Latest news with #JoshuaZeichner
NBC News
28-04-2025
- Health
- NBC News
We asked, derms answered: The 11 best sunscreens for acne-prone skin
You've likely heard it time and time again: Don't skip sunscreen if you want to prevent dark spots, sun damage and signs of aging. But there's one caveat: thick formulas can congest your pores, which may lead to pimples. Still, wearing sunscreen daily is essential, especially if you use products that treat acne, like retinol, Accutane and alpha-hydroxy acids. 'Many acne medications make your skin sensitive to sunburn,' says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital. 'The right sunscreen can give a mattifying effect and protect the skin without worsening breakouts.' I talked to dermatologists about how to buy the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin and their favorite options from brands like EltaMD, Neutrogena and La Roche-Posay. I also rounded up sunscreens NBC Select staff swear by while dealing with breakouts. How I picked the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin If you have acne-prone skin, experts told me to prioritize the following while shopping for sunscreen. Formula: The best sunscreens for acne-prone skin have noncomedogenic formulas, meaning they won't clog pores, says Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City. Also, look for oil-free and fragrance-free options. Ingredients: Pay attention to the active and inactive ingredients in sunscreen, both of which can contribute to breakouts and clogged pores. Those with acne-prone skin should avoid mineral and soybean oils, as well as emollient-rich ingredients like coconut, beeswax, lanolin and cocoa butter, says Dr. Jane Yoo, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City. Stay away from silicones and sodium lauryl sulfates, too, says Dr. Patricia Wexler, a board-certified dermatologist at Wexler Dermatology in New York City. Type: If you have acne-prone skin, using a mineral sunscreen can help avoid breakouts and exacerbating active pimples, says Yoo. Mineral sunscreen contains zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, and it sits on top of the skin to act like a shield against UV rays. This makes mineral sunscreen less likely to irritate those with acne-prone skin compared to chemical sunscreen, which contains synthetic ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone and octinoxate that the skin absorbs, says Yoo. These chemicals help turn UV rays into heat that's dissipated from the skin. That doesn't mean you can't wear chemical sunscreen if you have acne-prone skin — you can, but look for options that are specifically designed for those who deal with breakouts. Some sunscreens are mineral-based, which means they contain mineral and chemical active ingredients. Overall, as far as acne-prone skin goes, mineral is best, mineral-based is second best and chemical is at the bottom of the list, dermatologists told me. Protection level: The face sunscreen you apply daily should have a SPF rating of at least 30 and offer broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields you from UVA and UVB rays, says Dr. Dina Strachan, a board-certified dermatologist at Aglow Dermatology in New York City. This is in line with the American Academy of Dermatology Association and the Skin Cancer Foundation 's recommendations. Water resistance: Wearing a water-resistant sunscreen is especially important if you're sweating or spending time in water. You can find out whether a sunscreen is water-resistant, and if so, how long it's water-resistant for, by reading its label. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. The best sunscreens for acne-prone skin in 2025 All of the sunscreens below have a SPF rating of at least 30 and offer broad-spectrum protection. They're either recommended by dermatologists or NBC Select staff who have acne-prone skin. EltaMD's fragrance-free, oil-free sunscreen is a top pick among many of the dermatologists I spoke to, including Zeichner, Yoo and Wexler. It contains zinc oxide, a mineral UV blocker that offers a soothing effect on the skin, says Zeichner. It's also made with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, two hydrating ingredients. The sunscreen leaves a transparent finish on skin and is safe for those with acne-prone skin, sensitive skin, rosacea and dark spots, according to the brand. In addition to its clear formula, EltaMD sells a tinted version of this sunscreen, which offers SPF 40. Cory Fernandez, NBC Select commerce editor, uses it daily. I've struggled with cystic acne for my entire adult life and have been using prescription acne medication for about four years. Tower 28's reef-safe, fragrance-free tinted sunscreen is my go-to for daily UV protection. It offers light to medium coverage, which tones down redness and reduces how noticeable my acne and acne scars are. The SPF has also never irritated my sensitive, combination skin or worsened breakouts. The sunscreen (from one of our favorite AAPI-owned brands) is made with non-nano zinc oxide and soothing aloe vera, plus it's approved by the National Eczema Association. It comes in 17 shades and has a natural finish — it's not too dewy that it makes me look oily, and it's not too matte either. One tube lasts me months since I only need to use a little sunscreen at a time. Certain acne medications can be drying, so using a sunscreen that doubles as a moisturizer helps combat flaky, dull skin and cut down on your skin care routine. Strachan recommends CeraVe's moisturizing SPF for daily use. It's made with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, and is oil-free and fragrance-free. The sunscreen offers a clear finish. I give my skin a break from makeup a few days a week, and instead of applying my tinted sunscreen, I use this one from Supergoop. It's so lightweight that I forget I'm wearing it and it has a matte finish. The sunscreen is white when it comes out of the tube, but it's blendable and becomes totally sheer as I rub it into my skin. It also has a light smell due to the zinc oxide and titanium dioxide it's made with — the smell goes away quickly, in my experience, and its formula is fragrance-free overall. While I don't wear makeup on top of this sunscreen, it doubles as a grippy primer. SPF powder is a great option for those with acne-prone, oily skin, says Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist. 