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If you deal with acne, odds are that you think twice before applying anything new on your skin — the wrong serum, moisturizer, or makeup primer might cause a flare up. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable in all skin care routines — and the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin types will keep your skin calm and covered this season.
Summer can be a tricky time for those with acne-prone skin types: According to a 2014 study examining 452 individuals with acne, 50 percent experienced worsened acne during summertime due to increased sweating and humidity. To help manage the stifling weather, the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin types to wear during summertime are lightweight, non-comedogenic, and free of irritating ingredients.
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Regardless of your skin type, tone, or texture, sunscreen is vital for preventing skin cancer, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles. In fact, daily use of a facial sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 may reduce your risk of developing melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, by a whopping 50 percent, according to a 2011 randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. On top of daily sunscreen use, those with acne-prone skin should avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning bed use (which is currently making a return on TikTok, sigh). Beyond skin cancer and premature aging, sun exposure may exacerbate acne and worsen acne scars in the long term.
Rather than playing the mental game of “which is worse” when it comes to SPF — debating whether a lack of sunscreen, and the resulting burn, is worse than potential breakouts from sunscreen — shop our list of sunscreens that won’t trigger breakouts.
With the help of board-certified dermatologists Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Dr. Heidi Waldorf, and Dr. Rachel Nazarian, we’re sharing the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin. Keep reading for expert tips and answered questions, including what to look for in sunscreens for acne-skin and how to apply it.
Top Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin for 2023
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen
- CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
- Coola Double the Sun Bestseller Set
- Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40
- Mario Badescu Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Mele Dew the Most Sheer Moisturizer SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
- Neutrogena Clear Face Breakout Free Liquid Lotion Sunscreen
- EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46
- Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 Comfy Smooth Sunscreen
- Bliss Block Star Invisible Daily Sunscreen
- Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50
- PanOxyl Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30
- Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
- Isdin Mineral Brush Powder Sunscreen
- Chantecaille Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen
- Black Girl Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion
- SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50
- Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Body Shield SPF 50
- Dermalogica Oil Free Matte SPF 30
- Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30
- Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick
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The Best Concealers for Acne
The Best Face Masks for Acne-Prone Skin
The Best Acne Serums
The Best Pillowcases for Acne
The Best Skin Care Products for Hormonal Acne
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Mario Badescu Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Size: 1.5 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and glycerin
FYI, just because you have acne-prone skin, doesn’t mean you should skimp on hydration — especially those who are on Accutane. “A patient on Accutane or isotretinoin may have baseline oily skin, but while on it they will need a more moisturizing formula and not a drying one,” Dr. Waldorf explains. This Mario Badescu Mineral Sunscreen provides broad-spectrum sun protection while moisturizing the skin with proven hydrators like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
What reviewers say: “This is the best!!! I’ve been searching for a quality mineral sunscreen and this, is absolutely the one. It doesn’t really have a potent scent (which I prefer). Its incredibly smooth on the face and it covers every crevice there is while NOT leaving the white film or layer that most sunscreens do. It completely blends in your skin perfectly to give you a nice glow but not the oily shiny kind. The kind that makes you look like you’re sunkissed all day.”
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
- Size: 3 oz
- SPF type: Chemical and mineral
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
This drugstore sunscreen is a TikTok sensation: The product has over 9 million views on TikTok. Not only is the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion oil-free so you won’t break out, but it also contains three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to keep the skin moisturized without appearing greasy or sticky.
What reviewers say: “Use it daily in my morning routine. One pump is enough for my whole face. Doesn’t leave an oily residue and only has a mild scent like suntan lotion, but doesn’t smell for long. Keeps skin soft, but not shiny. Much better value and seems to work as well as more expensive moisturizers.”
