11 Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreens
According to Dermatologists
Choosing a pregnancy-safe sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin while expecting. During pregnancy, your skin becomes more sensitive due to hormonal changes, making it more prone to sunburn, irritation, and melasma.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone to use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum protection SPF 30 or higher to help prevent premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer. However, during pregnancy your skin can become more sensitive, making sun protection even more essential. Finding the best pregnancy-safe sunscreen can be challenging for pregnant women, but with the right information, you can make a great choice for both you and your baby.
What Sunscreen is Safe for Pregnancy
Not all skincare products are created equal, and choosing the righ broad-spectrum sunscreen during pregnancy requires extra consideration. The FDA recognizes physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as generally safe. Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UV rays, these mineral formulas create a protective physical barrier that reflects UVA and UVB rays.
Dr. Heather D. Rogers, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in pregnancy-safe skincare, emphasizes the importance of mineral-based sunscreens during pregnancy:
“I favor mineral-based sunscreens that contain zinc during pregnancy, particularly if you are applying to large parts of your body where absorption of ingredients is increased.”
This recommendation aligns with the general consensus among dermatologists regarding pregnancy-safe sunscreens. Additionally, mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation, making them ideal for sensitive skin.
To simplify your search, we’ve rounded up some of the best pregnancy-safe sunscreens below. Later, we’ll explain how to check the ingredient list to ensure your sunscreen ingredients meet safety standards.
Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreen Recommendations: Our Top Little Bean-Approved Picks
Best Pregnancy Safe Facial Sunscreen
Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 ($40) – A dermatologist favorite, this mineral sunscreen glides on like a chemical formula but delivers a smooth, matte finish—perfect as a makeup primer. Its oil-free formula makes it an excellent choice for acne-prone skin.
Best Pregnancy Safe Water-resistant Sunscreen
For Body: Thinksport Kids SPF 50 ($17.50) – Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, this gentle formula is designed for sensitive skin types while offering broad-spectrum protection.
For Face: Supergoop Play Mineral SPF 50: A lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen that’s water-resistant for 80 minutes, making it a reliable choice for all skin types.
Best Pregnancy Safe Tinted Sunscreen
Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense SPF 30 ($35): ($35) – This hydrating tinted sunscreen delivers a dewy, radiant finish—perfect for no-makeup days. It evens out skin tone while helping prevent dark spots.
Best Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreen That is Cosmetically Elegant
The Kinship Self Reflect SPF 32 Probiotic Moisturizing Sunscreen ($52): This lightly tinted sunscreen hydrates and leaves a radiant glow, making it a great option for those experiencing skin sensitivity. While chemical sunscreen ingredients are often favored for their smooth application, this is one of the most aesthetically pleasing mineral formulas available—though it comes at a higher price point.
Best Pregnancy Safe Lip Sunscreen
Sun Bum SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Lip Balm ($3.99): A hydrating sunscreen infused with jojoba oil and shea butter to keep lips soft and protected.
Best Pregnancy Safe Korean Sunscreen
IUNIK Calming Moisture Daily Sunscreen SPF 50 ($19.99): This Korean sunscreen contains Centella Asiatica and niacinamide, known for their calming and brightening properties. Niacinamide is also beneficial for preventing melasma, which is common during pregnancy.
Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreen for Scalp
Supergoop Poof 100% Mineral Part Powder: Ideal for protecting part lines from sun exposure, preventing sunburn on the scalp.
Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreen on a Budget
For Face: Vanicream Facial Moisturizer with Mineral SPF 30 ($30): Formulated with ceramides to help hydrate and retain skin moisture perfect for someone with dry skin.
For Body: Badger SPF 40 Sport Mineral Sunscreen ($15.99):This water-resistant mineral sunscreen offers 80 minutes of sun protection, making it a reliable choice for extended outdoor activities. While it provides excellent UV defense, some reviewers mention that it takes extra time to fully rub in. Despite this, it remains one of the most affordable mineral sunscreens that meets pregnancy-safe safety standards without compromising on effectiveness.
Best Pregnancy Safe Eye Sunscreen
Colorscience Total Eye 3-in-1 Anti Aging Renewal Therapy for Wrinkles & Dark Circle ($79): This multitasking formula provides sun protection while targeting dark circles and fine lines. Designed for the delicate eye area, it hydrates, smooths, and brightens with a subtle tint. Available in four shades for a natural, refreshed look.
How to Read Sunscreen Labels
Decoding sunscreen labels can be tricky, but here’s what to look for:
- Active Ingredients: Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these mineral filters are considered safe during pregnancy.
- Avoid These: Steer clear of sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, and butyloctyl salicylate, which may pose risks.
