Post-laser skin is known for being sensitive and irritated, making it more susceptible to sun damage. Any doctor behind a laser will tell you it’s a non-negotiable to wear quality SPF in the days following your laser treatment. While many sunscreens are solid for daily wear, post-laser skin needs more TLC and enhanced protection. We rounded up our favorite trustworthy sunscreens to use post-laser to keep skin safe and soothed.
The Best Sunscreens for Post-Laser Skin
EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($52)
This recent launch from EltaMD is dermatologist tested to be suitable for post-fractionated laser skin and is shown to help calm damaged post-treatment skin. The green pigment also helps reduce the appearance of redness that often comes post-laser treatment.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 UV SPF 50 ($21)
La Roche-Posay’s Cicaplast Balm B5 is a beloved post-treatment skin soother, and they recently launched a version with SPF to help protect skin from the sun. The formula hydrates and helps heal dry, cracked, sensitive skin.
Alastin SilkSHIELD All Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 ($72)
When you think post-procedure skin care you think Alastin. This lightweight sunscreen melts into skin seamlessly making it a pleasure to use any day and it’s safe to use on sensitive or vulnerable skin, including post-treatment skin.
RoC Barrier Renew AM Face Moisturizer ($25)
This new launch from RoC is formulated using three barrier-essential building blocks that are safe for sensitive skin. It’s clinically proven to hydrate, brighten and smooth skin in 14 days, which is often just what you need post-laser.
Obagi Mineral Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($59)
Obagi’s medical-grade skin care is great for applying post-laser. The brand notes this sheer, fast-absorbing sunscreen is especially ideal for post-procedure skin.
Rodan + Fields SOOTHE Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 ($40)
Post-laser, you’ll likely be in the market for some skin-soothing ingredients along with sun protection. This lightweight sensitive skin-approved sunscreen is great for calming skin while reducing visible redness.
Avène Hydrance+ Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 ($40)
Dry, tight skin is one of the most common side effects post-laser, and this sunscreen is shown to soothe the tightness and discomfort that comes with dehydrated skin. Aloe vera and other skin-loving ingredients promote eight hours of hydration while protecting skin from UV.
Colorescience All Calm Clinical Redness Corrector SPF 50 ($155)
The proprietary formula and patented ingredient complex, BioSolace, instantly neutralizes the appearance of redness and soothes skin while providing SPF 50 protection, making it ideal for skin healing post-laser.