryness and compromising the skin’s protective barrier. This compromised barrier makes the skin more susceptible to environmental irritants and can lead to premature aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Therefore, sunscreens formulated for dry skin must not only offer robust UV protection but also actively contribute to hydration and barrier repair.
Dermatologists emphasize the importance of ingredients that draw moisture into the skin (humectants) and those that seal it in (occlusives). Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are highly effective at attracting water molecules from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface. Occlusives, such as dimethicone and ceramides, form a protective layer on the skin, preventing moisture loss. Ceramides are particularly noteworthy as they are naturally occurring lipids in the skin barrier; replenishing them can significantly improve skin hydration and resilience. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, offers a multifaceted benefit, acting as a humectant, an anti-inflammatory agent, and helping to improve the skin barrier function.
The Evolution of Sunscreen Technology
The development of sunscreen has seen significant advancements over the decades. Historically, sunscreens relied primarily on physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which work by creating a physical barrier on the skin to reflect UV rays. While highly effective and generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin, these mineral filters could sometimes leave a chalky white cast.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. These formulations often offer a more cosmetically elegant feel, disappearing into the skin without a visible residue. However, the approval of new UV filters by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been a slow process. The recent approval of bemotrizinol (BEMT), the first new sunscreen filter in over two decades, marks a significant milestone. This innovative ingredient offers photostable protection against both UVA and UVB rays, a crucial factor in ensuring sustained sun protection. Brands like La Roche-Posay are at the forefront of incorporating such advancements into their formulations, promising enhanced efficacy and user experience.
Expert Recommendations for Hydrating Sun Protection
Dermatologists like Dr. Mona Foad and Dr. Ashley McGuinness consistently highlight the dual role of sunscreens for dry skin: protection and hydration. They advocate for formulations that actively support the skin’s natural barrier. This means looking beyond just SPF numbers and scrutinizing ingredient lists for those beneficial compounds.
"It’s not just about blocking UV rays; it’s about nurturing the skin while doing so," Dr. Foad elaborates. "Dry skin is often compromised, making it more sensitive. Ingredients that soothe and replenish are just as important as the UV filters themselves."
Dr. McGuinness further explains the synergy of ingredients: "Hyaluronic acid acts like a sponge, drawing moisture to the skin, while ceramides act like the mortar between the bricks of your skin cells, holding everything together and preventing water loss. Niacinamide, meanwhile, helps to strengthen that ‘mortar’ and reduce inflammation, which can be a common concern for dry and sensitive skin."
The choice between chemical and mineral sunscreens is often a matter of personal preference and skin sensitivity. Mineral sunscreens, utilizing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are often recommended for their gentleness. However, advancements in chemical sunscreen filters and the inclusion of hydrating ingredients mean that many chemical options are now equally adept at catering to dry skin needs. The key is to find a formula that feels comfortable and provides the necessary moisture boost.
Top Sunscreen Picks for Dry, Glowing Skin
Best Overall Chemical: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVDefense Sunscreen SPF 50
This sunscreen represents a significant leap forward in UV protection with its inclusion of bemotrizinol (BEMT), a novel UV filter recently approved by the FDA. BEMT offers robust and photostable protection against both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring reliable defense against sun damage. La Roche-Posay’s proprietary Cell-Ox Shield technology further enhances this protection by combining sunscreen filters with a potent antioxidant blend. Ingredients like litchi extract, alteromonas, cassia senna alata, and vitamin E work synergistically to neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollutants.
For dry skin, the formulation is thoughtfully designed with moisture-attracting ingredients such as glycerin and butylene glycol. Dimethicone plays a crucial role in sealing in this moisture, while also providing a smoothing effect that alleviates flakiness and rough patches. The user experience is equally impressive. Dermatologist Jane Yoo, MD, lauded its silky texture and lack of white residue, even after rigorous testing during a marathon. "It felt lightweight and smooth without getting greasy or stinging my eyes," she noted, highlighting its superior wearability.
Tester Feedback from Commerce Editor Sarah Han: "La Roche-Posay does it again. I love sunscreens that are on the more fluid side—think serum-like textures—and the Anthelios UVDefense SPF 50 Sunscreen with BEMT clearly falls under that umbrella! Like everyone in the beauty world, I’m ecstatic about a new UV filter, but I’m also hoping taps watch that the next approval doesn’t take another 36 years. (We need to keep up with our global counterparts who are light-years ahead!!) Anyway, back to this formula. It’s so lightweight and elegant that it practically disappears on contact, especially when you’re applying two finger lengths’ worth (the standard guideline). I was a little extra for this particular demo and used three fingers, so it did take a beat longer to fully rub in. Either way, the formula feels like nothing on the skin—and outside of the depths of winter—my combo skin and I don’t need a standalone moisturizer because this doubles as both! The finish is definitely not as glowy as the UVAir serum, but these days, I kind of prefer a more ‘natural’ and ‘balanced’ look."
