How To Find A Sunscreen That Won't Break You Out
'Breakouts from sunscreen are usually from the ingredients and your skin's sensitivity,' said Dr. Richard Bottiglione, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermatologist's Choice Skincare.
HuffPost spoke to three board-certified dermatologists on which ingredients can break you out, offering some tips on how to find a product that works for you.
Ingredients That Can Make You Break Out
Sunscreen formulas often contain heavier ingredients, when compared with moisturizing creams, that may be comedogenic — i.e., pore-clogging — such as certain oils, waxes and silicones. And this is especially problematic for people with acne-prone skin, explainedDr. Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, a double-board-certified dermatologist.
Additionally, these thick or heavier ingredients can trap sebum and gunk that would otherwise be excreted. And sunscreen can also contain UV filters, preservatives and extracts 'that can irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin, triggering inflammation that then looks like acne or other blemishes,' said Dr. Dusan Sajic, a double-board-certified dermatologist.
Generally, formulas that include coconut derivatives, dense waxes or heavy oils high up on the ingredient list can clog pores, said Sajic.
Experts recommend picking sunscreens with lighter formulas that don't include the aforementioned ingredients, because thicker creams may increase the accumulation of sweat, oil and bacteria, potentially exacerbating acne as well as causing irritation in the skin.
Chemical vs. Physical Filter-Based Sunscreens
Whether a sunscreen will break you out or not depends on the whole formula, not just the filter. 'Minerals (like zinc or titanium) are inert but need a good vehicle: if it's too thick, you'll still risk clogged pores. Chemical sunscreens often come in lighter gels, but the filters themselves can irritate some people,' said Sajic.
'Chemical sunscreens are more likely to cause breakouts than mineral sunscreens,' noted Houshmand. 'This occurs because chemical sunscreens work by being absorbed into the skin, converting UV rays into heat. This absorption process and the ingredients themselves, like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate, may cause irritation for some people, leading to inflammation and breakouts. Chemical sunscreens, especially combined with the heat, sweat and sebum, can cause acne,' she added.
'The trick is a balanced formula: lightweight texture and soothing, barrier-friendly additives. Don't get obsessed over 'mineral versus chemical.' Instead, look at how it feels on the skin and what extras it includes,' Sajic added.
An extra tip that may help you, depending on the season: For hot and humid months, opt for a gel or fluid formula, and for drier months, picking a richer but still non-comedogenic, barrier-supporting formula can help, per Sajic.
Are Oil-Free And Non-Comedogenic Formulas The Answer?
This isn't as straightforward as brands may make us believe, as 'oil-free' and 'non-comedogenic' have to do with how these claims are tested by each brand, explained Sajic.
'Use oil-free and non-comedogenic as a starting point, then glance at the full ingredient list and do a patch test. 'Oil-free' means no added oils, but there may be silicones or esters that feel oily, so still check the texture,' said Sajic.
Still, 'no oil in the formulation has the best chance of avoiding acne breakouts,' noted Bottiglione.
'I share with my patients to look for these terms not only on their sunscreen but skin care products, makeup and any products they will use on their skin,' agreed Houshmand.
Avoid These Common Sunscreen Mistakes That May Cause Breakouts
The first step when buying a new sunscreen is to patch test it for a few days, to check if a formula breaks you out or not.
'Using exfoliants or retinoids in your routine makes your barrier and skin more sensitive, so look out for barrier-supporting and soothing ingredients,' like niacinamide, ceramide precursors, peptides, panthenol or gentle peptides and antioxidants, said Sajic.
'Terms like 'barrier repair,' 'adaptive hydration' or 'multi-peptide complex' can hint at these,' he added.
Reapplication can also cause breakouts, as the potentially irritating ingredients accumulate on the skin. Plus, 'When you're sweating outside, or at the pool, or at the beach, this can be a bigger issue because the sweat and dirt are major contributors to breakouts,' noted Bottiglione.
To minimize the risk of breakouts when you are reapplying, you can opt for lighter formulas like sprays, powders or cushion compacts. Lightly cleansing the skin with a micellar wipe before reapplying could be helpful, said Sajic. A quick mist of a hypochlorous acid spray that naturally disinfects the skin is also a good choice. Make sure to let it fully dry before reapplying your sunscreen.
Related:
'A common mistake is using a sunscreen formulated for the body and applying it on the face,' warned Houshmand, while offering a helpful tip: 'Always wash your hands before applying your sunscreen and when washing your sunscreen off at the end of the day.'
