The last thing you want is to break out while trying to protect your skin from the sun. The benefit of using sunscreen is that you get to protect your skin from premature wrinkles and health issues such as skin cancer. However, the downside is that using sunscreen can cause breakouts, especially if you have acne-prone skin. That's why today, we'll look at the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin.
Because you mustn't skip using sunscreen despite having acne-prone skin. Protecting your sensitive skin from the sun's harmful UV rays is a must. The notion that sunscreen causes breakouts is a misconception.
The irritant reaction to the sunscreen or the sun is what causes the breakout. Therefore, choosing a sunscreen that's oil-free, lightweight, and non-comedogenic will keep your skin clear while still protecting it from the sun's harmful UV rays.
We took the liberty of curating for you a list of the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin. Here's a detailed list of the best options in the market and a buying guide.
In a hurry?
This is our Winner!
Our Pick
What sunscreen will not cause breakouts?
Rank | Product Image | Product Name | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |
|  | |
2 |
| | |
3 |
| | |
4 |
| | |
5 |
| |
Before the price tag makes you run for the hills, hear us out. There's a reason why this sunscreen for acne-prone skin is first on our list. This lightweight sunscreen gives you broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 35 protection from UVA and UVB sun rays thanks to its pure, skin-loving ingredients.
The silk extracts it contains in abundance leave your skin feeling silky-smooth, while the Japanese wild rose helps tighten the look of your pores and gives you an amazingly smooth skin texture.
The Loquat leaf extract provides you with a rich source of antioxidants that protect and calm your skin. You can use this sunscreen for oily acne-prone skin as a primer for your makeup without worrying about it, leaving a chalky finish.
Another reason that makes this sunscreen the best is that it is suitable for all skin types. It works on dry and combination skin just as well as oily acne-prone skin and oily skin. Tatcha's mattifying and blurring formula gives it this fantastic edge to work on any skin type.
You can think of this option as the unicorn of sunscreens because it works wonders on your skin. And although the price may be higher than the other options we've laid out for you, you can be sure that it's well worth the investment.
Pros
Cons
Think of this mineral sunscreen for acne-prone skin as mineral magic. This lightweight organic formula from Coola has broad-spectrum UV protection that will have full approval from your dermatologist. Best for oily skin and combination skin, the sunscreen SPF 30 will protect your skin from the sun.
Naturally effective and sustainable ingredients are used in making this sunscreen for your sensitive skin to nourish and support healthy skin. The formulas used in this mineral sunscreen ensure that it achieves superior results organically.
Some ingredients include buriti oil, red raspberry seed oil, organic rosehip oil, prickly pear extract, meadowfoam seed oil, and evening primrose oil that helps you fight free radicals. This product is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and works great as a face primer.
This Matte Tint Moisturizer combines your daytime lotion, sunscreen SFP, and antioxidants into one beautiful package. Thanks to its ingredients, it delivers lightweight hydration, gives your skin a fresh-looking hint of coverage, and helps reduce shine.
The rosehip seed oil in this sun protection product is one of the best sources of Vitamin C and supports your skin's elasticity, and leaves your skin looking more vibrant. The essential fatty acids in it help soothe your sensitive skin and restore moisture.
The plankton extract restores your skin to its more radiant appearance and protects it from environmental stressors. Shea butter is also rich in fatty acids, including Omega 9 and Omega 6 that moisturize and soother your skin. This ingredient also gives your skin immediate softness and smoothness once you apply it.
Pros
The invisible formula in this sunscreen for acne-prone skin makes it perfect for applying on your face. Dermatologists recommend this EltaMD formula because it keeps breakouts at bay. Not only does it give your skin glowy and lightweight protection, but it is also fragrance-free in case you like your sunscreens odorless.
The formula in this sunscreen for acne-prone skin also delivers hyaluronic acid that moisturizes, and lactic acid reduces any shininess and gently exfoliates your skin. The ingredients in this product are great for your sensitive skin, including niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3 that reduces any redness.
Pros
Our third choice is one of the best sunscreens for both acne-prone and oily skin. Its oil-free and lightweight formula contains a blend of zinc, caffeine, gluconate, biotin, niacinamide, and yeast extract.
When these ingredients are combined in this sunscreen for acne-prone skin, they protect your skin from the sun's UV rays and absorb any excess oils. This leaves you with a shine-free finish to last you all day.
