17 Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin 2024
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Updated August 16, 2024: This article on the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin was updated with new product picks after a round of editor testing, plus more information on improvements in the category. Our editors are currently testing sunscreens from brands like Innisfree for consideration in this expert-approved guide.
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.
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 2024
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Sunscreens for Acne Prone Skin of 2024
Choosing a sunscreen for acne-prone skin involves many considerations, starting with the formula type: While mineral sunscreens are generally best for those with acne, some skin types will do better with chemical formulas. There are a wide range of sunscreens for acne on the market, including lotions, serums, tinted sunscreens, and mists for reapplication. Because of the variation in the category, our editors are spotlighting the top three sunscreens for acne-prone skin versus one best sunscreen for acne overall.
Our editors test sunscreens year-round on a variety of skin types, including acne-prone skin. Our panel of testers include men and women with different types of acne, such as hormonal acne and cystic breakouts, as well as dry to oily skin types. After three extensive rounds of product testing, the below formulas continue to be top performers for their non-comedogenic formulas, sensitive skin-friendly ingredients, and comfortable feel.
- Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+ Sunscreen: Our pick for the best mineral sunscreen for acne-prone skin is Isdin’s impossibly lightweight SPF. Many mineral sunscreens we tested felt heavy on skin — a red flag for oily skin types — but this one has a watery texture that melts into skin and disappears after about 30 seconds of massaging it in. Very deep skin tones may notice a slight white cast; if that’s you, go with the brand’s tinted formula for invisible coverage.
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Face SPF 60 Sunscreen: If mineral sunscreens aren’t for you, go with this La Roche-Posay SPF that our editors rate as the best chemical sunscreen for acne-prone skin. Our testers love that it can stand in as a daytime moisturizer, meaning you can wear less layers of product. That way, you’re less likely to feel weighed down or shiny on humid, sunny days.
- Olay Complete SPF 30 Lotion for Sensitive Skin: Acne and sensitivity often go hand-in-hand. That’s why fragranced formulas or lotions with loads of active ingredients often cause tingling and redness — or worse, breakouts — on sensitive skin types. This Olay SPF for acne-prone skin is designed to be basic, in a good way. The oil- and fragrance-free sunscreen feels like nothing on your skin, giving you invisible, breathable coverage you can slather on without concern about clogged pores.
WWD Shop editors test and review sunscreens for acne-prone skin.
WWD/ Claire Sullivan
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Editor’s choice
Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+ Sunscreen
Editor testing review rating: 4.9/5 rating
Size: 3.4 oz
SPF type: Mineral
Formula: Fluid
Key ingredients: Vitamin E
For those with both sensitive and acne-prone skin, mineral sunscreens are the best choice as they’re less likely to cause irritation. However, not all mineral formulas are created equal: Some can feel heavy and greasy, which is a no-go for acne-prone types. Enter Isdin’s Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion, a fluid sunscreen with a featherweight feel on the skin. The watery texture is rare to find in a physical blocker; this quality allows it to melt onto your complexion for even coverage without too much rubbing needed.
Editor testing and review notes: “This Isdin sunscreen has long been a go-to for me during summer months or beach trips — its SPF 50 is higher than the SPF 30 I wear the rest of the year, but delivers the protection I know I need when I’m out in strong rays. The liquid consistency immediately absorbs without stinging or shine, and it dries down to a demi-matte finish that blurs skin without making it look dull or too dry.”
Breathability: 4.9/5 rating | Longevity: 4.8/5 rating | Value: 4.9/5 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $63
Editor’s Choice
Olay Complete SPF 30 Lotion for Sensitive Skin
Editor testing review rating: 5/5 rating
Size: 2.5 fl. oz
SPF type: Mineral and chemical
Formula: Lotion
Key ingredients: Vitamin E and aloe
Many acne-prone skin types are also sensitive, reacting poorly to lotions and serums that contain fragrance, oils, or too many harsh active ingredients. If your skin is quick to turn red or your acne tends to flare up with a drop of the wrong skin care product, consider Olay’s Complete SPF 30 Lotion for Sensitive Skin. This simple formula is oil-free, dermatologist-tested, and fragrance-free, instead delivering your complexion a simple cocktail of mineral and chemical sunscreen ingredients, soothing aloe, and vitamin E to condition your skin. Trust that you’ll feel comfortable wearing this year round under makeup or on bare skin — it has a lightweight, barely-there feel.
Editor testing and review notes: “I have mild rosacea that tends to flare up when the weather changes or if I’m low on sleep or stressed out. That, combined with monthly breakouts that crop up like clockwork, has been a hard puzzle for me to solve. This sunscreen is the one I go back to when my skin is on the fritz — it’s an incredibly simple formula that never irritates my skin or leaves me with blackheads or pimples. I also love that it has a satiny-smooth finish that mimics the look of naturally healthy skin, versus skewing overly matte or too dewy.”
