Which SPF is the Best for Dry Skin? Say Goodbye to Dryness With Our Top Picks!

When it comes to sun protection, choosing the right SPF is a very important step. However, for those with dry skin, finding an SPF that not only protects but also hydrates the skin can be a challenge.

Dry skin can easily become irritated, itchy, and even cracked, especially when exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Therefore, it is important to choose an SPF that not only provides sun protection but also helps to moisturize and nourish the skin.

In this article, I am going to tell you which SPF is the best for dry skin and towards the end, I’ll give you some affordable sunscreen suggestions that can keep your skin protected and hydrated. So, let’s begin!

How to Choose the Right SPF for Dry Skin?

Choosing the right SPF for dry skin can be a challenge, as it requires finding a product that not only provides sun protection but also helps to hydrate and nourish the skin. Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing an SPF for dry skin:

Look for Moisturizing Ingredients

When looking for an SPF for dry skin, it is important to choose a product that contains moisturizing ingredients. Here are some moisturizing ingredients to look for:

• Glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture from the air into the skin, helping to keep it hydrated.
• Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrating ingredient that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, helping to plump and hydrate the skin.
• Ceramides are lipids that help to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture, making them ideal for dry skin.
• Aloe vera has soothing and hydrating properties that can help to calm dry, irritated skin.
• Shea butter is a rich, nourishing ingredient that can help to moisturize and protect the skin.

Opt For Cream or Lotion-Based Formulas

It is best to opt for cream or lotion-based formulas when choosing an SPF for your dry skin. These formulations are typically more hydrating and nourishing than sprays or powders, which can be drying for some people. Cream or lotion-based SPFs can help to keep your skin moisturized throughout the day while also providing sun protection.

When choosing a cream or lotion-based SPF, look for one that is easily absorbed into the skin and doesn’t leave a greasy or heavy feeling. Some formulations also contain lightweight oils that can help to moisturize the skin without feeling heavy or greasy.

Choose a Broad-Spectrum SPF

When choosing an SPF for dry skin, it is important to select a broad-spectrum formula that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can penetrate the skin deeply and cause skin damage, premature aging, and pigmentation, while UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer.

A broad-spectrum SPF will help to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. Look for an SPF with a minimum of SPF 30 and with the words “broad-spectrum” on the label.

Consider a Tinted SPF

If you’re looking for an SPF for dry skin that can also provide some coverage, a tinted SPF might be a good option. Tinted SPFs are available in a variety of shades to match different skin tones, and they can help to even out your skin tone while also providing sun protection. So, it’s a win-win situation.

Tinted SPFs can also be beneficial for those with dry skin, as they typically contain moisturizing ingredients that can help to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. They can also help to provide a more natural-looking finish than traditional sunscreens.

When selecting a tinted SPF, make sure to choose one that matches your skin tone and has a lightweight formula that is easily absorbed into the skin. You can also look for products that contain additional skin-nourishing ingredients such as antioxidants, peptides, or vitamins to provide extra benefits for your skin

Consider Your Skin Type

When choosing an SPF for dry skin, it is also important to consider your specific skin type. Not all dry skin is the same, and different individuals may have varying degrees of dryness, sensitivity, or other skin concerns that may influence their choice of SPF.

For example, if you have extremely dry or sensitive skin, you should choose a mineral-based SPF that uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient, as these ingredients are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions than chemical sunscreens.

On the other hand, if you have dry skin that is also prone to acne or breakouts, you should choose a non-comedogenic formula that won’t clog your pores or cause further skin irritation.

If you’re unsure about which SPF is best for your skin type, it’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional. Other than that, check out my list of the best SPF for dry skin that is affordable and effective!

Which SPF is the Best for Dry Skin? Here Are 10 of The Best SPF You Must Try!

As there are many sunscreens in the market, it is difficult to choose the best one for dry skin. For those asking, which SPF is the best for dry skin, here are 10 of the best SPF products for dry skin that gives sun protection and nourishes the skin.

EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 is a highly recommended sunscreen for people with dry skin. It is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which helps to moisturize and hydrate dry skin, as well as antioxidants that help to protect the skin from free radicals.

This sunscreen has a lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly into the skin, making it a great option for daily use. It is also fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic, making it safe for use on sensitive skin.

Ingredients

• Zinc oxide
• Octinoxate
• Hyaluronic acid
• Vitamin E
• Tocopheryl acetate
• Sodium hyaluronate

Pros

• EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
• With an SPF of 40, this sunscreen provides a high level of protection to your skin and reduces the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
• This sunscreen is non-comedogenic, which means that it is unlikely to clog pores or cause acne breakouts.
• EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 contains hyaluronic acid as the active ingredient, which helps to keep the skin moisturized and hydrated.
• This sunscreen is fragrance-free, which makes it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.

Cons

• While this sunscreen is non-comedogenic, if you use it in excessive amounts it can still cause breakouts.
• EltaMD UV sunscreen is slightly more expensive than some other sunscreen products on the market.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50 is one of the best sunscreens for dry skin manufactured in the US. It is a mineral-based sunscreen that uses titanium and zinc to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.