Bliss Block Star Invisible Daily Sunscreen SPF 30
- Size: 1.4 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Blueberry, açaí, and green tea extracts; rose canina fruit oil
“Bliss Block Star Invisible Daily Sunscreen SPF 30 is an all mineral sunscreen with a universal tint to offer cosmetic coverage of any acne marks,” says Dr. Zeichner of this tinted sunscreen. “The gentle formula provides broad-spectrum UV protection and is loaded with antioxidants to help neutralize free radical damage.” To be specific, this pick houses a blend of antioxidants like blueberry, açaí, and green tea extracts, along with rosa canina fruit oil, which can help control excess oil and minimize the appearance of pores. It’s also cruelty-free and vegan.
What reviewers say: “This is THE BEST sunscreen EVER! I’ll be honest, I never was very fond of wearing sunscreen – especially on my face. It just made my skin feel so greasy and oily. Plus it usually smelled bad and left a very noticeable white cast behind. Yuck! But this sunscreen is so very different from any other sunscreens I’ve tried. Never once has it left my skin feeling the least bit greasy or oily. In fact, it leaves my skin feeling unbelievably soft and supple.”
Isdin Isdinceutics Mineral Brush Powder Sunscreen
- Size: 0.14 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Powder
- Key ingredients: Mica
Newsflash: Sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done beauty step. You need to reapply your SPF multiple times a day — especially if you’re outdoors or you work near a window. This Isdin Isdinceutics Mineral Brush Powder Sunscreen makes reapplication easier than ever. “This is great for my patients with acne who are concerned about flaring with reapplication of sunscreen over sweaty skin and makeup,” says Dr. Waldorf. “It’s a translucent powder with a matte finish that can be applied over makeup or on bare skin.” Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, mica, and iron oxides within the formula protect against the big three aggressors: free radical damage from pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. To use, simply sweep the brush in circular motions along your entire face to ensure the powder is evenly distributed.
What reviewers say: “I love the powder, it’s fragrance free, great for my sensitive skin, has sun protection and didn’t bother my eyes.”
Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30
- Size: 4 oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Moisturizing lotion
- Key ingredients: Allantoin, panthenol
Those on a budget will likely be drawn to the Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Absorbing Moisturizer. This lightweight option uses micropearl technology to reduce shine while also providing a full 24 hours of hydration. It’s also paraben-free, phthalate-free, unscented, sulfate-free, and dye-free, so sensitive skin types can use this without the fear of a reaction.
What reviewers say: “I have predominantly oily skin (so oily that my skin often feels like I never washed it only a few hours after cleansing it), so when I saw a moisturizer made for skin like mine from a brand as reliable as Cetaphil, I was stoked! It truly does clear away oil on the skin.”
Neutrogena Clear Face Breakout Free Liquid Lotion Sunscreen
- Size: 3.0 oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Purslane extract
One of Dr. Nazarian’s favorite sunscreens is the Neutrogena Clear Face Breakout Free Liquid Lotion. “It’s a good choice because it’s oil-free, but it’s also non-comedogenic and incredibly lightweight, so it won’t trap heat,” she explains. The liquid-lotion consistency leaves a matte finish on the skin so you won’t appear greasy post-application, and the formula is water-resistant for a full 80 minutes. It’s also fragrance-free, so sensitive skin types can rest assured they won’t experience any irritation.
What reviewers say: “I wear the 30 SPF Clear Pore and it works better than any other SPF product I’ve tried (and I’ve tried them all including more natural products). The other ones always caused the occasional huge cystic acne and clogged pores, especially in my t-zone. This products seems to dry up a potential cystic acne and contain it to a minor blackhead that comes right out.”
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen
- Size: 1.7 oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Dry-touch lotion
- Key ingredients: Silica and perlite
A great option for everyday protection, the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen will keep your skin shine-free all day long. It contains both silica and perlite to absorb excess oil and reduce shine long-term. In fact, a clinical study performed by the brand found that this pick reduced shine and oil by 46%, even in extreme heat and humidity (specifically in 98.6 °F and 80% humidity). And if you’re extra active during the day (or simply live in a hot climate), you can rest assured you won’t sweat this formula off — it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
What reviewers say: “My skin is majorly acne-prone. I could NOT find a sunscreen that would work it. I was discouraged because I wanted the benefits of sunscreen, but it seemed like my skin HATED sunscreen products. I reached for this at Ulta on a whim. First of all, the product is mattifying. It did not leave a white cast. It makes me skin feel soft, not tacky. And no breakouts! If you’ve just about given up on facial sunscreens, give this a try! Hopefully you’ll find this as pleasant & skin-saving as I have.”
