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The 8 best SPFs for acne-prone skin types, tried and tested
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable. Here are the Bazaar-approved formulas that won't aggravate blemish-prone complexions
Finding the right SPF for acne-prone skin can be challenging, as many consider sunscreen to be the culprit behind breakouts. But health experts and dermatologists agree that sun protection is the one non-negotiable when it comes to skincare. Beyond defending the epidermis from pigmentation and premature signs of ageing, SPF – when used properly – helps minimise the risk of skin cancer. And considering that the skin is the largest organ, it's important to ensure it stays well protected no matter your skin type or tone.
Thankfully, there are now plenty of options available, from Korean sunblocks and high protection Australian sunscreens to moisturisers with SPF. But the question remains: is your sunscreen really responsible for blemishes? We went straight to the experts to find out.
The best tried and tested SPF for acne-prone skin
Does acne-prone skin need SPF?
Yes. "UV rays impact the skin even on cloudy days, and cause not only cosmetic skin damage leading to fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity and pigmentation, but also increase the risk of skin cancer," explains consultant dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite.
Plus, most acne treatments – be that an exfoliating peel, retinol, tretinoin or antibiotics – make the skin more reactive to the sun. Sunscreen will help minimise inflammation and post-acne hyperpigmentation or scarring.
What to look for in an SPF for acne-prone skin
Sunscreens for oily skin are a great option as they keep excess sebum at bay, or opt for those with hyaluronic acid and light hydrators to keep combination-to-dry acne-prone skin happy. Added ingredients such as salicylic acid and niacinamide can help manage blemishes while soothing powerhouses like aloe and bisabolol will ease inflammation.
Make sure your SPF is free from heavy plant butters or plant oils, and look for refreshing gel textures or silky fluid formulas that absorb quickly. Mineral sunscreens are also a good idea as the key ingredient is often anti-inflammatory zinc oxide, which is also generally considered non-comedogenic.
How we test
After close inspection of the ingredients list, we put every SPF through its paces by wearing it both under and without make-up to see how well each fares. Every SPF is also tested during long days in the sun to ensure it doesn't cause any burning or uncomfortable sensation. We also consider how pleasant it is to wear, and whether or not it leaves a white cast behind. We use each SPF with our current everyday skincare routines to test whether or not it causes any new spots.
The best tried and tested SPFs for acne-prone skin
A firm favourite among the Bazaar beauty team and dermatologists alike, this ultra lightweight texture feels just like a second skin yet it delivers enough hydration to keep the complexion comfortable and plush. It absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any trace behind and wears nicely under make-up. A daily essential for anyone who's prone to breakouts.
- Type: Chemical
- SPF: 30
- Texture: Water-gel
- Added ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin
Heliocare 360° Water Gel Sunscreen SPF50
Skin experts and dermatologists rate Heliocare for its no-nonsense approach to suncare. It offers high protection against UVA, UVB, visible light, infrared and environmental damage without feeling heavy or greasy on an acne-prone complexion, which means you can apply it generously without fear of breaking out.
- Type: Chemical
- SPF: 50
- Texture: Milky-gel
- Added ingredients: Algae extracts, hyaluronic acid
Murad Superactive Moisturiser SPF 40: Mattifying Oil + Pore Control
Murad's revamped SPF range promises a formula for every skin need: brightening, clarifying, smoothing and hydrating. This mattifying version essentially keeps excess sebum at bay, but does so without obliterating the skin of all moisture. Salicylic acid helps to ease blemishes and prevent the formation of new ones. The texture is lovely too; think lightweight (rather than heavy) day cream.
- Type: Chemical
- SPF: 40
- Texture: Light cream
- Added ingredients: Salicylic acid, allantoin
Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50
This clever mineral sunscreen not only leaves no white or grey cast behind, it's also been tested under humid conditions to ensure it keeps the skin fresh all day long. This bodes well for those with very oily complexions as it absorbs quickly and doesn't feel thick or heavy. It's fragrance-free and powered by antioxidants to minimise the damaging effects of pollution.
- Type: Chemical
- SPF: 50
- Texture: Water-gel
- Added ingredients: Vitamin E, rose extracts
Acne-prone skin has a tendency to feel warm and inflamed in hot weather. If this sounds like you, make this Korean SPF your go-to. The aloe-infused formula feels instantly soothing and cooling on easily-aggravated skin, while the refreshing texture promises to keep pores clear.
- Type: Chemical
- SPF: 50
- Texture: Light cream
- Added ingredients: Glycerin, aloe extracts
This clever formula delivers high protection while tackling the appearance of dark spots in one fell swoop. It does this through ingredient powerhouse niacinamide and a combination of antioxidant vitamin E and LHA, a gentle exfoliant that works especially well for blemish-prone skin.
- Type: Chemical
- SPF: 50
- Texture: Milk
- Added ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamin E
It goes without saying that it's important to top-up your SPF throughout the day in order for the complexion to stay protected, but it is tricky to re-apply without disturbing your make-up. This handy, gently tinted powder can easily be dusted onto skin and replenishes your SPF while taking off excess shine. It's a great one to take on your travels, too.
- Type: Mineral
- SPF: 30
- Texture: Powder
- Added ingredients: Olive glycerides, ceramide
Mineral sunscreens are often recommended for acne-prone complexions as they use zinc oxide, which is anti-inflammatory. But finding one that feels light and appears invisible on deeper skin tones is a challenge. Ultra Violette has perfected this with Future Fluid, which comes in a silky, liquid texture that feels and looks like a second skin. It also plays well under make-up and doesn't feel greasy.
- Type: Mineral
- SPF: 30
- Texture: Fluid
- Added ingredients: Squalane
Does SPF actually cause acne?
Often, it's not the UV shields themselves that are clogging the pores, but rather, the ingredients used alongside them. "Some sunscreens contain heavier oils and emollients that can cause congestion and worsen breakouts," says Dr Granite. "It’s important to use a sunscreen specifically formulated for facial skin, not the body, as these will be lighter and less comedogenic."
How to use SPF for acne-prone skin
Always make sure you're applying SPF on clean skin. Acne-prone skin types will fare better with a streamlined routine so cleanse, use a lightweight day serum of your choice, and finish with an SPF rather than layering on too many products. Proper removal of SPF is also crucial to prevent the formation of new blemishes. Sunscreen is designed to stay put on your skin, so make sure to thoroughly remove it in the evening. Use a micellar water as the first step, and follow with a gel cleanser.
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