This sunscreen has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that is easily absorbed by the skin, leaving no white residue or patchiness. It is also formulated with thermal spring water, which has soothing and antioxidant properties to help protect the skin from environmental stressors.

Ingredients

• Titanium dioxide
• Zinc oxide
• Thermal spring water

Pros

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50 uses mineral filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
• This sunscreen gives a high amount of sun protection with an SPF of 50, which can aid in avoiding sunburn and skin damage by harmful UV rays of the sun.
• The fluid texture of this sunscreen makes it easy to apply and it is quickly absorbed by the skin without leaving a heavy or greasy feeling.
• La Roche-Posay is known for its dermatologist-recommended products, and this sunscreen is formulated to be suitable for sensitive skin types, including those prone to acne or rosacea. It is also fragrance-free and paraben-free.
• This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, making it suitable for outdoor activities and water sports.

Cons

• May not be readily available in all countries or regions, which can make it difficult to purchase or repurchase.
• Slightly Expensive

CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50

CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50 is a sunscreen product that is designed to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays while also hydrating the skin. It is part of the CeraVe skincare line, which is known for its focus on ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and other beneficial ingredients that help to restore and protect the skin barrier.

Ingredients

• Homosalate 
• Meradimate 
• Octinoxate 
• Octocrylene 
• Zinc Oxide 

Pros

• CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50 contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which help to hydrate and protect the skin barrier. This can be especially beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin.
• This sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which can help prevent sunburn and skin damage.
• With an SPF of 50, this sunscreen provides a high level of sun protection that can be especially useful for outdoor activities and prolonged sun exposure.
• This sunscreen is non-comedogenic, which means it is unlikely to clog pores or cause acne breakouts.
• CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50 is reasonably priced compared to some other sunscreen products on the market.

Cons

• Some users have reported that this sunscreen can feel heavy or greasy on the skin, especially in hot and humid weather.
• The formula of this sunscreen can be thick, and some users have reported that it does not blend easily into the skin, which can leave a white cast.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 is a sunscreen product that is designed for people with dry skin. It gives protection against UVA and UVB rays while also hydrating the skin. It is part of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost skincare line, which is known for its focus on hydration and water-based formulas.

Ingredients

• Avobenzone
• Homosalate
• Octisalate 
• Octocrylene

Pros

• This sunscreen has a lightweight, water-gel texture that is quickly absorbed by the skin, making it easy to apply and comfortable to wear.
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate and plump the skin. This can be especially beneficial for those with dry or dehydrated skin.
• This sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which can help prevent sunburn and skin damage.
• This sunscreen is oil-free and non-comedogenic, which means it is unlikely to clog pores or cause acne breakouts.
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 is reasonably priced compared to some other sunscreen products on the market.

Cons

• While oil-free and non-comedogenic, some individuals with very sensitive or acne-prone skin may still experience irritation or breakouts.
• Unlike some other sunscreen products, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 is not advertised as water-resistant or sweat-resistant.

Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50

Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50 is a popular sunscreen product that is designed to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is formulated with a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin, making it ideal for everyday use.

Ingredients

• Avobenzone
• Homosalate
• Octisalate
• Octocrylene

Pros 

• High SPF protection: Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50 provides high SPF protection, which can help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
• Lightweight and non-greasy: This sunscreen has a lightweight texture that feels comfortable on the skin and does not leave a greasy or oily residue.
• Broad-spectrum protection: Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50 provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which can help prevent premature aging and sun damage.
• Water-resistant: This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which makes it a good choice for outdoor activities.

Cons

• May cause breakouts: Some users may experience breakouts or skin irritation after using this sunscreen, especially if they have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Expensive: Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50 is relatively expensive compared to other sunscreens on the market, which may be a deterrent for some consumers.
• Chemical sunscreen: This sunscreen uses chemical filters to protect against UV rays, which some people may prefer to avoid in favor of mineral sunscreens.

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a sunscreen product designed to provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection while also moisturizing the skin. It is formulated with active ingredients such as homosalate, octocrylene, and avobenzone to provide sun protection, as well as hydrating ingredients such as oat kernel flour and glycerin to keep the skin moisturized.

Ingredients

• Homosalate
• Octocrylene
• Avobenzone 
• Oxybenzone
• Glycerin
• Cetyl Dimethicone

Pros

• Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 provides high SPF protection, which can help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
• This sunscreen contains hydrating ingredients such as oat kernel flour and glycerin, which can help keep the skin moisturized and prevent dryness caused by sun exposure.
• The lotion has a non-greasy formula that feels lightweight on the skin and doesn’t leave behind a heavy, oily residue.
• This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which makes it a good choice for outdoor activities or swimming.

Cons

• Some users have reported that this sunscreen can leave a white cast on the skin, especially if applied heavily or not blended well.
• This sunscreen contains chemical filters, which can irritate sensitive skin types or those with certain skin conditions.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 30

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 is a daily facial moisturizer that also provides broad-spectrum sun protection with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30. It is designed to provide lightweight, non-greasy hydration while also protecting the skin from harmful UV (A and B) rays.

