10 Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist
Skincare brands have improved their sunscreens to cater to acne-prone skin. You might have heard time and time again that sunscreen is essential in your morning skincare routine. Sunscreen will help prevent dark spots, sun damage, and signs of aging. However, some sunscreen formulas can clog pores, which causes acne and breakouts.
Acne and breakouts are preventable if you know how to select the right sunscreen for acne-prone skin. This article will guide you in choosing the right sunscreen that will protect you from UV rays while avoiding breakouts - with some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz. Plus, look out for our top 10 picks your face will thank you for!
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Rica is a writer and editor for mybest PH who first joined the team in October 2020. She mostly writes lifestyle titles, especially ones that tap into fashion, beauty, food, arts, and hobbies. Though she's someone who dabbles in whatever sparks her interest, Rica spends most of her free time fangirling, watching races, and playing with her dogs.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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Can Sunscreens Cause Acne?
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz, sunscreen per se doesn't cause acne. Acne is caused by a combination of the following four factors:
- buildup of oil or sebum
- clogged skin pores
- bacteria in the skin
- inflammation
However, certain ingredients incorporated in sunscreens can predispose us to acne, especially if they clog our pores.
How to Choose a Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin – Buying Guide
If you have acne-prone skin, picking the right sunscreen can be challenging. Your best pick is one that can provide you with ample sun protection without making your skin break out. To ensure that you choose a product suitable for your skin type, here are some factors to consider:
Know Which Ingredients to Look for and Avoid for Your Skin Type
A sunscreen contains both active and inactive ingredients. While some of these are good for acne-prone skin, there are also some that can congest the pores. Thus, paying attention to the ingredients list is essential.
Calm Inflammation With Cica and Tea Tree Oil
Centella Asiatica is an ingredient that has both anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties and can help soothe and calm redness and irritation associated with acne. Tea tree oil, on the other hand, has been shown to have both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities that can help combat the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Ingredients, such as cica, are soothing and can definitely aid in calming down the inflammation associated with acne.
Control Oil Using Niacinamide
Niacinamide is one of the beneficial ingredients for acne-prone skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and calm inflamed acne lesions. It also has the ability to regulate sebum protection to reduce the risk of clogged pores. Sunscreens with niacinamide often promise an improved skin tone with regular use as well.
Prevent Dryness With Moisturizing Ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid
People with acne-prone skin or existing acne will benefit from moisturizing ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and ceramide because these aid in restoring the disrupted skin barrier. At the same time, they also help reduce dryness and prevent irritation that may result from some of the topicals prescribed for acne.
It is a plus but not really a requirement primarily because a moisturizer would be a key part of one’s routine anyway.
Avoid Fragrances and Heavy Occlusive Ingredients That Can Irritate and Clog Pores
Occlusives such as petroleum jelly, beeswax, shea butter, and some plant oils are often used in skincare products to provide a sealing effect and prevent water loss. However, these ingredients have a thicker and heavier texture that can feel uncomfortable on oily, acne-prone skin, potentially leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
On the other hand, you might also want to avoid fragrances in your sunscreen. Fragrances contain a complex mixture of chemicals that have the potential to cause irritation, allergies, and other adverse reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Heavy ingredients, such as oils and petrolatum, that act as occlusives should be avoided, as they tend to clog pores more often than others.
Go for Oil-free, Lightweight Gel or Water-Based Sunscreens That Are Less Likely to Clog Pores
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz, the key to minimizing breakouts from the sunscreen you're using is by choosing the right one. In the case of people with acne-prone skin, the suitable sunscreen is one with a lightweight texture, usually gel or water-based.
These formulations do not leave a heavy or greasy feeling and get quickly absorbed by the skin. You may also want to go for those labeled as "oil-free."
Although the choice of a sunscreen is a very personal one, I do recommend going for sunscreens with a thinner, gel-like, or liquid consistency rather than the heavy ones. That type of texture is also more suitable for our climate.
Consider Mineral and Tinted Sunscreens
The two types of sunscreen are chemical and mineral. Mineral sunscreens sit on top of your skin and deflect UV rays away from the skin, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays to prevent them from penetrating the skin. Mineral sunscreens usually contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that are known to be gentle on the skin and less likely to clog pores, making them ideal for people with acne-prone skin.
On the other hand, tinted sunscreens can also be a good option for those with acne-prone skin. As opposed to regular clear sunscreens, tinted ones provide some level of coverage, similar to a light foundation or BB cream, that can mask minor imperfections. Thus, it can potentially allow you to skip foundation or other heavy base makeup.
In general, those with acne are better off with mineral sunscreen as it's been found to be less irritating. However, this doesn't necessarily equate to less breakouts. It still boils down to the overall formulation and texture of the sunscreen and your skin's reaction to it.
Pick a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen With at Least an SPF 30 for Better Sun Protection
When choosing a sunscreen, it's best to get one that offers broad-spectrum protection to shield your skin against UVB and UVA rays, which can accelerate skin aging, and aid in the darkening of existing pigment and the burning of the skin.
You must also see to it that it has at least SPF 30 to protect your skin against 97% of the UVB rays. On the other hand, if you're spending more hours under the sun, say during summer, SPF 50 or higher is ideal. You may also get one with a PA rating for more protection from UVA rays.
SPF basically measures protection against erythema (or redness) after exposure to the sun. Now, you would need at least an SPF 30 as this would filter ~97% of UVB rays. If you can get one with SPF 50, even better, as it can filter ~98% of UVB rays.
Remember though, the amount of sunscreen specified for SPF testing is 2 mg/cm2, equal to 30 mL of sunscreen to cover the entire body surface. So if you didn't apply the right amount of sunscreen, you definitely would not be as protected as you think!
