Definitely Avoid These Sunscreen Ingredients if You Have Acne-Prone Skin—Plus Products Derms *Always* Recommend

Protecting the skin from the sun’s UV rays is one of the best things you can do for your skin and your health. Not only does sun protection help lower the aging side effects of a beach day (think: fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots), but it can also help lower your risk of skin […]

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Protecting the skin from the sun’s UV rays is one of the best things you can do for your skin and your health. Not only does sun protection help lower the aging side effects of a beach day (think: fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots), but it can also help lower your risk of skin cancers, including melanoma. But if you have acne-prone skin, sunscreen might not be your favorite formula in your arsenal. After all, so many formulas tend to feel too heavy, lead to congested pores, and leave a trail of grease in their path. These common SPF woes aren’t reasons to ditch this step altogether, though. Instead, it’s important to choose a sunscreen for acne-prone skin that doesn’t cause a breakout. 

The secret to finding the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin is all in the ingredients. Up ahead, we tap a top dermatologist to learn more about what to look for in SPF formulas and what to avoid to ensure sun protection without breakouts. 

Best Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin, at a Glance

Best Overall: Colorescience Total Protection No-Show Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, $43 (originally $45)
Best Budget: Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Face Sunscreen SPF 50, $13
Best Drugstore: CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, $12 (originally $15)
Best Face Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $41 (originally $43)
Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin: Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50, $25
Best Tinted: EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Sunscreen for Face, $42
Best Korean: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun, $16
Best Mineral: ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Zinc Oxide and 100% Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+, $46
Best Spray: Vacation Super Spritz SPF50 Face Mist, $8
Best Fragrance-Free: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen, $22
Best Brightening: Tula Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $38
Best Clear Sunscreen: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, $38
Best Lightweight: Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+, $44
Best for Even Skin Tone: SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50, $42
Best Primer With SPF: Glossier Invisible Shield Priming SPF 50, $32
Best Anti-Aging: Murad City Skin Age Defense Face Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA++++, $69
Editor’s Pick: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Cream SPF 50, $40

What to Look for in SPF for Acne-Prone Skin, According to a Derm 

When shopping for sunscreens for acne-prone skin, Dr. Jeannette Graf, board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, says to “look for ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.” Zinc oxide is a common sunscreen ingredient that is used to shield the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Additionally, zinc is an anti-inflammatory, which in some cases, can benefit acne-prone skin by reducing the appearance of breakouts. Titanium dioxide is another common sunscreen ingredient that protects the skin from the sun. While it doesn’t necessarily do anything to reduce or treat acne, titanium dioxide is a great option for those looking for sunscreens that don’t cause breakouts since it won’t clog your pores. 

In addition to these ingredients, Dr. Graf recommends looking for non-comedogenic formulas (that means it won’t cause breakouts) that are lightweight and non-greasy. Oil-free formulas are also beneficial, especially if your skin errs on the side of oily and is prone to excess sebum production. While it’s not essential, those with oily and acne-prone complexions might also want a sunscreen with a matte finish to reduce the look of shine. It might also help to include a sunscreen powder — like this one from Supergoop! — to reapply throughout the day and blot away any oil residue. 

What Ingredients to Avoid in SPF if You Have Acne, According to a Derm 

When you have acne-prone skin, the ingredients to avoid in sunscreen are just as important as the ingredients to look for. “Coconut oil, beeswax, silicones, cocoa butter, soybean oil, lanolin, and oxybenzone should be avoided as they can potentially clog your pores and exacerbate symptoms as well as cause irritation,” says Dr. Graf. 

If your skin errs on the side of dry vs. oily, some oils are safe to use and can provide the skin with balancing nourishment. However, check to make sure those are still lightweight and non-comedogenic before clicking add to cart. Acne-prone skin can also be a little more sensitive than other skin types — especially if you’re experiencing a breakout — so if you are prone to irritation, also avoid fragrances. 

Need help shopping for an SPF formula that will protect your skin without clogging pores? See our dermatologist-approved top picks for the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin, ahead. 

Experts in This Article

Dr. Jeannette Graf: A board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine

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