Top 11 Best Sunscreen for Pregnancy

Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is always important, but it becomes even more critical during pregnancy. With changing hormones and increased sensitivity, finding the right sunscreen can be a challenge. That's why we've researched and tested several options to identify the best sunscreen for pregnancy.

When it comes to sunscreen, there are two primary types: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays, while physical sunscreens create a barrier on the skin to reflect and scatter the rays. During pregnancy, physical sunscreens are the safer choice because they contain mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are less likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream.

When selecting a sunscreen for pregnancy, it's essential to look for products that are labeled "broad-spectrum," meaning they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. It's also crucial to choose a sunscreen with a high SPF, ideally 30 or higher. Additionally, pay attention to the ingredients and avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and retinyl palmitate, which have been linked to potential health risks.

After researching and testing multiple options, we've identified the best sunscreen for pregnancy that meets all of these criteria and more.

Top 3 Best Sunscreens for Pregnancy

1. Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30
2. Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40
3. Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

As expectant mothers, we understand the importance of taking care of our skin during pregnancy. With the increased sensitivity and potential risks associated with sun exposure, finding the right sunscreen is crucial. That's why we've compiled a list of the best sunscreens for pregnancy on Amazon. These products have been carefully selected based on their effectiveness, safety, and overall customer satisfaction. Whether you're spending time outdoors or just running errands, these sunscreens will provide the protection you need without compromising your health or the health of your baby.

We highly recommend the Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30. It is a 100% mineral-based sunscreen that is safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding 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

The Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30 is a great option for those looking for a natural and non-toxic sunscreen that is safe for pregnancy. The mineral-based formula provides excellent sun protection and is free from harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate.

The sunscreen is also enriched with organic ingredients like rose extract and jojoba oil, which help to soothe and nourish the skin. The SheerTech ZincTM technology provides sheer, non-comedogenic coverage that allows your skin to shine through without clogging pores.

However, some users have reported that the sunscreen may leave a white cast if not rubbed in properly. It can also be difficult to blend in, especially for those with oily skin types.

Overall, if you're looking for a natural and safe sunscreen for pregnancy, the Evereden Sheer Botanical Face Sunscreen SPF 30 is definitely worth considering.

We highly recommend Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40 for pregnant women looking for a safe and 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

Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40 is a great choice for pregnant women who want to protect their skin from the sun's harmful rays without exposing themselves or their babies to harmful chemicals. The lotion is made with organic red raspberry seed oil and pomegranate seed oil, which provide natural UV protection.

The sunscreen is also free of harmful chemicals, including chemical sunscreens, dimethicone, artificial fragrance, and nano particles. This makes it a great choice for pregnant women who are concerned about the potential risks associated with these ingredients.

One potential downside of Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40 is that it can leave a white residue if not rubbed in properly. The thick texture of the lotion can also make it difficult to spread evenly. Additionally, the sunscreen may require frequent reapplication, especially if you are sweating or swimming.

Overall, we think Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40 is a great choice for pregnant women who want to protect their skin from the sun's harmful rays in a safe and effective way.

If you're looking for a vegan, chemical-free sunscreen that's also reef-friendly, the Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion might be the one for you.

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.

We recently tried the Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion and were impressed with its performance. The lotion is easy to apply and doesn't leave a greasy residue. We appreciated the fact that it's chemical-free and reef-friendly, making it a great choice for the environmentally conscious.

The sunscreen provides excellent protection from the sun, and we didn't experience any sunburns or skin irritation while using it. The lotion is also water-resistant, so it's perfect for beach days or other outdoor activities.

One thing to note is that the sunscreen has a white tint, which might not be suitable for those with darker skin tones. However, we found that it blends in well after a few minutes of rubbing it in.

Overall, we would recommend the Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion to anyone looking for a vegan, chemical-free sunscreen that provides excellent sun protection and is also reef-friendly.

We highly recommend the HATCH Collection | Sunny Mama Body Sunscreen for pregnant women who want to enjoy the sun without worrying about harmful chemicals.

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

We were impressed with the HATCH Collection | Sunny Mama Body Sunscreen's clean, botanical blend that includes sunflower extract and chamomile extract. The sunscreen is fragrance-free and absorbs quickly, making it easy to apply and wear.

We appreciate that this sunscreen is formulated specifically for mothers and is free of chemicals that can affect the baby in the womb or while nursing. We also like that it provides daily UV protection while nourishing and hydrating the skin.

Overall, we believe that the HATCH Collection | Sunny Mama Body Sunscreen is a great choice for pregnant women who want to protect their skin from the sun without compromising their baby's health.

If you're looking for a sunscreen that's perfect for active days and safe for sensitive skin, Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 is a great choice.

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! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 and were impressed with its performance. The lightweight and hydrating formula absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a greasy residue. We also appreciated that it didn't leave a "white cast" like some other sunscreens can.

One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its water and sweat-resistant formula. We put it to the test during a day at the beach and found that it held up well, even after swimming and sweating. We also appreciated that it includes clean, antioxidant-rich ingredients like sunflower and rosemary leaf extracts that nourish and protect the skin.

While we enjoyed the light, refreshing scent of the sunscreen, some users may find it too strong. Additionally, those with very oily skin may find that the formula doesn't absorb as well as they'd like. Finally, we noticed that it left a slight sheen on the skin, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a matte finish.

Overall, we would recommend Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 to anyone looking for a high-performance sunscreen that's safe for sensitive skin and perfect for active days.

If you're looking for a sunscreen that's safe for pregnancy, Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is a great option.

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.