Another reason sunscreen may be breaking you out — because you don't cleanse your skin properly at the end of the day! Even if you aren't wearing makeup, a deep, thorough cleanse is recommended to remove any sunscreen residue, sweat and debris from the skin. Sunscreen is formulated to form a film on the skin, so a simple micellar cleanse won't do.
'If sunscreen is not thoroughly cleansed at the end of the day, residue can accumulate and lead to breakouts,' said Houshmand.
TL;DR
The possibility of a sunscreen breaking you out in the summer depends on various factors, including the formula, ingredients, reapplication and accumulation of sweat, sand, salt or chlorine, all of which play their part.
Ultimately, the best sunscreen for you is one that you will use consistently every day, all year round. The experts recommend you pick a broad-spectrum formula and a texture and feel that you like, so you can apply (and reapply) the appropriate amount. Words like 'weightless' and 'invisible finish' are good indicators of that.
Related:
Looking for a great sunscreen? These are some of our favorites.
HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Dermstore
EltaMD UV Restore SPF 40
If you're looking for a sunscreen that doubles as anti-aging skin care, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sonia Badreshia-Bansal recommended the EltaMD UV Restore sunscreen. She said, "sunscreens that combine physical blockers with antioxidants like niacinamide, vitamin C, or DNA-repair enzymes" can help combat oxidative stress and visible signs of aging. This particular SPF has with squalane and ginger root extract, both of which support skin health and appearance.
$46 at Dermstore
$46 at Amazon
Sephora
Ultra Violette Future Screen SPF 50
The cult-fave Australian brand Ultra Violette is finally available in the US at Sephora! If anyone knows how to protect their skin from harmful rays, it's Southern Hemisphere-dwelling Australians. I stock up on their sunscreens and lip balms every time I'm Down Under, and this development is a real thrill for skin care lovers. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessie Cheung of Chicago's Cheung Aesthetics & Wellness told HuffPost that this must-have SPF is 'packed with mineral blockers to protect from the harsh Aussie sun, but feels silky and lightweight.'
$40 at Sephora
Amazon
L'Oreal Paris Bright Reveal Broad Spectrum Daily SPF 50
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alexander Witkowski, one of the most noteworthy new sunscreens of the season is this SPF 50 fluid from L'Oreal. He told HuffPost that it has an innovative formula that "combines advanced sun protection with skin-brightening benefits." It's enriched with vitamin C and vitamin E, which can help "to reduce the appearance of dark spots and promote a more even, radiant complexion." He is also a fan of the lightweight finish that doesn't leave a white cast and the fact that it is formulated for sensitive skin.
$25 at Amazon
$33 at Ulta
$26 at Walgreens
Amazon
Isdin Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+
Both Badreshia-Bansal and Cheung recommended this Barcelona-based skin care brand's sunscreen. It is 100% mineral-based and infused with skin-loving ingredients that make it a great multitasker. It is one of the most comfortable mineral sunscreen formulas I've tried. It's formulated with zinc oxide, DNA repair enzymes and vitamin E — so not only is it preventing sun damage, but it's helping to nourish and repair the skin as well.
The Isdin sunscreen is significantly lighter and easier to blend than traditional mineral SPFs, and doesn't have that lingering zinc smell that personally drives me up the wall. It dries down to a soft matte and is a nice base for dewy makeup looks. While this sunscreen blends well, there is a very slight white cast that's typical of a mineral sunscreen formulation. The combination of lightweight finish, formula and UV protection has made it worth the troubleshooting. Many shoppers noted that it's great for anyone who has sensitive skin, rosacea and skin cancer.
$46 at Dermstore
$46 at Sephora
Amazon
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch mineral sunscreen SPF 50
When you're going to hit the beach or pool, water-resistant formulas are key. Badreshia-Bansal said, "Look for something labeled 'water resistant (80 minutes)' and at least SPF 50. I recommend mineral sticks or lotions because they tend to be more photostable." In previous reporting, Dr. Brandan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, said, "This lightweight, non-greasy product provides SPF 50 protection and contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient," Camp said. It's specially formulated with antioxidants to be water-resistant, is naturally sourced and dries down quickly without leaving a greasy finish.
$19 at Amazon
$13 at Walmart
Elemis
Elemis Pro-Collagen SPF 50
This silky sunscreen is one of Elemis' newest products, but given how great it is, you'd think the brand has been in the SPF game for decades. I've been using it for a couple of weeks and absolutely love it. I'm extremely fussy about sunscreen texture, finish and scent — and luckily this beauty knocks it out of the ballpark on all counts while providing powerful SPF 50 protection. It's a sheer, imperceptible fluid that dries down quickly with no white cast and leaves your complexion looking radiant and dewy, never greasy. I can't help but add it to this list of must-haves that your skin will love.
