Tips & Advice

The Best Non Pore-Clogging Sunscreens

The world of SPF’s is over spilling with choice. Along with a range of SPF numbers, textures and different types of applications, there’s no excuse for us to not be wearing sunscreens. Water-resistant, SPF 50, tinted sunscreens… you name it, they’re out there.

But, along with all the choices and different factor numbers, there’s another type of sunscreens on the rise: non-comedogenic. We all have that fear when applying thick sun protection creams to our faces, worrying is this going to give me more zits?

Two things can cause sunscreen-related breakouts: blocking of the pores by comedogenic materials, or a sensitivity reaction to chemical UV-blocking agents. Basically, some can sit on top of the skin and gunk up your pores, whilst harsh chemical ones can irritate the skin.

Hooray to zinc oxide – an ingredient you can find amongst some of the sunscreens out there which treat and protect acne-prone skin. If you’re worried about pore clogging sunscreens, or are just looking for a skin friendly alternative which delivers protection, then look no further. We’ve handpicked our top 10, so you can leave your acne fears back at home:

  1. SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF50 50ml
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    SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF50 50ml

    Thanks to ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50 feels ultralight and has a translucent finish. Bonus: It wicks away T-zone shine.” – FITNESS, May 2010

    Sheer Physical UV Defense is a ground breaking physical sunscreen offering a first-to-market transparent, mattifying liquid that is paraben-free and offers true broad spectrum coverage from UVA and UVB rays. This unique formulation provides a non-irritating, ultra sheer texture for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

    Buy now with free delivery
  2. Replenix Sheer Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50+
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    Replenix Sheer Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50+

    This ultimate broad spectrum antioxidant sunscreen has an SPF of 50+ and is completely free of chemical absorbers. It features the active ingredient of Micronized Zinc Oxide at 13.75%, along with Green Tea Polyphenols, Resveratrol, Vitamin C, Emblica, Co-Q10.

    It has an oil-free, weightless, residue-free, transparent finish formula suitable for all skin, without the fear of blocking pores.

    Buy now with free delivery
  3. Obagi Medical Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50
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    Obagi Medical Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50

    Containing 10% Zinc Oxide, this sheer sunscreen combines UVB absorption and UVA blockage for high sunscreen protection in an elegant, matte finish. This formula is sheer, PABA free, and fragrance free for all skin types.

    With an SPF of 50, you’re guaranteed ultimate protection.

    Buy now with free delivery
  4. Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen
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    Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen

    This natural beauty brand moisturizer is water resistant, chemical free and provides broad spectrum protection for the ultimate sun and sport fun.

    Made especially for an active outdoor lifestyle, SPF Sport blends rich organic Jojoba and soothing Aloe with antioxidants and vitamins for the ultimate daily protection. Also contains 20% Zinc Oxide, which benefits the skin.

    Buy now with free delivery
  5. SkinMedica Total Defense and Repair SPF 34 (2.3oz)
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    SkinMedica Total Defense and Repair SPF 34 (2.3oz)

    SkinMedica’s Total Defense + Repair® is a rejuvenating superscreen with an advanced antioxidant complex proven to prevent premature aging from chronic exposure to infrared. It provides comprehensive protection beyond UVA and UVB while supporting the skin’s ability to restore itself.

    Why we love it:

    • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and coarse wrinkles
    • Improves skin texture, skin smoothness and skin tone evenness
    • Supports the skin’s ability to restore itself. Rejuvenates photo-damaged skin
    Buy now with free delivery
  6. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF46
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    EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF46

    With EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, you need not worry about your sensitive skin anymore. As the 2010 Winner of Elle Genius Award for Skin, EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 offers not only UVA/UVB protection but also treatment for skin discoloration and acne.

    Its oil-free, light texture goes on smooth, leaving behind no residue on the skin. This product maintains skin health by freeing skin of fatty acid levels and reducing redness. This oil-free, non-comedogenic formula can be worn with or without makeup.

    Buy now with free delivery
  7. La Roche-Posay Anthelios AOX Daily Antioxidant Serum with Sunscreen for Face SPF 50
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    La Roche-Posay Anthelios AOX Daily Antioxidant Serum with Sunscreen for Face SPF 50

    ANTHELIOS AOX SPF50 with reinforced CELL-OX SHIELDâ„¢. For the first time, La Roche-Posay combines their advanced UVA/UVB protection with an exclusive, and highly potent antioxidant complex chosen for its scavenging action on daily UV-induced free radicals.

    This all-in-one protection comes in a breakthrough serum texture that feels weightless on skin and can be worn alone or along with a moisturizer and make-up. No layering necessary.

    Buy now with free delivery
  8. Murad Pomphenol Sunguard Anti-Ageing Supplement 60 tablets
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    Murad Pomphenol Sunguard Anti-Ageing Supplement 60 tablets

    Scientifically proven formula delivers the best defense against sun and free radical damage

    Unique formula intensifies your sunscreen from the inside-out. Pomegranate extract containing antioxidant rich Ellagic Acid prevents free-radical damage to preserve skin’s healthy texture and tone.

    Buy now with free delivery
  9. PCA Skin Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45
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    PCA Skin Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45

    This light, silky broad spectrum sunscreen is formulated with a universal tint, to match most skin tones. Added antioxidant protection and water resistant makes this the perfect sunscreen for a glow. Use it alone or wear it under makeup for a flawless finish.

    Buy now with free delivery
  10. Chantecaille Just Skin Tinted Moisturizer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF15 50g (Various Shades)
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    Chantecaille Just Skin Tinted Moisturizer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF15 50g (Various Shades)

    This exceptionally versatile three-in-one formula represents a new approach to foundation. Designed for men and women as unique skin perfector, it provides excellent, skin-smoothing coverage and sun protection. Smooth, velvety, extraordinarily lightweight texture with a unique blend of Thyme and Butterfly Bush Extract for powerful antioxidant benefits.

    Buy now with free delivery

For the full range of sunscreens, visit our SPF page here.

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barettom

barettom

Writer and expert


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