'It absorbs excess oil, so it serves a dual purpose as a finishing powder, actually extending the life of your makeup and providing sun protection,' she says. This SPF from Brush on Block is available as a translucent powder or in a Touch of Tan shade. The built-in brush has a twist-open feature that ensures powder is only released when you want to use it. The brush is also refillable — when it runs out of powder, you can purchase refills online. In addition to a face sunscreen, Brush on Block's powder makes a great scalp sunscreen. Cetaphil's mineral sunscreen is another one of Strachan's favorites for acne-prone skin. It's a basic, no-frills option you can wear on its own or under makeup. The reef-safe, fragrance-free sunscreen is made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It offers a lightweight matte finish — the brand describes the SPF's texture as serum-like. The sunscreen also has vitamin E in its formula to moisturize skin. Ashley Morris, NBC Select associate SEO reporter, says this sunscreen doesn't make her acne-prone skin greasy. 'The texture is so lightweight that it blends in well without giving me any added shine,' she says. 'It also gives me a chance to use some of my more dewy moisturizers underneath.' The formula contains silica, a powder that absorbs excess oil. Morris also appreciates that the bottle is a portable size so she can bring it with her for constant reapplication. Zeichner recommends this chemical sunscreen from Neutrogena because it's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. It's made with avobenzone, an organic sunscreen filter that's 'extremely' effective in providing broad-spectrum UV protection, he says. The sunscreen has a matte finish, and it's oil-free and fragrance-free. SPF: 30, 50 and 55 | Type: chemical | Water-resistant: up to 80 min. 'This sunscreen keeps skin dry, even in heat and humidity, making it great for oily, acne-prone skin,' says Wexler. It's made with perlite and silica, lightweight powders that help absorb excess oil on skin and reduce shine, according to La Roche-Posay. The oil-free, fragrance-free sunscreen has a non-greasy, dry touch texture. Morris initially tried this sunscreen while on vacation in Jamaica last year, and loves how well it holds up in hotter, sunnier climates. 'It applies without any white cast, and doesn't get super oily even after spending hours on the beach,' she says. It has a non-comedogenic formula and broad-spectrum protection, according to the brand. Morris also likes the sunscreen's lightweight texture, and how it doesn't leave any sticky or stuff residue after applying. Frequently asked questions Can sunscreen cause acne? Yes, sunscreen can cause breakouts in those with acne-prone skin. There are two main reasons why sunscreen-related acne occurs. Heavy, oily sunscreens can clog pores, which often leads to acne. Your skin may be sensitive to some UV-blocking ingredients in sunscreen, which can show up as a rash or as small bumps, says King. That said, wearing sunscreen every day is non-negotiable — you must wear it to protect your skin from UV rays. That's why it's important to find a sunscreen that works with your skin type. Does acne medication make you more sensitive to the sun? Yes, some prescription and over-the-counter acne medications can make your skin photosensitive, meaning sensitive to sunlight and more likely to burn, says Strachan. This includes products that contain chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (including glycolic acid) and beta-hydroxy acids (including salicylic acid), as well as topical and oral retinoids like adapalene, Accutane (isotretinoin) and Tretinoin. Antibiotics used to treat bacterial acne like Tetracycline, particularly doxycycline, can also cause photosensitivity, says Strachan. How should you apply sunscreen to acne-prone skin? The first time you use a new type of sunscreen, spot test it on a small patch of skin before applying it to your entire face, says Yoo. Wear it for a few hours indoors — if you don't notice any redness, stinging or small red bumps pop up, your skin likely won't react to it long term. Before applying sunscreen to your face, cleanse with a gentle face wash to remove excess oils and dirt, which can contribute to clogging pores, says Yoo. Then apply sunscreen and let it dry for about 15 minutes before you spend time outside. Note that sunscreen should always be the last step in your daily skin care routine. At the end of the day, thoroughly wash your face to remove sunscreen before following the rest of your nightly skin care routine, says Yoo. How much sunscreen should you wear every day? Regardless of which type you purchase, sunscreen is important to wear daily — Zeichner recommends applying a quarter-sized dollop of SPF to your face. If you're spending time in the sun, you should reapply every two hours or immediately after heavy sweating or swimming. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Dr. Joshua Zeichner is the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and an associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Hadley King is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York. Dr. Patricia Wexler is a board-certified dermatologist at Wexler Dermatology in New York City. Dr. Robyn Gmyrek is a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City. Dr. Jane Yoo is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City. Dr. Dina Strachan is a board-certified dermatologist at Aglow Dermatology in New York City. Why trust NBC Select? Zoe Malin is an associate updates editor at NBC Select who writes about skin care, including articles on ingrown hair, razor burn, tinted sunscreen and sunburns. Ashley Morris is an associate SEO reporter at NBC Select covering wellness who's written on topics like acne spot treatments and hyperpigmentation. For this article, Malin interviewed six experts about the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin. Using their guidance, she put together a list of products dermatologists recommend and those NBC Select staff have tested.
