Best Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens That Won’t Clog Pores

Oily and acne-prone skin needs special care. Even choosing basic daily skincare products like sunscreen presents a challenge. It’s a balancing act of finding an effective, full coverage sunscreen that will absorb quickly and won’t clog pores. Everyone needs to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher every day, but for those who have oily and acneic skin, finding the right product may not be as simple as grabbing the first bottle off the drug store shelf. Instead, look for products that are formulated for your skin type. Specifically, look for non-comedogenic sunscreen options. A comedone is the clinical term for the blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones) that makeup most acne breakouts. Non-comedogenic products are formulated to prevent clogged pores and acne breakouts. If you’re looking for the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin, start by checking the packaging for indications that the formula is non-comedogenic. Below, we provide details on some of the top dermatologist-recommended sunscreens for patients with oily and acneic skin.

Why Sunscreen Can Cause Breakouts

Sunscreen is an important element of every skincare routine, but since sun damage can worsen acne breakouts, it’s even more important to protect oily and acneic skin by applying sunscreen. When it comes to choosing sunscreen for oily skin or as part of a skincare routine to manage acne, it’s important to make the right choice because using the wrong products can cause acne breakouts since they may have:
  • Added oils – mineral oil, coconut oil, or lanolin are ingredients in many sunscreens, but they can also create a barrier over skin that traps natural oil (sebum) and dead skin cells in pores, leading to blemishes.
  • Irritants – fragrances, dyes, and other irritants may lead to skin inflammation, which triggers breakouts or makes them worse.
  • Difficult to remove formulas – some sunscreens are difficult to remove at the end of the day, especially when worn with makeup.
  • Incompatible ingredients – some sunscreens don’t work well with ingredients in other skincare products, so it’s important to choose sunblock that works well in your skincare routine.

What to Look for in a Non-Comedogenic Sunscreen

Looking for sunscreen marked as non-comedogenic is the first step to finding the right option that won’t clog pores. However, there are some additional factors to look for, including:
  • Oil-free formulas – lightweight products without added oils that are easily absorbed, so they don’t sit on skin clogging pores.
  • Broad-spectrum – sunscreen should protect against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.
  • Hypoallergenic – look for sunscreen that is free of fragrance, dyes, parabens, and other ingredients that irritate skin. This increases inflammation, which can trigger or prolong an acne breakout.
  • Soothing ingredients – look for sunblock with ingredients like niacinamide, zinc, and green tea extract that soothe inflamed skin, as this promotes healing.
  • Non-greasy – a matte or satin finish controls oiliness and shine to balance complexion.

Dermatologist-Recommended Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens

If you’re looking to find an effective, non-comedogenic sunscreen, our dermatologists recommend starting with one of the following options:

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (Non-Tinted)

Shop Now For those with acne, rosacea, and sensitive skin, EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is the go-to sunscreen. It’s a lightweight, oil-free, and broad-spectrum sunblock formula with zinc oxide and niacinamide to soothe skin and reduce redness. If you’ve been skipping sunscreen to avoid breakouts, this sunblock and its barely-there finish will change your mind about sunscreen. Benefits:
  • Sheer and lightweight texture won’t clog pores.
  • Minimizes skin inflammation and redness.
  • Great for oily, acneic, and sensitive skin.
  • Layers well with most skincare products and under makeup.

Skinbetter Science Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 75 Sunscreen Lotion

Shop Now If you need a higher-performance sunscreen, skinbetter Science Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 75 offers an advanced formula that’s ideal for those with an active acne breakout or who struggle with hyperpigmentation as skin heals. This tinted mineral sunblock blurs skin imperfections, creating an instantly smoother, more radiant appearance. It also works to even out complexion while protecting against UVA and UVB rays as well as infrared and blue light damage. Benefits:
  • SPF 75 offers maximum sun protection.
  • Breathable formula is ideal for acne-prone skin.
  • Naturally clearer, more radiant skin with a tint that blends with most skin tones.
  • Soothing antioxidants to heal and calm skin.

MD Skin Essentials Silk Shield SPF 40

Shop Now Many people think of a sunscreen as a necessary part of their skincare routine rather than a luxurious way to pamper skin. MD Skin Essential Silk Shield SPF 40 does both. The silky sunscreen glides on smoothly without greasy residue, and it leaves skin feeling softer and smoother while it protects from sun damage. This non-comedogenic formula is a favorite of dermatologists and skincare influencers. Benefits:
  • Silky, matte finish is ideal for oily or combination skin.
  • Wears well under cosmetics, making it perfect for daily use.
  • Moisturizing and barrier-repairing ingredients restore and improve skin texture.
  • Broad-spectrum protection in a lightweight formula.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Glow SPF 50

Shop Now Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Glow SPF 50 offers a lightweight and non-comedogenic formula that leaves skin with a radiant glow. However, this formula is easily absorbed and not heavy or oily like other radiance-boosting products. Those struggling with dull or uneven skin tone or texture will especially benefit from this product. Benefits:
  • Luminous finish optimal for dull, tired skin.
  • Broad-spectrum, 100% mineral sunblock.
  • Water-resistant formula ideal for athletes and those spending time in water.
  • Oil, fragrance, and paraben-free, making it safe for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+

Shop Now A top dermatologist-recommended sunscreen for acne, ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+ provides broad-spectrum mineral sun protection and includes innovative DNA Repairsomes, enzymes that support skin health. This improves healing after sun damage, increases barrier function, and clears acne breakouts. Benefits:
  • Zinc oxide, 100% mineral protection.
  • Fast-absorbing formula is easy to apply and safe for daily application.
  • Repairs and prevents UV damage.
  • Safe for all skin types.

Tips for Using Sunscreen on Acne-Prone Skin

Once you’ve chosen the right sunscreen, it’s time to work it into your daily skincare routine. The following dermatologist tips improve the efficacy of sunscreen and minimize potential for breakouts:
  • Apply last – sunscreen should be your last skincare step after applying moisturizer and before any cosmetics unless the sunscreen is specifically formulated to be applied over cosmetics.
  • Apply enough – most people don’t use enough sunscreen. At least a nickel-sized amount of sunblock should be applied to the face and neck daily.
  • Apply throughout the day – reapply sunscreen at least every two hours when skin is exposed to sunlight.
  • Apply every day – don’t skip sunscreen just because it’s cold or cloudy outside. The sun can still damage skin on overcast days.
  • Remove carefully – after applying and reapplying sunscreen, make sure to carefully and thoroughly cleanse skin to remove sunblock, so it doesn’t sit on skin overnight clogging pores.

Final Thoughts: Sunscreen Is Still Essential for Acne-Prone Skin

Finding a sunscreen that won’t clog pores doesn’t have to be impossible. Look for the right ingredients, choose one of our dermatologist-recommended solutions, or consult with your own skin health professional to find the best option for you. Daily sunblock application is a non-negotiable element of every skincare routine, so find the right product and apply it consistently.

Find the Perfect Sunscreen from DermSkincare

Ready to explore more of what DermSkincare has to offer? Take some time to peruse our website to see the curated list of dermatologist-recommended skincare products that meet a range of skin health needs. If you want more tips on the best skincare products and routines, we hope you’ll read more of our blogs.