Find the Most Compatible Sunscreen for Your Skin
Sunscreen—one of the most notorious products known to break out acne-prone skin[1].
Unfortunately, this reputation isn’t entirely unfounded. Most sunscreens, with its thick and white consistency, DOES carry a high risk of clogged pores and irritated skin[2].
It doesn’t matter if it’s a chemical or physical sunscreen—it can likely cause breakouts if it’s not well formulated for acne-prone skin.
Chemical sunscreens can cause skin sensitivities with its UV filters, while physical or mineral sunscreens that sit on your skin all day long can block your pores and clog them. These are some of the common pitfalls that reformulated, non-comedogenic sunscreens have worked around.
Micronized formulations of zinc and titanium oxide from mineral sunscreens are now cosmetically elegant and very light on the skin.[3]
Chemical sunscreens are also formulated with various patented technologies to be gentler on the skin while working more efficiently to protect the skin.
It’s very important for you to actually like the consistency and feel of the product for you to be able to consistently use it and receive full protection.[4]
On this note, we’ve compiled the most reputable and dermatologist-recommended non comedogenic sunscreens available today.
- Find the Most Compatible Sunscreen for Your Skin
- Ask the Expert: Sunscreens for Oily & Acne Prone Skin
- Esthetician’s Choice: The Best Non Comedogenic Sunscreens fo Acne-Prone Skin
- MDSolarSciences™ – Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen
- Replenix – Replenix Tinted Mattifying Sunscreen, SPF 30
- SkinMedica Essential Defense Everyday Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 47
- La Roche-Posay – Anthelios 60 Cooling Water-Lotion Sunscreen for Face & Body, with Antioxidants
- Heliocare 360° Gel Oil-free SPF 50 – UVA, UVB, Infrared, & Visible Radiation Protection
- Vichy Capital Soleil Face Sunscreen SPF 50
- EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
- References:
- Top 7 Best Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin
- Recommended Acne Programs
Ask the Expert: Sunscreens for Oily & Acne Prone Skin
by Samantha Welch, Esthetician
For acne-prone and/or oily skin, dermatologists recommend using sunscreens that are non-comedogenic, with lightweight formulas that have a matte finish so it controls your oil production and won’t clog your pores. A great sunscreen should also blend flawlessly into your skin for invisible protection.
Non-comedogenicity, or sunscreens that won't clog pores, should apply to all your products as well, from moisturizers to primers and foundations. It only takes one bad product to break you out.
Regarding which sunscreen is ultimately better–once all the boxes above are ticked, it all comes down to its compatibility with your skin.
Make sure to check the Best for line below to see which one is most suited for your skin condition.
Related: The Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Oily Skin; The Best Non-Comedogenic Matte Primers for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin; The Best Non Comedogenic Foundations for Acne Prone Skin
Esthetician’s Choice:
The Best Non Comedogenic Sunscreens fo Acne-Prone Skin
The selection below is based on the most reputable products recommended by leading dermatologists. We’ve also only included products that are explicitly labeled non-comedogenic.
As with any skincare product, make sure to also choose a sunscreen that is best suited for your skin type and skin issues.
Our Review
MDSolarSciences™’ flagship product is not actually this mineral crème, but their Daily Anti-Aging Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB SPF 30.
It’s an all-in-one protection/repair moisturizer-sunscreen-and-anti-aging lotion that has powerful collagen peptides, niacinamide, and antioxidants that help reduce the signs of UV damage like sun spots, fine lines, and redness.
It’s a lightweight lotion ideal for all skin types. Now while this is a great product, the reason we’ve ultimately chosen the mineral crème is because of its matte finish and quick bendability. These two key benefits are essential in sunscreens for oily skin.
The mineral crème is also heavily favored by makeup artists because it feels more like a primer rather than a sunscreen. It’s non-comedogenic as well, so it won’t clog your pores even if you have acne-prone skin.
Key Sun Protection:
- Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50 Sunscreen
- Actives: 2% Titanium Dioxide / 17% Zinc Oxide – Non-nano zinc, meaning its small enough to blend beautifully but bigger than a nano-particle so it stays on the surface of the skin
Additional Benefits:
- Antioxidants to help skin repair – Vitamin C, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract
- Non-Comedogenic – won’t clog pores. Ideal for Acne-prone skin.
