The Best Sunscreens for Acne Prone Skin in 2024
Acne-prone skin can be a pain to manage, especially on sunny days. Sunscreen is a skincare essential, but finding a sunscreen that won’t clog pores, cause breakouts, or make acne worse can be difficult. That’s where sunscreen for acne-prone skin comes in, which is specially formulated to protect you from sun exposure while also addressing the needs of your acne-prone skin. To help you find the right solution, we’ve listed the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin in 2024. From the oil-absorbing qualities of our favorite choice, the La Roche-Posay sunscreen, to formulas that can reduce redness while shielding the skin, there’s an option for everyone on our list.
-
Best Overall
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
-
Most Moisturizing
Hero Cosmetics Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
-
Most Lightweight
Eucerin Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
-
Most Reliable
Dermalogica Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
-
Best for Oily Skin
Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen
If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more!
Finding the Best Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin: A Buyer’s Guide
Those of us with acne-prone skin know that sunscreen is essential for healthy skin, but finding the right sunscreen can be difficult. Speaking from experience, I found that traditional sunscreens can often lead to breakouts and clogged pores, and for a while, I opted out of sunscreen because of that reason. Like many people, I felt like I had to choose between protecting my skin from harmful UV rays and maintaining clear, blemish-free skin. That is until I discovered that sunscreens specifically designed for acne-prone skin can provide the necessary protection without causing irritation or breakouts.
If you’re always out and about under the sun, facial sunscreen should be an essential part of your skincare routine. Sunscreen has been proven time and again to minimize the risk of skin cancer, especially those with fair skin. However, with so many types and brands of sunscreen for acne-prone skin on the market, choosing one can be tricky. So, before buying, there are a few important factors to remember to ensure you get a high-quality product that meets your skincare needs.
Selecting a Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
Non-comedogenic and oil-free formula
Look for a sunscreen that’s specifically labeled as “non-comedogenic” and “oil-free.” This means that it won’t clog your pores or add excess oils to your skin, which can lead to breakouts. Also, read the label or ingredient list carefully, as some sunscreens may contain mineral oils or other oil derivatives that might cause breakouts down the line.
Broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection
It’s essential to select a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection to protect your skin from both types of rays. This can be indicated on the label with symbols such as UVA and UVB or a phrase like “broad spectrum SPF.”
Water-resistant
If you plan on being active or want added protection from perspiration or swimming, look for a water-resistant sunscreen. These sunscreens are designed to resist washing off due to sweat or water exposure for up to 80 minutes. Sunscreens that aren’t water-resistant will wash away easily, causing you to be completely exposed to the sun’s effects on your skin.
SPF level
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates how long your skin is protected from the sun's rays before burning. For acne-prone skin, it’s ideal to choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, as this offers increased protection against both UVA and UVB rays. If you’re planning to go to the beach, opt for a higher SPF for maximum sun protection.
Lightweight texture
A lightweight texture is important so you can easily spread the sunscreen over your entire body without feeling greasy or weighed down by the product. Always look for formulas described as “lightweight” or “ultra-lightweight” to achieve a sheer finish without a visible residue.
Ingredients
In order to avoid further irritation, opt for anti-inflammatory ingredients such as zinc oxide, niacinamide, and antioxidants. These ingredients are known to help with acne in regular skincare products, and when added to sunscreens, they can also reduce any redness caused by other essential ingredients in your sunscreen.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
Fragrances can aggravate acne-prone skin, so opt for a sunscreen that is specifically labeled “hypoallergenic” and “fragrance-free” to avoid any potential reactions or further breakouts. As people with acne-prone skin know, products with a fragrance are a red flag for sensitive skin.
Non-irritating
Many acne-prone skin types require a gentle form of sunscreen that doesn’t contain alcohol or other potential irritants. Always opt for formulas described as “non-irritating”—or better yet, “alcohol-free”—to ensure that your skin is receiving adequate protection without unwanted irritation.
