If your skin is sensitive and prone to acne, then skin protection is critical and the best thing you could do for yourself. Being acne-prone is challenging, and the little things you do, like prolonged exposure to sunlight, can worsen the status of your skin.
Here are some guides on choosing products with the best SPF for acne-prone skin:
Choose SPF 30 or higher.
The higher the SPF, the more your skin is protected from the damaging UVB rays. An SPF of 30 allows only 3% of UVB rays to hit your skin, while 50 allows about 2% of UVB rays. SPF with lower values offers moderate protection only, so they are recommended when you do not need to go out.
Those with skin prone to acne need more protection from the sun as UVB rays are likely to irritate acne. So, a product with SPF 30 or higher is the best SPF for acne-prone skin.
Choose SPF that comes with broad-spectrum protection
You shouldn’t just concern yourself with the UVB rays. The sun also emits UVA rays, and regular SPF products do not protect you from these rays. Choose SPF products that come with a broader spectrum. These products are usually represented by “Broader Spectrum” or “UVA Protection” labels.
Remember that UVA rays can damage your skin as well. Therefore, the ideal SPF for acne-prone skin should also cover the concerns concerning the UVA rays as they can also highly irritate acne, and overexposure to these rays increases the chance of skin cancer.
Choose SPF products labelled as non-comedogenic
SPF products that are non-comedogenic generally mean that they can’t clog your pores. Skin prone to acne often comes with big pores, so non-comedogenic products are essential. In addition, SPF products that are non-comedogenic are easily found as this property is most likely indicated on the label.
One essential practice if you are acne-prone is to avoid using the same SPF product for your body and face. SPF products used in the body are usually thicker and would tend to clog your pores.
Choose SPF that moisturises.
As you protect your skin from the sun, it is also best to keep it moisturised. Many acne-prone individuals opt for an SPF product that moisturises their skin to help beat acne treatment dryness.
Though, one should remember to apply moisturisers sparingly as you do not also want to create an oily and greasy feeling on your skin. However, it could also be reapplied if you are experiencing extreme dryness, especially during the cold season.
Choose SPF products with the right texture and oil-free
Keep in mind that SPF products are not suitable for acne-prone skin. Choose products that are not greasy and can be quickly absorbed. Generally, SPF products that come in fluids, gels, and sprays are preferred for acne-prone skin as they can be applied easily without irritating acne and can be absorbed quickly.
Simply wearing a hat or jacket is not enough to best protect your skin. You should apply SPF and do it daily regardless if the weather is sunny or cloudy. Prone to acne or not, choosing the best SPF product is something that could create wonders on your skin, and you could someday be grateful for it.