What is non-comedogenic sunscreen?

Sunscreen is sunscreen, right? Think again. The quality of ingredients used in various sun protection products can vary wildly. As a smart consumer, the key to protecting your skin without irritating it is to make sure you know what types of sunscreen are best.

If you’re prone to skin inflammation and want to avoid breakouts, it’s important to be picky when selecting a sun protection product. Never settle for anything other than non-comedogenic sunscreen. Here are a few things you should know about non-comedogenic sun protection options and why they’re better than other types.

How is non-comedogenic sunscreen different?

The term “non-comedogenic” refers to a product that is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it’s formulated to be exceptionally lightweight and gentle. You might be surprised to learn how many skin care products end up causing skin inflammation and blackheads because they get stuck in the skin’s pores where they can wreak havoc.

If you’re prone to acne breakouts, you should be especially wary about the skin care products you use. You may be very picky about your face wash and moisturizer, but when was the last time you considered what was in your sunscreen? If you’re not a fan of clogged pores, make sure to look for a high-quality, non-comedogenic sunscreen.

Why should I care about whether I have non-comedogenic sunscreen?

If your sunscreen typically goes on after you’ve already applied your makeup, it’s unlikely to get into your pores, right? Unfortunately, the answer is no.

Even when sunscreen is the last layer of product you put on your skin for the day, that doesn’t mean it won’t get absorbed into your pores. Throughout the day, the products on your face slowly absorb into your skin or get rubbed off. It’s only a matter of time before the sunscreen you apply makes its way into your pores. 

Whether you apply sunscreen before or after makeup and other skin care products doesn’t change the fact that non-comedogenic sunscreen is worth the investment and will help protect your skin from unwanted breakouts. Consider the fact that when you’re out in the sun, your body’s production of oil tends to skyrocket. Your pores can become congested even without makeup, so you don’t want to add heavy, comedogenic sunscreen.

Non-comedogenic ingredients make it easier for the pores of the skin to “breathe,” so they don’t feel suffocated or clogged. When you wear non-comedogenic sunscreen, you’ll not only need to worry less about clogged pores, but your skin will also feel much less smothered. It’s a win/win!

Is it more important for certain skin types to use non-comedogenic products?

All skin types can benefit from using products that are formulated to be non-comedogenic. However, it is essential for people with acne-prone and oily skin to use such products because these people have an increased risk of pore blockages.

With an estimated 50 million Americans experiencing acne, non-comedogenic products have an important role to play in reducing breakouts. Whether you only have occasional or frequent breakouts, you can help soothe your skin by applying only non-comedogenic sunscreen.

What are some other skin care tips for people with acne-prone skin?

In addition to using non-comedogenic products, there are other things you can do to prevent clogged pores and acne breakouts. Try the following:

• Never go to bed with makeup on your face
• Wash your face no more than twice per day
• Know your skin type so you can use the appropriate skin care products for it
• Use over-the-counter acne spot treatments as needed to get rid of pimples 
• Try not to touch your face throughout the day

Reduce breakouts with non-comedogenic sunscreen

Breakouts are a pain (literally). They’re also frustrating and can impact your self-esteem. Invest in high-quality, non-comedogenic products, including non-comedogenic sunscreen.