Coola Double the Sun Bestseller Set
- Size: Two 6 fl oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Spray
- Key ingredients: Cucumber and algae extracts; raspberry seed oil
If you struggle with bacne during summertime, choosing a non-greasy sunscreen is one way to keep breakouts at bay. Coola’s Double the Sun Set includes two bottles of the brand’s bestselling Classic Sunscreen Spray, a lightweight formula that won’t clog pores. The mist also includes cucumber and algae extracts that soothe irritated, itchy skin, plus raspberry seed oil to bolster your skin barrier.
What reviewers say: “Incredible and my new favorite (and apparently my boyfriend’s favorite, as he keeps stealing mine). The nozzle dispenses a perfectly fine mist onto the skin. It’s instantly cooling and hydrating. It doesn’t leave any residue, it’s lightweight, it’s invisible, and leaves my skin protected and with beautiful glow!”
Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40
- Size: 1.5 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Ginger and bamboo extracts
After testing out this sunscreen option, I’m almost convinced that this Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 is my most effective pore-filling primer in addition to being a skin-saving SPF. The formula has makeup-gripping abilities that keeps my favorite foundation in place, no matter how long I’m wearing it or what the forecast is. To minimize the potential for a white cast from UV-fighting titanium oxide and zinc oxide, this formula boasts a sheer, neutral tint that complements most skin tones. It also contains wild butterfly ginger extract to protect against blue light, as well as bamboo extract to fend off free radical damage.
What reviewers say: “Some sunscreens tend to clog my pores and build up, cause rashes, give me deep underground zits that sit in my skin for 1-2 months (which are not common for me), build up in my wrinkles and cause zits there, make my hair horribly greasy, not actually protect me in wind/water, or not playing nicely under/over makeup during casual wear. That was until Matte Screen. This is a miracle for my acne-prone skin.”
Melé Dew the Most Sheer Moisturizer SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
- Size: 1 oz.
- SPF Type: Chemical
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide, willow bark extract, and vitamin E
The Dew the Most Sheer Moisturizer SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen is so good, it was recommended by two of the dermatologists we interviewed for this article. “This is the best sheer moisturizer with SPF 30, which has no mineral oil and contains a type of willow bark extract that I find helpful for those with acne,” says Dr. Nazarian. “It is an ultra light formula that rubs into the skin without leaving you feeling sticky or greasy,” confirms Dr. Zeichner, adding that the product also delivers antioxidant effects with vitamin E and niacinamide to calm, soothe, and brighten the skin.
What reviewers say: “I have been using this sunscreen for about a year now. It’s relatively on the cheaper side for sunscreen which is a plus. It is very hydrating and leaves a great glow throughout the day. I have oily skin and it does not cause me to break out either. It is a great product. Buy it.”
EltaMd UV Clear Broad Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46
- Size: 1.7 oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Lactic acid
Dr. Waldorf recommends that those with acne-prone skin try the EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen. “This is a perennial favorite for acne-prone skin,” she says. “Designed for people with acne and rosacea, this oil-free formula rubs in quickly, feels light, and contains niacinamide which is an anti-inflammatory that may even reduce sebum production.” What makes this formula extra special is its inclusion of lactic acid to reduce shine and clear pores, making it feel like more of a skin treatment than a sun protectant (it can be both!). EltaMd also offers this option as a tinted moisturizer with SPF, for those who like a little coverage.
Editor testing and review notes: “This EltaMd sunscreen is a foolproof option for my combination skin. It dries down to a demi-matte finish that blots away shine without causing dry patches. And it wears beautifully under makeup — almost like a makeup primer.”
