Which sunscreen should I choose for acne-prone skin?

Dr. Annelies Avermaete
22.6.2023

The best sunscreen if you have acne & does it make acne worse?

Summer is in full swing, which means it's time to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. If you acne If you have, finding the right sunscreen can be a challenge. Not only do you have to take into account the sun protection, but also the texture of the product.

In this blog post, we'll discuss the different textures of sunscreen and find out which one is best for people with acne-prone skin.

Do you get pimples from the sun?

Treating Acne through sunlight? It is sometimes said that the sun could cure acne. Unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone. Sunlight can indeed have a positive effect on you acne. That's because certain rays kill the C acne bacteria.

But the sun also damages your skin and dries it out. As a counter-reaction, your skin will produce extra sebum, which can cause blackheads. Something you'd rather avoid, of course.

How can you protect yourself from the sun if you have acne?

Sun cream is therefore very important. We know that it is sometimes difficult to find the right balance in which skincare products you combine. Always use as few different products as possible, but don't skip your SPF. Especially when you are in treatment. The products within such acne treatment make your skin extra sensitive to sunlight.

Be sure to lubricate every two to three hours. Avoid coming directly into the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., which is when it's strongest.

Myth or fact: sunscreen gives you pimples?

Although sunscreen is not the only one cause of acne will be, harsh, oily creams can contribute to acne. One acne myth that does have some truth to it, so.

Do you like to play it safe? So it's best to choose sun protection with a light texture such as a gel or a liquid cream and make sure that there are no perfumes in the product.

Which sunscreen should you choose for acne-prone skin?

01 Sunscreen Gel

Gels have a light and refreshing texture. They are rapidly absorbed and usually leave no greasy residue on the skin. Sunscreen gels are great for people with acne-prone skin, as they are often oil-free and help keep shiny skin matte. Look for a gel with a non-comedogenic formula.

02 Liquid sun creams similar to a lotion

Liquid sun creams are the most common forms of sunscreen. They have a thin, fluid texture (almost milky) and are easily absorbed by the skin. For those with acne-prone skin, it's important to choose an oil-free formula that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. Opt for a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly and does not feel greasy on the skin.

03 Powdered sun protection

Sunscreen powders are a fairly recent addition to the spectrum of sun protection. They are ideal for people with acne-prone skin, as they provide light coverage and help mattify shiny skin. Powders are easy to apply over makeup and are useful for touch-ups throughout the day. Make sure the powder offers broad-spectrum sun protection and contains at least SPF 50.

Textures to avoid:

  • Thicker sun creams have a heavier, and usually oilier, texture that is harder to absorb by the skin. The risk of them leaving a layer and choking the pores is greater.
  • Sunscreen oil gets stuck in the pores so easily that it can make pimples worse. Avoid anything that is oil-based.

Would you like to know which sunscreen best suits your skin? Then ask for help from our online dermatologists!

Reliable advice from a dermatologist has never been so close.