When dealing with acne, you might be extra cautious about what you put on your skin. Some skincare products and cosmetics can aggravate acne if not chosen carefully. But what about sunscreen? Does using sunscreen worsen acne, or is it safe?

Can You Use Sunscreen When You Have Acne?

Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dirt, dust, and dead skin cells, leading to different forms of acne, such as whiteheads, blackheads, or inflamed breakouts.

Several factors can worsen acne, including:

• Hormonal fluctuations that increase oil production
• The use of corticosteroid or hormonal medications
• High-carb diets
• Poor stress management

Many people believe that sunscreen or cosmetics might make acne worse. However, according to WebMD, using cosmetics does not necessarily aggravate acne, as long as the products are suitable for your skin type.

Non-comedogenic, oil-free cosmetics that are properly cleansed can actually help reduce the risk of acne flare-ups. The same applies to sunscreen: as long as the right sunscreen is chosen, it will not trigger acne.

Tips for Choosing Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin

Acne-prone skin still needs UV protection. To avoid exacerbating breakouts, it’s important to pick the right sunscreen. Here are some guidelines for choosing sunscreen for acne-prone skin:

• Heavy and occlusive formulas: Sunscreens containing thick moisturizers like coconut oil, beeswax, and cocoa butter can clog pores and worsen acne.

• Chemical SPF filters: Some chemical sunscreens containing filters like avobenzone can cause irritation and inflammatory reactions. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens instead.

• Added fragrances: Fragrances in sunscreens can irritate sensitive skin and increase the risk of breakouts.

In contrast, individuals with sensitive and acne-prone skin is recommended to look for sunscreens with these features:

• Sunscreens for the face: Facial sunscreens are typically lighter and may contain ingredients beneficial for acne-prone skin.
• Non-comedogenic labels: Choose sunscreens that don’t contain excess oil or pore-clogging ingredients. These are designed to be safe for acne-prone skin.
• Match sunscreen to your skin type: For dry skin, consider a lotion-based sunscreen. If the lotion feels too heavy, opt for a gel or spray sunscreen.
• Acne-relieving ingredients: Sunscreens with niacinamide or zinc oxide can help soothe acne-prone skin.
• Hydrating ingredients: Look for sunscreens with squalane or ceramide, which boost skin moisture and reduce the risk of breakouts.
• Broad-spectrum protection: Choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
• SPF 30 or higher: For effective protection, use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

No matter your skin type, it’s essential to use sunscreen to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. If you’re dealing with acne and unsure about what products to use, consulting a doctor or dermatologist is always a good idea. You can also take advantage of the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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