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!
Quick List - Top Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin
COSRX
Creamy Aloe-Infused Sunscreen for Hydration and UV Defense
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.
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
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 SPF30 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 2mg/cm2, equal to 30ml 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 | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Broad-Spectrum Protection | SPF/PA | Chemical/Mineral | Other Features | Volume | |||||
1 | Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence | | Lightweight Chemical Sunscreen for Acne-Prone & Oily Skin | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin | SPF50+ PA++++ | Chemical | Oil-free, Non-Comedogenic, Lightweight | 85 mL | ||
2 | COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA+++ | | Creamy Aloe-Infused Sunscreen for Hydration and UV Defense | Aloe Arborescens Extract, Fatty Alcohols (Non-Comedogenic) | SPF50+ PA+++ | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) | Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic, Moisturizing | 50 mL | ||
3 | Face Republic Purity Sun Essence | | Lightweight Hybrid Sunscreen for Acne-Prone & Oily Skin | Niacinamide, Aloe Extract, Carrot Extract | SPF50+ PA++++ | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) | Lightweight, No White Cast, Waterproof, Vegan | 50 mL | ||
4 | Cetaphil Sun Light Gel | | Lightweight Gel Sunscreen That Won’t Clog Pores or Feel Greasy | Vitamin E, Aloe Vera | SPF50+ PA++++ | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) | Oil-free, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Water-Resistant | 50 mL | ||
5 | Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen | | Breakout-Free Oil-Free Sunscreen for Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin | SPF50+ | Chemical | Oil-free, Fragrance-free, Non-Comedogenic, Water-Resistant | 88 mL | |||
6 | SOME BY MI Truecica Mineral Calming Tone-up Suncream | | Gentle Mineral Sunscreen With Soothing Botanicals for Acne-Prone Skin | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatic Extract, Tea Tree & Mugwort Oils | SPF50+ PA++++ | Mineral | Lightweight, Calming, Semi-Matte Finish, Minimal White Cast | 50 mL | ||
7 | La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Gel Cream | | Matte Finish Oil-Control Sunscreen With High-Level UV Shield | Tocopherol, Airlicium (oil control), No Fragrance or Parabens | SPF50+ PA+++ | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) | Oil-Control, Matte Finish, Water/Sweat/Sand-Resistant, Non-Comedogenic | 50 mL | ||
8 | Belo SunExpert Face Cover | | Lightweight, No-White-Cast Sunscreen for Daily Oil-Free Protection | Non-comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Paraben-Free | SPF40 PA+++ | Chemical | Lightweight, No White Cast, Water-Resistant, Makeup-Friendly | 50 mL | ||
9 | SKINTIFIC All Day Light Sunscreen Mist | | Invisible Spray Sunscreen With Ceramides & Centella for On‑the‑Go Protection | 5x Ceramides, Centella Asiatica Extract | SPF50 PA++++ | Chemical | Oil-Free, Alcohol-Free, No White Cast, Spray Format | 70 mL | ||
10 | QUICKFX Sunscreen | | Budget-Friendly Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen for Everyday Use | Niacinamide, Lotus Water, BSASM Complex | SPF50 PA+++ | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) | Lightweight, Water-Resistant, Makeup-Friendly | 30 g | ||
Lightweight Chemical Sunscreen for Acne-Prone & Oily Skin
Features and benefits:
- Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ shields against UVA and UVB damage
- Gel-type formula with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to hydrate without clogging pores
- Lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic for everyday use under makeup
- Absorbs quickly with no white cast or greasy finish
Reviews mention:
Those with oily or acne-prone skin often describe this sunscreen as refreshing, non-greasy, and perfect for humid weather. Many love its water-like texture and say it layers smoothly under makeup. Some mention a slight alcohol scent, but most agree it doesn’t break them out.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Oil-free, Non-Comedogenic, Lightweight |
| Volume | 85 mL |
Creamy Aloe-Infused Sunscreen for Hydration and UV Defense
- Contains aloe arborescens extract to soothe redness and inflammation
- Hybrid formula offers broad-spectrum protection with minimal white cast
- Lightweight, hydrating texture that absorbs quickly — suitable for daily use or under makeup
- Non-comedogenic according to user analysis; gentle fatty alcohols reduce irritation risk
Reviews mention:
Many users with combo, dry, or sensitive skin find this sunscreen soothing and easy to wear daily without clogging pores. Some love that it feels like a moisturizer and layers well. However, others note it can pill or feel heavy and greasy, especially in humid weather or when layered over rich moisturizers . A few with acne-prone or rosacea skin report breakouts or stinging around the eyes.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Aloe Arborescens Extract, Fatty Alcohols (Non-Comedogenic) |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA+++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) |
| Other Features | Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic, Moisturizing |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Lightweight Hybrid Sunscreen for Acne-Prone & Oily Skin
Features and benefits:
- Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection against UVA and UVB
- Hybrid formula combining chemical and mineral filters — no white cast, waterproof defense
- Contains niacinamide and plant extracts (carrot, aloe) to soothe and brighten skin
- Lightweight, water-like texture that absorbs quickly; suitable for layering under makeup
Reviews mention:
Users frequently say it’s refreshing, non-greasy, and ideal for humid weather. Many highlight that it leaves a dewy finish without clogging pores and works well under makeup. Some note it may feel slightly shiny on oily skin and contains essential oils and t butyl alcohol, but overall report no breakouts.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Aloe Extract, Carrot Extract |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) |
| Other Features | Lightweight, No White Cast, Waterproof, Vegan |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Lightweight Gel Sunscreen That Won’t Clog Pores or Feel Greasy
Features and benefits:
- Offers SPF50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays
- Hybrid formula with chemical and mineral filters; no white cast after blending
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel suitable for oily, acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Reviews mention:
Those with oily or acne-prone skin often say it feels light and non-greasy, making it ideal for daily wear. Some like that it doesn’t clog pores or sting the eyes. A few users note a slight white cast or tackiness upon application, especially in humid weather.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Vitamin E, Aloe Vera |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) |
