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Experts Agree—These Sunscreens Are the Very Best at Protecting Acne-Prone Skin
Find derm-approved picks from La Roche-Posay, Supergoop, and more.
I have a confession: I’m obsessed with those skin care ingredient-checking websites; you know the ones that list all the pore-clogging formulas to avoid. As a beauty obsessive with oily, acne-prone skin, I have to be very cautious of heavy mixtures that leave particles lodged in my pores instead of keeping them happy and clear. After years of research, I realized the key is to look for the term “non-comedogenic.” My discoveries led me to assemble my own army of acne-friendly formulas, from non-comedogenic moisturizers to exfoliating toners and, now, non-comedogenic sunscreens.
“When a product is labeled ‘non-comedogenic,’ it is specifically designed to avoid clogging your pores. This is important because clogged pores can lead to breakouts like blackheads, whiteheads, and even acne. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, non-comedogenic products are usually the go-to, as they help keep your skin clear without triggering breakouts,” says Dr Sheila Malek Kassir, board-certified plastic surgeon and co-founder of Kassir Plastic Surgery and Inside Beauty Spa.
Our picks for the best non-comedogenic sunscreens of 2024
The best non-comedogenic sunscreens are ones formulated with other skin-loving ingredients that soothe and hydrate, and arrive in a lightweight texture that doesn’t weigh skin down. Don’t believe the hype? We consulted top dermatologists, perused ELLE editor collections, and combed through online customer reviews to land on the 13 best non-comedogenic sunscreens for acne-prone skin. The results are guaranteed to make your skin and pores happy.
Pros
- Targets dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Cons
- Finishes fairly quickly
What’s not to love about the Mela B3 sunscreen? This formula combines niacinamide and Melasyl to tackle discoloration and scarring just as well as the serum.
SPF: 30
Size: 1.6 fl oz
Key ingredients: Melasyl, niacinamide, broad-spectrum 30
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “When I saw the impressive results a fellow beauty writer had achieved with the Mela B3 serum, I was intrigued to see an accompanying SPF. It’s been weeks since I started using it, and my dark marks aren’t as pronounced as they once were. Sunscreen on its own does that, but the extra boost provided by Melasyl, which reduces dark spots and discoloration, makes the formula all the better.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Pros
- No white cast
Cons
- Pump can be a little faulty
Designed for melanated skin tones, the Brownkind sunscreen is formulated with the brand's proprietary blend of rainbow algae, cocoa, and Indian gooseberry to encourage an even, brighter, and smoother complexion.
SPF: 40
Size: 1 fl oz
Key ingredients: Even tone defender (rainbow algae, cocoa, Indian gooseberry) Vitamin E
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Vacations are when I decide to test new sunscreens, and I typically carry anywhere from two to five different formulas at a time. On a recent trip to Belize, this was the only one I remembered to bring for my face, and I used it so much I barely even missed the others at home. Perhaps it was the lightweight texture that melted into my skin with ease (and no white cast).”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Blends easily
Cons
- Some say it’s pricey for the bottle size
A dermatologist favorite, EltaMD’s popular sunscreen was designed with acne-prone skin in mind. “It’s lightweight, oil-free, and contains niacinamide to reduce inflammation. Plus, it’s formulated with zinc oxide to protect your skin without clogging pores, making it a perfect everyday sunscreen,” Dr. Sheila Malek Kassir explains. Sans any unnecessary ingredients that could further disrupt acneic skin, this sunscreen is built around soothing niacinamide and blends out like a dream with no evidence left behind.
SPF: 46
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Key ingredients: Niacinamide
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “This is perhaps the one sunscreen I’ve repurchased over 10 times now. Thanks to its nourishing formula packed with niacinamide, this SPF allows me to skip moisturizer some days. Plus, it blends so seamlessly with no white cast in sight.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense
Pros
- Non-greasy formula
Cons
- Will need to re-up frequently
Think of your favorite nourishing serum that leaves you with a subtle, non-greasy finish. Now imagine sun protection added to the mix—that’s what you get from this lightweight sunscreen. Hydrating, weightless, and a tad bit dewy, this SPF is supercharged with ginger extract and antioxidants to improve the skin’s radiance and ward off signs of aging for as long as possible. Plus, it plays well with makeup layered on top.
