10 best sunscreens for acne-prone skin 2019, according to dermatologists

When you think of sunscreen, your mind probably jumps to the greasy lotion, clogging the pores and heavily scented, from your childhood to the pool. The advantage: you protect your skin from premature wrinkles and serious health problems such as skin cancer. The wrong side? This gooey and sticky mess can leave you with another annoying skin problem: acne.

It is true that sunscreen can cause skin rashes, but it is important that you do not pbad it, even if your skin is prone to acne. In fact, skin prone to acne is so Sensitive, it is even more important to protect it from the harmful UV rays of the sun.

"The use of acne medications such as retinol can make skin sensitive to the sun," says Dendy Engelman, MD, a certified dermatologist surgeon in New York. "People with acne have the potential to develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure can worsen the situation and increase the potential of the pigment's lifespan much longer than would otherwise be the case. "Hello, acne scars.

That's why the fear of new pimples should not prevent all the benefits of sun protection. In addition, many sunscreens are now specifically designed for acne-prone skin.

How to choose (and use) the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin

If in doubt, choose Mineral: Your skin absorbs chemical sunscreens, which can cause allergic reactions and irritation. Mineral sunscreens act differently because they "sit on top of the skin and prevent or disperse harmful UV rays from the skin," says Dr. Engelman. These sunscreens are usually formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide and are better tolerated by people with sensitive skin. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Read the label: It is important to choose a non-comedogenic sunscreen, which means it is specifically designed to not clog your pores. Ingredients to avoid? Heavy oils (including coconut oil) and perfumes if you can, says Dr. Engelman. Opt for sunscreens with a finer consistency, similar to a gel or liquid, rather than resistant creams. Products with a matte finish will also help you avoid midday shine.

Prepare your skin: Before applying your SPF, make sure your skin is clean. Dr. Engelman recommends using a product containing salicylic acid to cleanse your pores and gently exfoliate dead skin cells. From there, be sure to apply an anti-acne moisturizer, which will help keep the bacteria (a major cause of acne) out of your pores. Always apply sunscreen with freshly laundered hands during the last step before makeup.

You do not know which sunscreen to buy? These formulas for acne-prone skin will provide your complexion with a clear complexion without eruptions.