- Water-resistant – up to 80 minutes.
- Hypoallergenic. Oil Free. Paraben Free. Fragrance Free. Gluten Free. – Ideal for Very Sensitive Skin. Gentle enough for kids 6 months and older.
- Animal Testing Free.
- EcoCert® Certified.
- Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended.
Best for: Normal to Oily Skin including Acne/Rosacea Prone (we’re not recommending dry skin based on experience), Sensitive Skin
Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand
Type of Sunscreen: Physical sunblock
Consistency & Finish: Lightweight, Creamy, Primer-like/Silicone, Matte finish
Cons: If you have dry patches of skin, it’s going to accentuate them like crazy. It doesn’t moisturize dry areas even though it has a silky consistency, so you’ll have to make sure to exfoliate well and moisturize before using.
If you pack it on, it has a tendency to feel heavy because of its silicone, primer-like texture and can leave a white cast. Make sure to only apply a thin layer to avoid this.
It’s water-resistant, which is good for outdoor activities but can be tenacious when washing it off. You might need a cleansing brush or an oil cleanser to break it up.
About the Brand: MDSolarSciences™ is created by upper east side dermatologic oncologist Robert J. Friedman, M.D., M.Sc. (Med.) who is a pioneer in the skincare – melanoma field.
Together with the Scientific Advisory Council (SAC), the brand specializes in an innovative line of sun care and skin repair products that vary from mineral or physical sunscreens to chemical sunscreens.
The difference is their patented formulation that doesn’t use any of the controversial chemicals that can be damaging to coral reefs and are not good for the environment.
Coupon Codes & Current Promotions
Replenix – Replenix Tinted Mattifying Sunscreen, SPF 30
Best for: Oily & Acne-prone skin, Uneven skin tone, Anti-aging, Pores, Fine lines & Wrinkles
Our Review
This sunscreen provides protection, repairs, and conceals imperfections. This is a great all-in-one product to put on and go.
It functions as a high-performance primer under makeup, instantly minimizing pores, fine lines, and wrinkles, resulting in a balanced and radiant complexion.
The Replenix Tinted Mattifying Sunscreen also provides sheer coverage to give a healthy touch of color to the skin. Its universal skin-enhancing mineral pigments enhance the skin tone and prevent white cast.
Additionally, it contains powerful medical-grade antioxidants that repair skin damage and minimize pores.
Key Sun Protection:
- Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 30 Sunscreen
- Actives: Zinc Oxide 16.5%, Titanium Dioxide 2.2%
Additional Benefits:
- Micronized Zinc Oxide – Provides transparent, dermatologist-recommended broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays.
- Proprietary Green Tea Polyphenol Technology – Effective antioxidant that soothes and calms irritated skin, while offering anti-aging protection against free radicals.
- Bio-Mimicking Ceramides – Replicates natural ceramides in the skin, nourishing and repairing the skin barrier, improving elasticity and texture.
- Vitamins C – Brightens skin, boosts collagen production, and protects against free radicals.
- Vitamin E – Nourishes and moisturizes skin, protects against environmental damage, and promotes healing.
- Co-Q10 – Energizes and revitalizes skin cells, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and provides antioxidant protection.
- Emblica – Clinical-grade antioxidant that evens out skin tone, reducing discoloration and age spots.
- Resveratrol – Skin-calming ingredient that minimizes redness, soothes the skin, and brightens the complexion.
Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand
Type of Sunscreen: Physical sunblock
Consistency & Finish: Sheer, tinted (light coverage), initially creamy texture that blends out to a feathery, silky matte finish
Cons: Not water-resistant. The universal tint has a slight tinge of tan and may not work on all skin types (from our experience, although the label says otherwise)
About the Brand: REPLENIX is an advanced performance medical-grade skincare brand built on over 40 years of revolutionary dermatological science. Originally created in 1981 for dermatologists, it provides potent medical-grade ingredients and cutting-edge skincare technologies in luxurious formulations, delivering visible results with minimal irritation.