$70 at Elemis
Dermstore
EltaMD UV AOX mist SPF 40
For beach days, Cheung recommends a water-resistant SPF, preferably a mineral formula that won't cause your eyes to sting or slide off when you're sweating in the sun. She pointed out that the EltaMD UV AOX Mist is great for full body coverage, since it "sprays on white but dries clear, so you won't miss any spots. It also has 360-degree sprayability, so you can apply it upside down."
$46 at Dermstore
$46 at Amazon
Ulta
La Roche-Posay Anthelios tinted light fluid sunscreen SPF 50
Badreshia-Bansal said, "I'm really impressed by the new La Roche-Posay Anthelios mineral tinted SPF 50+ Fluid – it's sheer, has a universal tint, and offers high UVA/UVB protection with 100% mineral filters. It's ideal for sensitive skin and has a great, elegant feel." Perfect for those days when you don't want to wear makeup want an easy pick-me-up.
$40 at Ulta
$40 at Amazon
Amazon
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30
According to Witkowski, this CeraVe lotion with SPF 30 is "an excellent, affordable and widely accessible option for a daily morning routine." It provides sun protection while doubling as a moisturizer and is formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to support skin barrier health and hydration while also soothing irritation.. He also pointed out that it's non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, making it appropriate for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
$15 at Amazon
$16 at Ulta
$15 at Target
Ulta
Blue Lizard Sensitive mineral sunscreen SPF 50+
Another Badreshia-Bansal recommendation for days spent outdoors, this reef-safe mineral sunscreen from Australia contains no active chemicals and is suitable for use on sensitive skin. It's also sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes so you can enjoy all types of outdoor activities without worry.
$13 at Ulta
$12 at CVS
Merit
Merit The Uniform tinted mineral SPF 45
This sunscreen from the internet- and celeb-beloved beauty brand Merit is hot off the presses, and promises to be a lovely choice for those who want a sunscreen option that also offers a soft splash of color. It features a formulation that's designed to be lightweight and buildable with a silky, soft and velvety sheer finish to impart a natural glow, while also helping to smooth and blur the look of skin. It's available in 15 blendable hues. Be one of the first to check out this SPF.
$38 at Merit
Amazon
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Dry Touch SPF 60
Having earned The Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, this La Roche-Posay is Witkowski's personal favorite and 'go-to' sunscreen, both for daily use and for days with extended sun exposure. It's also what he uses on his four-year-old child on beach days, bike rides or hikes. He noted that this oil-free SPF is very popular among dermatologists and is formulated with antioxidants that can help protect the skin from environmental damage. He also noted that it contains senna alata, "a tropical leaf extract known for its ability to combat oxidative stress and support the prevention of premature skin aging." You can't go wrong with this non-comedogenic, water-resistant formula that is also well-suited for sensitive skin.
$20+ at Amazon
$20 at Ulta
Dermstore
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
Badreshia-Bansal echoed the saying that "the best SPF for daily use is one that you'll actually wear — lightweight, invisible and comfortable under makeup." She recommends a mineral SPF with low irritation potential, like this cult-fave SPF that is beloved by both HuffPost readers and editors alike. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid to deeply moisturize skin while the inclusion of lactic acid lightly exfoliates skin and can help to reduce hyperpigmentation and shine. It's a great option for people like me with sensitive and acne-prone skin. I turn to it anytime I'm going to be spending a lot of time in the sun or when I'm post-procedure and want to protect my skin without irritating it.
$44 at Dermstore
$44 at Amazon
Amazon
TiZO2 facial sunscreen and primer
"I recommend Tizo 2 Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 for individuals seeking both high-performance sun protection and anti-aging benefits," said Witkowski. It's enriched with powerful antioxidants that canhelp neutralize free radicals and support overall skin health, while the gentle formulation makes it well-suited for sensitive and post-procedure skin. He also pointed out that it has a matte finish that "wears comfortably under makeup."
$45 at Amazon
$25 at Target (regularly $45)
Dermstore
Lancer mineral Sun Shield universal tint SPF 30
Cheung recommends a lightweight, tinted mineral SPF with antioxidants for everyday wear, like the Lancer Mineral Sun Shield SPF. "It multitasks as sun protection, skincare and a glow-up in one," she said. The iron oxides that provide the tint can also help to protect your skin from blue light, which penetrates deeper than UVB and contributes to hyperpigmentation. She added that this sunscreen "soothes while protecting and reducing sun damage, and will blend into all skin tones."
$60 at Dermstore
More And More Men Choose Not To Wear Metal Wedding Bands — Here's Why
Dermatologists Say Your Moisturizer Could Be Causing Acne. Here Are Non-Comedogenic Formulas To Use Instead.
