Perioral dermatitis is acne breakouts around the mouth, nose, and eyes. And finding a product that can help your skin is not an easy task, especially sunscreen, the most basic thing you need in your skincare routine.

Based on our findings, we found out that there wasn’t much content or information on sunscreens for perioral dermatitis (PD).

So, we searched the internet and went through various social media platforms, forums, and communities to learn about people’s experiences with PD and how they found a sunscreen that was suitable for them and didn’t irritate their skin.

If you have perioral dermatitis, you will have to look for mineral and chemical sunscreens that are oil-free, non-greasy, replace makeup at some times and should be able to absorb into the skin quickly. Chemical sunscreens are also safe for sensitive skin; we did see people with perioral dermatitis use them.

Our product review contains both mineral and chemical sunscreens that are safe for all skin types, including perioral dermatitis.

Note: unlike chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreens will leave a white cast on the skin, but there are tinted sunscreens to choose from in this product review.

We chose each sunscreen not based on the price or brand but based on how commonly it was used by people with PD and how many times it popped up on our radar.

These sunscreens are also fungal-acne safe (still make sure to check it through an ingredient checker).

Note: we couldn’t fit all the sunscreens in this list, so make sure to check the end of this post for more sunscreens!

We found a total of 5 sunscreens that would be suitable for people with perioral dermatitis.

We are pretty sure you have seen Neutrogena’s Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Face Sunscreen somewhere when you were shopping online. Well, this sunscreen is soo commonly used and is so popular that at the time of writing this review, it was completely sold out from their website.

This is one of Neutrogena’s best-selling sunscreens and should be suitable for you if you’re looking for a budget-friendly skincare routine and daily use.

Price: $

Rating: 10/10

Colour: white

• The Sheer sunscreen dries with a non-greasy and lightweight finish. It helps to absorb, reflect and scatter dangerous sun rays.

• It is hypoallergenic (won’t cause an allergic reaction) and won’t irritate the skin.

• It does not cause breakouts.

• You can wear it under your makeup.

• It is a gentle, water-resistant (for 80 mins) face sunscreen and won’t sting the eyes.

• It does not contain parabens, phthalates, fragrances, and dyes.

• Thick and hard to apply.

• The white cast was another problem people had with this product.

• Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.

• Reapply after 80 minutes of sweating or swimming, immediately after towel drying, and at least every 2 hours.

• Active ingredient: Zinc oxide 21.6%.

• Inactive ingredients: Water, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Octyldodecyl Citrate Crosspolymer, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Dimethicone, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Glycerin, Ethyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Silica, Colloidal Oatmeal, Phenyl Trimethicone, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Tocopheryl Acetate, Feverfew Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice, Glyceryl Behenate, Phenethyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Sodium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.

• Key ingredients: you might have noticed Colloidal Oatmeal and FeverFew flower in the ingredient list above. These two ingredients help to reduce redness and skin irritation thus safe to use for sensitive skin.

• Before applying it to your face, conduct a patch test to see if you’re allergic to the product or if you break out from using it.

• before using it for your child, consult a doctor.

• Go to a doctor if a rash occurs.

• Do not use it on broken or damaged skin.

Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen is a 100% mineral sunscreen and has a neutral tint that gives a mattified finish to the skin and also makes it poreless.

Price: $$

Rating: 10/10

Colour: brown and has a light texture

• It has a sheer tint that helps to hide the white cast from a 100% mineral formula and allows it to blend across various ranges of skin tones, however it does not work for all skin tones.

• You can use this sunscreen if you don’t want to wear makeup.

• It is light and non-greasy.

• No white cast

• One review said that this sunscreen lasted them for a really long time.

• It can be used under makeup.

• does not cause any breakouts.

• Not really a con but there are reviews saying that you will have to rub it in and will take time for the sunscreen to blend in. It might look like skin pilling but it’s really not.

• One individual said that it was too dark for them and they would highly recommend the product if you aren’t pale. It has a brown colour and doesn’t blend well if you’re on the lighter side.

• Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.

• You can apply it after your skincare routine and before makeup.

• Reapply at least every 2 hours.

• Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 1.33%, Zinc Oxide 17.42%

• Inactive Ingredients: Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, C9-12 Alkane, Glycerin, Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Ethylhexylglycerin, Water (Aqua), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate (emollient), Silica, Stearic Acid, Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499), Hedychium coronarium Root Extract, Lactobacillus/Arundinaria Gigantea Leaf Ferment Filtrate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)

• Key ingredients: Hedychium coronarium root extract or Wild Butterfly Ginger helps to protect the skin from damage caused by blue light. Lactobacillus/Arundinaria gigantea Leaf or Bamboo Extract provides antioxidant properties to protect the skin from free radical damage

• Before applying it to your face, conduct a patch test to see if you’re allergic to the product or if you break out from using it.

