I’m not ashamed to admit I intently parse the ingredient labels on all my products. Having oily, acne-prone skin, I skip internet-buzzy products to invest in ones that won’t damage my very reactive mug. As such, I’ve spent an ungodly amount of hours on those ingredient-checking websites to determine whether the formulas I spend my hard-earned money on are actually working or are just lodging in my pores. Pro tip: 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.
Best Overall
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
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 fluff—as in, 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 ingredient: 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, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
Best Sunscreen Serum
Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense
Now 44% Off
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
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Best for Dark Spots
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 peptide. 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/ neck DID NOT BURN. I love this product!”
Best for Moisturizing
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 reviewer says: 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
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Best for Oil Control
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 + 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
Best Universally Flattering Mineral Sunscreen
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 skill level. 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.”
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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.”
Best K-Beauty Sunscreen
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” that can 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
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Best for Dullness
Tula Skincare Ultimate Sun Serum
Now 30% Off
Pros
- Brightens dark spots over time
Cons
- May not be suitable for super sensitive skin
It feels good knowing your sunscreen is helping your skin more than it’s hurting it—and this Tula formula is a savior for dull, spotty skin. Formulated with probiotic extracts and peptides, the Ultimate Sun Serum wards off aging signs for as long as possible and reverses dullness and dark spots over time.
SPF: 50
Size: 1.69 fl oz
Key ingredients: Probiotic extracts, peptides
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I use this daily in the summer and winter. It gives the best hydration and also the most stunning glow. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that I get SPF as well. I literally don’t go a day without it and have it on my Amazon Auto Delivery because I can’t live without it.”
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.”
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Pros
- Soothing ingredients
Cons
- Leaves a white cast on deeper tones
Spending time in the sun can do wonders for your mental, 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.”
Pros
- Brightens and evens the skin
Cons
- Can leave a white cast on darker skin
The star of this show is Viniferine, a patented dark spot-reducing ingredient and a Caudalie signature culled from vine sap. For this sunscreen, Viniferine is combined with niacinamide to smooth and improve the complexion.
SPF: 50
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Key ingredients: Viniferine, niacinamide
Amazon rating: 3.9/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “The best sunscreen and that’s saying a lot because I’ve tried SO MANY! Thin, slightly tinted, smoothing, hydrating!”
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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.
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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.
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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.
Shop More ELLE Beauty Essentials
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Nerisha Penrose
Beauty Commerce Editor
Nerisha Penrose is the Beauty Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Prior to joining the team, she was an Editorial Fellow at ELLE.com. In her current role, she helps lead coverage on makeup, skin care, hair, and fragrances. With over six years of experience in the world of beauty editorial, Nerisha enjoys delving deep into the complexities of fragrance notes, hunting for the best fixes for acne-prone skin, and advocating for daily sunscreen use. She regularly researches and tests the latest products, consults beauty professionals (including our Beauty Advisory Board) to determine the best expert-approved formulas to recommend, and conducts interviews with luminaries across the industry. Nerisha received her bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Studies from Temple University before joining the editorial teams at Nylon and Billboard. In 2020, she co-launched our popular franchise The State of Black Beauty, an ongoing exploration of—and destination for—beauty at the intersection of Black culture.
