Why Some Sunscreens Cause Breakouts

We’re all aware that using sunscreen to protect our skin from the damaging effects of the sun is essential for our health. But perhaps you’ve dropped sunscreen application from your daily skin care routine because it seemed to be causing breakouts and blackheads. While it’s true that some sunscreens can contribute to the development of some blemishes, that doesn’t mean you should go without it. It simply means that you may just have to look for the right formula and keep a few sunscreen application tips in mind. Keep reading to see why your sunscreen might be causing breakouts, plus our best products formulated with SPF. 

Cause #1: You’re Not Using Face Sunscreen

A common sunscreen fumble is buying one sunscreen that’s formulated for the body and applying it everywhere, including your face. Many sunscreens made for your body are more likely to be formulated with comedogenic ingredients and oils. so be sure to only use sunscreen formulas on your face that are formulated specifically for your face. If you don’t want to add an extra step into your skin care routine by having to apply sunscreen in addition to your day cream, consider trying a daytime moisturizer that contains broad spectrum SPF. 

Try the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Day Lotion SPF 30 which combines sun protection with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and Pro-Retinol to address skin concerns like dehydration and fine lines. If you have mature skin, the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen is a great option because it’s not only formulated to protect your skin from the sun, but it also has imperial peony that works to revive a healthy, youthful tone. 

Cause #2: You’re Using Expired Sunscreen

If it’s the start of the summer season, you may be tempted to reach into your beach bag for your favorite sunscreen from three summers ago, but that’s not the best idea. Expired sunscreen, just like old skin care products and makeup, can do more harm than good when it comes to properly protecting your skin. Not to mention, it can potentially spark a blemish or two or in the process; sabotaging your chances of clear skin.

Cause #3: You’re Not Applying Sunscreen To Clean Skin

If you apply SPF to your skin without cleansing first it can mix with oils and dirt that have built up on your skin overnight or throughout the day. This build up can then set in and clog your pores, making your skin more prone to blackheads and other blemishes. So apply sunscreen to cleansed skin in the morning.

Cause #4: You’re Letting Excess Oil Accumulate 

You might think it’s your SPF causing you to break out on hot, summer days, but it might not be the root cause. It’s easy for oil to build up throughout the day, especially if the weather is hot and humid. This can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Help keep excess oil and sweat from mixing with your sunscreen by tapping it away with blotting papers. Also, if you’re sweating, be sure to reapply your sunscreen as often as the bottle indicates after blotting.

Cause #5: You’re Not Cleansing Properly 

Even if you didn’t wear any makeup, and only wore sunscreen throughout the day, you still need to cleanse your skin thoroughly at night. If left on overnight, most sunscreens can mix with oil and sweat, which can clog your pores. The L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleanser is great for removing excess oil while also gently exfoliating dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. 

Next: 6 Skin Care Products That Cause Sun Sensitivity

Written by: Alyssa Kaplan, Photography: Chaunte Vaughn, Senior Art Director: Melissa San Vicente-Landestoy, Associate Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Akihisa Yamaguchi, Wardrobe Stylist: Adriana Perez-Bell, Digital Tech: Paul Yem, Model: Kaitlyn Fitzpatrick