How Can I Wear Sunscreen While Avoiding Breaking Out?

We all know how important it is to wear sunscreen. Sunscreen protects the skin from damaging UV rays and helps keep premature aging at bay. That premature aging often appears in the form of fine lines and wrinkles. Whether it’s worn alone or underneath makeup, its important to wear sunscreen on a daily basis.

With all the benefits to wearing sunscreen, why would one go without it? There’s one major reason why someone would skip sunscreen – the fear that sunscreen can trigger breakouts.

Our Sunscreen Recommendations

How can one wear sunscreen while avoiding breaking out? Choose a sunscreen that’s designed for your skin type. Look for sunscreens that are lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic and mattifying. Just because it’s an effective sunscreen doesn’t mean it has to be greasy and leave behind white residue on the skin.

“If a client has a normal or oily skin type, I’ll recommend the SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50” says Jennifer Netter, aesthetician at SkinSpirit Palo Alto and Los Gatos. “The lightweight and non-greasy formula allows the skin to breathe. This is important, especially for acneic skin because P acne bacteria has a harder time surviving in an oxygen-rich environment.”

For clients who have a normal or dry skin type, Netter recommends Dermaquest Zinclear. “This is a great option for a couple of reasons – this mineral based sunscreen absorbs quickly, uses the power of zinc oxide to sooth, guard and protect the skin. It also helps prevent moisture loss while still allowing the skin to breathe. If a client wants a lighter coverage, I’d recommend the tinted version of this product.”

Another way to avoid breakouts when wearing sunscreen is to choose one that not only protects, but also treats the skin at the same time. “For my clients who suffer from acne, my favorite sunscreen recommendation is Intellishade Broad-Spectrum SPF 45 by Revision Skincare” says Lara Sprinkles, aesthetician at SkinSpirit Los Gatos. “I love that the antioxidants in this sunscreen help calm and correct compromised skin. I also love how the color matching technology in this product is designed to conceal blemishes, while moisturizing and blending in naturally with the color of your skin.”

For those who want the protection of sunscreen, but don’t want to feel like they’re wearing it, there’s an effective option that doesn’t come in a lotion, cream or gel form. “My go-to sunscreen for acne clients is always Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen Brush SPF 50” says Hilarie Mejia, aesthetician at SkinSpirit Walnut Creek. “This physical sunscreen comes in a refined, lightweight mineral formula. Once applied, it feels like it’s barely on the surface of the skin, yet it provides easy and ample UVA/UVB protection throughout the day. The application provides a natural and matte coverage, making it the perfect sunscreen for anyone suffering from acne or who wants to wear sunscreen, but is concerned about triggering breakouts.”

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