- SPF 30 or Higher: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30+ for effective sun protection.
- Fragrance-Free: Fragrances can irritate sensitive skin, so opt for gentle, unscented formulas.
- Water Resistance: If swimming or sweating, choose a sunscreen labeled water-resistant for at least 80 minutes for long-lasting protection.
Avoid Chemical Sunscreen During Pregnancy
While physical sunscreens are generally considered safe by the FDA, chemical sunscreens may pose potential risks during pregnancy. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that certain chemical sunscreen ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream at levels exceeding the FDA’s threshold for safety testing.
Comparing Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen
| Feature | Mineral Sunscreen | Chemical Sunscreen |
| Main Ingredients | Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide | Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Avobenzone, etc. |
| How It Works | Sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays | Absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat |
| Safety During Pregnancy | Generally considered safe | Some ingredients linked to hormone disruption |
| Irritation Risk | Low (better for sensitive skin) | Higher (may cause irritation and breakouts) |
| White Cast | Possible (tinted versions can help) | Usually blends in easily |
For a deeper dive into the potential concerns surrounding chemical sunscreens during pregnancy, check out our detailed guide on Chemical Sunscreen During Pregnancy.
Is Neutrogena Sunscreen Safe for Pregnancy?
Many Neutrogena sunscreens contain butyloctyl salicylate, a chemical sunscreen booster. Even some of their mineral sunscreen options may include this ingredient, making them less ideal for pregnancy.
Is Elta MD Sunscreen Pregnancy Safe?
Unfortunately, EltaMD sunscreens often contain octinoxate, a chemical sunscreen ingredient that has been identified as a potential endocrine disruptor. For a safer alternative during pregnancy, opt for a purely mineral-based sunscreen without chemical UV filters.
Is Supergoop Sunscreen Pregnancy Safe?
Some Supergoop products, including Mineral Unseen Sunscreen and the other three mineral formulas we’ve recommended, are considered pregnancy-safe. However, many of their best-selling sunscreens still contain chemical UV filters. It’s important to note that not all of Supergoop’s mineral-based products are Little Bean-approved. For example, their Sunscreen Stick and Sheerscreen contain butyloctyl salicylate, despite being labeled as mineral formulas. Always double-check the ingredients before purchasing as formulas might change.
Is Cerave Sunscreen Safe for Pregnancy?
Like Neutrogena, many of CeraVe’s mineral-based sunscreens contain butyloctyl salicylate, a chemical sunscreen booster. Pregnant women should carefully check the ingredient list before using these products to ensure they are truly free from potentially harmful ingredients.
Is All Mineral-based Sunscreen Pregnancy Safe?
Dr. Rogers points out a growing concern in the sunscreen industry known as “sunscreen doping.” She explains, “Historically, both chemical and physical UV blockers were clearly listed on sunscreen labels. However, a controversial practice has emerged where chemical filters are being included in mineral sunscreens. These ingredients are similar to chemical UV blockers but are not required to be disclosed, as they aren’t regulated in the U.S. and don’t appear on the active ingredient list.”
Dr. Rogers continues, “One of the most common ‘doped’ ingredients is butyloctyl salicylate, which is nearly identical to octinoxate, a chemical UV filter. These ingredients are often not marked as chemical sunscreens in the U.S., even though they act as UV boosters.” At Little Bean, we screen for butyloctyl salicylate in sunscreens because this ingredient can make a product unsafe during pregnancy.
This highlights why it’s so important to thoroughly read the ingredient list, even for products marketed as 100% mineral sunscreens. Always check for potential chemical ingredients disguised as mineral ones.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Your Pregnancy
When selecting a pregnancy-safe sunscreen, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Opt for fragrance-free sunscreens, especially if you have acne-prone skin or sensitive skin. The right sunscreen can not only provide sun protection but also help prevent dark spots, which are common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. For more on how pregnancy affects your skin, check out our previous blog post on prenatal sunburn.
Remember that sun protection is vital for preventing skin cancer, regardless of your skin tone. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Many of the best sunscreens for pregnancy also contain beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, which can help keep your skin hydrated and healthy. When choosing between mineral formulas, be aware that some may leave a white cast, especially on darker skin tones. However, tinted options can help mitigate this issue.
To make product selection easier, consider using our pregnancy-safe ingredient checker. This tool helps you verify the safety of your beauty products throughout your pregnancy journey. Simply scan or search your product, and we’ll provide instant feedback on its safety.
While finding the perfect pregnancy-safe sunscreen may require some research, it’s a crucial step in protecting both you and your baby. By opting for physical sunscreens and carefully examining ingredient lists, you can enjoy the sun safely throughout your pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your skincare routine during pregnancy.
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