Thankfully, there are plenty of sunscreens that are suitable for acne and sensitive skin, and that won’t leave you more oily than you were before.
First, make sure the sunscreen you're using on your face is actually formulated for the face, and not a body sunscreen, Dr. Farhang advises. She also suggests going with a mineral formulation.
"Chemical sunscreens don’t necessarily cause acne, but they do tend to be more irritating, especially for those on acne-treating products such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid," says Dr. Farhang.
When it comes to ingredients, look for bottles that are both oil-free and non-comedogenic, according to dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. “Oil-free products tend to feel lighter on the skin, while non-comedogenic ones won’t clog pores and trigger breakouts,” he explains.
You'll want to search for a lighter, non-greasy formula: Dr. Farhang recommends sheer or almost liquid sunscreens for acne-prone patients. "Also, mineral powder based sunscreens are great for reapplication and soaking up that extra oil that has developed throughout the day," adds Dr. Farhang. And if you want to cover up any pre-existing breakouts, try a tinted sunscreen.
How do you prep acne-prone skin before putting on SPF?
If you're breaking out often, make sure you stick to a regular skincare routine before you slather on sunscreen.
Start your regimen with a gentle cleanser, followed by whatever acne medication you typically use, says Dr. Farhang. Then rub on the sunscreen, and top that with a moisturizer, so your skin doesn't get dry, especially out in the sun.
Sunscreen is a nonnegotiable part of a stellar skin care routine, but when you have acne-prone skin, it can cause some unpleasant side effects like irritation and breakouts.
With summer on its way, the Shop TODAY team decided it was time to kick this seasonal beauty conundrum to the curb, so we consulted a few dermatologists to find out what you should be looking for while shopping for an SPF. We also got them to name some of their favorite sunscreens for acne-prone skin!
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Best sunscreen for acne-prone skin, according to experts
Sun Bum Face Lotion
Face Lotion SPF 50
$14.49
Target
$10.63
Amazon
$12.99
Ulta
Acne-prone skin is already inherently sensitive, and American Academy of Dermatology fellow Dr. Robert Anolik encourages his patients to avoid ingredients that could cause irritation since acne often follows.
"While fragrance may smell wonderful, your skin might not look wonderful if you’re sensitive to it. Since it’s a common irritant, acne patients should generally avoid this one," he told us.
The derm enjoys this affordable fragrance-free find from Sun Bum that's available in SPF 50 and 70. Its lightweight moisturizing formula offers broad-spectrum protection and also absorbs quickly without leaving behind any greasiness.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion
$12.49
Target
$7.97
$11.50
Amazon
$7.97
$17.54
Walmart
Water-resistant formulas are key for summertime and this non-comedogenic sunscreen stays put when you're swimming or sweating a lot.
"Any product that you put on across the majority of the face, especially sunscreen, should be non-comedogenic, which is just language for saying it won’t clog pores. Clogged pores will generally lead to acne, so you may want to look for that language on the sunscreen," Anolik explained.
The sheer SPF absorbs quickly and also harnesses the power of Helioplex, broad-spectrum technology that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Plus, the price is right!
Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte Sunscreen
Make It Matte Sunscreen SPF 45
$17.99
Ulta
$17.99
Target
Wondering why sunscreen has a tendency of aggravating acne-prone skin? Boston-based dermatologist Dr. Ranella Hirschoffered a helpful explanation.
"Generally speaking (it's formulation dependent), some acne-prone people don't do well with heavy oil-based products and certain silicones," she said.
The derm is a fan of this matte sunscreen that has naturally hydrating ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil. The SPF 45 formula is reef-friendly, formulated without parabens and ideal for anyone with a darker skin tone.
Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen Lotion
Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen Lotion
$10.99
Target
$7.97
$9.99
Amazon
$13.99
Ulta
When shopping for a sunscreen for skin that tends to get acne, oil-free is the way to go according to Dr. Debra Jaliman, board-certified dermatologist and author of the book, “Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist."
"Look for sunscreens free from oil, fragrances and PABAs, which can irritate the skin and make acne worse," she said.
Neutrogena's Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen fits the bill and checks off all the boxes for Jaliman.
"It's oil-free and non-comedogenic so it will not clog pores. There are also no added fragrances, which can be irritating for some," she said.
Hero Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen
Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30
$19.99
Amazon
$19.99
Ulta
$19.99
Target
Mineral sunscreens are a go-to for Jaliman, especially for anyone who breaks out a lot, and this formula from Hero Cosmetics is one of her favorites.
"The lightweight texture absorbs quickly without being greasy," she said.
The broad-spectrum, reef-safe sunscreen offers SPF 30 protection with the help of zinc oxide and it has a hydrating gel-cream texture that looks great under makeup.