Look for Water-Resistant Sunscreens for Prolonged Protection
To ensure that your sunscreen won't easily slide off under the Philippines' usual sweltering weather, it is best to go for water-resistant sunscreens. These are formulated to adhere to the skin even when exposed to water or sweat.
These are useful for those who engage in physical and water activities. Water-resistant sunscreens' ability to repel water can last between 40 to 80 minutes. After that, reapplying for optimal sun protection is still recommended.
Water resistance in sunscreen is part of the minimum checklist you need for a good sunscreen.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
10 Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Broad-Spectrum Protection | SPF/PA | Chemical/Mineral | Other Features | Volume | ||||
1 | Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++ |  | Niacinamide, Tocopherol, Rice Extract, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract | SPF50+ PA++++ | Chemical | Lightweight, Dewy Finish, Hydrating, Non-Sticky | 50 mL | ||
2 | Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++ |  | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid | SPF50+ PA++++ | Chemical | Hydrating, Soothing, Water-Fit Serum Texture, Plumping, Dewy Finish | 50 mL | ||
3 | Hello Glow Ultralight ++ Matte Sunscreen SPF50 PA +++ |  | Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid | SPF50 PA+++ | Chemical | Matte Finish, Ultralight Texture, Oil-Control | 50 mL | ||
4 | La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 SPF50+ Invisible Fluid |  | Tocopherol, Glycerin | SPF50+ | Chemical | Ultra Lightweight, Non-Perfumed, Matte/Invisible Finish, Contains Mexoryl 400 | 50 mL | ||
5 | Fairy Skin Premium Brightening Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++ |  | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, Rosemary Leaf Extract | SPF50 PA++++ | Hybrid | Tone-Up, Primer, Brightening, Hydrating, Fragrance-Free | 50 mL | ||
6 | Axis-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ |  | Niacinamide, Squalane | SPF50+ PA++++ | Mineral | Minimal White Cast, Lightweight Finish, Suitable for Sensitive Skin, Certified Vegan, No Animal Ingredients | 50 mL | ||
7 | Dr. Sensitive Super Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ |  | Niacinamide, Allantoin, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate | SPF50+ PA++++ | Hybrid | Matte Finish, Lightweight, Non-Greasy, No White Cast, Face and Body | 50 mL | ||
8 | Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++ |  | Silica, Sodium Hyaluronate | SPF50+ PA++++ | Chemical | Watery Essence, Lightweight, Makeup Base, Water/Sweat Resistant | 85 mL | ||
9 | Eucerin Sun Protection Oil Control Dry Touch SPF50+ |  | Licochalcone A, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, L-Carnitine | SPF50+ | Chemical | Oil Control, Dry Touch, Anti-Shine, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance | 50 mL | ||
10 | COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++ |  | Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract | SPF50+ PA+++ | Chemical | Soothing, Moisturizing, No White Cast, Dewy Finish, Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing | 50 mL | ||
Beauty of JoseonRelief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Tocopherol, Rice Extract, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Lightweight, Dewy Finish, Hydrating, Non-Sticky |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Skin1004Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Hydrating, Soothing, Water-Fit Serum Texture, Plumping, Dewy Finish |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Hello Glow Ultralight ++ Matte Sunscreen SPF50 PA +++
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50 PA+++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Matte Finish, Ultralight Texture, Oil-Control |
| Volume | 50 mL |
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 SPF50+ Invisible Fluid
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Tocopherol, Glycerin |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Ultra Lightweight, Non-Perfumed, Matte/Invisible Finish, Contains Mexoryl 400 |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Fairy Skin Premium Brightening Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, Rosemary Leaf Extract |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50 PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid |
| Other Features | Tone-Up, Primer, Brightening, Hydrating, Fragrance-Free |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Axis-YComplete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Squalane |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Mineral |
| Other Features | Minimal White Cast, Lightweight Finish, Suitable for Sensitive Skin, Certified Vegan, No Animal Ingredients |
| Volume | 50 mL |
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Allantoin, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid |
| Other Features | Matte Finish, Lightweight, Non-Greasy, No White Cast, Face and Body |
| Volume | 50 mL |
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Silica, Sodium Hyaluronate |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Watery Essence, Lightweight, Makeup Base, Water/Sweat Resistant |
| Volume | 85 mL |
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Licochalcone A, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, L-Carnitine |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Oil Control, Dry Touch, Anti-Shine, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance |
| Volume | 50 mL |
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA+++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Soothing, Moisturizing, No White Cast, Dewy Finish, Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing |
| Volume | 50 mL |
How to Apply Sunscreen Properly, According to a Board-Certified Dermatologist
Now that you know how to select your sunscreen and have familiarized yourself with the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin, here are some tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz on how to apply sunscreen the correct way!
- Sunscreen should be worn daily.
- Ideally, 2.0 mg per square centimeter of skin should be applied. For easy reference, that's equivalent to two fingerbreadths.
- It's important to slather it on, making sure that the skin is covered.
- Don't forget the eyelids and the ears, too!
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz
If you still have some unanswered questions in your mind, let Dr. Katrina Luz educate you and answer some of the internet's most asked questions.
How to Properly Apply Sunscreen on Areas With Inflamed Acne?
Apply as normal. Make sure to apply and reapply your sunscreen and the right amount - 2 finger lengths for the face!
How Often to Re-apply Sunscreen for Those With Acne-Prone Skin?
Same as per usual - apply and reapply sunscreen at least every 2-3 hours.
Is There a Limit to How High the Spf Level Should Be for Acne-Prone Skin?
The SPF level is irrelevant for acne-prone skin. Make sure to use at least an SPF 30 and apply and reapply your sunscreen.
Step-Up Your Skincare Routine
Want to improve your skincare routine? Head over to these articles featuring skincare products that will help you achieve that healthy and glowing skin!
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How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
