I might have to start with bad news. There is unfortunately no a good reliable sunscreen that would be completely undetectable. To protect from the sun, a sunscreen needs to form a uniform layer on top of then skin (it’s super thin and breathable, but still, it’s there!).
But there are some really good lightweight formulations that I think most of us can leave with. What country are you from?
Thank you, so kind, would really be happy for your help! I'm from Sweden
I need to try this one! Linking the product: https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/evy-sunscreen-evy-daily-defense-face-mousse-spf-50
Many people with rosacea prefer mineral-based sunscreens. They usually use a combo of the ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as UV filters. These filters almost never cause irritation even for sensitive skin. Their disadvantage is in the texture and white cast - they tend to be slightly thicker and leave a whitish residue on the skin. There are good formulations though with added tint: the tint helps to mask the white cast and can even work like a primer / very light foundation. Maybe one of these formulation would work for you:
- https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/skinceuticals-physical-matte-uv-defense-spf-50
- https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/skinceuticals-physical-fusion-uv-defense-spf-50
- https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/avene-mineral-sunscreen-fluid
Still, people with rosacea can also use the second type of sunscreens, the ones with organic filters ("organic" here is a chemistry term meaning the molecule contains carbon atoms. Often these UV filters are called "chemical"). One needs to be a bit more careful with these sunscreens though because there are many organic UV filters, and some of them have a higher irritation risk than others. As a rule of thumb, non-US formulations (European, Australian, Korean, Japanese) tend to have more gentle formulas (with many exceptions both ways of course) because these markets have access to new generation UV filters. Still, if you find that your skin is very sensitive, a mineral-based sunscreen would be a better choice.
I personally use this sunscreen - I find it both very reliable and reasonably lightweight, but I do add a dusting of an SPF powder or normal makeup powder on top to take the shine off in the center of my face): https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/ultrasun-face-anti-pollution-fluid-spf50
Another option: https://whatsinmyjar.com/product/la-roche-posay-anthelios-invisible-spf50-fluid
I think it takes a lot of shopping to find one that feels good and that won’t irritate or leave a white cast….and isn’t crazy expensive. I still haven’t found one, but am still looking. Sometimes I just opt for a hat and sunglasses.
I love Coola. SPF 50, goes on like a light moisturizer, not shiny, and no burning of skin and eyes!
The only drawback is that it is expensive. But IMHO, it’s worth it.
Also, try MDSolarSciences, Mineral Moisture Defense 50. Says it’s for all skin types, “including acne/rosacea-prone and sensitive skin.” I’ve just started trying it and I’m impressed. It’s also 17% zinc oxide plus 2% titanium dioxide, which virtually meets a 20% minimum threshold for oxide ingredients for sun/UV protection. I especially like that it’s NOT thick, and blends easily into the skin. Best of luck!
Always feel sticky or shiny greasy