SPF: 60
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Key ingredients: Antioxidants, ginger extract
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “This is the sunscreen I never think twice about using. The formula is so lightweight and non-greasy that I can sometimes skip out on moisturizer and jump straight to this. Even better, it has no white cast. I love wearing it under makeup because it enhances the glow a little bit without leaving me looking too oily.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Kiehl's Better Screen UV Serum Sunscreen SPF 50+
Pros
- Reduces the appearance of dullness
Cons
- Many users dislike the smell
Sunscreen is an oft-forgotten soldier in the fight to slow aging. With this sunscreen by Kiehl’s, another star player is working toward the same goal: collagen peptides. This powerhouse formula not only protects against harmful rays, but brightens dark spots and visibly improves aging skin.
SPF: 50
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Key ingredients: Collagen peptides
Ulta rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “This is the sunscreen I have been searching for. It rubs into the skin so easily. It does not pill or leave a white cast. It’s very moisturizing as well and gives your skin a subtle glow. It does not overly burn your eyes either if some gets into them. It lays great under makeup. I spent a week in Florida and I used this daily, and my face and neck DID NOT BURN. I love this product!”
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 Anti-Aging Face Sunscreen Moisturizer
Pros
- Includes conditioning ingredients
Cons
- Will need to reapply on long days
This formula is so creamy and lightweight, you’ll forget it’s sunscreen. Following a three-pronged approach, this sunscreen uses peptides to hydrate, moisturize, and protect the skin. Plus, it doesn’t leave a white cast and serves as a glowy base for your makeup.
SPF: 50
Size: 1.4 fl oz
Key ingredient: Polypeptides
A Dermstore rating: 5/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I love using this in place of my moisturizer because of how conditioning the ingredients feel on my skin. Not only does it blend out like a dream, it leaves no white cast and imparts a sweet radiance that makes me look way more alive than I sometimes feel.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen
Pros
- Reduces shine
Cons
- Still leaves a slight white cast on darker tones
With La Roche-Posay’s fan-favorite Anthelios sunscreen, the skin is coated with Cell-Ox Shield (antioxidants) and an oil-controlling technology, named Perlite and Silica Complex.
SPF: 60
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Key ingredients: Cell-Ox Shield, Perlite and Silica Complex
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
Our expert says: “Designed for oily and acne-prone skin, this oil-free formula provides broad-spectrum protection with a dry-touch finish to keep your skin matte. If you struggle with shine throughout the day, this one’s a fantastic option.”—Dr. Sheila Malek Kassir
Supergoop! Mineral Sheerscreen Sunscreen
Pros
- Conditioning ingredients
Cons
- Some users note it leaves a slight cast
From its tinted SPF to the viral Unseen Sunscreen, Supergoop’s SPF offerings come in formulas for every skin type and preference. The Mineral Sheerscreen works for several skin types, leaving a natural dry-down and smooth base that doubles as a primer for makeup.
SPF: 30
Size: 1.5 fl oz
Key ingredients: Bush clover extract, aloe leaf juice, squalane
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
Our expert says: “I highly recommend this sunscreen formulated with 17.5% zinc oxide, offering effective broad-spectrum protection, while being non-comedogenic. Infused with carefully chosen moisturizing ingredients like squalane and glycerin, it hydrates without clogging pores, minimizing the risk of breakouts. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without leaving a white residue, despite the high mineral concentration.”—Dr Sheila Malek Kassir
Alastin Skincare SilkSHIELD All Mineral Sunscreen for Face
Pros
- Boosts collagen
Cons
- Can leave a white cast
The added anti-aging benefits of this sunscreen make it a clear standout. Alastin’s mineral sunscreen relies on its signature TriHex Technology, a peptide-rich complex, to boost elasticity and collagen for a more youthful appearance.
SPF: 30
Size: 1.9 fl oz
Key ingredients: TriHex Technology, ectoin
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
Our expert says: “I appreciate this sunscreen as a non-comedogenic option because it contains squalane, a stable derivative of squalene, a naturally occurring lipid in the skin’s sebum. Typically derived from plant sources like olives or sugarcane, squalane offers non-greasy hydration without clogging pores. This formula is enriched with peptides that enhance skin elasticity, and its silky, easy-to-spread texture from silicone components ensures smooth application, while providing effective UV protection.”—Dr Sheila Malek Kassir
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36
Pros
- Soothing formula
Cons
- Can be too dewy for some
Across the label is a bold “No White Cast” which might seem too good to be true for some. Luckily, the sunscreen lives up to its claims and then some. Beyond the invisible finish, this sunscreen nourishes and soothes the skin with green tea, cica, and sunflower seed oil.
