- Samanta Stalde
Top 10 Face Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin: Your Ultimate Guide

Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun is crucial, but if you have acne-prone skin, finding the right sunscreen can be challenging. Many sunscreens on the market can clog pores and aggravate breakouts. However, fear not! In this blog post, we will explore the best face sunscreens specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. These sunscreens offer excellent sun protection without causing unwanted breakouts, so you can enjoy the sun while keeping your skin healthy and clear.
Quick Pick Section
Product Name | Scent | SPF | Check Price On Amazon! |
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen | Unscented | 46 | |
Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen | Unscented | 30 | |
MEGASHADE By ZitSticka Facial Sunscreen | - | 50 | |
MDacne Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin | Unscented | 30 | |
CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen | Unscented | 30 | |
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen | Unscented | 50 | |
Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen | Unscented | 50 | |
IUNIK Centella Vegan Sunscreen | Unscented | 50 | |
MAKEPREM Calming Sun Stick | - | 50 | |
Paula's Choice Face & Body Sunscreen | Unscented | 50 |
A-List Of 10 Best Sunscreens For Acne-Prone Skin
1. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It features a transparent zinc oxide formula, which helps to prevent sunburn, skin aging, and the risk of skin cancer. The sunscreen is formulated with niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Pros & Cons Of EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen
Pros
Lightweight
Transparent
Niacinamide
Cons
Not Water Resistant
2. Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen

Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen is a lightweight sunscreen with a makeup-gripping formula. Superlight zinc oxide physically blocks UVA/UVB rays to protect your skin on a daily. Absorbs quickly with a weightless gel-cream formula that’s hydrating – but not greasy. The every day, clinically-tested SPF 30 is reef safe, fragrance-free, silicone-free and non-irritating.
Pros & Cons Of Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen
Pros
Lightweight
Makeup-Gripping Formula
Non-greasy
Cons
Not Water Resistant
3. MEGASHADE By ZitSticka Facial Sunscreen

This sunscreen by ZitSticka is specifically made with breakouts in mind. The applicator is uncommon as it's similar to a serum. It protects your skin from hyperpigmentation but also contains your daily serum needs! Vitamin C brightens, Ferulic Acid + Niacinamide calms redness, Tea Tree fights breakouts and Ceramide NG + Hyaluronic acid intensely hydrates.
Pros & Cons Of MEGASHADE by ZitSticka Sunscreen
Pros
Vitamin C
Fights Breakouts
Non-greasy
Cons
Price
4. MDacne Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin

MDacne Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and water-resistant! Octinoxate, Octisalate, and Avobenzone come together to form an effective sun protection compound. It’s specially formulated to help provide shine-free and stain-free UVA/UVB sun protection for acne-prone skin.
Pros & Cons Of MDacne Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin
Pros
Lightweight
Non-comedogenic
Oil-free
Cons
Limited Sun Protection
5. CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen

CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen is a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection while hydrating and nourishing the skin. This sunscreen is formulated with essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help to restore and maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier. It is designed to be gentle on the skin and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Pros & Cons Of CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen
Pros
Lightweight
Sheer
Oil-free
Cons
Limited Sun Protection
Potential White Cast
6. CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen is a popular choice for those seeking a mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection. It features a gentle formula that is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The key active ingredients in this sunscreen are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which create a physical barrier on the skin's surface to reflect and scatter UV rays.
Pros & Cons Of CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen
Pros
Gentle
Hydrating
Lightweight
Cons
Thicker Texture
May Leave A White Cast
7. Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen

Neutrogena is a trusted brand when it comes to skincare, and its Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen is a top choice for oily/acne-prone skin. This lightweight sunscreen is oil-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic. It offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, is quickly absorbed, and doesn't clog pores, making it ideal for daily use.
Pros & Cons Of Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen
Pros
Oil-free
Non-comedogenic
Fast- absorbing
Cons
Fragrance
May Leave A White Cast
8. IUNIK Centella Vegan Sunscreen

IUNIK Centella Vegan Sunscreen is a lightweight and non-greasy sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is formulated with Centella Asiatica extract, which is known for its soothing and calming properties. This sunscreen is designed to be gentle on the skin, making it suitable for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Pros & Cons Of IUNIK Centella Vegan Sunscreen
Pros
Lightweight
Vegan
Cons
Personal Sensitivity
May Leave A White Cast
9. MAKEPREM Calming Sun Stick

MAKEPREM Calming Sun Stick is a physical sunscreen that contains a blend of soothing and calming ingredients. It is formulated to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays while offering a calming effect on the skin. The stick format makes it easy to apply and convenient for on-the-go use.
Pros & Cons Of MAKEPREM Calming Sun Stick
Pros
Easy To Use
Soothing
Cons
May Leave A Residue
10. Paula's Choice Face & Body Sunscreen

Paula's Choice Face & Body Sunscreen is a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is formulated to be suitable for use on both the face and body, providing comprehensive sun protection for all exposed skin. The sunscreen is designed to be water-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor activities and swimming.
Pros & Cons Of Paula's Choice Face & Body Sunscreen
Pros
Lightweight
Water-resistant
Cons
Potential For White Cast
How To Choose The Best Sunscreen For Acne-Prone
1. Look for "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free" labels
These terms indicate that the sunscreen is formulated to not clog pores or exacerbate acne breakouts. Non-comedogenic sunscreens are less likely to cause acne or worsen existing acne.
2. Opt for lightweight and non-greasy formulas
Sunscreens with lightweight textures are less likely to feel heavy or greasy on the skin. Look for lotions, gels, or fluids that absorb easily without leaving a residue.
3. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen
Ensure that the sunscreen provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age the skin and UVB rays can cause sunburn. Both types of rays can contribute to skin damage and acne flare-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I really need to use sunscreen if I have acne-prone skin?
Yes, it's crucial to use sunscreen regardless of your skin type, including acne-prone skin. Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
Can sunscreen cause acne breakouts?
Certain sunscreens can potentially clog pores and contribute to acne breakouts. That's why it's essential to choose non-comedogenic or oil-free sunscreens specifically formulated for acne-prone skin to minimize the risk of breakouts.
Can I use sunscreen under makeup?
Yes, sunscreen can be used as a base under makeup. Look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that won't interfere with your makeup application or cause it to slide off.
Conclusion - A Few Final Words!
When it comes to protecting your acne-prone skin from the sun, choosing the right sunscreen is essential. The products mentioned above have been carefully selected for their acne-friendly formulations, offering effective sun protection without clogging pores. Hope this helps! Thanks for reading!