Top 11 Best Sunscreen for Pregnancy
UpdatedOctober 23, 2024
It is imperative to shield your skin from the sun at any time, but especially when you’re pregnant. For women who have altered hormones and organs as well as greater susceptibility, being selective with sunscreens is essential. That is why we have gathered and reviewed a few best sunscreen for pregnancy to help you with a choice.
When it comes to sunscreen, there are two primary types: These are; chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens penetrate the outer layer of the skin and therefore absorb the sun’s UV radiation while physical sunscreens sit on the surface of the skin and deflect the radiation. When pregnant, it is important to use physical sunscreens, because they are formulated with minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that cannot penetrate the skin layers and get into the blood stream.
Choosing the sunscreen during pregnancy is also important and it should be marked “broad-spectrum”, that is, it protects skin against both – UVA and UVB radiation. Another thing it is recommendable to consider is that the sunscreen should have a high SPF, preferably, 30 and above. Also, consider the contents of the sunscreen and do not use the sunscreen that contains oxybenzone, octinoxate and retinyl palmitate which poses some risks to the health of the users.
During pregnancy to ensure that the skin is protected from the sun we have searched for the best sunscreen for pregnancy that fulfills all the qualities stated above and more.
Top 3 Best Sunscreens for Pregnancy
- Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30
- Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40
- Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
All the ladies know that caring for the skin is crucial, especially when expectant. Due to the higher risks and over sensitivity to the sun, the right sunscreen needs to be identified at all times. That is why we have selected the top sunscreens for pregnancy available on Amazon below. These products have been chosen for their efficiency, protection, and customer satisfaction they provide.
Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30
Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30
Looking for a pregnancy-safe sunscreen? Evereden's SPF 30 has your back. It's all-natural, mineral-based, and packed with skin-loving organic ingredients like rose extract and jojoba oil. But watch out, it might leave a white cast if not blended well.
We especially like the Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30. This is non-greasy liquid sunscreen, free from chemicals and toxins that are hazardous to pregnant and breast-feeding mothers.
Pros
- Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 protection
- Made with non-nano 100% mineral SheerTech ZincTM technology
- Contains organic ingredients like rose extract and jojoba oil
Cons
- May leave a white cast if not rubbed in properly
- Can be difficult to blend in
- May not be suitable for oily skin types
For pregnant moms, it is advised to use natural sunscreen and one of the best non-toxic pregnancy safe Sunscreen is Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30. The mineral-based formula gives nice sun protection and does not contain any of the following chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate.
The sunscreen also contains the organic components such as rose extract and jojoba oil that work to calm and also condition the skin. SheerTech ZincTM story depicts sheer, non–comedogenic finishing that brings out the skin’s natural glint without skin breakout.
However, some users have complaint that the sunscreen may appear whitish if one doesn’t rub it in till it is absorbed in to the skin. It can also be challenging to do so, particularly for people with oily skin tones.
All in all, if you really want something that is natural and safe for pregnant women, the Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30 is again one for the list.
Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40
Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40
For expecting mothers, we would like to suggest the Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40 as the safest and most effective sunscreen.
Pros
- Provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Made with organic ingredients
- Reef-friendly and free of harmful chemicals
Cons
- Can leave a white residue if not rubbed in properly
- Thick texture can be difficult to spread
- May require frequent reapplication
One of the best quality sunscreen lotion is the Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40, this is recommended for pregnant women since it is safe and chemical free. This lotion contains the organic red raspberry seed oil and pomegranate seed oil has an added bonus of natural sunscreen.
The sunscreen is also unscented having no chemical sunscreens, dimethicone, artificial fragrance and nano particles. It is therefore a good option for use especially for pregnant women who are likely to be affected by these risks that come with these ingredients.
One possible drawback of the product is that it can be whitening if it is applied and massaged ineffectively. One major drawback of using lotions is that they are moderately to thick in consistency and this tends to make it challenging to apply evenly. Further, the sunscreen may need to be reapplied several times more often if you are sweating or swimming.
In conclusion, Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40 is an excellent pick for pregnant women to shield their skin from UV rays without exposing it to chemicals.
If you are searching for a vegan chemical-free and a great option for the reefs kind of sunscreen, then the Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion should be considered.
Pros
- The mineral-based formula provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection from UVA/UVB rays.
- It's lightweight, silky, and leaves a matte finish.
- The sunscreen is cruelty-free, gluten-free, and Hawaii 104 Reef Act compliant.
