“I feel like sunscreen makes it worse, but I want to protect my skin from sun-damage and premature wrinkles.”
My advice is to try an SPF with only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients.
Many sunscreen products will contain pore-clogging ingredients such as plastics, mineral oils and silicones. These ingredients are like wrapping your skin up with plastic wrap. It will hold in moisture but it is also trapping bacteria, skin oils, and other impurities. Those of us that are prone to acne, hormonal breakouts, or with naturally oily skin are more likely to see increased blackheads and breakouts.
I prefer not adding fuel to the fire so try to stay clear of waxes on the face, weather it be sunscreen or makeup w/ SPF. Most skin types do well with beeswax and plant waxes, those who struggle with acne not so much. These ingredients are safe away from acne prone areas like the face, neck, chest and back.
Natural ingredients such as heavy oils and butters can sometimes be too rich for acne prone skin. The molecular weight of the oil or butter is too large and clogs’ pores. Look for sunscreens that contain oils such as grapeseed, jojoba, sunflower, rosehip and sea buckthorn that are light and will not cause acne.
I personally love natural sunscreens for everyone, not just those with acne!
My favorite is Total Eclipse by Sunshine Botanicals. It is a physical block that contains a cocktail of higher amounts of antioxidants to help with anti-inflammatory issues and protect against cell damage which causes premature aging. It has a natural light diffusing tint that reduces redness and adjusts to all skin tones. And it is chemical free!
Another great sunscreen for acne prone skin is EltaMD UV Clear. This is a physical block that contains Niacinamide (vitamin B3) a natural anti-inflammatory that reduces redness, Tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) an antioxidant that reduces free radical damage and Hyaluronic acid to retain and build moisture in the skin.
And let us never forget Sunforgettable Brush-on Sunscreen by Colorescience! A non-irritating, broad-spectrum UVA / UVB mineral block. Extremely easy to take on the go and leave in your car for reapplying throughout the day.
Stay educated, and you will make the right choice for your skin. I will always be here to help.
Love the Skin You’re in!
Katrina Barringer