Coupon Codes & Current Promotions
Our Review
SkinMedica is part of the Allergan Company, which supplies physicians worldwide with medical aesthetics including skincare, botox, fillers, and more. They specialize in skin rejuvenation to deliver optimal results for patients.
SkinMedica’s Essential Defense is recommended by physicians for oily and combination skin. This physical sunscreen provides UVB and the highest UVA level protection at 12.0% Zinc oxide. (UVA penetrates the skin more deeply and is responsible for premature skin aging. There are about 500 more UVA rays in sunlight than UVB.[5])
It also has age-defying ingredients that improve the skin’s tone and texture–all this in a formulation that won’t clog pores.
Coverage is light and sheer with a matte finish.
Key Sun Protection:
- Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 45 Sunscreen
- Actives: Octinoxate 7.5% / Zinc oxide 12.0%
Additional Benefits:
- Highest UVA rating at PA++++ (UVB ratings are measured by SPF)
- Contains age-defying ingredients that improve skin appearance
- Specially formulated for oily and combination skin
- TSA friendly
- Hypoallergenic. Non-Comedogenic. Paraben-free. Oil-free. Fragrance-free.
Best for: Oily & Combination Skin
Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand
Type of Sunscreen: Physical sunscreen
Consistency & Finish: Lightweight, Sheer, Matte finish
Cons: With the high amount of zinc, there will be a white cast that will be more obvious with the darker complexions. The tinted version might be a better fit.
Takes a little while to sink in from experience, but will eventually so a bit of patience is necessary.
About the Brand: SkinMedica is part of the Allergan Company, which supplies physicians worldwide with medical aesthetics including skincare, botox, fillers, and more. They specialize in skin rejuvenation to deliver optimal results for patients and their doctors.
Coupon Codes & Current Promotions
20% off SkinMedica! Use code: SALE
Save 20% When You Sign Up for Auto-Replenishment for SkinMedica!
Receive a SkinMedica Dermal Repair Cream 0.25 oz (Worth $25.00) when you spend $100 or more on the Holiday Shop.
La Roche-Posay – Anthelios 60 Cooling Water-Lotion Sunscreen for Face & Body, with Antioxidants
Best for: Oily & Sensitive skin
Our Review
One of the best-selling sunscreens in the world, the Anthelios line from the European brand La Roche-Posay has won over 60 beauty awards since its launch.
The line is developed especially for sensitive skin, with multiple textures and unique formulas to cater to different skin types.
This Water-Lotion sunscreen has high-performing sun protection and super-absorbent properties. It goes on like water and cools the skin, unlike most chemical sunscreens which dissipate heat. This is extremely important for oily skin because thick lotions and heat can aggravate oil production.
La Roche-Posay’s sunscreens are incredibly cosmetically elegant and sink into the skin without leaving any white residue.
Key Sun Protection:
- Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 60 Sunscreen
- Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10.72%, Octisalate 3.21%, Octocrylene 6%, Oxybenzone 3.86%
Additional Benefits:
- Cell-Ox Shield™ XL antioxidant technology – multi-patented technology that allows UV filters to work with antioxidants to protect the skin from free radicals
- Water-resistant – 80 minutes
- For face & body use
- Oil-free. Non-Comedogenic. Dermatologist tested.
- Fragrance-free. Paraben-free. Allergy tested.
Best for: Oily and Sensitive skin, All skin types
Coupon Codes & Current Promotions
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Heliocare 360° Gel Oil-free SPF 50 – UVA, UVB, Infrared, & Visible Radiation Protection
Best for: Normal, Combination, Oily skin; Warm & humid climate; Anti-aging
Our Review
From the pioneers in oral and topical sun protection, Heliocare 360º offers a high and state-of-the-art photoprotection range that covers not just the complete spectrum range of UVA and UVB, but also visible and infrared rays. (Normal sunscreens only have broad-spectrum UVA & UVB). This wide-ranging protection called the Bioshield System is then combined with their exclusive Fernblock® technology.