| Other Features | Oil-free, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Water-Resistant |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Breakout-Free Oil-Free Sunscreen for Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin
- Provides broad-spectrum SPF50+ protection with Helioplex for UVA/UVB defense
- Oil-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic — formulated for acne-prone skin
- Lightweight liquid lotion with a matte finish, ideal under makeup or alone
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and dermatologist-tested
Reviews mention:
Users with acne-prone or oily skin appreciate that it doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts. It’s often described as matte, breathable, and easy to blend. Some report mild stinging near the eyes or a slight white cast that fades with blending.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Oil-free, Fragrance-free, Non-Comedogenic, Water-Resistant |
| Volume | 88 mL |
Gentle Mineral Sunscreen With Soothing Botanicals for Acne-Prone Skin
Features and benefits:
- Mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to neutralize UV rays and soothe inflammation
- Enriched with niacinamide, centella asiatica complex, and tea tree to calm acne-prone and sensitive skin
- Lightweight, creamy-gel texture that blends easily with minimal white cast
- Semi-matte finish ideal for oily skin and effective under makeup
Reviews mention:
Many users praise its calming effect and lightweight feel on oily/acne-prone skin — some call it a holy grail. Several mention it melts in without greasy residue. A few report slight white cast or texture buildup after hours, and essential oils (orange peel, tea tree, lavender) may irritate ultra-sensitive skin.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatic Extract, Tea Tree & Mugwort Oils |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Mineral |
| Other Features | Lightweight, Calming, Semi-Matte Finish, Minimal White Cast |
| Volume | 50 mL |
La Roche-PosayAnthelios UVMune 400 Gel Cream
Matte Finish Oil-Control Sunscreen With High-Level UV Shield
Features and benefits:
- Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA+++ with mexoryl 400 filters for extended UVA and UVB protection
- Oil control gel-cream texture with airlicium to absorb sebum and reduce shine
- Lightweight, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and water/sweat/sand resistant
- Suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin with no white cast or greasy feel
Reviews mention:
Oily and acne-prone users praise its strong oil control, saying it helps reduce midday shine and feels lightweight on the skin. Some describe it as matte and non-irritating, while others report a sticky finish or slight oxidation after hours. A few with very sensitive skin noted mild stinging or breakouts during initial use.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Tocopherol, Airlicium (oil control), No Fragrance or Parabens |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50+ PA+++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) |
| Other Features | Oil-Control, Matte Finish, Water/Sweat/Sand-Resistant, Non-Comedogenic |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Lightweight, No-White-Cast Sunscreen for Daily Oil-Free Protection
Features and benefits:
- Provides SPF40 PA+++ broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays
- Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free — gentle on breakout-prone skin
- Lightweight cream texture absorbs quickly and sits well under makeup
- Water-resistant formula with no white cast or greasy finish
Reviews mention:
Users often describe it as lightweight and breathable, saying it doesn’t clog pores or trigger breakouts. It’s praised for leaving no white cast and doubling as a good makeup base. Some with very oily skin say it turns shiny by midday, and a few report mild breakouts in humid conditions.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Non-comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Paraben-Free |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF40 PA+++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Lightweight, No White Cast, Water-Resistant, Makeup-Friendly |
| Volume | 50 mL |
Invisible Spray Sunscreen With Ceramides & Centella for On‑the‑Go Protection
Features and benefits:
- Broad-spectrum SPF50 PA++++ with UV pearls for strong UVA/UVB protection
- Formulated with 5x ceramides and centella asiatica to calm and support the skin barrier
- Lightweight, fast-drying spray applies evenly with no white cast
- Oil-free, alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate how light and non-greasy the mist feels, with many liking that it dries fast and leaves no sticky residue. It’s praised for quick top-ups during the day and for not disturbing makeup. Some mention the aerosol format isn’t ideal for flying or small bags, and a few users note a mild scent despite the fragrance-free claim.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | 5x Ceramides, Centella Asiatica Extract |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50 PA++++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Chemical |
| Other Features | Oil-Free, Alcohol-Free, No White Cast, Spray Format |
| Volume | 70 mL |
Budget-Friendly Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen for Everyday Use
Features and benefits:
- SPF50 PA+++ broad-spectrum protection with both chemical and mineral filters
- Contains niacinamide, lotus water, and BSASM (anti-irritation plant complex) for skin-calming benefits
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula that blends easily and layers well under makeup
- Water-resistant and suitable for face and body
Reviews mention:
Praised for its affordability and accessibility, users often describe it as lightweight and decent for everyday use. Some say it works well under makeup and doesn’t leave a white cast. However, others with sensitive or acne-prone skin report breakouts, slight stinging, or a filmy feel after extended wear.
| Acne Skin-Friendly Ingredients | Niacinamide, Lotus Water, BSASM Complex |
|---|---|
| Broad-Spectrum Protection | |
| SPF/PA | SPF50 PA+++ |
| Chemical/Mineral | Hybrid (Chemical and Mineral) |
| Other Features | Lightweight, Water-Resistant, Makeup-Friendly |
| Volume | 30 g |
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!
10 Best Face Washes for Acne in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Tinted Moisturizers in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Products With Salicylic Acid in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
9 Best Peel-Off Masks in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
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.
Top 5 Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin
No. 1: Bioré｜UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence
No. 2: COSRX｜Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA+++
No. 3: Face Republic｜Purity Sun Essence
No. 4: Cetaphil｜Sun Light Gel
No. 5: Neutrogena｜Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.