How to Choose a Sunscreen for Skin With Acne

Anyone can get a bad sunburn, but those with acne run a greater risk of worsening their conditions through overexposure to the sun. However, there is hope, if they choose the proper sunscreen.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Protect your skin with an oil-free sunscreen product that has an SPF of 20 or higher if you suffer from acne. A treatment with an oily base can clog the pores. Instead, enlist a sunscreen like Cellex-C Sunshade SPF 30 for acne-prone skin.
2. Go for a light and comfortable product when you buy a sunscreen. Notice how it feels when you put it on your face or areas of your body where you have experienced bad acne breakouts. It should feel light, comfortable and non-oily.
3. Choose a sunscreen that has protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
4. Keep price in mind when you purchase a sunscreen for acne prone skin, since they tend to be expensive. It makes sense to do business with a company that will offer you a trial-size product at a lower price, allowing you to test out a product before you choose an entire treatment system. Try the Proactiv website for trial-size sunscreen for acne-prone skin (see Resources below).
5. Choose a moisturizer that has SPF protection. Even if you have acne, you may still need to moisturize your skin. Use a treatment that has an oil-free base to hydrate your skin, such as Kamins Matte Moisturizer or pHaze 7 Protecting Hydrator (SPF 15).
6. Connect with others who have acne and still want to enjoy the sun. Read blogs, compare products or find a specialist at Acne.org (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Combine your sunscreen treatment with healthy living. Eat a balanced diet and watch what you eat and drink, especially on the days when you are out in the sun. Drink plenty of water to help lessen your acne breakouts and keep hydrated while sunning.
• Evaluate the acne treatments you are taking. Certain acne medications make skin more sensitive to the sun, so you should up your sunscreen protection even more or limit your exposure to direct sunlight.
• Be diligent and always wear sunscreen when outdoors. While acne may improve slightly after brief periods in the sun, studies show that prolonged exposure actually promotes clogged pores.
• Avoid very fragrant sunscreen products if you have bad acne. Stick with products that are labeled fragrance-free or hypoallergenic. Otherwise, sunscreen may irritate your face and worsen your breakouts.