Chemical vs. Mineral
For sensitive skin, Dr. King generally recommends mineral sunscreens as well. These often include humectants and non-comedogenic emollients in their base formulas, which help keep the skin moisturized and prevent pore clogging.
SPF Level
According to Dr. Greenfield, SPF should be 30+ (minimum) for the face, and mineral sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection.
Key Ingredients
Protection doesn’t mean you have to compromise on hydration. “Look for moisturizing ingredients such as ceramides, squalene, and hyaluronic acid to enhance skin hydration and avoid leaving the skin chalky with a white cast,” says Dr. Obioha-Lolagne.
If breakouts are your main concern, King notes that two factors can cause sunscreen-related breakouts: occlusion of the pores by comedogenic materials or a sensitivity reaction to chemical UV-blocking ingredients. Breakouts can result from any ingredient in the product, not just the active sunscreen components. Other emollients, fragrances, preservatives, or additional ingredients can also cause breakouts. Look for “non-comedogenic” on the label. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are both non-comedogenic.
King also warns to be wary of expiration dates. If the sunscreen has expired or the ingredients have been exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures, the heat and sun can break down the chemicals, rendering them ineffective and potentially irritating to the skin
Texture
Dr. Greenfield advises that the texture should be light and breathable to avoid clogging pores or causing breakouts, yet thick enough to stay on the skin and not rub off easily. Lotions, creams, and gels are preferred over sprays, which can result in skipped areas.
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