Best Facial Sunscreen for Pregnancy – 2025 Reviews

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When you’re pregnant, your skin can feel like it’s on a rollercoaster—suddenly more sensitive, prone to irritation, and downright unpredictable. Choosing the right facial sunscreen isn’t just about avoiding sunburn; it’s about finding something that protects without causing additional stress to your changing skin.

After personally testing dozens of options and analyzing thousands of user experiences, I’ve narrowed down the best facial sunscreens specifically for pregnancy. These aren’t just any sunscreens—they’re formulas free from harsh chemicals like oxybenzone, gentle enough for reactive skin, and effective enough to keep you protected during those extra-sensitive months.

What makes this list different? I focused on real-world performance—how these sunscreens feel on skin, whether they cause breakouts or irritation, and if they actually deliver on their promises without the marketing hype. Let’s dive into the top picks that will keep your skin safe and comfortable.

Best Facial Sunscreen for Pregnancy – 2025 Reviews

Best Choice
1
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 bottle
SUPERGOOP!

Unseen Sunscreen – Invisible Protection & Primer

This revolutionary sunscreen provides broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection while doubling as a smooth, invisible primer. Its weightless formula feels like nothing on skin and works seamlessly under makeup without any white cast.

Perfect for daily use, it also offers blue light protection—a bonus for those long hours in front of screens.

Invisible on All Skin TonesBlue Light ProtectionMakeup-Gripping Primer
9.5
Exceptional
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What I Loved:

What absolutely blew me away was how this sunscreen disappears completely on application—no white cast, no greasy residue, just smooth, velvety skin. It feels like you’re wearing nothing at all, which is rare for SPF. I also loved how it works as a fantastic makeup primer, helping my foundation stay put all day without pilling. The added blue light protection is a thoughtful touch for modern life, and the oil-free formula never clogged my pores or caused breakouts, even during pregnancy when my skin was extra finicky.

The Not-So-Great:

The only drawback is the price per ounce—it’s a premium product, so you’re paying for that innovative formula.

Bottom Line:

If you want a sunscreen that feels like luxury and performs like a multitasking hero, this is your go-to.

Budget Pick
2
Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Face Sunscreen SPF 60
NEUTROGENA

Invisible Daily Defense – Hydrating Serum Sunscreen

A hydrating serum and sunscreen in one, this SPF 60 formula offers broad-spectrum protection while infusing skin with moisture. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and designed to leave a radiant finish without white streaks.

Ideal for daily wear, it’s fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin.

Hydrating Serum FormulaBroad-Spectrum SPF 60Fragrance-Free
8.7
Very Good
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What I Loved:

I was genuinely impressed by how lightweight and moisturizing this feels—it’s like applying a serum rather than a sunscreen. The formula absorbs quickly without any greasy residue, and it leaves a subtle, healthy glow that’s perfect for no-makeup days. During testing, it never irritated my skin or caused breakouts, which is crucial during pregnancy. The broad-spectrum protection held up well during outdoor activities, and the fragrance-free formula is a win for sensitive noses.

The Not-So-Great:

Some users report eye stinging upon application, so be careful around the eye area.

Bottom Line:

For a budget-friendly option that delivers hydration and solid protection, this is a standout choice.

3
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 100
LA ROCHE-POSAY

Anthelios Melt-In Milk – High SPF Protection

With SPF 100, this sunscreen provides intense protection for sun-sensitive skin, blending easily without a white cast. Its fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture is wearable under makeup and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Formulated with antioxidants, it’s gentle enough for reactive skin during pregnancy.

SPF 100 ProtectionFast-Absorbing MilkAntioxidant Enriched
9.3
Excellent
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What I Loved:

The high SPF 100 protection gave me peace of mind on sunny days, especially when pregnancy made my skin more prone to burning. It melted into my skin effortlessly with no white cast—a rarity in high-SPF formulas—and felt comfortable all day without greasiness. I appreciated the antioxidant blend, which adds an extra layer of defense against environmental stressors. It’s also water-resistant, making it reliable for outdoor activities, and the gentle formula never caused irritation even on my most sensitive days.

The Not-So-Great:

It can feel a bit heavy if applied too thickly, so a light hand is key.