SPF: 36
Size: 1.69 fl oz
Key ingredients: Green tea, cica, sunflower seed oil
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Innisfree’s sunscreen is my favorite vacation companion. On the days when I’m not in the mood for a full face of makeup but still want a little oomph, this sunscreen coats my skin with a subtle glow that’s non-greasy yet still nourishing.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Hero. Shield Superlight Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Pros
- Color-correcting green tint
Cons
- Some users note it can pill
Yes, the makers of your favorite pimple patches have even more reparative products for acneic skin. Especially great for those battling redness, this sunscreen deposits a green tint to color-correct and soothing botanicals to keep irritation at bay.
SPF: 30
Size: 1.69 fl oz
Key ingredient: Superfood botanicals
Ulta rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I’ve purchased this multiple times, and I love it—it’s essential to my daily skincare routine now. I have very acne-prone, slightly red skin. This doesn’t break me out at all, is very gentle on my skin, and the green tint does have a nice subtle color correction to it.”
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion
Pros
- Soothing ingredients
Cons
- Leaves a white cast on deeper tones
Spending time in the sun can do wonders for your mental health, but too much exposure can actually do the opposite for your skin. Isdin’s sunscreen was designed to treat and soothe those with actinic damage, which produces rough, scaly texture and bumps following excessive sun exposure.
SPF: 50
Size: 3.4 fl oz
Key ingredients: DNA Repairsomes, vitamin E
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Best way to describe this sunscreen is soft. It applies easily, it blends so well, and makes my skin feel moisturized and smooth. It was recommended by our dermatologist, and I’m so glad he did! I especially love the tinted version for my face because it covers like foundation and doesn’t burn my eyes.”
Inside Beauty Emollient Sunscreen
Pros
- Lightweight texture
Cons
- Pricey for the size
Chances are, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you’ve steered clear of emollient-rich formulas out of fear they’ll clog your pores even more. This favorite of Dr. Sheila Malek Kassir will change your mind. The light, thin texture absorbs into the skin with ease, imparting Vitamins C and E, as well as ferulic acid.
SPF: 40
Size: 1.75 fl oz
Key ingredients: Vitamins C and E, ferulic acid
Our expert says: “This is perfect if you have dry or combination skin. It offers broad-spectrum protection and is packed with antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E. The lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly, leaving a silky finish—no clogged pores here!”—Dr.Sheila Malek Kassir
Meet the Expert
Dr Sheila Malek Kassir is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon and co-founder of Kassir Plastic Surgery and Inside Beauty Spa.
Dr. Renata Khelemsky is a double board-certified and fellowship-trained facial cosmetic surgeon.
What ingredients should you look for in a non-comedogenic sunscreen?
Shopping for sunscreen requires just as much care and attention as shopping for cleansers, serums, or moisturizers. According to Dr. Kassir, it’s important to prioritize “lightweight, oil-free, and mineral-based formulas.” Here are a few ingredients Dr. Kassir says to look out for:
Zinc Oxide: Found on the label of every sunscreen, zinc oxide “is a physical sun blocker that sits on top of your skin, reflecting harmful UV rays. It’s especially good for sensitive or acne-prone skin since it doesn’t clog pores.”
Titanium Dioxide: “Another gentle, physical blocker that’s great for keeping your skin protected without causing breakouts.”
Niacinamide: “Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide helps control oil production, reducing the risk of clogged pores.”
Hyaluronic Acid: “This is a great hydrating ingredient that works without adding heavy oils, which makes it perfect for those prone to breakouts.”
What ingredients should you stay away from?
The heavier the ingredient (like certain oils), the more damaging it could be for your pores. “Avoid sunscreens that contain soybean oil, almond oil, and avocado oil, which tend to have a high oleic acid profile associated with higher comedogenicity. Furthermore, the synthetic oil isopropyl myristate, as well as lanolin or any of its derivatives, should also be avoided, as these ingredients can clog pores and trigger breakouts,” Dr. Khelemsky explains.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor Nerisha Penrose consulted skin experts to find the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin.
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