Suitable for sensitive skin types
Acne-prone skin can often be sensitive, so look for descriptions such as “gentle on sensitive skin” when choosing sunscreen. Sunscreens designed for sensitive skin are unlikely to cause irritation or inflammation.
Ease of use
The last thing you want is clumpy patches of white residue visible on your face after applying your sunscreen. Opt instead for one with an easy application that rubs in well, leaving no visible trace behind. Also, look at the nozzle of the product, check if you have to squeeze the bottle or pump it, and see if that meets your preference.
The Best Sunscreens for Acne Prone Skin in 2024
La Roche-Posay Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
Pros
- Lightweight and feels great on the skin
- Provides good sun protection
- Doesn't feel greasy
Cons
- May leave a slight white cast
The La Roche-Posay sunscreen for acne-prone skin is a revolutionary way to protect your skin from the sun. This oil-free sunscreen provides advanced protection even in hot and humid weather and offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with antioxidants. Not only does it offer comprehensive protection for the skin, but it also helps absorb excess oil and reduce shine, making it ideal for those with oily and acne-prone skin.
The sunscreen is non-comedogenic, so it won’t cause breakouts and is free of oxybenzone, fragrances, allergens, oils, and parabens. Additionally, it's suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. In terms of the feel of the product, I found that it easily absorbs and leaves your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. Because of its light texture, it was easy for me to make it my primer underneath all my makeup. Its oil-absorbing qualities, ease of use, and gentle formulation make this product the best on our list.
Hero Cosmetics Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
Pros
- Lightweight, silky lotion texture
- Reduces redness and adds a subtle glow
- Doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts
Cons
- Not ideal for dry skin
The Hero Cosmetics sunscreen for acne-prone skin is a great sun protection for those with combination or oily skin. Its lightweight gel-cream formula provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with zinc oxide while also acting as a primer and hydrator. This non-greasy and reef-safe sunscreen is non-irritating, even on sensitive skin. Plus, it’s safe for daily use, and applying it is also a breeze.
All you have to do is smooth it on your skin as the last step of your skincare routine in the morning. For maximum effect, reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It’s formulated with particular consideration for those with delicate skin, so you can be sure that it won't clog pores or cause any sensitivities. My favorite detail about this product is the absence of any fragrance or silicone, which is a sign it's safe to use on most skin types.
Eucerin Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
Pros
- Oil-absorbing minerals keep skin looking fresh
- Lightweight and quickly absorbs
- Great for sensitive skin
Cons
- Thick and greasy
The Eucerin sunscreen for acne prone skin is a great solution for those with oily and acne-prone skin. This lotion provides an immediate, long-lasting matte finish, so you don't have to worry about excess oils or greasiness. It's lightweight and non-comedogenic, so it won't clog your pores while giving you powerful protection from the sun's harmful rays. The formula comprises five antioxidants and oil-absorbing minerals that work together to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays.
The antioxidants include glycyrrhetinic acid, licochalcone A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and Oxynex ST. The focus on antioxidants in the ingredients was a winning detail for me. These powerful ingredients help protect your skin from UVA and UVB damage that can lead to discoloration and sun damage. It's hypoallergenic, so you won't risk irritation while protecting your skin. Plus, this sunscreen can be used under your makeup, providing all the protection without compromising your usual look. It's a must-have for anyone looking for a lightweight sunscreen for their daily routine.
Dermalogica Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin
Pros
- Provides moisture without adding to oily skin
- Goes on easily and isn’t greasy
- Includes SPF 30 sun protection
Cons
- Not for those with sensitive eyes
The Dermalogica sunscreen for acne prone skin is an effective daily broad-spectrum sunscreen designed to absorb excess oils and provide an all-day matte finish. Beauty professionals around the world recommend this oil-free product because of its professional-grade formulation. Personally, I found that while all of the products on this list can be used as primers, this sunscreen is best if you plan to have a full glam look for the day. The sunscreen also offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and helps prevent sunburn and UV damage.