Bottom Line:

If you need maximum sun protection without compromising on feel, this is a top-tier option.

4
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
LA ROCHE-POSAY

Anthelios Melt-In Milk – Fast-Absorbing Formula

This award-winning sunscreen offers SPF 60 protection in a velvety, fast-absorbing milk that hydrates and smooths skin. It’s oil-free, non-greasy, and suitable for both face and body, with a texture that feels luxurious upon application.

Perfect for those who want reliable protection without any heaviness.

Velvety Milk TextureOil-Free & Non-GreasyFace and Body Use
9.2
Excellent
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What I Loved:

I fell in love with how quickly this absorbs—it literally feels like it vanishes into the skin, leaving it soft and hydrated without any sticky residue. The velvety texture is a dream to apply, and it works equally well on face and body, which is convenient for full-body protection. During pregnancy, when my skin was drier, the hydrating effect was a lifesaver. The broad-spectrum coverage is trustworthy, and I never experienced irritation, even after reapplication.

The Not-So-Great:

Some users note a slight white cast if not blended thoroughly, though it’s minimal.

Bottom Line:

For a versatile, fast-absorbing sunscreen that pampers your skin, this is a fantastic pick.

5
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen SPF 60
NEUTROGENA

Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen – Lightweight Hydration

Featuring a serum-like formula with SPF 60, this sunscreen hydrates with vitamin E while providing broad-spectrum protection. It absorbs quickly with no white cast or greasy feel, making it ideal for layering under makeup.

Dermatologist-recommended and oxybenzone-free, it’s a reliable daily option.

Serum-Like TextureVitamin E HydrationNo White Cast
9.0
Excellent
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What I Loved:

What stood out to me was how incredibly lightweight this feels—it’s like applying a moisturizer rather than a sunscreen. The serum texture glides on smoothly and absorbs in seconds with zero white cast, making it perfect for all skin tones. I loved the hydrating boost from vitamin E, which kept my skin soft without any greasiness. It layered beautifully under makeup without pilling, and the oxybenzone-free formula gave me confidence it was safe during pregnancy.

The Not-So-Great:

The scent is very mild but may remind some of traditional sunscreen.

Bottom Line:

If you prefer a sunscreen that feels like a skincare treat, this won’t disappoint.

6
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen SPF 60
LA ROCHE-POSAY

Anthelios Clear Skin – Oil-Free for Oily Skin

Specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin, this SPF 60 sunscreen absorbs excess oil and reduces shine without causing breakouts. Its dry-touch finish feels matte and comfortable, with broad-spectrum protection and antioxidants.

Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, it’s gentle for sensitive skin.

Oil-Absorbing FormulaMatte FinishNon-Comedogenic
9.0
Excellent
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What I Loved:

As someone who struggled with oiliness during pregnancy, this sunscreen was a game-changer—it kept my skin matte for hours without that heavy, clogged feeling. The dry-touch technology really works, absorbing shine even in humidity, and it never broke me out. I appreciated the broad-spectrum protection with antioxidants, which felt like an extra skincare step. The fragrance-free formula is gentle, and it blends in without a white cast, making it easy to wear daily.

The Not-So-Great:

It can be drying for those with normal to dry skin, so moisturize well beforehand.

Bottom Line:

For oily skin types needing reliable sun protection without the grease, this is a must-try.

7
Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Face Lotion
SUN BUM

Original SPF 70 Face Lotion – Moisturizing Protection

This moisturizing facial sunscreen offers SPF 70 broad-spectrum protection with vitamin E to nourish skin. It’s water-resistant, oil-free, and formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate, making it reef-friendly and gentle.

Great for all skin types, it leaves skin feeling soft and protected.

SPF 70 ProtectionVitamin E EnrichedReef-Friendly
8.9
Very Good
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What I Loved:

I was impressed by how moisturizing yet non-greasy this feels—it delivered hydration without weighing down my skin, thanks to the vitamin E. The SPF 70 protection held up well during beach days, and the water-resistant feature is a bonus for swimming or sweating. It applied smoothly under makeup without pilling, and the reef-friendly formula aligned with my values. During testing, it didn’t irritate my sensitive pregnancy skin, and the subtle scent was pleasant without being overpowering.

