
Acne-prone skin requires careful consideration when it comes to selecting skincare products, and sunscreen is no exception. While it's crucial to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, many traditional sunscreens can exacerbate acne or cause breakouts due to pore-clogging ingredients. Fortunately, today's sunscreens are formulated with advanced technology and acne-friendly ingredients, making it easier than ever to find a sunscreen that not only shields your skin from UV damage but also helps to keep breakouts at bay.
When shopping for a sunscreen for acne-prone skin, there are several factors to consider:
- Non-comedogenic formulation: Look for sunscreens labelled as "non-comedogenic," meaning they are formulated to not clog pores. This is essential for preventing breakouts in acne-prone skin.
- Oil-free or lightweight texture: Opt for oil-free or lightweight formulas that won't feel heavy or greasy on the skin. These sunscreens are less likely to contribute to excess oil production, which can lead to acne flare-ups.
- Broad-spectrum protection: Choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This ensures that your skin is shielded from the full spectrum of damaging sunlight.
- Ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide: Mineral sunscreens containing ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are ideal for acne-prone skin because they sit on the surface of the skin and are less likely to cause irritation or breakouts.

5 sunscreens for oily, acne-prone skin
1. Shiseido Urban Environment Dual Care Sunscreen
This sunscreen not only provides broad-spectrum SPF protection but also helps to defend the skin against environmental aggressors like pollution and dryness. Its lightweight, oil-free formula is perfect for acne-prone skin. The hyaluronic acid-spiked formula ensures that it hydrates while it mattifies.
2. Estée Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50
With its water-light texture, this sunscreen feels weightless on the skin while delivering powerful UV protection. The essence-light gel emulsion sinks in almost immediately and plays well with the rest of your skincare and makeup formulas.
3. Thank You Farmer Sun Project Silky Calming Sun Stick
This convenient sun stick offers SPF protection in a portable, mess-free format. Its soothing formula calms the skin and provides a matte finish, making it suitable for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin. If you have makeup on already, you can swipe this stick on and just dab it in—it shouldn’t mess with your full beat underneath.
4. Ras Luxury Oils Solaris Daily Defence Mineral Sunscreen
Formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this mineral sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection without clogging pores.
5. The Pink Foundry Matte Moisturizing Mineral Sunscreen
This sunscreen combines SPF protection with hydration, making it ideal for those with acne-prone skin that also tends to be dry or sensitive. Tinted sunscreens often contain light-reflecting particles or blurring agents that help to minimise the appearance of pores and fine lines. This creates a smoother, more refined complexion, giving the skin a soft-focus effect. A 2-in-1 product? Count us in!