Fernblock® provides four levels of protection: prevents and repairs DNA damage caused by solar radiation, a strong antioxidant action over free radicals responsible for cell damage; regulates our skin defense mechanisms, and prevents visible signs of photoaging (wrinkles, sagging skin, hyperpigmentation, dryness) by protecting structures like collagen, fibroblasts, and elastin.
This is formulated as a light, oil-free, dry touch gel for normal, combination, and oily skin. It’s designed for warm and humid climates, with its sebum control and matting agent to keep your skin smooth and dry.
Key Sun Protection:
- Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50, Infrared Rays, Visible Light
- Actives: Fernblock®FC / Bioshield System
Additional Benefits:
- Bioshield System – Protection against infrared and visible light
- Fernblock® – An antioxidant complex rich in ferulic acid, caffeic acid, green tea, vitamin C, and vitamin E; provides important restorative skin function against solar damage
- Sebum control with matting agent
- Non-comedogenic.
Best for: Normal, Combination, Oily skin; Warm and humid climate; Anti-aging
Coupon Codes & Current Promotions
Our Review
Vichy is one of the leading European pharmacies for anti-aging.
This sunscreen contains their signature Antioxidant Complex and VICHY Volcanic Water, scientifically proven to protect against harmful pollution and free radicals that lead to photo aging.
This oil-free sunscreen also has an exceptional SPF 50 combined with effective UVA & UVB filters for broad-spectrum defense against damaging sun rays.
It's ultra lightweight and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
The texture is non-sticky, non-greasy, and leaves no whitening residue. It has a cooling application with a silky, dry-touch finish that absorbs quickly on the face and body.
Key Sun Protection:
- Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50 Sunscreen
- Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7%
Additional Benefits:
- 15 Mineral-Rich Vichy Volcanic Water – Restores and preserves a steady pH, enabling the skin to combat external aggressors while soothing irritations and inflammatory reactions
- Antioxidant Complex (Vitamin E & Grape Extract) – Powerful antioxidants that protect at a cellular level to keep the skin healthier and younger
- Oil-free, Paraben Free, Non-comedogenic.
- Sensitive skin tested. Allery-tested. Dermatologist-tested.
- Water-resistant.
Best for: All Skin Types especially Oily, Acne-prone skin, and Sensitive skin
Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand
Type of Sunscreen: Chemical sunscreen
Consistency & Finish: Lightweight, Non-sticky, Fast absorbing
Cons: Has a light fragrance
Coupon Codes & Current Promotions
3 for 2 on selected La Roche-Posay, CeraVe & Vichy
Winner: NewBeauty – Beauty Award, RealSimple – Smart Beauty Award, InStyle – Best Beauty Buy, SkinStore – Experts Choice
Our Review
From the #1 dermatologist-recommended professional sunscreen brand comes a moisturizer that offers UVA-UVB sun protection so superior, it won the coveted “Recommended for Daily Use” mark by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
EltaMD has several best-selling products, and the UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is part of this award-winning lineup.
This hybrid moisturizer with SPF is specifically formulated to soothe and protect sensitive, acne-prone skin. It also helps with discoloration and breakouts often associated with rosacea and acne.
It has nourishing ingredients that work together to promote healthy, vibrant-looking skin.
Key Sun Protection:
- Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 46 Sunscreen
- Zinc Oxide 9%, Octinoxate 7.5%
Additional Benefits:
- 9.0% Transparent Zinc Oxide – A natural mineral compound that works as a sunscreen agent by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays. This helps to protect the skin against the damaging effects of sun exposure.
- 5% High-Purity Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – An anti-inflammatory ingredient that reduces redness, minimizes the appearance of dry or damaged skin and restores suppleness. It also helps reduce the appearance of blemishes, discoloration, and photodamage.
- Sodium Hyaluronate – Also known as Hyaluronic Acid, this humectant attracts and retains moisture, improving skin feel and restoring suppleness. It ensures comfortable wear by continually drawing water from the air to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day.
- Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) – An antioxidant that reduces free radicals to help diminish the visible signs of aging. It also has moisturizing properties, helping to soothe and smooth the skin's surface.
