Dermatologists like to say the best sunscreen is the one you’re most likely to use day in and day out.
But what if there’s nothing that fits that bill? Many with acne-prone skin often think twice before applying any products to their face, sunscreen included, out of concern that they may cause a breakout.
The truth is, some types of sunscreen, like nearly any cosmetic product, have the potential to cause breakouts. Just how great this potential is depends on your skin and its sensitivities.
That said, applying (and reapplying) sunscreen every day is non-negotiable. It helps prevent skin cancer and premature aging in every skin type and tone. And while your concern about its effect on your acne is justified, research has shown that sun exposure can worsen acne. In fact, some studies have found that sunlight can trigger breakouts and exacerbate acne-related scarring.
What should you do then? For starters, start reading labels. Sunscreens intended for the body are more likely to cause acne on the face. So look for one that’s specifically formulated for the face.
What to look for in a face sunscreen
Face sunscreens tend to be more lightweight than body sunscreens. They can also include ingredients that can help to reduce the risk of acne and improve the appearance of a breakout. Look for these in the ingredients list:
- Niacinamide: Can regulate oil production, brighten skin tone, reduce the appearance of pores, and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Zinc oxide: Found in most mineral sunscreens. Can help reduce acne-causing inflammation. It also regulates sebum production.
- Squalene or ceramides: Squalene, a lightweight emollient, provides excellent moisturization. It also has antioxidant properties. Ceramides are essential lipids that strengthen the skin barrier.
While you’re scanning ingredients lists, take note of other ingredients that can make acne worse, such as heavy occlusives like mineral oil, cocoa butter, coconut oil, and beeswax. And some chemical SPF filters, such as avobenzone, may cause a reaction in acne-prone skin.
You should also look for a face sunscreen that’s fragrance-free because added fragrance increases your risk of irritation, which could lead to acne.
Sunscreen can help with acne scarring, too
The breakout itself is, of course, only part of the annoyance over acne. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – the residual red or purple marks that can remain for weeks or even months after the breakout’s subsided – usually worsens or persists longer when exposed to the sun.
But sunscreen will help reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and make existing lesions fade faster. This is especially true for melanin-rich skin and skin prone to hyperpigmentation. It is unlikely, though, to make a significant difference in the texture of acne scars.
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