Breathability: 5/5 rating | Longevity: 5/5 rating | Value: 5/5 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $78
Editor’s choice
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Face SPF 60 Sunscreen
Editor testing review rating: 4.8/5 rating
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. The oil-free formula 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 percent, even in extreme heat and 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.
Editor testing and review notes: “If you’re about to give up on sunscreens due to consistent breakouts — don’t! Instead, give this lightweight lotion a try. I swear by it because it can stand in as a daytime moisturizer with SPF for acne-prone skin types, which allows your skin to breathe more than layering on both moisturizer and sunscreen. It dries down quickly with a matte finish that keeps greasiness at bay throughout the day.”
Breathability: 4.8/5 rating | Longevity: 4.8/5 rating | Value: 4.8/5 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $19.99
E.l.f. Skin Suntouchable Whao Glow SPF 30 Sunscreen & Primer
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
SPF type: Chemical
Formula: Lotion
Key ingredients: Aloe, hyaluronic acid, squalane
Yes, E.l.f. Cosmetics is responsible for TikTok’s favorite affordable makeup products. But the brand does more than foundation, liquid blush, and lipsticks. This runaway hit at Target has over 3,000 five-star reviews for its comfortable feel, budget-friendly price point, and versatility. If you have acne-prone skin, you know that less is often more, and that’s where E.l.f.’s sunscreen delivers. The Suntouchable Whoa Glow Sunscreen is genius for those with acne due to its multitasking nature — oily and combination skin types can use it as a moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup primer. It’s available in three tints, each of which is flecked with subtle shimmer for a radiant (but not shiny) base for your glam.
Editor testing and review notes: “For the price, this product is such a home run. I’ve worn it under makeup and experienced zero pilling or excess grease, and it works wonders as a dewy primer under both matte and glowy complexion products. I’ve used it when I have active breakouts and I never experience any irritation — instead, it creates an even canvas that helps to minimize redness from acne. If you don’t love shimmer, keep in mind that the gold flecks are visible in the sun, but don’t let that scare you. This formula won’t have your face looking like a disco ball. — WWD Shop Commerce Writer and Producer Olivia Cigliano
Price upon publish date of this article: $78
Editor’s choice
Alastin Skincare Hydratint Pro SPF 36 Mineral Sunscreen
Size: 3.2 oz
SPF type: Mineral
Formula: Lotion
Key ingredients: Ectoin, hyaluronic acid, phytoene, and phytofluene
This sunscreen for acne-prone skin is a triple threat: It brightens, conceals, and protects your skin. It has similar coverage to a tinted moisturizer with SPF, helping to even out any active breakouts so they appear less noticeable whether you’re wearing this sunscreen under makeup on top or not. The universal tint may require some extra blending for very fair or very deep skin tones; however the latter will appreciate that the shade prevents white cast. With a powerful combination of phytoene and phytofluene — two antioxidants — it also helps to even and brighten skin in the long run.
Editor testing and review notes: “Whenever I’m dealing with breakouts and need to even out my skin without applying full-coverage foundation, I always start with Alastin’s SPF. I love how it softens the look of any pimples (or discoloration left in the wake of previous breakouts) — and that it gives my skin a lit-from-within glow. I’ll often wear it in place of a makeup primer, as it grips onto any concealer or foundation I dab on top.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $78
Cerave AM SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion
Size: 3 oz
SPF type: Chemical and mineral
Formula: Lotion
Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
This drugstore sunscreen for acne-prone skin is both the number one face sunscreen on Amazon and a TikTok sensation: The product has over 42 million views on the app. Not only is the Cerave AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion oil-free to keep breakouts at bay, but it also contains three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to keep the skin moisturized without appearing greasy or sticky. These ingredients also help to balance out the skin barrier, which is easily compromised by washing your face too much or using harsh exfoliating acids (two things that acne-prone skin types may be tempted to do).
Editor testing and review notes: “This Cerave sunscreen holds a candle to formulas that go for triple the price: It’s lightweight, doesn’t leave skin greasy, and doubles as a great daytime face cream for oily skin. I find that one pump is plenty to cover my entire face and neck, and it never pills with other acne serums I apply underneath it nor makeup I dab on top.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $13.56
Eltamd UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen
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. It feels like nothing on your skin — which is ultra-rare for a sunscreen — and it wears beautifully under makeup. I love that it can stand in as a moisturizer and SPF when my skin needs less hydration.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $40.85
Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 Sunscreen
Size: 1.5 oz
SPF type: Mineral
Formula: Lotion
Key ingredients: Ginger and bamboo extracts
Supergoop! is known for creating sunscreens that feel — and look — so good on your skin that you’ll be itching to reapply. The Mineral Mattescreen Sunscreen is the brand’s best sunscreen for acne-prone skin due to its mattifying properties and mineral composition that doesn’t clog pores. 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.