What reviewers say: “After many many recommendations to try this sunscreen, I finally decided to give it a shot, and wow, I was blown away. This sunscreen is very hydrating, smooth, and does its job! It is creamy to the touch and blends into my skin. I primarily use this for my face and use it as the last step in my morning skincare routine. It’s perfect for travel and reapplying as the warm sunny days go on. Will definitely be buying and recommending this sunscreen going forward!”
Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 Comfy Smooth Sunscreen
- Size: 1.3 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Fluid lotion
- Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, and peptides
Kosas purveys some of the most popular beauty products on TikTok (the brand’s concealer has over 232 million views alone). The DreamBeam SPF 40 Comfy Smooth Sunscreen is a newcomer that’s already selling out at Sephora. Acne-prone skin types will love how this sunscreen repairs a damaged skin barrier over time — if your complexion is crumbling from all the acne treatments you’ve been using, this SPF’s ceramides and peptides will help restore your skin to homeostasis.
Editor testing and review notes: “Kosas DreamBeam is a formula I love to apply. Although it looks like a fully tinted sunscreen, the color payoff is so sheer that it doesn’t leave a line of demarcation on your jaw and by your ears. My makeup looks better when I wear this underneath.”
What reviewers say: “This is the BEST I’ve ever tried!!! It doesn’t feel greasy at all! And it makes your skin look glowy and hydrated! I have combination skin and this SPF is perfect for it!”
Related: Kosas Dreambeam SPF 40 Sunscreen Review
Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50
- Size: 5 oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Aloe, kaolin clay, and vitamins A, C, and E
For acne-prone skin types, Dr. Zeichner recommends sunscreen formulas with oil-absorbing ingredients like clay. Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50 delivers that and more: This lotion also includes aloe (a helpful redness reliever), plus a trio of vitamins that support collagen production, defend against environmental aggressors, and soften your skin. Best of all, this sunscreen has a whopping 5 ounces of formula, making it one of the best budget-friendly options on our list.
What reviewers say: “I really like this sunscreen for its lightweight feel and how easily it rubs in. It’s also perfect under makeup primer, with no pilling.”
PanOxyl Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30
- Size: 1.7 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Moisturizer
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, green tea extract, and caffeine
Anyone with acne is likely familiar with PanOxyl’s talents for clearing up pimples. The popular drugstore brand has an all-in-one daily moisturizer for oily skin types that works wonders on breakouts and blemishes, no matter the severity. The PanOxyl Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30 is a winning option because it absorbs breakout-triggering excess oils while defending the skin against harmful UV rays. As a bonus, it also contains hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture within the skin. “I love sunscreens [with] hyaluronic acid because it’s calming and good at hydrating skin, which is useful for those on an acne regimen since those have a tendency to dry out the skin,” explains Dr. Nazarian.
What reviewers say: “It really does keep your skin from getting oily, which is great if you have oily skin and are planning on being outside and getting sweaty.”
Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
- Size: 1.69 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Green tea extract, turmeric extract, vitamin E, ectoin
Hero Cosmetics is the brand behind some of the most popular pimple patches, and this Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen is equally adept at managing pimples and cystic bumps. The formula includes a trending ingredient called ectoin — the ingredient hydrates, soothes, and protects from environmental pollutants. Green tea extract and turmeric extract are two anti-inflammatory ingredients you’ll also get when you slather this on; together they can temporarily relieve redness associated with acne.
What reviewers say: “I absolutely love this sunscreen. My skin gets very red and this helps to reduce that. Also applies smoothly and leaves my skin feeling silky. It also doesn’t break me out and I have acne-prone skin!”