This moisturizer is formulated with a combination of active sunscreen ingredients, including avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene, which work together to provide broad-spectrum protection against sun damage. It is also formulated with a blend of emollients and humectants, such as shea butter, glycerin, and dimethicone, to help hydrate and soothe the skin.

Ingredients

• Avobenzone 
• Homosalate 
• Octisalate
• Octocrylene
• Cyclohexasiloxane
• Glycerin
• Myristyl Myristate
• Shea Butter

Pros

• Provides broad-spectrum sun protection with an SPF of 30 to help prevent sun damage and premature aging of the skin
• Lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly and does not leave a residue
• Contains a blend of emollients and humectants to help hydrate and soothe the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth
• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
• Can be used as a daily moisturizer and sunscreen in one convenient product
• Has a pleasant, neutral scent that is not overpowering

Cons

• Contains parabens, which some people may prefer to avoid in their skincare products
• Can leave a white cast on the skin, especially if too much product is applied

Paula’s Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50

Paula’s Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50 is a multi-tasking daily moisturizer that provides broad-spectrum sun protection with an SPF of 50, while also hydrating and nourishing the skin. This moisturizer is designed to be suitable for normal to dry skin types, and it may be particularly beneficial for those with mature or sun-damaged skin.

The active ingredients in this product include avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, and octocrylene, which work together to provide broad-spectrum protection against harmful radiations of sun.

Ingredients

• Avobenzone
• Homosalate
• Octinoxate 
• Octocrylene 

Pros

• Provides high-level broad-spectrum sun protection with an SPF of 50
• Contains a blend of nourishing and hydrating ingredients to help improve the texture and appearance of the skin
• Contains antioxidants that help protect the skin against environmental stressors and free radical damage
• Suitable for normal to dry skin types, and may be particularly beneficial for those with mature or sun-damaged skin
• The formula is fragrance-free, which can be beneficial for those with sensitive skin or allergies to fragrance ingredients.
• Cruelty-free and vegan brand, so this moisturizer is not tested on animals and does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.

Cons

• May not provide enough moisture for very dry skin types, especially in colder or drier climates
• Some people may experience sensitivity or irritation to the active sunscreen ingredients or other ingredients in the formula
• Can leave a white cast on the skin, especially if too much product is applied

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Pure Mineral Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 40

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Pure Mineral Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 40 is a skincare product that combines the benefits of a daily moisturizer and a sunscreen. It is designed to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays while providing some extra nourishment to your skin.

This sunscreen moisturizer is formulated with physical sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which work together to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Both of these ingredients also protect the sunscreen to penetrate deep into your skin and enter into bloodstream. That means this sunscreen is safe to use and do not cause any allergy or harm to your skin.

Ingredients

• Zinc Oxide 11.8%
• Titanium Dioxide 0.67%
• Dicaprylyl Carbonate
• Diethylhexyl Succinate
• Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene
• Glycerin
• Butylene Glycol

Pros

• The product is designed to not clog pores, which can be important for people with acne-prone skin.
• The product contains a blend of antioxidants, including vitamin E and green tea extract, which can help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals.
• This product combines the benefits of a moisturizer and sunscreen, which can save time and money by reducing the need for multiple products in a skincare routine.
• While the thick consistency may not be ideal for everyone, the gentle formula and mineral-based sunscreen ingredients make it suitable for a wide range of skin types.

Cons

• This product may not be available in all countries or regions, which could make it difficult to purchase.
• The product can feel heavy and greasy on the skin, which may not be suitable for people with oily or acne-prone skin.

Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35

Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35 is a skincare product that is designed to provide sun protection while also helping to minimize the appearance of pores and improve skin texture. It contains a combination of physical and chemical sunscreen ingredients to provide broad-spectrum protection against UV rays. 

The product also contains silk powder, which can help to smooth and blur the appearance of pores and fine lines. Additionally, it contains botanical extracts such as Japanese wild rose and loquat leaf to help balance oil production and protect the skin from environmental stressors. The product has a lightweight and silky texture that can feel comfortable on the skin and does not leave a heavy or greasy feeling. 

Ingredients

• Zinc Oxide
• Octisalate
• Japanese Wild Rose
• Silk Powder
• Loquat Leaf
• Hadasei-3 Complex

Pros

• The SPF 35 provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which helps to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
• This product has a lightweight and silky texture, which can feel comfortable on the skin and does not leave a heavy or greasy feeling.
• The product contains silk powder, which can help to minimize the appearance of pores and improve skin texture.
• Designed to not clog pores, making it suitable for people with acne-prone skin.

Cons

• This product is more expensive than some other sunscreens on the market, which may make it less accessible to some people.
• While SPF 35 provides decent sun protection, it may not be enough for people with very fair or sensitive skin or those spending extended periods outdoors

You Might Also Like – 10 Best Cleansers for Dry Skin that You Should Try!

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best SPF for dry skin, it’s important to look for products that provide both sun protection and hydration. SPF 30 or higher is recommended to ensure protection from harmful UV rays, and mineral-based sunscreens can be a good choice for those with dry skin. Ultimately, for those thinking about which SPF is the best for dry skin? It depends from person to person on their individual needs and preferences, so you can try any product listed above to find the perfect product Sunscreen for your skin.