Ugh, acne. A struggle so many of us deal with, but can’t always seem to handle efficiently. With so many different conflicting view points and opinions on acne-fighting ingredients out there, it can be tough to find the right products for your skin that won’t cause more irritation or breakouts. Case in point: sunscreen. We have quite the laundry list of SPFs that we love, but not all of them are always suitable for acne-prone skin.
That’s why I figured it’s time to clear up all the confusion and ask the experts. I polled two board-certified dermatologists, Marisa Garshick, MD and Snehal Amin, MD on the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin. Below, you’ll find their advice on what ingredients to look for and the SPFs they fully endorse.
First things first, it’s important to choose a formula that’s noncomedogenic, meaning, it’s designed not to clog your pores. “Look for formulas that are oil-free to avoid clogging the pores,” Garshick adds. “While those with acne can use either mineral or chemical sunscreens, those with particularly sensitive skin may opt for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these tend to be less irritating. It can be helpful for those with acne to use a sunscreen containing calming or soothing ingredients such as niacinamide to help calm redness and inflammation. Given those with acne may also be using acne-fighting ingredients that can be drying on the skin, it can also help to use a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients to combat any potential dryness or irritation occurring as a result of acne treatments.”
Amin has a few other helpful tips to consider when selecting a sunscreen for acne-prone skin. “Labels like ‘noncomedogenic,’ ‘fragrance-free,’ and ‘oil-free’ are helpful indicators that your sunscreen won’t trigger a breakout. What many people don’t realize is that acne-prone skin is sensitive. Choose a mineral sunscreen rather than chemical sunscreen. Physical sunscreens, such as zinc and titanium dioxide form a protective layer on top of the skin that deflect UV rays. This is in contrast to chemical sunscreens which get absorbed into the skin and cause allergies and can irritate the skin. Active ingredients in chemical sunscreens commonly trigger breakouts and clog pores. This is especially true if you have acne-prone skin.” For each of their favorite SPFs for break-out prone skin, keep on scrolling.
“This is a great option for those with acne-prone skin. In addition to offering broad-spectrum coverage, it also contains niacinamide which calms and soothes the skin and reduces inflammation or redness that may be associated with acne flare-ups. It is also hydrating as it contains hyaluronic acid and can be used daily. It’s oil-free and noncomedogenic which is especially important when it comes to finding a good sunscreen for acne-prone skin.” — Garshick
“A great option for those with oily or acne-prone skin, this mineral sunscreen is good for daily use. It incorporates a universal tint that blends in easily, leaving behind a sheer finish that won’t leave the skin feeling greasy. It also incorporates an antioxidant blend in addition to Rosa Canina Fruit Oil which helps to control excess oil and reduce the appearance of pores.” — Garshick. “I love that this is fragrance-free and formulated without toxic skincare ingredients like parabens or phthalates. It blends easily and doesn’t leave you looking like a ghost. It also doesn’t contain breakout triggering mineral oil.” — Amin
“This lightweight daily moisturizer helps to hydrate while also providing adequate broad spectrum SPF coverage. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid which can help to reduce the potential irritation from acne-fighting ingredients.” — Garshick
“This oil-free sunscreen is a favorite for all skin types, but is especially good for oily skin as it absorbs easily, leaving a clear, natural finish. It not only offers protection against UVA/UVB rays but also contains red algae that may offer protection against blue light.” — Garshick. “Major plus is that this one is water resistant. It’s great for working out outdoors or being poolside during the summer. It’s also lightweight and won’t leave a greasy residue.” — Amin
“This mineral sunscreen not only offers broad spectrum protection but also provides a natural tint, helping to camouflage any marks or blemishes. It is oil-free and also great for those with sensitive skin.” — Garshick
“This oil-free formulation is lightweight and absorbs easily, leaving behind a matte finish on the skin, reducing the appearance of oiliness. It offers broad-spectrum coverage and is water resistant, making it especially great for those who are active outdoors.” — Garshick
“This ultralight sunscreen fluid is mineral-based, containing zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide making it a great option for those dealing with acne and sensitive skin. It offers a fast-absorbing, lightweight texture that leaves behind a matte finish. In addition to providing broad-spectrum SPF coverage, this easy-to-apply sunscreen also offers antioxidant protection through the brand’s Cell-Ox Shield Technology.” — Garshick
“This mineral sunscreen is a lightweight formula which layers well under makeup. It also has a gel-to-cream texture.” — Amin
“This SPF is hydrating, lightweight, and easy on the skin. It’s suitable for acne and rosacea prone-skin. It has a vetted ingredient list which is free of endocrine-disrupting and toxic ingredients. Water lily extract calms and cools the skin while soothing stress from heat and UV exposure.” — Amin
This formula from Paula’s Choice is formulated specifically for acne-prone skin. It has vitamin E and chamomile which provide antioxidant support and soothe redness.
This ultra-sheer formula is water-resistant and creates a nice, dewy base to wear under your makeup.
This Versed gem blends into the skin like a dream, won’t leave any white cast, and is noncomedogenic. It also contains antioxidants to help fight environmental stressors like blue light.
Megashade is formulated specifically for acne-prone skin and is packed with breakout-fighting ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, and kakadu plum.
Neutrogena always gets the job done. The brand’s Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch formula has SPF 55, non-greasy, and has a nice matte finish. It’s a great option to bring to the beach.