A unique blend of natural minerals forms a physical barrier against UV rays, while antioxidant plant extracts offer protection from free radicals caused by sun exposure. The lightweight, oil-free formula dries quickly and doesn’t trap bacteria or dirt like traditional oil-based products. The silicone-infused lotion melts into the skin without leaving behind a greasy residue or causing clogged pores. It instead creates a weightless, non-sticky veil that controls shine and provides an all-day matte finish. It’s vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and ideal for those looking to achieve a smooth complexion with a healthy glow.
Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen
Pros
- Prevents oiliness throughout the day
- Neutral tint provides sheer coverage for a more even skin tone
- Provides a clean, matte finish
Cons
- The neutral tint might not match your skin tone
If you want a matte look despite your oily skin, the Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen is the one for you. This mineral sunscreen is designed to give you a fresh, matte finish so you don't have to worry about looking oily throughout the day. Made with ginger and bamboo extract, it's lightweight and can be used as a primer before applying makeup. As for its sun protection features, the formula relies on titanium oxide and zinc oxide to keep you safe from the sun's harmful rays.
It's important to note that this is also a tinted sunscreen, but its coverage is quite sheer, and the tone is neutral enough to complement most skin tones. Tinted sunscreens aren't for everyone, but I was more than satisfied with the product's sheer coverage. It's perfect for the "clean girl" look, and a little can go a long way in covering active acne and hyperpigmentation.
People Also Ask
-
Q: Can I use a sunscreen that has a moisturizer in it for acne-prone skin?
A:Yes, you can use a sunscreen that has a moisturizer in it for acne-prone skin, as long as the moisturizer is non-comedogenic and doesn’t contain any ingredients that can clog your pores. Look for a sunscreen that's labeled as "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic" to avoid any potential breakouts. But remember that using a separate moisturizer and sunscreen may be a better option, as it allows you to control the amount of each product you use.
-
Q: Should I use a physical or chemical sunscreen for acne-prone skin?
A:Physical and chemical sunscreens can be used for acne-prone skin, but it ultimately depends on your skin type and personal preference. Physical sunscreens contain minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on top of your skin and physically block UV rays. In contrast, chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that absorb UV rays before they can penetrate your skin. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts, a physical sunscreen may be a better option, as it’s less likely to cause irritation.
-
Q: How often should I reapply sunscreen for acne-prone skin?
A:It’s recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming. This is true for all skin types, including acne-prone skin. If you have oily skin, choose a lightweight sunscreen that absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy residue on your skin.
-
Q: What are the ideal ways to apply sunscreen for acne-prone skin?
A:To apply sunscreen for acne-prone skin, start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser and patting it dry. Then, apply a thin layer of sunscreen to your face, covering all areas, including your ears and neck. If you're using a physical sunscreen, make sure to blend it in well to avoid a white cast. If you are using a chemical sunscreen, wait at least 15 minutes before applying any makeup or other products to your face.
-
Q: What SPF level should I use for acne-prone skin?
A:You should use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for acne-prone skin. But if you spend a lot of time outdoors or have fair skin, you may want to consider using a higher SPF. Remember that the higher the SPF, the more protection you will get from UV rays, but this doesn’t mean you can stay in the sun for long periods without reapplying.
Why trust Us
At Us Weekly, we aim to inform readers to make smart purchasing decisions, saving you both time and money. Our editors are obsessed with finding products in a variety of categories from fashion and beauty, to home and fitness.
We try various products, so we can recommend our favorites, and we also summarize feedback and data from other customers. Data, like product reviews and ratings, helps us recommend the best product choices for individual price points and needs.
On top of that, we highlight unique product features for special use cases, ingredients preferences, and more. We strive to make sure you are discovering new products that can make your life easier, while keeping you up to date with the best product choices for types of items you already know and love.