Is Botox About To Get More Expensive? Doctors Reveal How Tariffs Will Impact Cosmetic Procedures.
Related...
Why Kids' Sunscreen Might Actually Be A Smarter Buy
The Best Protection Can Be Found In A Type Of Sunscreen You May Not Have Heard Of
This Highly-Rated Sunscreen Gel Offers An 'Expensive Facial' Glow, According To Reviewers
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
43 minutes ago
- Yahoo
The Key to Staying Sharp After 70, According to Experts
Reviewed by Dietitian Katey Davidson, RD, CPT Key Points Social connection helps keep your mind sharp with age. Being social supports brain and immune function while connecting you to your community. Physical activity, quality sleep and good nutrition all support brain health. As we age, keeping our minds sharp becomes just as important as staying physically strong. After age 65, about 40% of older adults experience some form of memory loss, and among those over 70, roughly 16% face mild cognitive impairments, such as trouble remembering or finding the right words. Although genetics and preexisting medical conditions play a role in cognitive health and aging, lifestyle habits can make a big difference in keeping your mind engaged. While many lifestyle factors support cognition and brain health, recent research has found that your social life may play the biggest role. 'The best habit for staying sharp after 70 is staying socially connected, through conversation, community activities or simply spending quality time with others,' says Erica Park, M.D., M.B.A., FAAPMR. Read on to learn why experts say social connection is the key to staying sharp in your later years. Why Social Connection Is Key to Staying Sharp Whether it's meeting a friend for a walk, attending community events or hopping on a video call with family members, regular social interaction is crucial for mental sharpness. Here's why. It Supports Your Brain Structure and Function Older adults who rarely interact with loved ones and have low participation in the community are at a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia. 'Regular interaction helps reduce stress, supports memory and keeps the mind engaged,' says Park. Large long-term studies have found that people who are socially isolated have a 26% to 62% higher risk of dementia than those who stay socially connected. Brain scans reveal that these adults have less gray matter in brain regions that are responsible for memory and learning. These changes are linked to the underexpression of specific genes that protect against Alzheimer's disease and support healthy brain function. It Supports a Strong Immune System Though you may think of physical health and cognitive health as two separate things, they're closely intertwined. At the genetic level, loneliness causes an underexpression of anti-inflammatory genes and an overexpression of genes related to proinflammatory immune responses. This can decrease the body's ability to ward off illness and disease. A healthy immune system not only makes it easier to engage in other activities that support your brain and well-being, but it may also directly influence cognition. Recent research shows that poor immune function and heightened inflammation are associated with cognitive impairment, regardless if dementia is present. It Keeps Your Mind Engaged Every conversation or shared activity is like a mini workout for your brain. Whether you're learning a new card game, discussing the latest read with your book club, picking up a new skill for a community project or having a deep, thought-provoking conversation, you're engaging and strengthening areas of the brain that keep your mind sharp. One small study found that older adults who spent at least six weeks learning skills such as drawing, learning a new language or playing music experienced improvements in executive functions—like planning, organizing and problem solving—that lasted up to a year after the learning period. It May Keep You Active Regular physical activity has a strong relationship to better cognitive health. 'Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, supports memory and mood and keeps you socially connected if you're part of a group or team,' says Katie Schimmelpfenning, RDN. In fact, one study found active older adults had a 37% decreased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to their inactive peers. The benefits go both ways, according to a recent study that found higher levels of social support increase physical activity among older adults, while being physically active fosters more socialization. So whether you meet a friend for a walk, take a yoga class or play a game of pickleball, you'll be sharpening your memory and thinking skills. How to Incorporate Social Connection If you're looking to boost your mental sharpness through connection, here are some ways to become a social butterfly. Join a Club or Class Reflect on skills or topics you've always wanted to learn—or activities you once loved—and find a way to make them happen. 'Join a local club or senior center, or participate in a group activity like a walking group, book club or community class,' suggests Park. These activities offer benefits beyond social connection, including physical activity, learning opportunities and a strong sense of purpose and community. Schedule Weekly Dates To hold yourself accountable and reduce decision fatigue about how you spend your time, schedule activities on your calendar. Whether you sign up for a weekly class, go for a morning walk with friends or plan a video chat with a loved one, you're more likely to stick with a habit when others are counting on you. Just be sure to start small and build at a pace that feels comfortable and manageable. 'The more it becomes part of your weekly rhythm, the more natural—and beneficial—it will feel,' says Park. Pair It with Another Habit To get into the routine of scheduling and engaging in social activities, you may need to pair it with a daily habit you already do. 