Chantecaille Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Primer
- Size: 1.3 oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Makeup primer and lotion
- Key ingredients: Cherry blossom, lemon balm, white tea extracts
Yes, this product pick is pricey, but it’s more than just sunscreen. In addition to protecting you from the sun’s harmful rays, this Chantecaille Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen is oil-free, delivers a matte finish, extends the wear time of makeup, and even offers anti-aging benefits. Cherry blossom, lemon balm, and white tea extract provide antioxidant effects to prevent discoloration, while carnosine helps to soften the look of wrinkles and firm the skin. It can be used either alone over moisturizer or under foundation as a sun-shielding primer. I’ve worn it before a day out, and I can attest to how it grips my makeup in place like no other.
What reviewers say: This is such a great sunscreen for my oily and sometimes acne prone skin. As a man, my skin tends to get very oily mid morning/early afternoon especially with sunscreen! This product doesn’t keep me oil free, but it prevents the sebum from beading up on my forehead. I’m super picky with spf and this is at the top of my list of faves!”
Black Girl Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
- Size: 3 oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Aloe and carrot seed oil
One of the biggest battles people face when it comes to sunscreen is the chalkiness and ashy finish that it can leave on deeper skin tones. This non-comedogenic option solves for all those concerns. Black Girl Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 dries completely clear, and it checks off the boxes for the eco-conscious shoppers: In addition to protecting your skin from the sun, this pick is also natural (ingredient call-outs include jojoba, avocado, and carrot juice), cruelty-free, vegan, and reef-safe.
What reviewers say: “I have combination, blemish-prone skin and use a variety of creams and serums to help fade dark spots left by healed acne scars on my back, chest, and face. However, I neglected using sunscreen on my face for decades, because the formulas were usually too heavy, caused breakouts, and irritated my eyes (especially waterproof sunscreens). Amazingly, Black Girl Sunscreen is perfect. No eye irritation, no acne breakouts, layers well with my other skincare, and dries completely sheer into my light-brown skin.”
SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50
- Size: 1 oz
- SPF Type: Mineral
- Formula: Weightless mousse
- Key ingredients: Translucent color spheres camouflage with all skin tones
SkinCeuticals is a dermatologist-favorite skin care brand. After all, their products tend to deliver on results time and time again — and the SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50 is no different. This all-mineral SPF protects and decreases shine on the skin with every use. In fact, the aerated silica technology is able to absorb up to 15 times its weight in oil, providing you with a matte finish, even in the most hot and humid climates. The translucent color spheres also even out your skin tone and and blur the look of any texture once you apply it.
What reviewers say: “It’s what I have always been looking for. I live in a very hot (and sometimes humid) climate and this product is weightless, clean and doesn’t cause white residue sweat. It’s an interesting consistency I have never seen before, but it’s smooth and silky.”
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Body Shield SPF 50 Sunscreen
- Size: 4 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Iron oxides, lipochroman, glycerin
The Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Body Shield SPF 50 Sunscreen is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic, so it can be used from head to toe for full coverage without the risk of breakouts. It also uses iron oxides to protect against your screens’ blue light, an antioxidant called lipochroman to fend off environmental aggressors, and hydrating agents like glycerin and jojoba esters. While this formula is colorless, deeper skin tones may like the bronze option.
What reviewers say: “I love the fact you do not get ANY white cast from this product. It’s has a slight tint, but blends beautifully. My husband (who hates wearing SPF) definitely prefers this body SPF over any of the other brands I’ve purchased. He has an olive complexion and it’s blended so nicely for his skin tone. I have fair skin and use this daily on my body. Purchase now!”
Dermalogica Oil Free Matte SPF 30
- Size: 1.7 oz
- SPF type: Chemical
- Formula: Lotion
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide and caffeine
Consider this pick a triple threat: Dermalogica’s Oil Free Matte SPF 30 acts as a sun protectant, while also improving skin health and providing a beautiful, airbrush-like finish on the skin. Caffeine is this formula’s secret weapon; it increases circulation in your skin to decrease puffiness and inflammation. Complete with a skin-boosting blend of niacinamide and biotin, your complexion will be both protected and nourished at the same time.
