Best Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin: Top Picks and Buying Guide

Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, especially for acne-prone skin. It not only protects the skin from harmful UV rays but also prevents acne breakouts. However, finding the right sunscreen for acne-prone skin can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it’s challenging to choose the one that suits your skin type.

When it comes to sunscreen for acne-prone skin, there are a few critical things that you should consider. Firstly, the sunscreen should be non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores. Secondly, it should be oil-free and lightweight, as oily sunscreens can make your skin greasy and prone to breakouts. Lastly, it should have a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

We spent hours researching and testing various sunscreens to find the best ones for acne-prone skin. In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks and why they are perfect for those with acne-prone skin. So, if you’re struggling to find the right sunscreen for your skin type, keep reading to find out more.

Best Sunscreens for Acne Prone Skin

We understand how challenging it can be to find a sunscreen that doesn’t trigger breakouts or clog pores, especially if you have acne-prone skin. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best sunscreens that won’t cause any irritation or breakouts. Our team has thoroughly researched and tested each product to ensure that they are effective, safe, and suitable for acne-prone skin. Below are our top picks for the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin.

1) Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen

If you have acne-prone skin and are looking for a sunscreen that won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts, Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 might be the perfect solution for you.

We tried this sunscreen and were impressed by its weightless, matte finish that left our skin looking healthy and clear. The liquid-lotion texture is water-light and easy to apply, and it doesn’t feel sticky or heavy on the skin. The formula is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, which is great for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

One of the best things about this sunscreen is its superior UVA/UVB protection. The Helioplex Technology ensures that your skin is protected from skin-aging UVA and skin-burning UVB rays. We also love that it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or going to the beach.

However, we did notice that the sunscreen can leave white residue or flakes on the face, especially when layered with makeup. Some users also experienced a burning sensation after application, although this was not a universal experience. Finally, the smell might be off-putting for some people, although we didn’t find it to be too strong or overwhelming.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen for anyone with acne-prone skin who is looking for a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that provides superior UVA/UVB protection.

2) La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Dry Touch SPF 60

In our experience, the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Dry Touch SPF 60 is an excellent choice for those with acne-prone skin who are looking for a sunscreen that won’t clog pores.

Overall, we highly recommend the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Dry Touch SPF 60 for those with acne-prone skin. The formula is lightweight, non-greasy, and provides excellent protection against the sun’s harmful rays. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the potential for pilling and the small size of the bottle, we believe that the benefits of this sunscreen outweigh any negatives.

3) Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin

We highly recommend Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin as it provides superior protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays without causing breakouts on acne-prone skin.

Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin is a dermatologist-tested formula that prevents sunburns without aggravating or causing breakouts. The sunscreen is oxybenzone-free and stabilized with Helioplex Technology, offering superior broad-spectrum protection from skin-aging UVA and skin-burning UVB rays. The sunscreen is suitable for both face and body, making it a versatile option for everyday use.

The water-light texture of the facial sunscreen lotion leaves a weightless, matte finish, allowing the skin to breathe while keeping any unwanted skin problems at bay. The formula is oil-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic, making it ideal for individuals with acne-prone skin. The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

In conclusion, Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin is a great choice for individuals with acne-prone skin who want superior protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays without causing breakouts. The sunscreen is easy to apply, lightweight, and does not leave any residue. We highly recommend this product for anyone looking for a reliable sunscreen for everyday use.

4) EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that won’t clog your pores and cause breakouts, EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a great option to consider.

We’ve been using EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen for a while now and have been impressed with its performance. It goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave any white residue behind. We appreciate that it’s specifically designed for acne-prone skin, as it can be challenging to find a sunscreen that won’t cause breakouts.

One of the things we like most about this sunscreen is that it’s easy to wear under makeup. It doesn’t feel greasy or heavy on the skin, and it doesn’t cause our foundation to slide around. Plus, the fact that it comes in a travel-size pump bottle makes it convenient to take with us wherever we go.

While we do think this is an excellent sunscreen, we have noticed that it can feel a bit heavy on the skin, especially if you apply too much. Additionally, it may not be the best choice for those with very oily skin, as it can leave a slight sheen. Finally, the price point is a bit higher than some other sunscreens on the market, which may be a consideration for some.

Overall, we would definitely recommend EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen to anyone looking for a sunscreen that won’t cause breakouts or irritation. It’s a reliable choice that we think you’ll be happy with.

5) EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Face Sunscreen Moisturizer

We highly recommend EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Face Sunscreen Moisturizer for anyone looking for a lightweight daily moisturizer with SPF that won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. This fragrance-free, paraben-free, and noncomedogenic sunscreen helps decrease wrinkles and infuses the skin with essential moisture using hyaluronic acid.

EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Face Sunscreen Moisturizer is a great choice for those with acne-prone skin. It is lightweight and non-greasy, making it perfect for everyday use. The sunscreen rubs in easily and leaves no white cast, making it a great option to wear under makeup. The travel size is also a great bonus, making it easy to take with you on-the-go.

The broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays is essential for keeping your skin healthy and preventing premature aging. The addition of hyaluronic acid helps to keep skin moisturized and looking youthful. However, the product is a bit pricey compared to other sunscreens on the market, and some users may find the texture to be a bit too thick or heavy. Additionally, the sunscreen has a slight chemical smell that some users may find unpleasant.