• before using it for your child, consult a doctor

• Go to a doctor if a rash occurs.

• Do not use it on broken or damaged skin.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Water Lotion Sunscreen is very lightweight and absorbs into the skin because of its unique & refreshing, water-like lotion texture. It is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield® technology: broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants.

Price: $$

Rating: 10/10

Colour and texture: It is white in colour and has a watery silky smooth texture.

It is water-resistant (80 minutes) and does not contain any parabens, fragrances, or oils.

It comes in two SPFs: 30 and 60

• It absorbs quickly into the skin and does not leave a sticky or greasy feeling.

• It is non-comedogenic and does not cause an allergic reaction to the skin.

• does not cause breakouts.

• Some reviews say that this sunscreen lasted them for a very long time.

• leaves no white cast.

It may sting the eyes.

• Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.

• Reapply: After 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours.

• Active ingredients: avobenzone 3%, octocrylene 6%, homosalate 10.72%, octisalate 3.21%, oxybenzone 3.86%

• Inactive ingredients: Water, Dimethicone, Alcohol denat, Styrene/acrylates copolymer, Acrylates/dimethicone copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Propylene glycol, Caprylyl glycol, Sodium polyacrylate, Silica, PEG 8 Laureate, Acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, Edetate disodium, Tocopherol, Menthyl lactate, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Cassia alata leaf extract, Maltodextrin 

• Key ingredients:
  • Vitamin E: helps to neutralize damaging free radicals
  • Dimethicone: It is a skin protectant that helps to reduce water loss
  • Perlite: a powder that is able to absorb water or oil and is known to provide a matte finish on the skin
  • Silica: a type of powder that provides a silky feel and soft-focus effect. It is lightweight and is able to absorb a significant amount of oil from the skin, and 
  • La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water: soothing water that contains a unique combination of minerals, trace elements, and a high concentration of selenium, a natural antioxidant.

• Before applying it to your face, conduct a patch test to see if you’re allergic to the product or if you break out from using it.

• before using it for your child, consult a doctor

• Go to a doctor if a rash occurs.

• Do not use it on broken or damaged skin

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a dermatologist-recommended mineral sunscreen that is sheer, lightweight, and oil-free.

Price: $$$

Rating: 10/10

Colour: white

EltaMD UV Clear is formulated for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation skin types. It does not contain dyes, fragrances, gluten, oil, and parabens,

It is sensitivity-free and non-comedogenic.

• Calms and protects acne-prone skin

• No white cast

• Improves sun-damaged skin

• Great to wear under makeup

None.

• Apply to face and neck 15 minutes before sun exposure

• Reapply at least every 2 hours

• Active Ingredients: 9.0% Zinc oxide, 7.5% Octinoxate

• Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water, Cyclomethicone, Niacinamide, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lactic Acid, Oleth-3 Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Butylene Glycol, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane.

• Ingredient Insights:
  • Zinc Oxide: Natural mineral compound that works as a sunscreen agent by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays
  • Niacinamide (vitamin B3): Anti-inflammatory that reduces redness and minimizes the appearance of dry or damaged skin
  • Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid): humectant
  • Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E): protects the skin

• Before applying it to your face, conduct a patch test to see if you’re allergic to the product or if you break out from using it.

• before using it for your child, consult a doctor

• Go to a doctor if a rash occurs.

• Do not use it on broken or damaged skin

Hero cosmetics Superlight Sunscreen is a 100% mineral sunscreen that won’t clog pores and is perfect to use for all skin types including acne-prone skin and sensitive skin

Price: $$

Rating: 10/10

Colour and texture: green and light texture

• Reef safe
• 100% mineral
• Fragrance-free
• Silicone-free
• Non-irritating

• The sheer green tint helps to balance signs of redness

• Does not sting the eyes (will depend on the individual)

• No white cast

• It does not cause breakouts

• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic

• It’s light and non-greasy making it absorb into the skin quickly

• It acts as a light primer and can be used under makeup

One individual said that if you live in an area with high humidity it will stay creamy & movable for longer than 15 minutes.

Apply in the AM as the last step of your skincare routine. Reapply every 2 hours (or after swimming or sweating).