Cons
- The white tint is normal, but it might not be suitable for those with darker skin tones.
- It might take a while to rub in due to the mineral-based formula.
- The 3 oz. bottle might not last long if you use it frequently.
The Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion which we recently tested and noted improved results is a great option. This lotion is convenient to use and does not result in sticking of the clothes or a feeling of having oil on the skin. This was welcomed with the fact that it is chemical free and does not harm the reefs, good for the environment.
The sunscreen offers a great protection from the sun and during our usage we did not find we had sunburns or any skin itching. The lotion is also water resistant meaning that one can apply it while going for swimming or other water-related activities.
The only drawback one should mention is that the sunscreen itself is of a white color, which may be quite unbeneficial for people with a dark skin type. On a comparative note, we noted that it merges with the skin after a few minutes of massaging it onto the skin.
In summary, we would like to advise anyone needing a vegan, chemical-free Sunscreen lotion which is reef-friendly and perfectly suitable to use with an SPF 50 to go and buy a Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen lotion.
HATCH Collection | Sunny Mama Body Sunscreen
HATCH Collection | Sunny Mama Body Sunscreen
All in all, we very much appreciate the HATCH Collection | Sunny Mama Body Sunscreen for any pregnant women who would like to bask under the sun without having to think about the bad stuff going into her body.
Pros
- Provides broad spectrum SPF 50 protection
- Contains natural and botanical ingredients that nourish and soothe the skin
- Hydrates the skin and reduces the appearance of stretch marks and scars
Cons
- The sunscreen may separate easily, requiring shaking before use
- Some customers have reported that the sunscreen has a strong smell
- The sunscreen may leave a white residue on the skin if not rubbed in thoroughly
As for the HATCH Collection | Sunny Mama Body Sunscreen, we loved its simple list of ingredients based on botanical ingredients such as sunflower extract and chamomile extract. It has no added scent and the lotion spreads well, easily penetrating the skin and does not feel greasy.
We would like to note that it is a sunscreen for mothers and contains no ingredients that can harm the baby before birth or during breastfeeding. We also appreciate the aspect of it affording the skin daily protection from UV rays as it moisturizes.
In conclusion, we think that the HATCH Collection | Sunny Mama Body Sunscreen is a perfect solution for any pregnant women who is in pursuit of skin protection from the sun, while not endangering the baby at the same time.
If you are in search of a sunscreen that is ideal for sunny days and appropriate for sensitive skin, you should consider Supergoop! PLAY Everyday
Pros
- Lightweight and hydrating formula that absorbs both UVA and UVB rays.
- No "white cast" and absorbs easily without feeling sticky.
- Water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes and includes clean, antioxidant-rich ingredients like sunflower and rosemary leaf extracts.
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with very oily skin.
- Some users may find the scent too strong.
- May leave a slight sheen on the skin.
We recently tried Supergoop! usually use to PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 and was quite satisfied with the product. It feels very light on the skin and does not cause one to break out since it does not contain oils that cause the skin to become oily. We also liked that it did not give the face what is known as a ‘white cast’ that most sunscreens tend to do.
Another advantage associated with this sunscreen is that it is water resistant to some extent as well as sweat resistant. We took it out for a trial on a day Hiking and realized that it only faded after swimming and even after sweating. We also also noted that it also contains ingredients such as the sunflower and the rosemary leaf extracts that free the skin from radicals while nursing it.
We particularly liked the fruity, non-greasy feel of the sunscreen, although it might be overpowering for some people. Furthermore, people with extremely oily skin might consider the formula to not set properly on the skin and this may not sit well with them. Last but not the least, it imparted a sheen to the skin, which may not suit people who like their skin to look non-oily.
All in all, we would advise to go for Supergoop! I recommend PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 to any person who would like to use a high quality sunscreen for their sensitive skin especially when they are going to be outdoors most of the day.
This is because Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is among the best sunscreens for pregnant women.
Pros
- The sunscreen is packed with Vitamin E, making it a great moisturizer for your skin.
- The spray is non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores.
- The sunscreen is Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant, so it's safe for the environment.
Cons
- The spray can be messy to apply.
- The sunscreen can leave a white cast on your skin if you don't rub it in well enough.
- The spray can be difficult to use on windy days.
For Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray, we have applied it in many beach trips and has always gotten good results. It is perfect for protection of the skin from the harsh rays of the sun and is very easy to apply. For instance, Vitamin E used in the sunscreen has the function of moisturizing our skin, although this is more vital especially for pregnant women.
