These Are The 13 Best Sunscreens For Acne-Prone Skin
We all know by now that every day, come rain or shine, we should be wearing a face SPF. No excuses. However, for those of us with acne-prone skin, finding a sun cream that doesn't result in an eruption of breakouts is no mean feat. The trick is to look out for formulas which are oil-free, made without heavy ingredients, or labelled non-comedogenic, which means they're less likely to clog your pores.
What SPF should we use for acne-prone skin?
'Breakout-prone skin does not need oily formulations or creamy textures that sit on the skin and cause clogged pores,' agrees Dr Alia Ahmed, a psychodermatologist. 'Stick to non-comedogenic formulas, which means that the formulation is designed not to clog pores and aggravate one of the causative factors for acne.'
So what should we use instead? 'Ideally, look for a moisturiser that will calm and hydrate the skin barrier without being comedogenic. It may feel counterintuitive to use moisturiser for acne but it can be incredibly important,' adds consultant dermatologist, Dr Justine Hextall.
What ingredients should you look for in SPF for acne-prone skin?
It's also important to look at your ingredient labels. 'To boost hydration without blocking pores I would suggest looking for ingredients that draw water to the top layer or skin, these are called humectants, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerine. Moisturisers that contain ceramides help to strengthen the skin barrier and, as such, reduce water loss without being oily and blocking pores,' says Dr Hextall. Formulas with added niacinamide or salicylic acid can help calm blemishes and prevent new ones, too.
The key is that they still offer up brilliant protection from both UVA and UVB rays, so you can go about your day safe in the knowledge that your skin is shielded from the wavelengths that can lead to pre-mature wrinkles, pigmentation and, of course, skin cancer.
How we test
After close inspection of the ingredients list, we consider the texture of each SPF. The best SPF is the one that you'll love wearing, so it's important that the sunscreen feels lightweight on oily and easily-congested complexion, doesn't go greasy by midday, yet offers enough hydration throughout the dry winter months. It should also go on completely invisible and perform well under make-up without causing pilling (when your make-up balls up into tiny flakes).
From light gels to tinted SPF moisturisers , here are the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin to wear daily, no matter the season.
Shop the best SPF for acne-prone skin
Ambre Solaire SPF 50+ Invisible Serum
This particularly brilliant innovation from SPF stalwarts Garnier ticks so many boxes. Firstly, the serum texture feels as light as water, so those with oily skin won't recoil when massaging it over enlarged pores. Then, there's the barrier-boosting ceramides, which frankly are a stellar inclusion whatever your skin type. Finally, there's the way it doesn't pill under make-up – in fact, it acts as a smoothing primer for a liquid foundation. Sold? We should think so.
360 Water Gel Sunscreen SPF 50
The go-to SPF brand for dermatologists, Heliocare's airy-light texture feels instantly refreshing on skin that's prone to acne and redness. It feels completely invisible on skin, but imbues enough hydration to keep the skin feeling soft and comfortable.
Urban Environment Age Defense Oil-Free SPF 30
Built-in antioxidants help shield the skin from damage caused by pollutants. Shiseido excels when it comes to formulating elegant skincare textures, and this is no different. The gentle tint gently perks up tired skin, and the oil-free formula promises to keep pores clear.
Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF50+
Like an actual glass of water for your face, South Korean beauty brand Thank You Farmer's featherweight SPF 50+ provides ultra-high protection from sun damage whilst delivering hydrating hyaluronic acid to parched skin – because acne-prone skin needs moisture, too.
Unseen Sunscreen SPF30 PA+++
Supergoop! has something for every skin type. This one delivers completely invisible protection that's traceless under make-up and feels totally weightless. We're smitten.
Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50
Legends in the SPF game, La Roche-Posay have pushed their iconic Anthelios formula to the next level. The latest iteration is formulated with the tech-y MEXORYL400 filter to protect skin from UVA, UVB and ultra-long UVA rays. Water-resistant, totally invisible and non-greasy, you'll forget you're even wearing SPF.
Polyglutamic Acid Dewy Sunscreen SPF30
Packed with a hydrating blend of ingredients – including polyglutamic acid, glycerin and squalane – this broad spectrum sunscreen works to lock in moisture, giving skin a smooth, glowy finish. It doesn't pill, is suitable for all skin tones, and provides UVA and UVB protection while being great for layering underneath make-up.
Oil and Pore Mattifier SPF45
If an oily complexion is a side effect of problem skin, this is the SPF for you. Oil-free, it's still hydrating so you'll likely not need a moisturiser underneath. A great choice for those wanting to cut down on skincare steps.
Aloe Soothing SPF50 PA+++ Sun Cream
A much-loved favourite of the ELLE UK beauty desk, this soothing K-beauty suncream is a dream for acne-prone skin. Sinking into skin effortlessly, it acts as a calming veil for irritation without compromising on that all important UVA and UVB protection.
Lean Screen Mineral Mattifying Skinscreen SPF 50+
Looking for a matte SPF that doesn't compromise on comfort? This luxuriously silky texture just might be for you. With a zinc-only mineral formula, this modern cult classic envelops your skin in lightweight SPF 50+ protection and is perfect for layering under make-up. No pilling or peeling here.
Moisturizing Gel-Cream SPF30
Byoma's cult lightweight gel cream boasts a cooling, non-greasy SPF30 formula that absorbs in seconds without leaving a streaky white cast. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free and super hydrating, it's ideal for those concerned about breakouts.
Flawless Daily Sunscreen SPF 50
A sunscreen developed by a skin expert is a good place to start when looking for 'the one'. On top of a soft-focus finish and calming sensation, this also includes a dose of niacinamide, a key ingredient for brightening skin and minimising pore appearance.
Sunny Days SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen
A tinted moisturiser with SPF is a great choice for skin that tends to feel overloaded and oily after multiple layers of product. This is one of few approved of by the National Eczema Association, and is so gentle (the sunscreen filters are all mineral) that anyone will get on with it. There's a wide range of shades, and the result is a satiny finish that never veers too shiny or oily.
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