Editor testing and review notes: “After testing out this sunscreen for acne-prone skin, I’m almost convinced that it’s 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.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $24
Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50 Sunscreen
Size: 1.8 oz
SPF type: Mineral
Formula: Lotion
Key ingredients: Bisabolol and niacinamide
TikTok’s beauty community is obsessed with Colorescience’s Total Protection Face Shield Sunscreen — scroll through the top-watched videos and you’ll see shoppers laud it as “sorcery” and “magic.” That’s because this formula adjusts to your skin tone, transforming from white to the exact tone of your skin as you massage it on. Beyond a self-adjusting tint that camouflages any breakouts, this water-resistant sunscreen for acne-prone skin also contains ingredients that help balance out your complexion. Bisabolol soothes redness, while niacinamide brightens and lightly hydrates skin for long-term improvements in your tone and texture.
Editor testing and review notes: “Most tinted sunscreens come in limited shades, which can make it hard for me to find an option that blends into my fair skin without streaks or lines of demarcation. This one’s self-adjusting tint takes out all the guesswork, creating a shade match that’s so good, it looks like it’s been plucked by a professional to match my tone. It also stays put better than similar formulas I’ve tried, making it an excellent pick for days when humidity is high.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $46.55
Mele Dew the Most Sheer SPF 30 Moisturizer
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 testers 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.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $9.99
Neutrogena Clear Face Oil-Free SPF 50 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 testers 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.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $10.69
Kosas Dreambeam SPF 40 Mineral 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. The silky liquid dries down to a natural finish; it doesn’t add too much shine but imparts some radiance that allows my best foundations to blend seamlessly on top without pilling. I also love that this formula doesn’t have the typical scent you associate with mineral sunscreens. 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.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $40
Bliss Block Star SPF 30 Invisible Daily Sunscreen
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 testers 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.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $16.89
Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy SPF 30 Sunscreen
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.
Price upon publish date of this article: $25
Mario Badescu SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen
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.
Editor testing and review notes: “Here’s the thing about mineral sunscreens — many of them leave a greasy finish and a strong scent in their wake, and those two factors only intensify when you step outside on a humid day. Mario Badescu’s is a feat because it doesn’t. Rather, you’ll get a lightly moisturizing lotion that requires only 15 seconds or so to fully rub in. I never notice a white cast — even in images taken with my flash on — and even when my skin is feeling extra oily, I don’t break out.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $26.60
Differin Oil-Absorbing SPF 30 Moisturizer
Size: 4 oz
SPF type: Chemical
Formula: Lotion
Key ingredients: Allantoin, glycerin, panthenol
Differin is one of the most trusted skin care brands for acne, primarily known for its breakout-busting retinol product. So suffice to say that they know a thing or two about creating great products for hormonal acne and everyday pimples. This sunscreen ticks all the boxes for a great SPF for acne-prone skin: It’s oil-free, unscented, non-comedogenic, and dries down to a matte finish. Better yet, this sunscreen packs micropearl technology to absorb excess oil on the surface of your skin while you’re wearing it, so you don’t have to keep blotting papers around on hot, humid days.
What testers say: “Pretty much every sunscreen I’ve used has had a noticeable white cast and doesn’t sit well under makeup. This one absorbs quickly and goes on clear. It doesn’t look or feel greasy for sunscreen. It’s a good price as well, I certainly recommend it.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $8.30
Skinceuticals Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50 Sunscreen
Size: 1 oz
SPF type: Mineral
Formula: Weightless mousse
Key ingredients: Camouflages 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 testers 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.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $40
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 Tested and Selected the Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin
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.
On top of expert insights, our editors conducted three rounds of hands-on product testing to evaluate top sunscreens on acne-prone skin types. A panel of four testers contributed to testing, including women with oily skin, combination skin, and one tester with dry, acne-prone skin. Throughout each round of testing, we applied sunscreens on active breakouts to ensure that the selections on our list don’t exacerbate pimples or cause sensitivity on compromised skin. We also tested sunscreens on healthy, happy skin, assessing whether the sunscreens triggered breakouts or blackheads. The selections on our list are tested-and-approved for their ability to provide essential sun protection without exacerbating or causing acne.
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Meet the Experts
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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.
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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.
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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
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, who is prone to hormonal acne breakouts, contributed to the August 2024 update of this best sunscreens for acne-prone skin story after an additional round of product testing.
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