Best Overall Mineral: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+
A recipient of the 2025 Best of Beauty Award, Shiseido’s offering redefines mineral sunscreen. It moves beyond mere protection to deliver a luxurious skincare experience. The lotion-based formula glides effortlessly onto the skin, absorbing quickly to leave a non-greasy, invisible finish. This makes it an ideal choice for those who dislike the typical heavy feel of mineral sunscreens.
The formula is enriched with a blend of beneficial skincare ingredients. Raspberry extract, witch hazel, glycerin, and a unique complex of five types of algae work in concert to hydrate and calm the skin. This combination not only protects but also actively soothes and nourishes, making it perfect for dry or sensitive complexions. Its seamless integration under makeup is a significant advantage, ensuring that sun protection doesn’t interfere with makeup application. While the packaging might be more compact, a little of this potent formula goes a long way.
Tester Feedback from Senior Beauty Editor Jesa Marie Calaor: "With my extra-dry complexion, I am always looking for hydrating products that leave me with a summery, dewy glow. This sunscreen gives me exactly that. The mineral formula is more like a fluid than a lotion, and quickly melts down to blend in with my medium-tan skin."
Best Lightweight: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb Sunscreen SPF 45
Belif’s Aqua Bomb Sunscreen SPF 45 brings the beloved hydrating properties of its cult-favorite Aqua Bomb Moisturizer into a sun protection format. It retains the core moisturizing ingredients, including glycerin for hydration, soothing panthenol, brightening niacinamide, and Belif’s signature botanical blend of oat seed, calendula, and other calming herbs. These ingredients collectively work to keep the skin hydrated, comfortable, and protected.
The texture is a standout feature, described by Dr. Yoo as having a "creamy consistency that feels so classically K-beauty." This characteristic is attributed to lightweight silicones and smoothing polymers, which create a silky, almost primer-like finish. It absorbs rapidly without feeling heavy or greasy, making it a seamless addition to any skincare routine. For those with very dry skin, it might even serve as a replacement for a separate moisturizer. Dr. Yoo notes, "It’s refreshing and quick-absorbing while still leaving skin feeling plumped and comfortable."
Tester Feedback from Contributing Commerce Writer Christa Joanna Lee: "I have yet to try the famous Belif Aqua Bomb Moisturizer (I know—sacrilege), but after practically emptying my tube of Aqua Bomb Sunscreen SPF 45 in just a couple of weeks, I’m not sure I need to. This sunscreen checks every box on my wish list: It’s incredibly lightweight and moisturizing, has a cream texture yet absorbs with the speed and ease of a gel, and leaves behind absolutely zero white cast. The results may not be dramatic in my demo, but the difference is immediately noticeable once it’s on your skin. I couldn’t ask for much more from a sunscreen."
Best for Redness: EltaMD Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting SPF 50
Leveraging the principles of color theory, EltaMD’s Red Color Correcting SPF 50 employs a subtle green tint to neutralize redness. This mineral-based formula is a 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner, recognized for its efficacy in both camouflaging and treating skin prone to redness. Beyond its cosmetic benefits, it’s formulated with skin-soothing ingredients. Centella asiatica (cica) is known for its calming properties, while an amino acid complex including taurine, arginine, and glycine helps stressed skin recover. Ceramides are included to fortify the skin barrier and combat dryness.
The lightweight, non-greasy texture makes it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types. It effectively addresses temporary flare-ups, naturally flushed complexions, or irritation caused by environmental factors.
Tester Feedback from Senior Editor Jesa Marie Calaor: "I love how this green sunscreen tones down the redness I typically experience around my nose and on my cheeks. It feels so good—like a moisturizer—and never ever leaves a white cast."
Tester Feedback from Content Director Sophia Panych: "After my morning cleanse, vitamin C serum, and face cream, I applied two to three pumps of the stuff on my face. It goes on green, then immediately turns white, and then sheers out as you rub it in. On days when I wore makeup, I’d wait about five minutes before applying my favorite base (Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation, Monika Blunder Blunder Cover, or the Lisa Eldridge Enhancing Skin Tint). The EltaMD UV Skin Recovery worked well with all of them and didn’t pill throughout the day. I’m in my late 30s, have combination skin, and live in a city with very hard water that dries you out from head to toe. I loved that this sunscreen left my complexion looking dewy, something I’ve never seen from an all-mineral sunscreen."