'I recommend pairing new habits with things you already do daily,' says Schimmelpfenning. For example, if you sit down at your computer every morning to check your email, spend a few minutes checking your community events calendar or FaceTime with a family member or friend. Other great ideas include running errands or doing household tasks like gardening with a friend, or going for a group walk after participating in worship services or another community gathering. Other Tips for Keeping the Mind Sharp Prioritize Physical Activity. Being physically active at least five times per week may provide the biggest cognitive benefits after 70. Just be sure to start small, emphasize safety and find activities you enjoy. Eat a Balanced, Nutrient-Dense Diet. Support your brain health by eating whole, nutrient-dense foods. 'Prioritizing nourishing, balanced meals with adequate protein, fruits and vegetables can help lower inflammation and prevent chronic disease with aging,' says Hennis Tung, M.S., RD. Continue Learning New Skills. Regularly using your mind is essential for keeping it sharp as you age. Participating in different fitness activities and exploring new topics all support improved cognitive function. Get Enough Sleep. There is a strong relationship between aging, poor sleep and cognitive decline. While the relationship between the three is not exactly clear, adults who prioritize sleep and address sleep problems like sleep apnea or insomnia may have added protection against cognitive decline. Our Expert Take Staying socially connected does more than just boost your mood—it's one of the most powerful ways to protect your brain as you age. Social interaction keeps your mind active, supports healthy brain structure, strengthens your immune system and often encourages other healthy habits like regular exercise. Whether it's joining a community group, calling a friend or finding a workout buddy, prioritizing social connection can help you stay sharper, healthier and happier well into your 70s and beyond. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
UNH stock: Why are UnitedHealth Group shares surging over 11% today? It's because of this big reveal
Shares in the troubled private health insurer UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) are currently seeing their best trading day in months. As of the time of this writing, UNH shares are up nearly 11.8% to $303.94 in premarket trading. The FDA is warning you not to use this cookware—it could be poisoning your food with lead Mark Cuban and Sam Altman just warned about disappearing jobs and the need to learn AI New study finds coffee is good for you, but there's a catch Yet the company, which is under federal criminal and civil investigations for alleged irregularities in its Medicare business, hasn't announced any fundamental changes to its business—no revised upward outlooks, or hints that its operational costs are decreasing. So why, then, are UNH shares surging this morning? It mainly comes down to one man: Warren Buffett. The Warren Buffett effect Warren Buffett is the most legendary investor in America, and when his company, Berkshire Hathaway, buys shares in another company, investors take notice. And that's exactly what's happened with UNH shares. In a regulatory filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Berkshire Hathaway revealed that the Warren Buffett-led firm acquired a significant position in UNH in June. As noted by CNBC, Berkshire Hathaway purchased more than 5 million shares of UNH in June, worth about $1.6 billion. Now that that stake has been revealed, other investors are buying into UNH, likely hoping both to ride the Warren Buffett effect, and also that Buffett is correct in whatever he saw in the stock that led Berkshire Hathaway to make such a large investment. One of the tactics Buffett, who is known as the 'Oracle of Omaha,' has used to buy stocks in the past is to invest in companies when they are down. It's a strategy many investors use: Buy stocks when they are depressed, hoping they will rise in the future when the company overcomes whatever challenges it is facing and investor sentiment warms. UNH shares have still had a horrible 2025 Of course, UnitedHealth Group is facing more challenges than most companies right now. After the killing of its subsidiary's CEO, UnitedHealthcare's Brian Thompson, in December 2024, there was large blowback from the American public against UnitedHealth. Americans under UnitedHealth plans voiced their frustrations about their difficulties in getting medical appointments or treatments approved by the private insurer, not to mention the crippling medical costs they face even if their treatments are approved. The private insurance giant has also faced rising costs as more elderly Americans who delayed elective procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic are now returning to hospitals to get surgeries, such as hip and knee replacements. In May, UnitedHealth Group's CEO, Andrew Witty, announced he was stepping down. And in July, the company confirmed that it was under federal criminal and civil investigations for alleged irregularities in its Medicare business, and also revised its 2025 full-year fiscal outlook downward. Before today's pre-market boost to its stock price, UNH shares had trended down for a long time. As of yesterday's market close, UNH shares were down over 46% year-to-date. Over the past 12 months, shares have been down over 53%. While the nearly 12% rise in UNH's share price this morning is giving the stock a much-needed boost, the company is still facing the same problems it was before Berkshire Hathaway's stake was revealed. This post originally appeared at to get the Fast Company newsletter: Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Omaha residents stay cool during NWS heat advisory
The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory Friday and Saturday, with the Douglas County Health Department urging residents to take precautions during the extreme heat.