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The best sunscreens dermatologists recommend — and use themselves — in 2025
No matter the time of year, if you're going out in the sun, using the best sunscreen you can find is a no-brainer. But, in the summer, experts advise applying a potent sunscreen several times a day to avoid exposing your skin to potentially harmful rays, which can lead to long-term skin damage and even more serious conditions like skin cancer. With new developments in sun protection, there's now a sunscreen stick, spray sunscreens or tinted sunscreen-skin care hybrids, suitable for every person, no matter what their skin type. Read more: The best sunscreens for your face in 2025, recommended by dermatologists Not only can using a powerful SPF cream decrease your chance of developing skin cancer, it can also help prevent unwanted sun damage and signs of premature aging. To find out more, we tapped dermatologists Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Dr. Cynthia Bailey, founder of Dr. Bailey Skin Care, board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kay Durairaj and Dr. Gary Goldenberg, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, to find out everything from how often you should use to how to shop for the best options. Still not sure where to start? Below, we've rounded up the seven best sunscreens dermatologists not only recommend, but actually use themselves. We've got something in the mix for every skin type, whether you have acne-prone, oily skin; dry, sensitive skin or something in-between. Best sunscreens of 2025 How we chose Factors to consider when choosing a sunscreen FAQs Meet our experts Update, April 25, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability and added a section on our methodology. Our picks for the best sunscreens remain unchanged. (back to top) In addition to our team's personal experiences with sunscreen, we reached out to some of the leading skin-care experts in the country, who collectively see hundreds of patients a year and asked them which sun protection is best. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) : "In general, it's a good idea to look for a sunscreen that's at least SPF 30 or higher and has the words 'broad spectrum' on the label," says Bailey. Broad spectrum: The term indicates that it will protect you against both UVA rays, which cause premature aging and the development of skin cancers, and UVB rays, which cause sunburn. Type (i.e. stick, spray, lotion): This is mainly about personal preference: 'Whether it's a lotion or gel, stick or spray, the best sunscreen is ultimately the one you are actually using on your skin,' Zeichner says. (back to top) According to Los Angeles facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kay Durairaj, the most effective sequence for working sunscreen into your morning skin care routine is as follows: Cleansing: Begin with a gentle cleanser. [Durairaj recommends her own KD Skin Glycolic Cream Wash] to "help skin glow by removing overnight dull skin buildup and oils. For mature skin," she says, "a hydrating cleanser can help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier." Serums: "Apply any serums next," Durairaj explains. "Antioxidant-rich serums, such as those containing vitamin C, are particularly beneficial for mature skin, offering protection against free radicals and promoting collagen production." Moisturizer: Follow with a moisturizer suited to mature skin types. "Products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides and ceramides can provide deep hydration, support skin structure, and improve texture," Durairaj says. Sunscreen: "After allowing the moisturizer to absorb fully, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher," Durairaj advises. "For mature skin, a sunscreen that includes moisturizing ingredients and is formulated for sensitive skin may offer additional benefits without causing irritation." Makeup: According to Durairaj, if makeup is part of your routine, it should be applied after the sunscreen has been fully absorbed. She also recommends using mineral-based products that can further protect the skin from the sun. The lotion vs. spray sunscreen question largely comes down to your personal preference. Many prefer spray sunscreen because it's easier and faster to apply without rubbing in, but some say it's harder to achieve full coverage with a spray bottle if you're applying it yourself. With lotion, it's sometimes easier to both apply by hand and to see which spots you've missed. Believe it or not, more is not always better when it comes to SPF in sunscreen. Some lotions with higher SPF ratings use chemicals that are harmful to reefs and ocean wildlife and can also trigger sensitive skin. Aside from that, a more likely concern is that those using higher SPF lotions often have a false sense of security. Just because your lotion is high in SPF doesn't mean you don't need to reapply or that you're immune to damaging effects from the sun. Keep this in mind when opting for a higher SPF. Finally, you might find that lotions with higher SPF ratings are more expensive. You've heard it before: You should wear sunscreen often, ideally every day, to protect against the sun's rays. Dermatologists don't just talk about the importance of wearing sunscreen — they practice what they preach. 