Seventeen picks products that we think you'll love the most. We may earn commission from the links on this page.
15 Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin, According to Experts
Because wearing sunscreen daily is a must.
By 
If you've heard it once, you've heard it a million times: wear your sunscreen. Along with protecting the skin against harmful sun rays that could potentially lead to cancer, applying sunscreen (and reapplying as directed) can help improve acne-prone skin's condition. "One effect of the sun is damage to the skin's outer protective barrier," which can lead to moisture loss," board-certified general and cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Rachel Westbay tells Seventeen. When acne-prone skin is dehydrated, the skin increases oil production to compensate for the lack of moisture. This is a recipe for disaster since we know that acne forms when the skin's follicles are clogged. And if that wasn't enough of an incentive, exposure to UV rays can "prolong the normal timeframe it takes for the redness and dark marks to fade naturally," Dr. Westbay adds. The best sunscreens for acne-prone skin protect against UV light, which triggers inflammation, "an already existing problem for acne-prone " skin.
"Acne is an inflammatory skin condition, and inflammation in the skin and UV exposure do not mix well," board-certified dermatologist Dr. Anthony Rossi adds. "This combination can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, aka dark spots that make people really unhappy with their skin complexion. These dark spots can sometimes be worse than the acne itself because it lingers for quite some time." And that's the ultimate faux pas for anyone looking to keep post-pimple blemishes at bay. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aanand Geria, "There are two categories of sunscreen ingredients that are often combined to give the best protection to one’s skin." First up are physical blockers. "These ingredients sit on the skin’s surface and act as mirrors reflecting away the UV rays," Dr. Geria explains. "The second ingredient is chemical absorbers. These work to form a thin protective layer that absorbs the UV rays before they can penetrate one’s skin."
The quest for the best sunscreen can be tricky when you have acne-prone skin. Inflammation and clogged pores can often trigger painful breakouts, so board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marina Peredo has a list of ingredients she suggests looking out for when sunscreen shopping. "Ingredients such as zinc oxide, lactic acid, and niacinamide are great for acne-prone skin and won't cause further breakouts," Dr. Peredo explains. On the other hand, Dr. Westbay advises against sunscreens with pore-clogging ingredients like lanolin, cocoa butter, coconut oil, mineral oil, and squalene" because they can trigger breakouts. Along with clogged pores, Dr. Geria says that "some chemicals [found in sunscreens] also work to convert UV rays into heat, resulting in more sweat," in those with oily skin leading to more breakouts. Dr. Rossi agrees and recommends "physical sunblocks that contain active ingredients such as titanium or zinc dioxide" as "they are less irritating."
As you start your quest for protection from the sun that won't trigger breakouts and irritate hyperpigmentation, read ahead for the 15 best sunscreens to help acne-prone skin shine bright.
Paula's Choice Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
Paula's Choice Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
Tired of sunscreens leaving a greasy film? Paula's Choice has you covered. According to Dr. Westbay, "It also contains soothing plant-derived antioxidants and hydrators that help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores as well as help smooth and calm skin to minimize flaking and dryness."
If you've scrolled your FYP on TikTok recently, then you've more than likely seen your fave influencer applying SPF from Vacation. The brand's newly launched SPF 30 Baby Oil delivers an out-of-this-world glow while providing SPF protection.
Dermalogica Porescreen Mineral Sunscreen SPF40
Dermalogica Porescreen Mineral Sunscreen SPF40
Oily residue and stark white casts are two huge complaints most beauty enthusiasts have about sunscreens. Dermalogica's Porescreen provides protection from the sun without leaving behind a cast or a greasy finish. If you struggle with enlarged pores, this one's for you because it delivers a blurring effect that minimizes the appearance of pores.