The only weakness we can say about the sunscreen is that, the spray usually gets out of control when applying thus one should apply it where he or she will not spoil his or her clothes or other properties. Also, if one does not evenly apply the sunscreen or apply some quantities, it may le ave the skin with a white residue. Lastly, the spray can be somewhat inconvenient to apply when the weather is windy as it might dry on the surface of the skin before it can actually be absorbed into the skin.
In a nutshell, provided you prefer a pregnancy-safe sunscreen that is incredibly effective in defending your skin against the sun, Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is a worthy bet.
Belli Skincare Pure Radiance Sunscreen SPF 30 for Face & Body
Belli Skincare Pure Radiance Sunscreen SPF 30 for Face & Body
Stay protected from the sun during pregnancy with Belli Skincare Pure Radiance Sunscreen SPF 30 for Face & Body.
Pros
- Mineral-based formula
- Safe for all skin types, including babies and pregnant women
- Moisturizing ingredients
Cons
- Can be drying when used with makeup
- May leave clumps of residue
- Pale tint may not blend well for all skin tones
For pregnant women, we highly endorse Belli Skincare Pure Radiance Sunscreen SPF 30 for Face & Body as the best sunscreen. The product has no dangerous chemicals and is completely safe for all skins, even sensitive ones, for babies, and pregnant women.
It carries the moisturizing substances that keep the skin soft and healthy irrespective of the time someone has spent under the sun. Nonetheless, it is very drying, particularly if used on the face after applying makeup, and can also be messy if not touched up properly, leaving behind clumps of powder. Also, the pale tint is not ideal because it may not even out well for every skin type.
All in all, Belli Skincare Pure Radiance Sunscreen SPF 30 for Face & Body is a go-to for pregnant woman to shield the skin from the UV irradiation absent any components that would pose a risk to the unborn baby..
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60
For those who prefer skin-friendly and effective sunscreen, then La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60 is a perfect option.
Pros
- This sunscreen is gentle on sensitive skin.
- It provides excellent protection from the sun's harmful rays.
- It has a non-greasy, lightweight formula that's easy to apply.
Cons
- It's a bit pricey compared to other sunscreens on the market.
- The formula may leave a slight white cast on your skin.
- It may not be suitable for those with oily skin.
This is one sunscreen that we recently test and it gave us good results. The formula is lightweight, and this created a thin layer on my skin; it wasn’t oily, which I found impressive. It also didn’t produce any form of inflammation or acne on our facial skin that has relatively sensitive skin types.
Something that one needs to remember is while massaging this formula, it leaves behind a somewhat white cast on the skin. Yet, we realized that it was not much of a problem, mainly thinking that it was due to the wonderful protection the sunscreen offered.
All in all, in case you require a tremendous sunscreen lotion that is good for the skin and with good protection, then you should buy the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60.
Because of the safe and natural ingredients of the Badger Mineral Sunscreen Combo, we highly suggest that it should be bought for pregnancy.
Pros
- The sunscreen stick and cream are easy to apply and carry around, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- The mineral-based sunscreen provides safe and effective protection from UVA and UVB rays, without any harmful chemicals that could harm coral reefs.
- The sunscreen is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and gluten-free, making it gentle on sensitive skin.
Cons
- The sunscreen is quite thick, making it a bit difficult to apply.
- It takes a while to absorb into the skin, so it may feel a bit oily at first.
- The packaging is a bit hard to squeeze, which can be inconvenient.
The Badger Mineral Sunscreen Combo only has a handful of organic ingredients that are all chocked full of antioxidant properties. In its composition it is allowed zinc oxide and vitamin E that make it to be moisturizing, nourishing and protective to the skin. The sunscreen is also water resistant for 80 and 40 minutes for swiming and any other water related activites.
One advantage of this sunscreen is that it is non-nano and oxybenzone-free; thus, it is acquiable for Hawaii and Mexico trips. It is also not tested on animals and arrives in 50% post-consumer recycled materials.
Altogether, we advise the Badger Mineral Sunscreen Combo for pregnancy since the product has natural components. In fact, it supplies efficient protection from the sun’s damaging rays and is not harsh on the skin of people with sensitive skin type.
For those who are concerned about the kind of sunscreen they are using during pregnancy, we encourage you to try the Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen.
