Does Sunscreen Dry Out Your Skin?

As summer approaches and the sun is finally making a regular appearance, we’re seeing more clients reach for their sunscreen—and for good reason. At JE'DERM, we always remind our clients that SPF is a year-round essential, but let’s be honest: for many, daily sunscreen use starts to feel more urgent once the weather warms up.

Lately, a question has been coming up more often: could sunscreen actually be drying out my skin? And, it’s a fair concern.

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancer—but not every formula feels great. And if your skin is already dry or sensitive, the wrong sunscreen might be making things worse. Let’s take a closer look at what might be going on—and how to stay protected and hydrated all summer long.

The link between dry skin and your sunscreen

The idea that sunscreen could be drying out your skin might sound surprising, but it’s not completely off base. Some sunscreens can contribute to dryness depending on the formulation, skin type, and what else is happening in your skincare routine. This doesn’t mean sunscreen is bad for your skin.

On the contrary, it’s one of the most important tools we have in preventing sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. But it does mean you should pay attention to what ingredients are in your SPF and how your skin is responding.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Sunscreen: Chemical vs Physical

The type of sunscreen you use

There are two main types of sunscreens:

Chemical sunscreens

These use UV filters that absorb and disperse UV radiation before it can damage skin cells. While it was once believed that they strictly absorb UV and convert it to heat, research now shows that both chemical and mineral sunscreens can absorb and reflect UV rays.

Older chemical formulations with ingredients like oxybenzone could be irritating or drying for some people, but newer versions are more refined, often non-comedogenic, and better tolerated by a wide range of skin types.

Mineral sunscreens

Mineral sunscreens work by forming a physical barrier that protects against UV rays. These are usually less likely to cause irritation, and ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are often recommended for sensitive skin. However, zinc is also a natural astringent, which means it can absorb oil and may feel drying in certain formulations—especially if your skin is already dry or if you're skipping moisturizer underneath.

Zinc oxide may be contributing to your symptoms

Zinc oxide is one of the most effective ingredients for broad-spectrum UV protection and is often well-tolerated by sensitive skin. But it also has natural astringent properties, which means it can absorb oil. For oily or acne-prone skin, this is a benefit—but if your skin is already dry, that oil-absorbing action could leave it feeling tight or even flaky.

This doesn’t mean zinc-based sunscreens are bad, but it does mean that the full formulation matters. If you're noticing more dryness, try layering a moisturizer underneath or switching to a formula with more hydrating ingredients.

Related: The #1 Cause of Skin Aging: Why Sun Protection and SPF Matter

What are the best sunscreen options for dry skin?

Circadia Light Day Sunscreen SPF 37

Circadia Light Day Sunscreen SPF 37 is a lightweight chemical sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection while providing moisture and antioxidant support. It’s designed to feel weightless on the skin and wears beautifully under makeup, making it a great everyday choice—especially for those who want sun protection that doesn’t compromise hydration.

IS CLINICAL Extreme Protect SPF 30

IS CLINICAL Extreme Protect SPF 30 is a hybrid sunscreen combining physical and chemical filters for broad-spectrum protection. It’s infused with potent antioxidants and hydrating ingredients to help repair and protect the skin barrier, making it an excellent option for dry, sensitive, or post-treatment skin.

If you’ve noticed that zinc oxide formulas tend to feel drying on your skin, this can be a great alternative—it offers mineral protection without relying solely on zinc, and the moisturizing base helps support a balanced, comfortable finish.

Related: Summer Skincare Essentials for Healthy and Hydrated Skin

How to manage dry skin in the summer

Even if your sunscreen isn’t the root cause of dryness, summer conditions can still throw your skin off balance. Here’s how to stay hydrated and glowing:

1. Keep skin moisturized with a daily skincare routine

Dryness often happens when we skip steps or simplify our routines too much. Apply a moisturizer before your sunscreen to help maintain hydration levels throughout the day. If your skin tends to dry out in the heat, choose lightweight creams or hydrating serums that absorb quickly but offer lasting moisture.

2. Look for moisturizing ingredients in your daily sunscreen

Sunscreens that include ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, or squalane will not only protect your skin but also help reinforce its moisture barrier. Look for terms like “moisturizing,” “nourishing,” or “dewy finish” on the label—and avoid drying ingredients like high concentrations of alcohol, which can be especially harsh on dry or sensitive skin.

3. Avoid chlorine, and stay hydrated

Chlorinated water, sun exposure, and sweating can all sap your skin’s moisture. Rinse off after swimming, moisturize afterward, and make sure to drink plenty of water to support your skin from the inside out.

4. Additional factors that contribute to dryness

• Hot showers can strip the skin of natural oils.

• Overwashing or using harsh cleansers can disrupt the skin barrier.

• Indoor cooling or heating systems can reduce air humidity.

• Medications or skin treatments might have drying side effects.

• Age and genetics also play a role in how well your skin retains moisture.

If you’ve noticed dryness creeping in and you’ve just started being consistent with your sunscreen, don’t panic. It might just be time to adjust your routine—not ditch the SPF.

Visit JE’DERM skin atelier for a personalized summer skincare routine!

Everyone’s skin is different, and the best sunscreen is the one that works for your skin and your lifestyle. Book a consultation with us and we’ll help you find the right formula, adjust your routine, and get your skin glowing all summer long—without the dryness