'I wear it every day, 365 days a year,' Goldenberg. (His top pick for daily wear is EltaMD's Sunscreen Sport Lotion.) "Even in winter, you still get some UV that can cause skin damage." And they make it easy to remember: 'I actually incorporate sunscreen into my daily grooming routine and apply it right after shaving,' Zeichner tells Yahoo Life. Even if you are diligent about applying sunblock every morning, don't forget to reapply throughout the day — especially if you are spending a lot of time in the sun. (back to top) Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a dermatologist based in New York City Dr. Cynthia Bailey, dermatologist and founder of Dr. Bailey Skin Care Dr. Gary Goldenberg, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine in New York City Dr. Kay Durairaj, facial plastic surgeon based in Los Angeles (back to top)
Associated Press
26-02-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Eucerin Expands Its Innovative Suncare Line with NEW Advanced Hydration SPF 50 Face Sunscreen
An ultra-lightweight fluid formula that delivers clinically proven all-day hydration* and advanced UVA/UVB protection. STAMFORD, Conn., Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Eucerin, a dermatologist-recommended brand with over 100 years of skincare expertise, is expanding its suncare line with the launch of NEW Eucerin Sun Advanced Hydration Face SPF 50, an ultra-lightweight fluid sunscreen with clinically proven all-day hydration.* This innovative formula delivers on skin benefits beyond UVA/UVB protection, making it the perfect daily SPF. As the only dermatological suncare brand formulated with 5 antioxidants (5AOX Shield), Eucerin Sun goes beyond basic sun protection by helping defend against long-term sun damage.** NEW Advanced Hydration Face Sunscreen contains Eucerin's proprietary 5AOX Shield, plus multi-weight hyaluronic acid and humectants for immediate and clinically proven, all-day hydration.* Its fluid-like formula is the most lightweight in Eucerin's suncare line to date, blending quickly for an invisible finish, and perfect for daily use under makeup. Advanced Hydration Face is also hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types and tones. 'Suncare should be an integral part of your daily skincare routine, not a separate step,' says Emily Kiely, Marketing Director at Eucerin. 'Our new Advanced Hydration Face SPF 50 seamlessly blends the best of both worlds: broad-spectrum sun protection with the hydration your skin craves. This fluid formula feels incredibly light on the skin and wears beautifully under makeup, making it perfect for everyday use—what's more, it's portable so you can simply grab it and go, and protect your skin every day.' 'The skin needs broad-spectrum protection from the sun's rays for optimal results,' says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist. 'Eucerin's Advanced Hydration Face SPF 50 provides broad spectrum UV protection, with additional benefits from its 5AOX shield. This formula with the unique blend of five antioxidants has been shown to help neutralize free radicals. This added layer of protection helps defend against visible signs of early skin aging and helps to prevent long-term sun damage.** Plus, the formula with dual molecular weight hyaluronic acid provides long-lasting hydration for the skin.*" New Advanced Hydration Face SPF 50 joins the Advanced Hydration range, which currently includes Advanced Hydration Body Spray SPF 50 and SPF 30, as well as Advanced Hydration Body Lotion SPF 50. It complements Eucerin's other face SPF offerings, including Age Defense Face SPF 50, Tinted Age Defense Face SPF 50, Tinted Sensitive Mineral Face SPF 35, and Clear Skin Face SPF 50. Advanced Hydration Face SPF 50 is currently available on and and coming soon to your local CVS and Walgreens. For more information, visit About Beiersdorf Beiersdorf Inc is the North American affiliate of Beiersdorf AG, which has stood for innovative, high-quality skincare products for over a century. The company's portfolio of leading international brands includes Eucerin, NIVEA, Aquaphor, Coppertone, La Prairie and most recently, Chantecaille. About Eucerin Since the 1900s, Eucerin has made healthy-looking skin its mission. High-quality, clinically proven formulations are what have made Eucerin an essential part of everyday skin health for over 100 years, and a brand dermatologists recommend. Eucerin is committed to providing the best skincare solutions for their consumers by offering proven products that moisturize, support and help protect skin. For more information, visit or follow Eucerin on social media @EucerinUS. *For sun protection, use as directed. SOURCE Eucerin
Yahoo
24-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Blue light has been linked to premature aging and dark spots. Here are 3 ways to protect your skin from screens.