We've used Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray on many beach trips and have always been impressed with its effectiveness. The sunscreen provides great protection against the sun's harmful rays and is easy to apply. The Vitamin E in the sunscreen also helps keep our skin moisturized, which is especially important during pregnancy.

One downside to the sunscreen is that the spray can be messy to apply, so it's best to apply it in an open area where you won't get it on your clothes or other belongings. Additionally, if you don't rub the sunscreen in well enough, it can leave a white cast on your skin. Finally, the spray can be difficult to use on windy days, as the sunscreen can easily blow away before it has a chance to be absorbed into your skin.

Overall, if you're looking for a sunscreen that's safe for pregnancy and provides great protection against the sun, Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is a great option.

Protect your skin 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

We highly recommend Belli Skincare Pure Radiance Sunscreen SPF 30 for Face & Body for pregnant women who are looking for a safe and effective sunscreen option. The mineral-based formula is completely safe and free of harmful chemicals, making it perfect for all skin types, including babies and pregnant women.

The moisturizing ingredients in this sunscreen ensure that your skin stays soft and healthy, even after long hours in the sun. However, it may be drying when used with makeup and may leave clumps of residue if not applied properly. Additionally, the pale tint may not blend well for all skin tones.

Overall, Belli Skincare Pure Radiance Sunscreen SPF 30 for Face & Body is a great option for pregnant women who want to protect their skin from the sun without exposing themselves or their baby to harmful chemicals.

If you're looking for a sunscreen that's gentle on your skin and provides excellent protection, then La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60 is a great choice.

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.

We recently tried this sunscreen and were impressed with how well it worked. The formula is lightweight and easy to apply, and it didn't leave our skin feeling greasy or oily. It also didn't cause any irritation or breakouts, even on our sensitive skin.

One thing to note is that the formula may leave a slight white cast on your skin. However, we found that this wasn't a major issue, especially since the sunscreen provided such great protection.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality sunscreen that's gentle on your skin and provides excellent protection, then La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60 is definitely worth considering.

We highly recommend purchasing the Badger Mineral Sunscreen Combo for pregnancy due to its safe and natural ingredients.

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 is made with just a few simple organic ingredients that are naturally rich in antioxidants. It contains zinc oxide and vitamin E, which moisturizes, nourishes, and protects the skin. The sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 and 40 minutes, making it perfect for swimming and other water activities.

The best thing about this sunscreen is that it is reef-friendly and reef-safe, making it perfect for travel to Hawaii and Mexico. It is also cruelty-free and comes in 50% PCR packaging, making it a sustainable choice.

In conclusion, we highly recommend the Badger Mineral Sunscreen Combo for pregnancy due to its safe and natural ingredients. It provides effective protection from the sun's harmful rays and is gentle on sensitive skin.

We highly recommend the Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen for anyone looking for a pregnancy-safe sunscreen option that is gentle on the skin and the environment.

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 love how the Guards Up sunscreen is made with non-nano zinc oxide, which is the safest SPF active for our bodies and our oceans. The formula also contains antioxidants found in moringa seed extract and sea fennel extract that fight off environmental and blue light damage for protection against premature aging. The creamy texture of this sun block for face has a natural, skin-like finish—not too dewy, not too matte. And while the formula has a peachy hue to counteract the white cast common of physical SPF, it is not tinted but rather, virtually undetectable on nearly all skin tones.

To use, simply smooth an even, generous layer (about the size of a coin) of sun screen onto skin. Because mineral sunscreen for face acts as a barrier, sitting on the surface of the skin, do smooth it on—don’t rub it in the way you would a moisturizer. Use a light touch with this and any products you apply after to avoid makeup pilling.

Overall, the Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen is a high-performance, reef-safe sunscreen for face with a purpose. With clean, proven ingredients at skin-changing levels, we deliver facial sunscreen for sensitive skin with results that warrant restocking.

We highly recommend the Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen for pregnant women who are looking for a lightweight and gentle sunscreen that can be worn daily. Its sheer formula provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of skin cancer and early signs of aging. The serum-like formula applies easily to the skin and leaves a dry, matte finish that is ideal for use under makeup.

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.

We found that the Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen is a great option for pregnant women who are looking for a gentle, yet effective sunscreen. The formula is non-comedogenic, so it will not clog pores or cause breakouts. Additionally, the sunscreen is reef-safe, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Overall, we recommend this sunscreen for daily use to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

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, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen can protect against UVB rays, which cause sunburns and skin damage. For pregnancy, we recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, as this provides adequate protection without exposing you to unnecessary chemicals.

Broad Spectrum Protection

In addition to SPF, it's important to choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and can cause long-term damage, so it's crucial to protect against both types of rays.

Ingredients

When choosing a sunscreen for pregnancy, it's important to look for products that are free of harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. Instead, opt for mineral-based sunscreens that use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to physically block the sun's rays.

Water Resistance

If you plan on spending time in the water or sweating, it's important to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Look for products that are labeled "water-resistant" or "very water-resistant" and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Application

Finally, consider the ease of application when choosing a sunscreen. Spray sunscreens may be convenient, but they can be difficult to apply evenly and may not provide adequate coverage. Creams and lotions are typically easier to apply and can be rubbed in more thoroughly for better protection.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a safe and effective sunscreen that will protect both you and your growing baby from the sun's harmful rays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nivea sunscreen safe to use during pregnancy?

Yes, Nivea 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.

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?

La Roche-Posay offers several sunscreens that are safe to use during pregnancy, including Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free Sunscreen, Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen, and Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk. As always, we recommend checking the ingredients list and consulting with your healthcare provider before using any sunscreen during pregnancy.

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.