If your acne gets worse after applying sunscreen

What should you do if you need to apply sunscreen but your acne gets worse the more you use it? I recommend temporarily stopping the use of sunscreen, taking some time to try out various products, and finding and using a less greasy one.

Ultraviolet A and B rays are the primary causes of skin cancer and photoaging. Therefore, it is recommended that from the age of six months or older, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher be applied to exposed areas, and that sunlight be blocked using clothing and hats. This is why it is important to pay attention to UV protection when taking children for walks. Since 80% of a lifetime's exposure to sunlight occurs before adulthood, efforts should be made to reduce skin aging and UV-induced skin cancer by making it a habit to apply sunscreen from a young age and to block sunlight using hats when application is not possible.

Sunscreen is a product containing a mixture of organic and inorganic ingredients that block UVA and UVB rays. Broad Spectrum sunscreen refers to a product that blocks both UVA and UVB wavelengths. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor; SPF 30 and SPF 50 are numerical representations of the degree of UVB blocking, with higher numbers indicating better protection. PA stands for Protection Grade of UVA and refers to UVA blocking; this level of protection is indicated using plus symbols (+, ++, +++) rather than numbers. The more plus signs there are, the higher the level of protection.

While people typically select sunscreen based on SPF and PA ratings, the texture upon application—such as its oiliness—is an undeniably important factor in the selection process. Sunscreens come in various formulations, including creams, gels, lotions, balms, sticks, sprays, and powders. Among these, creams and lotions are the most commonly used. Creams offer good longevity and a high protection factor, but their stickiness can cause a greasy, shiny appearance and feel heavy on acne-prone skin. Conversely, lotions offer excellent absorption and adherence, but they require a smaller amount to spread thinly compared to creams, resulting in lower protection. However, if you experience recurring acne, lotion formulations are generally preferred over creams. Gels are sticky but water-resistant, making them widely used in waterproof products; although the stickiness can be uncomfortable for acne-prone skin. Sun balms or sun sticks are more convenient to apply partially, such as around the eyes, mouth, and cheeks, or to reapply, rather than to the entire face. Caution is required when applying them to the entire face, as this can clog pores and worsen acne.

If you notice your acne worsening while using sunscreen, you should not ignore it. Depending on the formulation, sunscreens can clog pores and exacerbate acne. The purpose of sunscreen is to prevent various pigmented lesions, such as blemishes and melasma, as well as to protect against skin aging and skin cancer. However, if using sunscreen causes your acne to worsen, it is necessary to stop for a while and take your time finding a formulation that suits you. Finding a sunscreen that fits your skin can take longer than expected, and if you find it difficult, seeking help from a dermatologist can be beneficial. Until you find the right product, reducing outdoor activities and taking precautions against UV rays, such as wearing hats or protective clothing, can be helpful.

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