Best Dewy Finish: Supergoop Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50
Supergoop’s Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF offers a dual-action solution for those seeking both sun protection and a radiant complexion. This chemical sunscreen is formulated to double as a makeup primer, creating a smooth and receptive canvas for foundation and other cosmetics. Its ability to enhance makeup longevity and application without a white cast is a significant benefit.
The finish is characterized by a fresh, dewy glow that is achieved without greasiness, making it suitable even for combination skin types. The inclusion of peptides contributes to a plumper, more resilient appearance, while hyaluronic acid and tremella mushroom provide substantial hydration. The texture is notably moisturizing, though it may require a slightly longer application time to fully blend in. This minor consideration is offset by the significant hydrating benefits it offers.
Tester Feedback from Commerce Editor Sarah Han: "Supergoop is a top-tier sun-care brand, but the brand really deserves its flowers with its latest creation. Dewscreen is easily my favorite Supergoop product, ever: It’s a true moisturizer-first formula with a boost of SPF, which my dehydrated skin drinks up like that, and there’s just a hint of grippiness that helps my makeup look flawless and stay in place all freaking day and night. Dewscreen makes my skin look like a dewy dumpling—no matter how tired I feel in the morning, it instantly perks up my skin. Because it’s so moisturizing, it takes a beat to fully blend out, but that’s not a con at all. I’d rather be as thorough as possible and ensure I’m applying the right amount—yes, even on the dreariest winter days."
Best Tinted: Iris & Romeo Weekend Skin SPF 50 + Vitamin C + Glow
Iris & Romeo’s Weekend Skin SPF 50 offers a multi-tasking approach to sun protection, providing coverage in four versatile shades: Universal, Cool Glow, Warm Glow, and Bronze Glow. These shades are designed to offer a natural radiance and complement a variety of skin tones. The formula is rich in brightening agents, featuring a powerful combination of vitamin C, vitamin E (which stabilizes the vitamin C), and niacinamide to promote a more even and luminous complexion over time.
With a richer texture, this product functions more like a tinted moisturizer than a sheer sunscreen, delivering light coverage and significant hydration. This makes it an excellent choice for days when minimal makeup is desired. The blend of skincare benefits and sun protection makes it a valuable addition to any routine, particularly for those seeking a healthy, glowing appearance.
Tester Feedback from Senior Commerce Director Shanna Shipin: "It may be called ‘weekend skin,’ but I use this beauty every single day. This moisturizer hydrates, provides impressive SPF 50 coverage, and leaves me with a natural radiance that’s glowy, not glittery. I have acne scars, flakiness, and fine lines; still, Weekend Skin leaves me looking airbrushed, well-rested, and, frankly, I’m flabbergasted at how it does all I need it to do so elegantly and effectively."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sunscreen is best for dry skin?
"When searching for sunscreens for dry skin, it’s crucial to find products with ingredients that moisturize and improve the skin barrier, like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, dimethicone, or ceramides," says Dr. McGuinness. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are great for sensitive skin, but chemical sunscreens packed with hydrating ingredients work just as well. Extra points if your sunscreen of choice includes antioxidants (hi, vitamin E and vitamin C) to combat free radicals. And, of course, stick to lightweight, non-greasy formulas for a comfortable, glowing finish.
"In addition to making sure your sunscreen has broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 30 or higher, people with dry skin should opt for a cream or lotion-based formula instead of gels or sprays, which can sometimes be more drying," says Dr. Foad. Sprays commonly feature alcohol, which people with dry skin should definitely avoid, Dr. McGuinness points out.
Do you put moisturizer or sunscreen first?
For both mineral and chemical formulas, start with a lightweight moisturizer, let it fully absorb, then follow with sunscreen. That said, if your skin isn’t especially dry and you prefer chemical SPFs, you can often skip the separate moisturizer and apply sunscreen directly—many formulas are hydrating enough on their own.
Meet the Experts
The insights provided in this article are informed by leading dermatologists and beauty editors who have extensive experience in skincare and product evaluation. Their expertise ensures that the recommendations are grounded in scientific understanding and practical application.
How We Test and Review Products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best sunscreens for dry skin, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
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