Sunscreen for Pimple Prone Skin: Find your Perfect Match

If your skin breaks out easily, you may think twice about applying a product to your face. Yet, you cannot do without sunscreen, especially if your job or lifestyle requires you to be outdoors. Sun protection is essential to prevent tanning and browning of skin, but that's not all. Sun exposure is the top cause for premature skin aging, apparent in signs like fine lines, wrinkles, spots, and dryness. Over the past half-century, temperatures have become warmer, posing a real risk of sunburn and skin cancer. On the bright side, you should have no problem finding a sunscreen for pimple/acne- prone skin, one that protects against harmful UV rays without causing breakouts or flare-ups.

Make sure the Sunscreen has non-comedogenic properties

Non-comedogenic ingredients do not clog pores. If a sunscreen is labelled 'Oil-Free', it has ingredients that won't clog pores and trigger acne. For example, zinc oxide and titanium oxide, the active ingredients in mineral sunscreens are gentle on the skin and unlikely to cause irritation. Other non-comedogenic components of sunscreens include aloe vera, Vitamin E, and niacinamide.

When looking for the best sunscreen for pimple/acne-prone skin or skin conditions like rosacea or psoriasis, steer clear of products containing oxybenzone and PABA as active ingredients, as they're more likely to irritate the skin. Also, avoid heavy oils like coconut oil and nourishing ingredients such as cocoa butter. As fragrances can also irritate sensitive skin, you're better off with a fragrance-free product.

Fluids, Gels and Sprays are Great for Oily Skin

Sunscreens come in different forms, as lotions, creams, gels, fluids, and sprays. Lotions and creams are less quickly absorbed into the skin compared to fluids, gels, and sprays. Heavy lotions are a no-no as they can worsen congestion of pores and increase oil production, leading to acne breakouts. Sheer lotions are much better but they may still feel heavy on acne-prone skin. On the other hand, sprays are lightweight while fluids and gels absorb easily into the skin without leaving a trace. You can even dab a sunscreen gel into your scalp, which is also exposed to UV rays. The bottom line? The best sunscreen for oily skin and pimples are aqueous, gel-based, or sprays.

Choose Broad Spectrum Protection

You're familiar with a sunscreen's Sun Protection Factor (SPF), a measure of the amount of UVB rays that it can block. Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 (blocks 97% of UVB rays) or higher (blocks up to 99% of UV rays). SPF does not take UVA rays into account. UVA rays penetrate deep into skin tissues, destroying elastin and collagen, and causing premature aging.

The best sunscreen for pimple/ acne-prone skin protects against both UVA and UVB rays. In other words, it provides broad-spectrum protection. Go for a product labeled 'broad spectrum' and you can be rest assured that you're getting optimal sun protection.

Opt for a lightweight sunscreen formula

What is a lightweight formula when it comes to sunscreen for pimple/acne-prone skin? It is non-greasy, forms a thin layer on skin, and is easily absorbed. In contrast, sunscreens containing ultra-nourishing ingredients can be too rich for oily skin, making it greasy and triggering breakouts. Products labeled 'ultra light' or 'ultra sheer' are specially formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

The best sunscreen for oily pimple skin may very well be a mattifying product that helps absorb excess surface oil and decreases the shine on oily skin. Some mattifying sunscreens contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid that do not clog pores. They dry to a sheer, non-sticky, and undetectable finish. If your regular week involves outdoor activities and games, a water-resistant, sweat-resistant product is ideal.

Conclusion

There are sunscreens for all skin types. People with sensitive skin prone to breaking out should consider sunscreens formulated to suit the demands of their skin type. That means non- comedogenic, oil-free products with a lightweight texture that absorb easily into the skin. Never use body sunscreens on the face as they can lead to greasiness and cause or worsen acne. If you have sensitive skin, check the sunscreen label for ingredients like PABA, oxybenzone, and fragrances that are likely to cause skin irritation.

A good sunscreen for pimple/acne-prone skin provides UVA and UVB protection. Check the SPF number, higher being better, and read the label to make an informed decision.