Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through our links. Read our full disclosure.
If you have dry skin, applying most sunscreens feels like putting chalk on a desert. They cling to dry patches, emphasize texture, and leave your face feeling tight and uncomfortable all day.
You shouldn't have to choose between protection and hydration. The best sunscreens for dry skin act like rich moisturizers, packed with ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Squalane.
We evaluated 35 hydrating sunscreens to find the ones that leave you dewy, glowing, and protected.
📖 Table of Contents
🏆 Quick Top Picks
Best Drugstore
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral
Packed with ceramides to repair the barrier.
View on Amazon →📊 Comparison Table
| Product | Finish | Key Ingredient | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supergoop! Glowscreen | Dewy/Pearl | Hyaluronic Acid | $38 |
| CeraVe Hydrating Mineral | Natural | 3 Ceramides | $15 |
| Beauty of Joseon | Dewy | Rice Extract | $18 |
| Neutrogena Hydro Boost | Fresh | Hyaluronic Acid | $14 |
| EltaMD UV Daily | Satin | Sodium Hyaluronate | $36 |
| Black Girl Sunscreen | Radiant | Jojoba Oil | $16 |
| La Roche-Posay Melt-In | Velvet | Thermal Water | $25 |
| Aveeno Protect + Hydrate | Soft | Oat | $10 |
| Paula's Choice Resist | Dewy | Antioxidants | $35 |
| Kinship Self Reflect | Glow | Turmeric | $26 |
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40
Best for: Dull, dry skin that needs a makeover.
Why we love it: This isn't just sunscreen; it's a highlighter. It has a pearlescent finish that instantly makes dry skin look "glassy" and hydrated. It's packed with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5 to plump skin.
Pros:
- Instant glow
- Doubles as primer/makeup
- Blue light protection
Cons: Can look too shiny on oily noses.
2. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Best for: Sensitive dry skin & eczema.
Why we love it: Like all CeraVe products, this is built around 3 essential ceramides that help restore the skin's natural barrier. It locks in moisture and keeps irritants out. It's a physical sunscreen, so it's very gentle.
Pros:
- Barrier repairing
- Fragrance-free
- Budget friendly
Cons: Can leave a slight white cast on dark skin.
3. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics
Best for: Lightweight hydration.
Why we love it: The internet is obsessed with this for a reason. It contains 30% Rice Extract and ferments that nourish the skin without being heavy. It feels like a light moisturizer and sinks in instantly with zero cast.
Pros:
- Feels like water
- Soothing
- Cruelty-free
Cons: Often sold out.
4. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50
Best for: People who hate the feeling of cream.
Why we love it: It delivers a massive dose of hydration using Hyaluronic Acid but absorbs cleanly without a greasy residue. It quenches dry skin instantly.
Pros:
- Cooling sensation
- Water-resistant
- Very affordable
Cons: Strong fragrance (blue bottle).
5. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
Best for: Dark skin tones with dryness.
Why we love it: Created specifically to leave zero white cast on melanin-rich skin. It's packed with Jojoba and Avocado oils, making it incredibly moisturizing. It doubles as a daily lotion.
Pros:
- Absolutely clear
- Very moisturizing
- Water-resistant
Cons: Can be too greasy for T-zones.
Buying Guide for Dry Skin
When shopping for SPF, scan the ingredient list for these hydrators:
- Hyaluronic Acid / Sodium Hyaluronate: Draws water into the skin.
- Ceramides: Seals cracks in the skin barrier.
- Glycerin: A classic humectant that keeps skin soft.
- Squalane: A lightweight oil that mimics natural sebum.
Avoid: "Matte" finishes, Alcohol Denat (drying alcohol), and powders.
💧 Hydration Tips
1. Layering: Apply your Vitamin C serum, then a rich moisturizer, AND then your hydrating sunscreen. Dry skin needs layers.
2. Don't rub too hard: Pat your sunscreen in. Rubbing can cause dry skin to flake or "pill".
3. Reapply with a mist: If re-applying lotion ruins your makeup, use a hydrating SPF mist to refresh your glow.
🔗 Related Articles
Final Thoughts
Dry skin needs protection that doubles as skincare. Supergoop! Glowscreen is our top pick for that "lit-from-within" look, while CeraVe is the reliable choice for skin health. Whichever you choose, your dry patches will thank you.