Overall, we highly recommend EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Face Sunscreen Moisturizer for anyone looking for a high-quality sunscreen that won’t irritate acne-prone skin.

6) Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that won’t cause breakouts, Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is a great option.

We’ve used this sunscreen and found that it lives up to its promises. It goes on smoothly and doesn’t feel heavy or greasy on the skin. We appreciate that it’s fragrance-free and doesn’t clog pores, which is especially important for those with acne-prone skin.

One potential downside is that it may leave white flakes on the skin, especially when used with certain moisturizers. We’ve also heard reports of a burning sensation after application, although we didn’t experience this ourselves.

Overall, we recommend Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen for anyone looking for a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that won’t cause breakouts. Just be aware of the potential for white flakes and a burning sensation, and make sure to choose a moisturizer that works well with the sunscreen.

7) L’Oreal Paris Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum + Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion + Moisturizer Samples

If you’re looking for a product that can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and protect your skin from the sun, L’Oreal Paris Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum + Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion + Moisturizer Samples might be the right choice for you.

In our experience, the niacinamide serum did help reduce the appearance of dark spots and even out our skin tone. The daily UV lotion provided good sun protection without leaving a greasy or white residue on our skin. However, we did notice a slight fragrance in the serum, which may not be ideal for those with sensitive skin or who prefer unscented products.

Overall, if you’re looking for a two-in-one product that can help with dark spots and sun protection, L’Oreal Paris Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum + Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion + Moisturizer Samples is worth considering.

8) Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that won’t clog your pores and is perfect for acne-prone skin, then Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics is a great option to consider.

We’ve tried this sunscreen and found it to be a great option for daily use. The weightless gel-cream formula makes it easy to apply and it absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue. The smooth, skin-like finish is perfect for acne-prone skin, and the sunscreen won’t clog your pores.

We also appreciate that this sunscreen is clinically tested and reef safe, making it a great option for those who are environmentally conscious. The oat-like scent is a nice touch, but we understand that it may not be to everyone’s liking.

One thing to note is that the green tint may not work for all skin tones. While it does help to cover redness, it may not be suitable for those with darker skin tones.

Overall, we highly recommend Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics for those looking for a sunscreen that is perfect for acne-prone skin and won’t clog pores.

9) EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that is gentle on acne-prone skin, you should consider the EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen.

This sunscreen is dermatologist recommended and has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars with over 41,000 ratings on Amazon. It is a mineral-based sunscreen with Zinc Oxide that soothes sensitive skin types prone to acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.

The EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a travel-size sunscreen pump bottle that is the perfect companion for bringing on the go as your daily face sunscreen. It has no fragrance or propleyne glycol, making it lightweight and suitable for everyday use.

Overall, we highly recommend this sunscreen for those with acne-prone skin who are looking for a gentle and effective sunscreen.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best sunscreen for acne prone skin, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some things to consider:

SPF Level

The SPF level of a sunscreen is one of the most important features to consider. We recommend choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause acne breakouts.

Non-Comedogenic

Another important feature to look for when choosing a sunscreen for acne prone skin is whether it is non-comedogenic. This means that the sunscreen is formulated to not clog your pores, which can lead to acne breakouts.

Oil-Free

If you have oily skin, it’s important to choose a sunscreen that is oil-free. This will help prevent excess oil from building up on your skin and causing acne breakouts.

Lightweight and Fast-Absorbing

When choosing a sunscreen for acne prone skin, it’s important to look for one that is lightweight and fast-absorbing. This will help prevent the sunscreen from sitting on top of your skin and clogging your pores.

Mineral vs Chemical

There are two types of sunscreens: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens use physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect your skin from the sun, while chemical sunscreens use chemicals like avobenzone and octinoxate. We recommend choosing a mineral sunscreen if you have acne prone skin, as chemical sunscreens can sometimes irritate the skin and cause breakouts.

By considering these features, you can choose the best sunscreen for your acne prone skin. Remember to always apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours to ensure maximum protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in a sunscreen suitable for acne-prone skin?

When looking for a sunscreen suitable for acne-prone skin, it is important to choose one that is labeled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic.” Look for ingredients such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and avobenzone, which are gentle on the skin and help protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

How do I choose a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen for oily, acne-prone skin?

When choosing a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen for oily, acne-prone skin, look for one that is labeled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic.” You can also look for sunscreens that contain ingredients such as niacinamide, which can help reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne.

Are there any Korean sunscreen brands particularly good for acne-prone skin?

Yes, there are several Korean sunscreen brands that are particularly good for acne-prone skin. Some popular options include COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream, Missha All Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel, and Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk.

Which sunscreens are best to wear under makeup without causing breakouts?

When looking for a sunscreen to wear under makeup without causing breakouts, it is important to choose one that is labeled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic.” Look for lightweight formulas that absorb quickly into the skin, such as La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free Sunscreen or Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen.

What are the best non-comedogenic sunscreens for acne-prone skin?

There are several non-comedogenic sunscreens that are suitable for acne-prone skin. Some popular options include EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF 30, and Aveeno Positively Radiant Sheer Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30.

Can sunscreen sticks be effective and safe for use on acne-prone skin?

Yes, sunscreen sticks can be effective and safe for use on acne-prone skin. Look for sticks that are labeled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic,” and contain ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Some popular options include Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Stick Sunscreen and Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen SPF 50.