How to Choose a Non-Comedogenic Sunscreen?

What does comedogenic mean?

Comedogenic products can clog pores, leading to the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples. Therefore, "non-comedogenic" products are considered ideal, especially for oily and sensitive skin. However, beware: this term may not always mean scientifically tested. Thus, it is crucial to read the ingredient list carefully.

What should be considered in sunscreens?

Oil-free and lightweight products, especially water-based sunscreens, reduce the risk of being comedogenic. Products with non-pore-clogging ingredients leave a comfortable feeling on the skin and generally do not lead to acne formation. Choosing products that are not suitable for your skin type, in particular, promotes comedone formation. So, which products should we choose, and how?

What are non-comedogenic ingredients?

Glycerin

A light humectant that maintains the skin's natural moisture and does not clog pores.

Saccharide Isomerate

A natural sugar derivative that binds to the skin, provides hydration, and is non-comedogenic.

Light Esters (C12–15 Alkyl Benzoate, Propylheptyl Caprylate)

Provides a silky and matte finish, spreads on the skin without leaving an oily feel.

Titanium Dioxide / Zinc Oxide

Mineral filters physically reflect UV rays; they are also the primary choice for acne-prone skin.

Decyl Glucoside

A gentle carrying agent that does not irritate the skin.

Non-comedogenic sunscreen

Non-comedogenic sunscreen recommendation: Eva Maree 3D Melani Sun Lotion

##product:eva-maree-sun-lotion##

Eva Maree Sun Cream not only protects your skin from harmful sun rays;

• It also protects your skin from the aging effects of blue light (HEV) emitted by electronic devices such as computers.

• It protects your skin from free radicals with its antioxidant effect.

• It is ideal for eczema-prone skin due to its moisturizing factors.

To review and purchase the product, please click on the product name.‎

Is Ectoin comedogenic?

Ectoin is a natural amino acid derivative produced by halophilic microorganisms and has anti-inflammatory, cell-protective, and moisture-balancing properties. It is non-comedogenic. In fact, some scientific studies have reported that it strengthens the skin barrier and provides improvement in inflammation-related skin conditions. Thanks to this feature, it is among the ingredients that can be safely used in acne-prone skin.‎

How to choose a non-comedogenic sunscreen? Which ingredients are comedogenic?

Some ingredients that may have a comedogenic effect include:

• Heavy emollients such as coconut oil, lanolin, mineral oil, petroleum derivatives

• Heavy silicones (except dimethicone)

• Excessive amounts of alcohol and fragrance (make sure alcohol and fragrance are at the end of the ingredient list)

These substances can clog pores in sensitive skin, thus increasing the risk of acne.‎

How to use sunscreen? Morning and evening routine advice for non-comedogenic sunscreens

A non-comedogenic sunscreen is effective not only with its ingredients but also with correct usage habits.

Morning Routine (For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin)

• The skin should be cleansed with a gentle cleanser.

• A light toner or moisturizer (may contain niacinamide or hyaluronic acid).

• Non-comedogenic, water-based sunscreen should be applied (water should be among the first ingredients in the list).

• If makeup is to be applied, it should be done after the sunscreen has been fully absorbed. Make sure that the applied products have SPF protection. Ensure that your sunscreen and SPF-containing makeup products are compatible (for example, both being water-based will provide smoother application).

During the Day

• Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2–3 hours, especially if spending time outdoors.

• Stick sunscreens or transparent sunscreen sprays are ideal for reapplication during the day.

Evening Routine

• Double cleansing: A oil-based cleanser should be used in the first step, followed by a gel or foam-based cleanser in the second step.

• Pore-cleansing toners (e.g., containing BHA, Glycolic Acid) can be added weekly.

• Skin balance should be maintained with a light moisturizer.

Sun protection

How to tell if sunscreen is water-based or oil-based?

To determine whether your sunscreen is water-based or oil-based, we need to examine the ingredient list. The ingredient list is ordered from the highest concentration to the lowest concentration of substances in the product. Therefore, to understand whether our sunscreen is water-based or oil-based, we need to pay attention to the first ingredients listed.

Water-based products

Usually, Aqua (Water) is listed first. It is followed by moisturizing agents such as glycerin, butylene glycol, propylene glycol, and light esters (For example: Aqua, Glycerin, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pentylene Glycol).

Oil-based products

Natural or synthetic oils (caprylic/capric triglyceride, mineral oil, isopropyl myristate, lanolin, etc.) are listed first. These types of ingredients provide a dense and emollient structure but can increase the risk of being comedogenic (For example: Mineral Oil, Lanolin, Coconut Oil, Isopropyl Myristate, Beeswax).

Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type is very important. To prevent skin sensitivity, signs of aging, and blemishes, do not go outside without applying sunscreen, especially on days with a high UV index.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does comedogenic mean?

Comedogenic products can clog pores, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples; non-comedogenic products do not clog pores and are especially suitable for oily or sensitive skin.

How to choose a non-comedogenic sunscreen?

Water-based, lightweight products with non-pore-clogging ingredients such as glycerin, saccharide isomerate, light esters, or mineral filters should be preferred. Certain actives like Ectoin can also be safely used.

How should sunscreen be used?

In the morning, after gentle cleansing and moisturizing, non-comedogenic sunscreen should be applied, reapplied every 2–3 hours during the day, and the skin should be cleansed with a double-cleansing routine in the evening.

This article was written by Pharmacist Nil Eker from the Primum Pharma team.