You can apply it liberally and evenly to your face 15 minutes before sun exposure. You could also mix it with your foundation or moisturizer then apply it generously. A skin therapist founded this sunscreen for acne-prone skin. The brand's goal is always to create products that actively improve your skin's health.
Pros
Our budget option will take you away with its nourishing feel and exotic tropical scents. This weightless sunscreen for acne-prone skin provides you with breathable airsoft protection. The moisture ribbons hydrate your beautiful skin for up to 12 hours.
This Silk Hydration sunscreen has a luxury feel and tropical scent that makes it perfect for any outdoor occasion. It will protect your skin from the dangerous UV rays while leaving you smelling like a beautiful flower.
Blended with exotic island botanicals, this sunscreen for acne-prone skin gives you breathable, airsoft sun protection, which leaves your skin feeling luxuriously soft. The swirly formula works on all skin tones. A great addition to your skincare routine, it is filled with shea butter and silk proteins to ensure that your skin never gets chalky, dry, or breaks out no matter the sun exposure.
Pros
What to Look for in A Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin
1. Non-Comedogenic
It's crucial to choose a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic when you have acne-prone skin. This means that it is specifically designed not to clog your pores. Non-comedogenic products are a great option if you have acne-prone, combination, or impure skin.
Because they don't clog your pores, they help reduce all chances of you breaking out or getting pimples.
2. Oil-Free
Choosing an oil-free formulation is a must when choosing suitable sunscreens for acne-prone skin. You want to ensure that you prevent sun damage without the risk of breaking out.
3. Broad-Spectrum SPF
Broad-spectrum SPF is more about the sunscreen part than it is about break-out prevention. You want to ensure that you pick sunscreens that prevent sun damage and are also great for your skin tone. Picking sunscreens that can shield you from UVA and UVB rays are what we mean by broad-spectrum SPF.
How to Choose & Use the Best Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin
1. When Unsure Go with Mineral
Our second option, COOLA Mineral Matte Tinted Sunscreen, is an excellent example of good mineral sunscreens. Because your skin absorbs chemical sunscreens that can cause allergic reactions and irritations, mineral sunscreens are a better option.
The formula of mineral sunscreens is different because they "sit" on top of your skin or face and deflect and scatter UV rays. They are typically formulated using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. The zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and easier to tolerate when you have sensitive skin.
However, when in doubt, always speak to your dermatologist as they are better suited to advise you on the items and formulas that work well for you. Also, remember to go for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
2. Always Read the Label
Like we mentioned above, it's essential to choose a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic and doesn't have ingredients such as heavy oils and fragrance. Coconut oil is one of the heavy oils to avoid breakouts.
Instead, go for the best sunscreens with a thinner, liquid, or gel-like consistency instead of heavy-duty creams. Also, choose products with a matte finish that will prevent you from looking shiny.
3. Prep your Skin
Before you apply your sunscreen broad-spectrum, ensure that your skin is clear. You can use an acne face wash with salicylic acid to help clear out your pores and gently exfoliate dead skin cells. Besides, you can use an acne-friendly moisturizer.
This moisturizer helps keep any bacteria out of your pores. A major cause of breakouts and acne is bacteria; therefore, using moisturizing products can help with that. Lastly, ensure that you apply the sunscreen with freshly-washed hands before you put on your makeup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Sunscreen Help with Acne?
Yes. Sunscreen helps prevent discoloration and scarring. Discoloration is also known as acne scars and can be explained as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These are common with people with sensitive skin. Therefore, you need to go with one of our options above if you are prone to breakouts.
2. Can Not Wearing Sunscreen Cause Acne?
Yes. In fact, not wearing sunscreen can make acne worse. You may enjoy how your skin feels and looks after a day in the sun but getting sunburns is no a risk your should take. You should always protect your skin using sunscreen and SPF moisturizer as part of your skin care while you are on the beach, summer pool, or even winter ski time.
3. What SPF is Best for Face?
Many dermatologists recommend you use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or higher. These sunscreens do a better job of blocking 97% of the sun's UVB rays and protecting your face better. Your dermatologist may be the best person to recommend the best sunscreen for you because they know your pores.
Nonetheless, higher number SPFs block more UVB rays compared to the low number ones. However, it's important to note that no sunscreen that has been manufactured so far can protect you from 100% of the sun's UVB rays. If your acne progresses further, consider speaking to your dermatologist about taking acne medications.