Zinc Oxide 17.53%, Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, C13-15 Alkane, Propanediol, C15-19 Alkane, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Ectoin, Abyssine Ferment Extract, Madagascar Extract, Ipomoea Batatas (Purple Sweet Potato) Root Extract, Raspberry Seed Oil, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Red Algae Extract, Turmeric Leaf Extract, Neem Flower Extract, Neem Leaf Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Holy Basil Leaf Extract, Rice Hull Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Ivy Gourd Fruit Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Bisabolol, Amber Powder, Coco-Glucoside, Glucose, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Arachidyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Silica, t-Butyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Citrate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Behenyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Polyglycerin-3, Polyglyceryl-3 Lactate/Laurate Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide, Lysine, Sodium Phytate, Citric Acid, Inositol, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces Lysate, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol.

Key ingredients:

• 17.53% Zinc Oxide (Non-Nano)UVA & UVB shield
• Green Surge: Antioxidant superfood botanicals
• Extremolytes: Naturally defensive bio-ingredients

• Before applying it to your face, conduct a patch test to see if you’re allergic to the product or if you break out from using it.

• before using it for your child, consult a doctor

• Go to a doctor if a rash occurs.

• Do not use it on broken or damaged skin

• For lighter skin tones: if you’re someone with a lighter skin tone, then you should go for:
  • Mineral sunscreens: Neutrogena’s Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Face Sunscreen, Elta MD UV Clear, or Hero cosmetics Superlight Sunscreen.
  • Chemical sunscreens: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Water Lotion Sunscreen.

Our recommendation: You can go for Neutrogena if your PD is not that severe. You can go for Hero if you are prone to breakouts and have redness around the mouth, nose, and eyes, or La Roche-Posay which is a water-based sunscreen that will absorb into your skin easily.

• For darker skin tones: if you’re someone with a darker skin tone, then you should go for:
  • Mineral sunscreens: Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen, or Hero cosmetics Superlight Sunscreen.
  • Chemical sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Water Lotion Sunscreen.

Our recommendation: go for Supergoop! if you don’t want makeup or if your makeup irritates you. Hero for breakouts and redness or La Roche-Posay if you want a sunscreen that quickly absorbs into your skin and does not make your skin shine a lot.

The Cetaphil Liquid Sunscreen is a mineral sunscreen that is pretty affordable and can be a really option for your first sunscreen.

Price: $

Rating: 10/10

Colour and texture: white and has a light texture

• It is suitable for all skin types including super-sensitive skin.

• It is light and non-greasy.

• It can be used under makeup.

• It defends against dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and a weakened skin barrier.

Can leave a white cast.

Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure, and apply at least every 2 hours.

• Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 12% (Sunscreen)

• Inactive Ingredients: Allantoin, Bisabolol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Caprylyl Glycol, Caprylyl Methicone , Dimethicone, Dimethiconol/Propylsilsesquioxane/Silicate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol , Isododecane, Lauryl Peg-10 Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)Silylethyl Dimethicone, Lauryl Peg-8 Dimethicone, Niacinamide, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate , Peg-10, Phenoxyethanol , Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Propanediol , Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Trilaureth-4 Phosphate, Water.

The Unseen Sunscreen is a chemical sunscreen, it’s invisible and leaves behind a natural finish, and is great for all skin types.

Price: $$

Rating: 10/10

Colour and texture: white and has a light texture

• It is a primer that you can use under foundation when you want a little more coverage, or on its own, if you want a more natural look.

• It is light and non-greasy.

• It is suitable for all skin types including super-sensitive skin (based on reviews).

• No white cast.

• Zero irritation.

• Does not cause any breakouts.

We couldn’t find any cons to this product.

Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure, reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating immediately after towel drying, and at least every 2 hours.

• Before applying it to your face, conduct a patch test to see if you’re allergic to the product or if you break out from using it.

• before using it for your child, consult a doctor

• Go to a doctor if a rash occurs.

• Do not use it on broken or damaged skin

• Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, 3%, Homosalate 8%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 4%

• Inactive Ingredients: Isododecane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polyester-7, Lithothamnion Calcareum Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Isohexadecane, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Meadowfoam Estolide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Shea Butter, Jojoba Esters, Mannitol, Olibanum, Lecithin, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth, Zinc Sulfate, Silica, Tocopherol

• Key ingredients: Frankincense (anti-inflammatory) and Complex Derived from Meadowfoam Seed (increases hydration levels).

All skin types and colours can benefit from these 2 sunscreens.

If you want a product that is both budget and skin-friendly, then go for Cetaphil as it has a lot of positive reviews. You can go for unseen sunscreen if you don’t want to wear makeup or if your makeup irritates you.

