As the weather gets warmer, you're bound to sweat more, which isn't the best news when it comes to sun protection, especially if your skin is naturally oily.
If you're currently dealing with a severe rash, there are some beauty products you want to use on your skin (like concealers and spot treatments) and some you don't.
For most people, sunscreen falls into the latter category. Because who wants to slather something traditionally oily on an already oily complexion?
Additionally, if you use prescription retinoids to treat acne, you need to be more careful when applying SPF to sensitive skin. "Retinoids can actually make the skin more sensitive to the sun, even if we use them at night.
Sun protection is always key to preventing irritation and burns," says Dr. Sheila Farhang, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Avant Dermatology & Aesthetics.
Before you head out in the sun, read on to find the best sunscreen for your acne-prone skin.
1. CeraVe Hydrating Sun Protection Facial Sheer Tint SPF 30: CeraVe is one of the most popular brands recommended by dermatologists for sensitive skin because it is known to be non-irritating to many skin types.
This sunscreen is no exception. The best part, though, is that the mineral formula blends with it so perfectly that you'll barely notice you're wearing it.
2. Apply SPF 30 mineral sunscreen powder: Powder sunscreens are great for sensitive skin because they eliminate redness, matte oily skin, and also have excellent mineral sun protection factors.
They sit on the skin's surface and don't contain a lot of extra ingredients because they're a dry formula - perfect for use under makeup.
3. Alba Botanica Sensitive Sunscreen Spray SPF 50: If you're unfortunate enough to suffer from back acne, the last thing you want is sunburn, which can exacerbate your problem.
Choose a clear spray designed for sensitive skin, like this one from Alba Botanica.
4. MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Cream SPF 30: Acne on the chest, arms, or legs is especially unpleasant. So, use mineral formulas to add a pop of color to your skin.
5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Refreshing Dry Skin Sunscreen SPF 60: It's no surprise that dermatologists would choose a facial sunscreen with a super high SPF but here's why Dr. Do you like this special acne-fighting sunscreen? "It contains volcanic ash, which helps absorb excess oil and prevent a shiny look," he explains.
6. Coppertone Pure & Simple Facial Sunscreen Lotion. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to prevent breakouts. Case in point: This tube costs less than $5!
7. Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen: There's no chalky smell here: it melts into the skin, delivering a range of skin-strengthening benefits thanks to its combination of skin-softening silk extract, pore-tightening Japanese rose extract and soothing loquat leaf extract.
8. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 46: EltaMD has been a favorite among dermatologists (including Dr. Farhang) for years, thanks to its non-comedogenic and fragrance-free formula designed for sensitive skin.
That's why it's no surprise that the brand also offers this great product for those prone to acne. It contains lactic acid to unclog pores and prevent shine, and sodium hyaluronate to hydrate.
9.Revision Skincare Intellisade Matte: For a sunscreen that's both soothing and cooling (green tea extract) and hydrating with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid
try Revision Skincare's oil-free formula. If you want to cover blemishes or acne scars, Dr. Farhang also uses Revision Tinted Sunscreen for a matte look.
10. Venus Williams’ EleVen Incomparable Sun Protection Serum SPF 35: "I'm really impressed with Eleven by Venus - it's suitable for all skin types and tones is mineral-based and contains pure zinc," Dr. Farhang. Not to mention it’s also reef safe.
11. Neutrogena Clear Face Acne-Free Liquid Lotion Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 55 Whether your chin or chest is a breeding ground for acne this lightweight liquid has what you need. Designed for use on the face or body, it protects against UVA and UVB rays and leaves a matte finish.
5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Refreshing Dry Skin Sunscreen SPF 60: It's no surprise that dermatologists would choose a facial sunscreen with a super high SPF but here's why Dr. Do you like this special acne-fighting sunscreen? "It contains volcanic ash, which helps absorb excess oil and prevent a shiny look," he explains.
6. Coppertone Pure & Simple Facial Sunscreen Lotion. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to prevent breakouts. Case in point: This tube costs less than $5!
7. Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen: There's no chalky smell here: it melts into the skin, delivering a range of skin-strengthening benefits thanks to its combination of skin-softening silk extract, pore-tightening Japanese rose extract and soothing loquat leaf extract.
8. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 46: EltaMD has been a favorite among dermatologists (including Dr. Farhang) for years, thanks to its non-comedogenic and fragrance-free formula designed for sensitive skin.
That's why it's no surprise that the brand also offers this great product for those prone to acne. It contains lactic acid to unclog pores and prevent shine, and sodium hyaluronate to hydrate.
9.Revision Skincare Intellisade Matte: For a sunscreen that's both soothing and cooling (green tea extract) and hydrating with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid
try Revision Skincare's oil-free formula. If you want to cover blemishes or acne scars, Dr. Farhang also uses Revision Tinted Sunscreen for a matte look.
10. Venus Williams’ EleVen Incomparable Sun Protection Serum SPF 35: "I'm really impressed with Eleven by Venus - it's suitable for all skin types and tones is mineral-based and contains pure zinc," Dr. Farhang. Not to mention it’s also reef safe.
11. Neutrogena Clear Face Acne-Free Liquid Lotion Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 55 Whether your chin or chest is a breeding ground for acne this lightweight liquid has what you need. Designed for use on the face or body, it protects against UVA and UVB rays and leaves a matte finish.
12. Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizing Cream
Differin is everyone's favorite over-the-counter acne retinol and an oil-absorbing moisturizer. The combination of microbead and oleosome technology absorbs oil, minimizing irritation and moisturizing the skin.
What should I pay attention to when using sunscreen for acne?
Luckily, there are plenty of sunscreens that are suitable for acne and sensitive skin and won't leave you oilier than before.
First, make sure the sunscreen you're using on your face is actually designed for the face and not the body, advises Dr. Farhang. She also recommends using a mineral formula.
"Chemical sunscreens don't necessarily cause acne, but they do cause more irritation. "Especially for people who take acne treatment products like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid," says Dr. Farhang.
When it comes to ingredients, look for a bottle that's oil-free and non-comedogenic, says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. "Oil-free products tend to feel lighter on the skin, while non-comedogenic products won't clog pores or trigger breakouts," he explains.
You should look for a lighter, non-greasy formula: Dr. Farhang recommends that acne sufferers use a clear or almost liquid sunscreen. "Plus, mineral powder sunscreen is great for reapplying and absorbing excess oil that builds up throughout the day," adds Dr. Farhang added. If you want to cover existing breakouts, try using a tinted sunscreen.
How do you prepare your acne-prone skin before applying SPF?
If you suffer from frequent acne, make sure you stick to a regular skin care routine before applying sunscreen.
Start your treatment regimen with a mild cleanser, then use your usual acne medication, Dr. Farhang. Then apply sunscreen, followed by moisturizer to prevent your skin from drying out, especially in the sun.
Post a Comment