You probably do your best to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays by slathering on sunscreen before going outside (and if you haven't been, now's a good time to start). But many people aren't aware that the blue light from your computer and smartphone can also do a number on your skin. Research suggests that blue light, aka high-energy visible light, or HEV, could damage your skin like UV rays. And, if you spend hours every day parked in front of a computer or scrolling through your phone, you could be raising your risk of developing fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots on your skin, Dr. Ife Rodney, founding director of Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics, tells Yahoo Life. That doesn't mean you're doomed to have older-looking skin if you have a desk job or a date with Instagram every night. But dermatologists say it's important to take certain steps to protect your skin from your screens, just like you would from the sun. Blue light is on the visible light spectrum. It has a short wavelength and high energy, which can impact your eyes, stimulate your brain and influence how much your body secretes melatonin, a hormone involved in the sleep-wake cycle. But blue light can also impact your skin. See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. Sunlight is the biggest source of blue light, although blue light can also be emitted by screens, fluorescent light and LED light, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). 'Since we're spending so much more time in front of the computer working from home, we may be putting ourselves at increased risk for blue light exposure,' Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, tells Yahoo Life. The biggest potential impact of blue light is that it can age you. 'Fortunately, blue light is not associated with skin cancers, but it has been shown to lead to premature aging and the development of dark spots,' Zeichner says. Blue light can also break down collagen and elastin, which help give skin its firmness and elasticity, Rodney says. 'That can lead to fine lines and wrinkles over time.' While blue light doesn't affect your skin as much as UVA, the light rays linked to premature skin aging, it 'can penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB,' says Dr. Gary Goldenberg, a dermatologist in New York City. (UVB rays damage the outermost layers of the skin and are responsible for sunburns and are linked to skin cancer, according to MD Anderson Cancer Center.) A scientific review of research on the impact of blue light on skin concluded that this type of light could cause more general skin damage, which could speed up the aging process. 'Skin protection may be crucial for protection against blue light,' the researchers concluded. While dermatologists agree that blue light poses a real threat to your skin health, they also stress that there are things you can do to combat it. Here's what they suggest. Wear sunscreen daily, even if you're planning to be inside It seems weird, but there's a reason for this. 'A lot of patients ask me if they need to wear sunscreen if they work from home, and I explain that, yes, the blue light from computers can cause aging and discoloration of your skin,' Rodney says. Goldenberg suggests using a broad-spectrum physical sunscreen, such one that contains zinc oxide, that are especially good at blocking blue light. If you rely on makeup that contains sunscreen, you'll still want to look for something that's broad-spectrum. In a perfect world, though, you'd put on sunscreen and layer your makeup on top. 'Reapply throughout the day,' Rodney says. Use a blue light filter on your devices There are filters or panels that you can put on your screens to help block blue light. 'I think these are very helpful, especially if you're spending extended time in front of a screen,' Rodney says. While these probably won't be the most expensive devices you own, they also aren't cheap. Ocushield's anti-blue light iPhone screen protector, for example, is $47, while the bestselling VizoBlueX anti-blue light computer monitor protector is $50 on Amazon. Still, this shouldn't be the only thing you do to protect your skin from blue light. 'Blue light filters reduce light exposure by adjusting the screen's color temperature,' Goldenberg says. 'However, it does not completely eliminate skin exposure.' Dim your devices Most phones and computers allow you to customize the brightness to a level that feels right for you. While it won't get rid of all blue light exposure, dimming the brightness a little can help reduce the blue light intensity you're exposed to, Goldenberg says. Dermatologists say that using skincare products that contain antioxidants may help. Zeichner suggests applying an antioxidant product like a vitamin C serum to your face each morning. 'Antioxidants like vitamin C help neutralize the free radicals caused by blue light exposure,' he says. (Free radicals break down collagen, raising the risk of wrinkles, Zeichner explains.) While antioxidant skincare won't block out blue light or keep your skin from being initially damaged by the light, Rodney says, it helps work against the damage that's been done. While you can only do so much about sitting in front of a screen if it's your job, Goldenberg suggests cutting back on your exposure whenever you can. That may mean choosing to read a book instead of using your tablet or making an effort to put your phone away a little more than usual. 'Decreasing screen time is highly effective for skin health,' Goldenberg says.