Cetaphil Pro Dermacontrol Oil Absorbing Face Moisturizer
Dermacontrol Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF 30
$16.12
Amazon
$21.49
Walmart
$16.99
Target
"Physical or mineral sunscreens that use titanium or zinc are generally better tolerated and are recommended for those with sensitive skin," Dr. Brendan Camp of MDCS Dermatology told us.
The derm recommends this daily moisturizer from Cetaphil and cited its light formula and matte finish as major selling points. The SPF 30 moisturizer is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and works overtime to absorb oil, reduce shine and shield your skin from the sun's dangerous rays.
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Bliss Block Star Invisible Daily Sunscreen
Block Star Invisible Daily Sunscreen
$25.00
Ulta
$21.97
Walmart
$21.99
Target
It's always nice when your sunscreen acts as a multitasker, and this is one of Dr. Angela J. Lamb's go-tos.
"It has an antioxidant blend, which is great for acne and oil absorption," the New York City board-certified dermatologist said.
The mineral sunscreen has a sheer, silky finish and works its magic with the help of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide and a range of antioxidants like blueberry acai and green tea extract. It's also formulated without parabens, phthalates and fragrance.
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide
$14.98
$24.98
Amazon
$14.98
Walmart
Dr. Liia Ramachandra, a former pharma executive and skin care expert, has a soft spot for this budget-friendly mineral sunscreen and it's easy to see why.
"I love it since it is a truly mineral/natural sunscreen with natural active ingredients and does not contain chemical oxybenzone or octinoxate," she told us. "It is great for acne-prone skin and sensitive skin and does not contain any fragrances or parabens."
As an added bonus, the sunscreen is reef-friendly and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
$14.80
Walmart
$39.00
Skinstore
$39.00
Dermstore
Camp raved about this popular sunscreen from EltaMD, saying the built-in niacinamide is great for rosacea-prone skin.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Face Sunscreen SPF 60
Anthelios Light Fluid Face Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60
$30.99
Amazon
$29.99
Target
$30.99
Dermstore
"This is a thin, lightweight facial sunscreen that comes in a travel-ready bottle. It is oil-free, noncomedogenic and spreads easily," Camp revealed.
The strong SPF 60 formula in this La Roche-Posay sunscreen provides plenty of protection from the sun and also has built-in Cell-Ox Shield technology, an antioxidant complex that protects skin from free radicals. Plus, it has 3,300+ verified five-star ratings on Amazon!
Neostrata Sheer Physical Protection SPF 50
Sheer Physical Protection SPF 50
$38.00
Dermstore
$38.00
Skinstore
$31.00
Walmart
"The reason sunscreen or sunblock often aggravate the skin is that the ingredients can be intrinsically irritating. Also, just that one extra product on your skin can also clog the pores," Lamb explained.
The derm appreciates this powerful, yet gentle formula that offers SPF 50 broad spectrum protection with the help of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. The impressive formula also features antioxidants to keep skin happy and it has a light, matte finish.
Paula's Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50
Extra Care Non-Greasy, Oil Free Face & Body Sunscreen SPF 50
$19.00
Amazon
$19.00
Dermstore
Ramachandra is fond of this lightweight, oil-free find from Paula's choice.
"It's really great for anyone with acne-prone and sensitive skin. It has no parabens or fragrances and is great for the face and body," she said.
The SPF 50 offers great water-resistant coverage and has a silky texture that feels luxurious on oily and combination skin. It's also formulated with several antioxidants and hydrating aloe.
Eucerin Sun Advanced Hydration SPF 30 Sunscreen
Sun Advanced Hydration SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion + Age Defense SPF 50
$19.06
$27.98
Amazon
Hyaluronic acid joined forces with vitamins C and E to create this hypoallergenic, non-greasy sunscreen that Ramachandra swears by.
"It's great for sensitive skin and acne-prone skin and for people with allergies. It is not only protecting but also moisturizing due to the hyaluronic acid in there," the expert said.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
$36.00
Ulta
$36.00
Nordstrom
$36.00
Sephora
Dermatologist Dr. Dhaval G. Bhanusali recommends this popular Supergoop! SPF to his clients for its oil-free formula.
"It blends in very well without being heavy," he explained.
The water-resistant SPF 40 formula offers broad-spectrum protection, filters out blue light and serves as a nice makeup primer. It's also formulated with plenty of hydrating ingredients!
For more stories like this, check out:
- 8 makeup products that won't make you break out, according to experts
- Say bye bye to painful sunburns with these expert-approved soothing products
- 15 effective acne spot treatments that'll shrink your zits ASAP
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Chrissy Callahan
Chrissy Callahan covers a range of topics for TODAY.com, including fashion, beauty, pop culture and food. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, watching bad reality TV and consuming copious amounts of cookie dough.