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4 min read
Skincare experts discuss what to do if wearing SPF leads to spots, blemishes and acne. Plus the best formulas for you.
We all know that we should be wearing SPF every day. No matter the weather or your skin tone, SPF is essential for protecting against UV rays that can cause skin burning, ageing and sometimes lead to skin cancer. But what about if wearing sunscreen breaks you out? One of the annoying side effects of SPF is that it can sometimes exacerbate oiliness, sensitivity and blemishes. Luckily, sun protection has come a long way in the last couple of years. From tinted SPFs to hair-friendly formulas, there are now so many clever new products on the market meaning breaking out due to SPF is officially a thing of the past.
Below skin experts Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, chemist Gabriela Duffy Morales and founder of Skingredients Jennifer Rock explain what to look out for when buying an SPF for acne-prone skin.
Can sunscreen cause acne and blemishes?
“If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin I always recommend non-comedogenic formulations or oil-free with a matte finish,” advises Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme.
“Obagi, Heliocare and Eucerin all do great oil control formulas that feel incredibly light on the skin. Try using the CeraVe AM moisturiser with SPF25 or La Roche Posay Hyla B5 SPF30, which both work to look after the epidermis and hydrate the skin as well as providing SPF protection.”
Are mineral suncream formulas better for those with acne-prone skin?
The key difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens is that mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and block rays while chemical sunscreens filter out rays. “As mineral SPFs sit on the surface of the skin instead of absorbing in, they can be less irritating for sensitive and blemish-prone skin,” explains skincare chemist Gabriela Duffy Morales.
“To minimise the risk of a reaction, look for formulations that are suitable for sensitive skin types,” advises dermal facialist Jennifer Rock. “You can even opt for an SPF designed for children because these formulas are less likely to contain ingredients that can irritate the skin – such as fragrance.
I also advise checking the INCI list (International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient), usually found on the back of products for ingredients such as fragrance, mineral oils, parabens or high levels of alcohol if you have any kind of sensitivity, as these ingredients have the potential to cause irritation.”
Best sunscreen for acne prone skin
Avene Cleanance Sun Cream SPF50+
Developed for those with oily skin, the SPF50+ reduces the appearance of post-blemish scars while keeping your skin protected and hydrated for up to eight hours.
Hello Sunday The Matte One Sebum Control Fluid SPF50
Designed for oily and acne-prone skin, this supercharged moisturiser regulates sebum production and infuses CBD to soothe skin, while offering broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays, pollution and blue light.
Shop Hello Sunday The Matte One Sebum Control Fluid SPF50 at Cult Beauty, £22
Skingredients Skin Shield SPF50 PA+++
Sitting perfectly under make-up with zero pill, this lightweight mineral formula protects your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays, blue light, pollution and infrared. Niacinamide and vitamin E add extra antioxidant protection while allantoin smooths and moisturises the skin without clogging pores.
La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo+ SPF30 with Niacinamide
Ideal for those with blemish-prone skin, this non-sticky formula works to reduce the appearance of blemishes and spots for clearer skin. Niacinamide works to purify your complexion while salicylic acid works to clear pores. The result? Protected skin that’s clear and shine free.
Shop La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo+ SPF30 with Niacinamide at Lookfantastic, £21.90
Eucerin Sun Face Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream SPF50
Developed specifically for oily, breakout-prone skin types, this hardworking SPF features advanced spectral technology, helping to defend skin from broad-spectrum UVA and UVB rays with SPF50+. Lightweight and non-greasy, the gel formula is enriched with sebum-regulating l-carnitine and absorbing micro-particles, encouraging an instant dry touch finish with an anti-shine effect of up to eight hours.
Shop Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel Cream SPF 50+ at Lookfantastic, £19
Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-Free SPF 50
Loved by dermatologists, this oil-free dry-touch sunscreen is clinically proven to protect against UVA and UVB rays. The formula is also enriched with anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and sebum-controlling technology, which makes it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Its oil-free dry-touch formulation reduces shine caused by humid climates, which means that it’s also ideal for normal, combination and oily skin types.
Shop Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-Free SPF 50 at Face The Future, £31
Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF50
While it’s expensive, this formula is often recommended for those who need expert protection, after having received a facial peel or treatment that could make their skin more sensitive to the sun. The high SPF50 protection includes physical and chemical sunscreen ingredients, with a matte finish that is non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested.
Shop Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50 at Dr Leah, £70.50
Images: Getty; courtesy of brands
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