Sensitive Skin and Sunscreen: Finding the Right Match

Jun 13, 2025 Skin Care

Finding the right sunscreen can be a frustrating task for individuals with sensitive skin. Redness, itching, stinging and breakouts are common complaints when using the wrong product, even if it offers broad-spectrum protection.

For those with skin sensitivities, it is not only about UV protection, but also about what is not in the sunscreen. Fragrance, alcohol, certain preservatives and synthetic filters can all be potential irritants.

Brands like MooGoo and Altruist have created formulas designed specifically for delicate skin types. These products focus on hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (doesn’t block pores) and fragrance-free ingredients while still delivering effective sun protection.

This article explores how these brands cater to sensitive skin, offering insights from ingredients to sustainable practices, and links to user-trusted products available at Simply Meds Online.

The Challenges of Sensitive Skin When Choosing Suncare

Individuals with sensitive skin must be extra careful when choosing skincare and sun protection products. According to the NHS, sunscreen is essential for preventing sunburn, premature ageing and reducing the risk of skin cancer. However, many commercial sunscreens contain ingredients that can trigger irritation in sensitive individuals.

Common irritants include chemical UV filters, as well as fragrances and preservatives. Anyone with conditions such as rosacea, eczema or acne is especially vulnerable. The NHS recommends choosing sunscreens labelled as fragrance-free or hypoallergenic, and applying a small amount to test the skin before full use. You can read more on general sun safety from the NHS Sunscreen and Sun Safety guide.

For sensitive skin types, mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often gentler and sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed, reducing the likelihood of a reaction. Both MooGoo and Altruist offer products that offer all of these benefits.

MooGoo's Natural Ingredients

MooGoo is a skincare brand known for its use of gentle, natural ingredients that work well for even the most delicate skin. Their sunscreens typically contain non-nano zinc oxide as the active UV filter, which is a physical blocker that does not penetrate the skin. This makes it less likely to cause allergic reactions or clogged pores.

One of MooGoo’s standout features is its exclusion of parabens, synthetic preservatives and harsh chemicals. Instead, they use soothing ingredients like aloe vera, natural oils and vitamin E to keep skin calm and hydrated in the sun. This is ideal for people with eczema, psoriasis or sensitivities caused by other cosmetic products.

MooGoo is known for being non-greasy, fast-absorbing and effective without causing flare-ups. Parents often choose MooGoo sunscreen for children due to its ultra-mild formula and skin-friendly reputation. It is also ideal for everyday use, even under makeup.

Keep an eye on our website as we add more of the popular MooGoo products that have been created with sensitive skin and high levels of protection in mind.

Altruist's Hypoallergenic Formulas

Developed by a leading UK-based consultant dermatologist and skin cancer doctor, Altruist was created with sensitive skin in mind. Their sunscreen range is designed to provide high-level sun protection using hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formulas. Altruist sunscreens are fragrance-free, free from unnecessary additives, and suitable for all skin types including those prone to acne and rosacea.

Altruist uses Tinosorb S and M, which are highly effective UV filters that provide broad-spectrum protection without common irritants. Their formulas are often enriched with Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and supports skin recovery. Altruist suncreams do not sting the eyes, do not clog pores, and feel light on the skin. 

Explore the Altruist range at SimplyMeds Online to find the right SPF for your skin needs, whether you are looking for facial, daily wear or high-protection options.

Great Choices For Planet-Friendly Suncare

MooGoo's Reef-Safe Ingredients

In addition to being gentle on the skin, MooGoo sunscreens are reef-safe, which means they do not contain ingredients known to harm marine life, such as oxybenzone or octinoxate. For eco-conscious consumers with sensitive skin, this adds an extra reason to choose MooGoo.

Choosing reef-safe sunscreen not only protects your skin but also contributes to sustainable and ethical travel, as outlined in the Fit for Travel Sun Safety Guide.

Altruist's Sustainable Practices

Altruist is not only a brand that supports skin health but also one that cares deeply about social and environmental responsibility. A portion of their profits supports charities working to increase access to sunscreen in underdeveloped countries, helping to reduce the global burden of skin cancer.

Their packaging is also consciously designed, with minimal waste and recyclable materials used whenever possible. Altruist’s mission is not just about skincare, but about promoting equality in health access and being environmentally aware and active.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin

If you have sensitive skin, the key to choosing the right sunscreen is to look for:

• Fragrance-free or hypoallergenic labels

• Non-comedogenic formulas that will not clog pores

• Physical (mineral) filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide

• Minimal ingredients to reduce the risk of a reaction
   

Brands like MooGoo and Altruist offer safe, effective and skin-friendly options for everyday use. By understanding how different ingredients affect your skin and checking reviews from other users with similar concerns, you can find a sunscreen that suits your needs and feels comfortable to wear.

Here at SimplyMeds Online, we actively seek out products from trusted brands that offer you more. Both the MooGoo and Altruist collections are the go-to brands for those looking to maximise their UV protection without causing a sensitive skin flare-up.

We understand that dealing with sensitive skin can be difficult at times. Hopefully, this blog post and these products help make your day easier while keeping you safe when outdoors. Whether you’re staying at home or travelling this year, make sure that you research suitable suncare products for you and your family in advance.