What reviewers say: “I can’t stand the feel of greasy sunscreens on my face, but this one is really great. It doesn’t leave a shiny finish, doesn’t make me look oily at all, it doesn’t feel gross on my skin, and doesn’t break me out which is very important for me with my very oily, very breakout prone skin!”
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick
- Size: 0.45 oz
- SPF type: Mineral
- Formula: Stick
- Key ingredients: Coconut oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera
Sunscreen reapplication is a breeze with the Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick. Providing both UVA and UVB protection, this option is ideal for on-the-go touch ups. It also contains vitamin E and aloe vera to soothe the skin after every use. While that’s all great news, my favorite aspect of this product has to be the summery scent that comes with it. It truly smells like the beach in a stick.
What reviewers say: “I burn very easily, but can surf for hours safely thanks to Sun Bum! It protects from the sun very well, but it doesn’t feel too heavy or clog pores / cause break outs (which is an issue I’ve had with other sun screens in the past!). I use it several times a week and am thrilled with the product. I tell everyoneRead more about review stating I am obsessed with this I can to use it!”
Can Sunscreen Cause Acne?
Sunscreen might not be the culprit. Hormones, diet, poor sleep, and stress are a few common triggers for those pesky bumps, so check with your dermatologist to understand what might be inflaming your skin. Serious cases of acne may require prescription medication.
Just like the wrong foundation can trigger a breakout, the wrong sunscreen can lead to acne breakouts. But the right sunscreens may actually help to manage your acne: If you incur a sunburn, your skin dries out, leading it to overproduce those breakout-causing oils. And that post-sunburn dead skin can build up and clog your pores, worsening the situation.
To select a sunscreen that won’t trigger your acne, “it’s all about the ingredients,” explains Dr. Nazarian. “Certainly some sunscreens may have a higher likelihood of causing acne, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t wonderful options available for people who have acne-prone skin.” Dr. Nazarian adds that the key to using SPF without risking breakouts is to make sure you’re choosing your products thoughtfully and always inspecting the ingredient label before purchasing.
Always look for formulas that are non-comedogenic and oil-free, which is typically listed on the product’s packaging. If you’re experiencing an active breakout, choose a formula that contains acne-fighting ingredients — you can find sunscreens that contain ingredients that are on par with what’s inside some of the best acne serums.
How to Get Rid of Acne From Sunscreen
If you’ve confirmed with your dermatologist that your sunscreen formula is triggering a reaction in your skin, the first step is switching out your formula (for tips on what to look for in the best acne-proof sunscreens, keep scrolling). When you apply sunscreen in the morning, choose a lightweight face serum or oily skin-friendly moisturizer to layer underneath, so that your skin doesn’t feel suffocated with thick, greasy products. Next, make sure you’re properly cleansing your skin at the end of the day with a face wash for oily skin.
Those who deal with acne on the regular should also be using specifically formulated products to soothe blemishes. Beyond cycling in the best spot treatments and pimple patches, you can manage your breakouts with acne-prone skin moisturizers, great foundations for covering breakouts, and concealers that can cover any blemish. But all of these products play second fiddle to the most important formula in your routine: Sunscreen.
What To Look For in the Best Sunscreen For Acne-Prone Skin
Luckily, those with acne-prone skin don’t have to choose between clear skin or sun protection — as long as you know how to shop. To make it easier, we’ve outlined the best rules to follow while scanning the sunscreen aisles:
- Look for non-comedogenic products: “The term non-comedogenic is reserved for products that have been tested and shown not to cause acne or clog pores,” explains Dr. Nazarian. “Although, oftentimes this is done with internal testing, and not externally verified.” Additionally, many products will label themselves as non-comedogenic if they are using ingredients that have been shown individually to naturally have a low risk of triggering acne. Regardless, non-comedogenic is a term to eye out.
- Choose oil-free sunscreens: “Look for options without lanolin, cocoa butter, mineral oil, coconut oil [and others]” adds Dr. Nazarian. Formulas without these ingredients tend to feel more lightweight and breathable on your skin.