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint Spf 40
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint Spf 40
Beauty meets skincare with Ilia's Super Serum Skin Tint. Dr. Westbay swears by this tinted CC cream because "It features SPF 40 coverage with non-nano zinc oxide to help shield skin from UVA, UVB, UVC, blue light, and pollution and also has active levels of hyaluronic acid, plant-based squalane, and niacinamide to visibly improve how the skin looks as you wear it. Plus, it’s silicone-free, fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic." The tinted formula is a bonus for hiding acne hyperpigmentation.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
Reapplying sunscreen as directed is the only sure way to protect against the sun's harmful rays. Though it's a bit pricey, this brush-on, non-comedogenic powder can be applied (and re-applied) on the go, and it's small enough to fit in your smallest micro bag. Plus, Dr. Westbay raves over its anti-microbial brushes that prevent bacteria like mold and yeast from building up on the bristles.
MM Skincare Sasha Suncare Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
MM Skincare Sasha Suncare Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
This one's for the girlies that love a multipurpose product. Along with protecting against UV Rays, Dr. Westbay recommends the Sasha Suncare Tinted Mineral Sunscreen because "it's SPF 50, water resistant, fragrance free, and has skin-boosting benefits. It contains vitamin B to boost skin elasticity and caffeine to help brighten the skin."
Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Packed with natural ingredients, this moisturizing broad-spectrum sunscreen has SPF 30 and fights against hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Plus, it blends seamlessly into all skin tones.
Kinlò Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+
Kinlò Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+
Whether you're hitting the court like KINLÒ founder Naomi Osaka or chilling indoors, the Golden Rays sunscreen is non-comedogenic, lightweight, and doesn't clog pores.
A durable, smooth SPF that's so safe that even babies can use it? Tell me more! Along with combating harmful sunrays, this family-friendly formula is infused with plant extracts that moisturize and calm skin.
Honest Self Defense Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 34
Honest Self Defense Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 34
Jessica Alba's Honest Company is always going to come through with a clean beauty contender. Self Defense is infused with minerals that fight against blue light rays from all the screen time we indulge in.
Silver, cakey finish? We don't know her. Supergoop!'s gel formula-infused sunscreen can also double as a daily makeup primer, plus it comes highly recommended by Dr. Geria.
Glossier Invisible Shield
Glossier Invisible Shield
Glossier's Invisible Shield is a beauty go-to for a reason. Its lightweight water-gel formula feels less like a heavy sunscreen and more like a serum. Plus, it plays nice when you top it with makeup.
Native Sunscreen Body Sunscreen
Native Sunscreen Body Sunscreen
Native is known for creating clean alternatives for our beauty staples, so ofc, they've got sunscreen on deck. With non-nano zinc oxide acting as its only active ingredient, this sunscreen can be applied all over the body without leftover residue.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free Sunscreen SPF 60
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free Sunscreen SPF 60
La Roche-Posay formulated the Anethelios Clear Skin Sunscreen with acne-prone skin in mind. Infused with a Cell-Ox Shield technology, Dr, Geria suggests the Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen because it absorbs excess oil and combats breakouts while it protects.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Here's the 411 on this doctor-approved beauty staple: along with being recommended by Dr. Geria, Eltamad Skin's UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is infused with niacinamide, which reduces the appearance of blemishes. So not only will you get protection against the sun, but you can also get relief for skin conditions like rosacea, as well.
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 50+
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 50+
This Cetaphil daily moisturizer is a clutch option if you're looking to simplify your beauty routine. You can get protection from the sun along with extra hydration. Sounds like the perfect two-in-one to me.
Jasmine Washington is an Assistant Editor at Seventeen, where she covers celebrity news, beauty, lifestyle, and more. For the past decade, she has worked for media outlets, including BET, MadameNoire, VH1, and many others, where she used her voice to tell stories across various verticals. Follow her on Instagram.
Watch Next
9 Best LED Light Makes to Achieve Glowing Skin
10 Places to Buy "Euphoria"-Inspired Face Gems
18 Best Amazon Prime Day Beauty Deals Under $20
Editor-Approved Sunscreens on Sale for Prime Day
