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
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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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:
However, certain ingredients incorporated in sunscreens can predispose us to acne, especially if they clog our pores.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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 | 70 mL | ||
2 | COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream | ![]() | Creamy Aloe-Infused Sunscreen for Hydration & 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 |
Features and benefits:
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 | 70 mL |
Many users with combo, dry, or sensitive skin find it 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 |
Features and benefits:
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 |
Features and benefits:
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 |
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 |
Features and benefits:
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 |
Features and benefits:
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 |
Features and benefits:
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 |
Features and benefits:
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 |
Features and benefits:
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 |
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!
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.
Apply as normal. Make sure to apply and reapply your sunscreen and the right amount - 2 finger lengths for the face!
Same as per usual - apply and reapply sunscreen at least every 2-3 hours.
The SPF level is irrelevant for acne-prone skin. Make sure to use at least an SPF 30 and apply and reapply your sunscreen.
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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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.
No. 1: Bioré|UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence
No. 2: COSRX|Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
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.
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