• A:
  • Acwell Dermild Fresh Sun Control Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ 
  • Actinica Lotion
  • A’pieu Soo Boo Ji Sun Cotton SPF 50+
  • Avene Very High Protection Cleanance Sunscreen SPF50+
  • Avene Bundeswehr Sonnencreme Spf 30

• B:
  • Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance-Free Face Sunscreen Lotion
  • Bioderma Photoderm Kid Mousse SPF 50+
  • Bioderma Photoderm Kid Spray SPF50+ 200ml
  • Bioderma Photoderm Max Spray SPF50+ 200ml

• C:
  • Cetaphil Sun Kids Liposomal Lotion SPF 50+ 
  • Cerave AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen (for dry skin)
  • Childs Farm 50+ SPF sun cream Unfragranced

• D:
  • Daylong Face Sensitive SPF 30 Light Gel Fluid (green colour)
  • Drmtly Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46

• E:
  • Eucerin Sun Advanced Hydration SPF 50 Sunscreen (for dry skin)
  • EltaMD UV Aero Broad-Spectrum SPF 45
  • Elizavecca Milky Piggy Sun Great Block Stick SPF 50+

• H:
  • Heliocare XF Gel SPF 50
  • Heliocare 360 Water Gel SPF 50+
  • Heliocare Gel Ultra SPF 90 
  • Hada Labo UV White Creamy Gel SPF 50 Pa+++

• I:
  • Ivatherm Sunlight Dry Touch SPF50+
  • Isehan Kiss Me & Free Sensitivity UV Gel SPF 49 PA+++ (contains Polyhydroxystearic Acid)

• L:
  • Laboratoire ACM Sensitélial Sunscreen Gel Spf 50
  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVmune 400 Tinted Fluid
  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-shine (good for oily skin)
  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Sensitive Eyes Innovation Non-Perfumed Cream SPF 50+
  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Hydrating (Moisturizing) Cream Fragrance-Free SPF50+
  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Hydrating (Moisturizing) Tinted Cream SPF50+

• M:
  • Missha All Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel SPF50+/PA++++
  • Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+

• N:
  • No. 7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Fragrance-Free Day Cream SPF 30
  • Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50

• P:
  • Pharmaceris S Medi Acne Protect Cream SPF50+
  • Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun SPF 50+ PA++++
  • Purito Comfy Water Sun Block 60ml – SPF 50+ PA++++
  • Paula’s Choice Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
  • Paula’s Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
  • Paula’s Choice Ultra-Sheer Daily Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 30
  • Paula’s Choice CLEAR Ultra-Light Hydrating Fluid SPF 30

• R:
  • Riemann P20 Sun Cream For Kids SPF50+

• S:
  • SOS SPF 50 Sun Cream
  • Shiseido Senka Aging Care UV Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ 
  • Scinic Enjoy Super Mild Sun Essence SPF 50
  • SVR Sebiaclear Créme SPF50
  • Skin Aqua UV super moisture gel 50+ PA+++
  • Skin Aqua UV moisture Milk SPF50+ PA+++
  • Sunplay Baby Milk SPF 34 PA+++
  • Sundance Med Ultra Sensitive Kids (spray)
  • Sundance MED Ultra Sensitive Sonnenfluid LSF50+
  • Sundance Med Creamgel Ultra Sensitive LSF50+

• T:
  • Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35

• U:
  • Uriage Hyseac Fluid SPF 50+
  • Uriage Bariesun Mat Fluid Spf 50+

• V:
  • Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water Hydrating SPF 50

• W:
  • Wellage Real Hyaluronic Capsule Sun Gel SPF50 PA++++ (contains polyhydroxystearic acid and stearic acid)

• Y:
  • Yadah Oh My Sun Slush SPF50+/PA+++

• A:
  • Aveeno – Positively Mineral Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
  • Avene – Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Attitude – Baby & Kids Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

• B:
  • Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF30
  • Banana Boat Sensitive 100% Mineral Face Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50+
  • Banana Boat Natural Reflect Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50+
  • Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sports Sunscreen Stick SPF 30
  • Badger Balm – Active Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 35

• C:
  • Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral SPF 30 and 50
  • COTZ prime & protect tinted SPF 40 (there is the untinted version)
  • COTZ Sensitive Mineral sunscreen SPF 40 (untinted)
  • Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Drops

• D:
  • DERMA E Sun Defense Mineral Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 30 (Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate and Polyhydroxystearic Acid)

• F:
  • Farmacy Green Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

• L:
  • Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+

• M:
  • MyChelle Dermaceuticals Sun Shield Liquid Tint Spf 50

• S:
  • Supergoop! CC Screen SPF 50
  • Skinmedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 32 (Tinted)

• T:
  • Tizo AM Replenish Lightly Tinted SPF 40 (lightly tinted)
  • Tizo 3 Facial/Primer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 (tinted) 
  • Tizo 2 Facial/Primer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 (non-tinted)