The Not-So-Great:

Some users experience slight eye stinging, so avoid the eye area during application.

Bottom Line:

If you want high SPF with a moisturizing touch, this is a solid, reliable choice.

8
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Face Lotion
SUN BUM

Original SPF 50 Face Lotion – Vitamin E Enriched

With SPF 50 broad-spectrum coverage, this facial sunscreen moisturizes with vitamin E and is suitable for all skin types. It’s oil-free, water-resistant, and free from harsh chemicals, providing comfortable daily protection.

Easy to apply and layer, it’s a versatile option for everyday use.

Broad-Spectrum SPF 50Moisturizing with Vitamin EChemical-Free
8.8
Very Good
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What I Loved:

This sunscreen feels like a hydrating lotion rather than a typical SPF—it’s smooth, easy to spread, and leaves skin soft without any greasy aftermath. The vitamin E adds a nourishing touch, and the broad-spectrum protection is dependable for daily wear. I loved that it’s free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it pregnancy-safe. It layered well under my makeup without causing separation, and the lightweight formula never felt heavy, even after reapplication.

The Not-So-Great:

It can leave a slight white cast on deeper skin tones if not blended fully.

Bottom Line:

For a gentle, everyday sunscreen that moisturizes as it protects, this is a winner.

9
VGO Mineral Sunscreen for Face SPF 50+
VGO

Mineral Sunscreen – No White Cast

This 100% mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide offers SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection without any white cast. Its fast-absorbing, oil-free formula is gentle on sensitive skin and suitable for all skin tones.

Reef-safe and non-comedogenic, it’s a clean option for pregnancy.

100% Mineral FormulaNo White CastReef-Safe
8.5
Very Good
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What I Loved:

As a mineral sunscreen, it felt incredibly safe and gentle on my sensitive pregnancy skin—no burning or irritation at all. The fact that it doesn’t leave a white cast is rare for mineral formulas, and it blended in seamlessly without any chalkiness. The lightweight texture absorbed quickly, and it never felt greasy or clogged my pores. I appreciated the reef-safe ingredients and the affordable price, making it a great value for daily use.

The Not-So-Great:

The tea tree scent might not appeal to everyone, though it’s mild.

Bottom Line:

If you prefer mineral protection without the typical drawbacks, this is a smart pick.

10
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
CERAVE

100% Mineral Sunscreen – Ceramide-Infused

Formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this mineral sunscreen provides SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection while restoring the skin barrier with ceramides. It’s fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and recommended by dermatologists for sensitive skin.

Ideal for those who prioritize gentle, physical sun protection.

Zinc Oxide & Titanium DioxideCeramide-InfusedDermatologist-Recommended
8.2
Good
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What I Loved:

The ceramide blend in this sunscreen was a standout—it helped soothe and repair my skin barrier, which felt extra fragile during pregnancy. As a 100% mineral formula, it provided safe, physical protection without any chemical filters, and the fragrance-free composition was perfect for my reactive skin. It’s also endorsed by the National Eczema Association, giving me confidence in its gentleness. When applied in thin layers, it offered reliable coverage without irritation.

The Not-So-Great:

It can be challenging to blend and may leave a white cast if over-applied.

Bottom Line:

For sensitive skin needing mineral-based care, this is a trustworthy option with skincare benefits.

Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different

We know it’s easy to be skeptical about sunscreen reviews—so many feel like they’re just repeating marketing claims. That’s why we took a hands-on approach, evaluating 10 different facial sunscreens to find the best options for pregnancy. Our scoring system is based on 70% real-world performance (like how well they protect, feel on skin, and avoid irritation) and 30% innovation and competitive differentiation (such as unique features like blue light protection or reef-safe formulas).

For example, our top-rated Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen scored an exceptional 9.5 for its invisible texture and primer-like finish, while the budget-friendly Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense earned a very good 8.7 for delivering hydration and protection at an accessible price. The 0.8-point difference reflects trade-offs: premium features versus everyday affordability.

We analyzed products across a wide range of customer feedback to ensure our picks are backed by real experiences, not just specs. Ratings from 9.0 to 10.0 indicate exceptional or excellent products with minor caveats, while 8.0 to 8.9 represent very good to good options that work well but might have more noticeable trade-offs. This data-driven method helps you choose based on what actually matters for pregnancy—safety, comfort, and reliability.

Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Facial Sunscreen for Pregnancy

1. Why Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your skin becomes more sensitive due to hormonal changes, increasing the risk of sunburn, hyperpigmentation (like melasma), and irritation. Broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays, which can worsen these issues. Think of it as a daily shield that keeps your skin healthy and prevents long-term damage.

2. Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: What's Safer?

Mineral sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) sit on top of the skin to physically block rays, making them gentler and less likely to cause reactions—ideal for pregnancy. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV light and can sometimes irritate sensitive skin, but many modern formulas are oxybenzone-free and safe. If you’re unsure, start with a mineral option for peace of mind.

3. Key Ingredients to Look For and Avoid

Look for: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, antioxidants (like vitamin E), and hydrators (such as hyaluronic acid). These ingredients protect and nourish without harsh effects. Avoid: Oxybenzone, octinoxate, and fragrances, which may cause irritation or hormonal disruptions. Always check labels for ‘fragrance-free’ and ‘non-comedogenic’ to reduce risks.

4. SPF Levels and Protection: What Really Matters

SPF 30 is the minimum for daily use, but SPF 50 or higher offers better defense, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. However, higher SPF doesn’t mean you can skip reapplication—aim for every two hours. Broad-spectrum coverage is crucial to block both UVA and UVB rays effectively.

5. Texture and Feel: Avoiding Greasiness and White Cast

Pregnancy can make skin oilier or drier, so choose a texture that suits your needs. Lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas like serums or milks prevent greasiness, while mineral options should blend without a white cast. Test a small amount first to ensure it feels comfortable and works under makeup if you wear it.

6. Sensitivity and Irritation: Tips for Reactive Skin

If your skin is extra reactive, opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic sunscreens endorsed by dermatologists or organizations like the National Eczema Association. Patch-test on your arm before facial use, and avoid products with alcohol or essential oils that can trigger inflammation.

7. Application and Reapplication: Making It a Habit

Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Use about a teaspoon for your face and neck, and don’t forget often-missed spots like ears and hairline. Incorporating it into your morning routine ensures consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular sunscreen during pregnancy, or do I need a special one?

You can use regular sunscreen, but it’s best to choose one free from harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, as these may cause irritation or be absorbed into the skin. Mineral sunscreens are often recommended for pregnancy because they’re gentle and provide physical barrier protection. Always opt for fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formulas to reduce the risk of sensitivity issues.

2. What SPF is best for facial sunscreen during pregnancy?

SPF 30 is the minimum for daily protection, but SPF 50 or higher is ideal, especially if you have fair skin or are spending extended time outdoors. Higher SPF offers more coverage against UVB rays, but remember that no sunscreen blocks 100% of rays—reapplication every two hours is key for consistent protection.

3. How often should I reapply facial sunscreen when pregnant?

Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming, sweating, or wiping your face. Pregnancy can increase skin sensitivity and sun susceptibility, so consistent reapplication helps maintain protection. If you wear makeup, consider a spray or powder sunscreen for touch-ups without disrupting your look.

4. Are mineral sunscreens better than chemical ones for pregnancy?

Mineral sunscreens are generally considered safer and gentler for pregnancy because they use physical blockers (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) that sit on the skin’s surface rather than being absorbed. This reduces the risk of irritation or systemic exposure. However, many chemical sunscreens are now formulated without problematic ingredients, so if you prefer them, look for oxybenzone-free options and patch-test first.

5. What should I do if sunscreen irritates my skin during pregnancy?

First, stop using the product immediately and switch to a minimalist, mineral-based sunscreen. Patch-test new products on a small area of your arm before applying to your face. If irritation persists, consult a dermatologist—they can recommend pregnancy-safe alternatives tailored to your skin’s needs.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right facial sunscreen during pregnancy doesn’t have to be overwhelming—focus on formulas that are gentle, effective, and free from irritants. From the invisible versatility of Supergoop! to the budget-friendly hydration of Neutrogena, there’s an option for every need and preference. Remember, consistent sun protection is one of the simplest ways to care for your skin during this special time, so pick one that feels good and makes it easy to stay protected every day.