Pros
- Reef safe and mineral-based sun protection
- Non-greasy and lightweight formula
- Virtually undetectable on nearly all skin tones
Cons
- Zinc oxide sunscreen can be sensitizing for some skin types
- May leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones
- Slightly more expensive than other drugstore sunscreen options
We appreciate the fact that the Guards Up sunscreen does not contain nano zinc oxide which is the safest SPF active for our bodies and oceans. Much of the formula includes antioxidants such as moringa seed extract and sea fennel extracts that work to prevent effects of environmental and blue light damage and thus prevent aging. Still, this sun block for face provides a creamy texture which has a natural skin-like finish more on the poreless side but not too oxidized. And while, the formula has a peach tone to eliminate the ashy look usual of physical SPF, it is not fractionally peach but rather, completely invisible on almost all skin types.
For application, apply an even, thick serving of the sun screen a little more than the size of a coin on skin.
All in all, the Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen is a great, reef-safe facial sunscreen with a cause.
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen
For expectant mothers who seek a non-greasy and mild facial sunscreen, we highly endorse the Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen.
Pros
- The formula is ultra-lightweight and blends quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
- It is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free, making it gentle on even the most sensitive skin.
- The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Cons
- The sunscreen may leave a slight white cast when applied, especially if too much is used.
- Some users may find the formula too goopy for use on the face.
- The sunscreen is not as effective when used alone and should be paired with a moisturizer for best results.
Because of its sheer formula, it shields the skin from UVA and UVB and helps in preventing sunburn, skin cancer, and early signs of skin aging. The formula is more like a serum and has a light, non-greasy and matte feel on the skin that makes it gauge well when worn under make up.
From the above analysis, the Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen is an ideal sunscreen for pregnant women because it is gentle and effective. The formula is non-acnegenic which therefore will not block the pores or result in pimples. Furthermore, the sunscreen used is reef safe, a factor that makes it safe to use especially to the environment. All in all, this is a great sunscreen that should be used daily for sun protection to avoid the detrimental effects of the sun on your skin.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best sunscreen for pregnancy, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you are choosing a safe and effective product. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
SPF Level
SPF, which is an abbreviation for Sun Protection Factor, points to the extent to which the sunscreen can shield skin against UVB radiation impacts. As for pregnancy, it is suggested to use sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 because it will be sufficient for pregnant women without posing the risks of affecting the fetus with chemicals that may be included in other products.
Broad Spectrum Protection
Other factors to consider when shopping for sunscreen include the use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, which offers protection against both UVA and UVB radiation. UVA rays can go deeper into the skin and cause persistent harm, for this reason, one has to guard oneself against both types of rays.
Ingredients
Women ought to avoid sunscreen that contains oxybenzone, avobenzone, as well as other octinoxate during pregnancy. However, go for the sunscreens that contain mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that act as a barrier to the sun’s rays.
Water Resistance
In case you are going to be in or out of the water or expect to sweat a lot, you have to ensure you use waterproof sunscreen. Prefer the ones that have labels like “water-resistant” or “very water-resistant” and put on the product every two hours or after water exposure such as swimming or after exercising.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nivea sunscreen safe to use during pregnancy?
Yes, Nivea sunscreen can be safely used during pregnancy because their ingredients are safe for the developing fetus. It is, however, advisable to read the labels of any sunscreen you intend to use while pregnant and discuss with your doctor.
What are some pregnancy-safe sunscreen sprays?
Some pregnancy-safe sunscreen sprays include Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen, Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Spray, and Banana Boat Simply Protect Sport Sunscreen Spray. Again, we recommend checking the ingredients list and consulting with your healthcare provider before using any sunscreen during pregnancy.
Can Sun Bum be used during pregnancy?
Yes, Sun Bum sunscreen is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, we recommend checking the ingredients list and consulting with your healthcare provider before using any sunscreen during pregnancy.
Is Coppertone sunscreen safe for pregnant women?
Yes, Coppertone sunscreen is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, we recommend checking the ingredients list and consulting with your healthcare provider before using any sunscreen during pregnancy.
Which La Roche-Posay sunscreens are safe to use during pregnancy?
Some of the sunscreens recommended by La Roche-Posay for use during pregnancy are Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free Sunscreen, Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen, and Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk. However, as usual, it is crucial to read the composition and consult the physician before using any sunscreen while pregnant.
What are some pregnancy-safe sunscreens besides Supergoop?
Some other pregnancy-safe sunscreens include EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen, Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, and Badger Sunscreen. Again, we recommend checking the ingredients list and consulting with your healthcare provider before using any sunscreen during pregnancy.
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