Best for: All Skin Types especially Oily, Acne-prone skin, and Sensitive skin
Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand
Type of Sunscreen: Mineral, water-based physical sunscreen
Consistency & Finish: Silky, Very lightweight
Cons: Not a universal shade, not a color match for very fair skin
Coupon Codes & Current Promotions
Shop EltaMD! A complete line of sun protection products, specially formulated for your skincare needs. Available at BeautifiedYou.com
Recommended Acne Programs
If you're suffering from severe acne, it's best to undergo a program that will help you get to the root of the problem and address the causes.
- The Acne No More System by Mike Walden – Restores hormonal balance to achieve permanent clear skin for life.
- The “Trifecta Glow” System – A highly potent brightening treatment guaranteed to reduce the appearance of dark spots & acne scars within 4 weeks.
- La Roche-Posay – Effaclar Dermatological 3 Step Acne Treatment System
- Murad – Acne Control Kit – Breakout Skin Care Kit
- Mario Badescu – Acne Starter/Control/Repair Kit
- Dermalogica – Clear Start Breakout Clearing Kit
References:
- Mills OH, Kligman AM. Comedogenicity of Sunscreens: Experimental Observations in Rabbits. Arch Dermatol. 1982;118(6):417–419. doi:10.1001/archderm.1982.01650180051016
- Loesch H, Kaplan DL. Pitfalls in Sunscreen Application. Arch Dermatol. 1994;130(5):665–666. doi:10.1001/archderm.1994.01690050135029
- Smijs TG, Pavel S. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreens: focus on their safety and effectiveness. Nanotechnol Sci Appl. 2011;4:95-112. Published 2011 Oct 13. doi:10.2147/NSA.S19419
- Couteau C, Diarra H, Coiffard L. Effect of the product type, of the amount of applied sunscreen product and the level of protection in the UVB range on the level of protection achieved in the UVA range. International Journal of Pharmaceutics. 2016 Mar;500(1-2):210-216. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2016.01.041. PMID: 26806467.
- Wang M, Charareh P, Lei X, Zhong JL. Autophagy: Multiple Mechanisms to Protect Skin from Ultraviolet Radiation-Driven Photoaging. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2019;2019:8135985. Published 2019 Dec 13. doi:10.1155/2019/8135985
- Aad.org. (2016). Sunscreen FAQs | American Academy of Dermatology. [Source]
- By, S. and Lines, P. (2018). Anthelios | Sunscreen | La Roche-Posay.
- Cancer.org. (2016). Known and Probable Human Carcinogens. [Source]
- Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov. (2019). DailyMed – MDSOLARSCIENCES SPF 50 MINERAL- titanium dioxide and zinc oxide cream. [Source]
- DCL Skincare. (2018). Professional Skin Care Products for Healthy Skin – DCL Skincare.
- Drugs.com. (2019). SUN SHIELD BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50 MATTE SUNSCREEN OTC Brands – Drugs.com. [Source]
- Farage, Miranda & Miller, K & Maibach, Howard. (2010). Textbook of Aging Skin. 10.1007/978-3-540-89656-2. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-540-89656-2
- Gordon, J. and Brieva, J. (2012). Unilateral Dermatoheliosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 366(16), p.e25. [Source]
- MDSolarSciences™. (2018). MDSolarSciences – Great skin through science.
- Skincancer.org. (2016). Skin Cancer Facts & Statistics – SkinCancer.org. [Source]
- Topixpharm.com. (2018). Replenix.
- Gordon, J., & Brieva, J. (2012). Unilateral Dermatoheliosis. New England Journal Of Medicine, 366(16), e25. doi:10.1056/nejmicm1104059 https://doi.org/10.1056/nejmicm1104059
- Vichyusa.com. (2017). Vichy Skin Care | Vichy Laboratories.
Top 7 Best Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin
Summary
Our selection are based on the most reputable products recommended by leading dermatologists. We’ve also only included products that are explicitly labelled non-comedogenic. As with any skincare product, make sure to also choose a sunscreen that is best suited for your skin type and skin issues.