- Search for formulas that contain acne-fighting ingredients: “Many sunscreens designed for oily or acne-prone skin actually contain ingredients that help absorb oil and minimize the appearance of pores,” says Dr. Zeichner. “These include ingredients like silica, certain silicon cross polymers, or other botanicals like clay or ash.”
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin
Sunscreens work two ways. Chemical sunscreens (with ingredients like avobenzone, homosalate, and octisalate) absorb damaging UV rays to protect your skin. Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which act like a mirror to reflect rays so they don’t damage your skin. “Both mineral and chemical sunscreens are absolutely fine for acne-prone skin,” Dr. Nazarian confirms.
Chemical sunscreens tend to be lightweight and less oily than mineral ones, however many brands are creating luxurious, breathable mineral sunscreens for acne-prone skin. “The mineral blockers tend to be a little bit more occlusive and heavy, and can often trap heat, so choose one that has a more cosmetically elegant feel and doesn’t feel too thick on your skin, such as the lotions or serums, rather than the creams or ointments.”
The Best Way to Apply Sunscreen on Acne-Prone Skin
As long as you’re applying sunscreen in the first place, you’re doing it right. That said, there are a few dermatologist-approved application tips that can help ensure your skin is safer than ever from sunscreen-caused breakouts:
- First, follow your normal skin care routine in the morning. “After patting dry, you should apply an oil-free antioxidant serum,” says Dr. Nazarian. These brightening serums will help fight damaging free radicals during the day, preventing the effects of future sun damage.
- “Then, you should apply your oil-free sunscreen,” adds Dr. Nazarian. This should be done at least 15 minutes before heading outside, as that’s how long it takes for your skin to absorb the product and be fully protected. After your SPF has absorbed, you can apply your makeup and start your day.
- Sunscreen should be applied every two hours, but if you’re sweating throughout the day, Dr. Waldorf has a tip: “The big problem for my patients with acne is applying sunscreen after sweating, especially if they wear foundation — the foundation pools around the pores and aggravates acne,” she explains. “So, I recommend carrying some pre-moistened makeup remover towelettes in a ziplock to cleanse the face after sweating, even if you’re not at home. By doing this, it’s easy to reapply sunblock with or without foundation, and reduce the chances of more breakouts from occurring.”
How We Chose the Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin
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To select the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin, we interviewed three leading dermatologists for their input on what to seek out in an acne-proof SPF formula, as well as their specific product recommendations. Our editors included the dermatologists’ product recommendations, and made sure that any additional products on this list meet their criteria for an acne-safe sunscreen. We also reviewed recent research on the connection between sun exposure and acne. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Joshua Zeichner: A leading dermatologist in the country, Dr. Zeichner is the Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Dr. Zeichner is also the medical advisor for the skincare brand Jori, which focuses on treating acne-prone skin.
Dr. Heidi Waldorf: After years of practicing all aspects of dermatology, Dr. Waldorf is an expert in aesthetic concerns ranging from skin rejuvenation to noninvasive fat reduction. With a steady stream of loyal patients in her local area, Dr. Waldorf also travels to speak at major aesthetic surgery meetings across the world, especially in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Dr. Rachel Nazarian: As one of the top dermatologists in New York City, Dr. Nazarian treats patients with a range of aesthetic concerns, from cosmetic procedures to skin cancer treatment. She also has written many published articles in medical journals and dermatology textbooks, making her a widely respected doctor among patients and fellow experts alike.
Meet the Author
Julie Ricevuto is a beauty and wellness journalist. She’s written for leading outlets like Allure Magazine, The Today Show, Glamour Magazine, and more. Julie brings the latest cosmetic news to the forefront, along with how-tos, scientific study breakdowns, and expert interviews. Ricevuto wrote the original version of this best sunscreens for acne-prone skin article.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits beauty, fashion and lifestyle stories. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, as well as the latest shopping trends and clothing brands. Sullivan contributed to the 2023 update of this best sunscreens for acne-prone skin story. Learn more about us here.