Sunscreen is one of the most important skincare products you can own. Whether you are walking to work, enjoying a beach day or sitting indoors near a sunny window, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential. The right sun-screen helps prevent premature aging, sunburn and even serious conditions like skin cancer.

But with so many options available, from mineral to chemical, from Korean formulas to dermatologist-approved brands, choosing the right sun-screen for your skin type can feel confusing. Should you go for a mineral sun-screen or a chemical one? Which one suits oily skin? Can sun-screen cause acne?

In this comprehensive guide, we will help you understand how to select the perfect sun-screen for your unique skin type, highlight trusted brands like Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen, EltaMD Sun-screen, and Black Girl Sun-screen and share dermatologist tips to make your skincare routine more effective.

Why Sunscreen Is a Must for Everyone

Before we explore which sun-screen suits which skin type, let’s understand why sun-screen is a daily essential, not just a beach-day accessory.

• Prevents premature aging – UV rays accelerate wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
• Reduces risk of skin cancer – Regular sun-screen use protects against UV-induced DNA damage.
• Prevents sunburn and inflammation – Even short exposure can cause redness and irritation.
• Maintains even skin tone – Sunscreen helps prevent discoloration and dark spots caused by sun exposure.

Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sun-screen that protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays, with an SPF of at least 30 for daily wear.

Types of Sunscreens – Chemical vs. Mineral

Understanding the two main types of sun-screens helps you narrow down what is best for your skin.

1. Chemical Sunscreens

These contain ingredients like avobenzone or oxybenzone that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat.

• Texture – Lightweight and easily absorbed.
• Best for – Normal to dry skin types.
• Example – EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a dermatologist favorite that works for sensitive skin too.

2. Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens

These use natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays away from the skin.

• Texture – Thicker and may leave a white cast (though modern formulas are improving).
• Best for – Sensitive and acne-prone skin.
• Example – Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics, a best Korean sun-screen for acne prone skin, offers soothing protection without clogging pores.

If you prefer non-irritating, reef-safe options and mineral sun-screens are a great choice. However, if you like a lighter finish that sits well under makeup, a chemical or hybrid sun-screen may work better.

How to Choose Sunscreen for Your Skin Type

Your skin type determines which sun-screen formula works best. Let’s break it down.

1. Sunscreen for Oily Skin

People with oily skin often avoid sun-screen, fearing it will make them greasy or cause breakouts. But the truth is skipping sun-screen worsens oil production and can lead to long-term damage.

What to look for:

• Oil-free or gel-based formulas
• Best non comedogenic sun-screen (won’t clog pores)
• Matte finish for shine control

Top Picks:

• EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 – Lightweight, oil-free and perfect for acne-prone skin.
• Beauty of Joseon Sun-screen – A cult-favorite Korean formula that gives a natural, dewy glow without heaviness.
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 60 – Absorbs quickly with a smooth finish.

If you are searching for the best face sun-screen for oily skin, prioritize non-comedogenic, fast-absorbing lotions over creamy sun-screens.

2. Sunscreen for Dry Skin

Dry skin needs hydration along with protection. Some sun-screens can make dryness worse, so choosing a moisturizing sun-screen cream for dry skin is essential.

What to look for:

• Cream-based or lotion screens
• Contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides or glycerine
• Avoid alcohol-heavy formulations

Top Picks:

• CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sun-screen SPF 30 – Combines sun protection with moisturizing ceramides.
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel SPF 50 – Lightweight yet deeply hydrating.
• EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 – Offers UV protection with hyaluronic acid for extra moisture.

For extra care, layer your screen over a hydrating serum or moisturizer.

3. Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin reacts easily to fragrances and harsh chemicals. A mineral sun-screen is often best since it forms a physical barrier instead of being absorbed.

What to look for:

• Fragrance-free and alcohol-free formulas
• Contain calming ingredients like centella asiatica or niacinamide

Top Picks:

• Beauty of Joseon Sun-screen – Gentle and rich in skin-soothing rice extract.
• Centella Sun-screen (SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella SPF 50+) – Excellent for calming redness.
• Aveeno Mineral Sun-screen Lotion SPF 50 – A safe, drugstore-friendly choice.

4. Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin

If your skin breaks out easily, you need a formula that does not clog pores or trigger acne. Many worry, Can sun-screen cause acne? , the answer is yes, if you are using heavy, oily formulas.

What to look for:

• Oil-free and non-comedogenic
• Lightweight gel or fluid textures
• Added soothing ingredients like green tea or niacinamide

Top Picks:

• Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun – Lightweight and hydrating, ideal for acne-prone skin.
• EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 – Designed specifically for acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin.
• Some By Mi Truecica Mineral 100 Calming Sun-cream – Korean favourite for breakout-prone users.

If you have acne-prone skin, avoid sun-screens with coconut oil or thick silicones.

5. Sunscreen for Dark Skin Tones

For darker complexions, many traditional sun-screens leave an unwanted white or greyish cast. The good news – newer formulations cater to melanin-rich skin tones beautifully.

What to look for:

• Tinted or invisible finish
• Lightweight gels or hybrid formulas

Top Picks:

• Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 – Created specifically for deeper skin tones, offering an invisible finish.
• Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 – Completely transparent and suitable for all tones.
• EltaMD UV Clear Tinted SPF 46 – Offers sheer coverage and protection.

Black Girl Sunscreen has become a cultural favourite, showing that sun protection should be inclusive and effective for every skin colour.

Special Considerations When Choosing Sunscreen

1. SPF Rating

• Use at least SPF 30 for daily wear; SPF 50+ for prolonged outdoor exposure.
• Higher SPF offers slightly more protection but should be reapplied every 2 to 3 hours.

2. PA Rating (for UVA Protection)

Korean sunscreens often list PA+ to PA+++, with more plus signs indicating stronger UVA protection.

3. Broad Spectrum

Always choose labeled “broad-spectrum” to guard against both UVA and UVB rays.

4. Water Resistance

If you swim or sweat, choose water-resistant sun-screen lasting 40 to 80 minutes before reapplication.

5. Layering with Makeup

Look for lightweight or primer-like formulas if you wear foundation. Beauty of Joseon Sun-screen and EltaMD UV Clear both sit beautifully under makeup.

Can Sunscreen Cause Acne?

This is one of the most common skincare concerns. Some sun-screens, especially heavy creams or fragranced products can clog pores and trigger breakouts. To avoid this:

• Choose non-comedogenic.
• Avoid products with mineral oil, fragrance or coconut oil.
• Double cleanse at night to remove sunscreen residue.

EltaMD Sunscreen and Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun are often recommended by dermatologists because they protect the skin without aggravating acne.

How to Apply Sunscreen Properly

Even the best screen won’t work if applied incorrectly.

• Use two fingers’ worth of sunscreen for your face and neck.
• Apply 15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure.
• Reapply every 2 to 3 hours or after swimming/sweating.
• Don’t forget ears, hands and neck, common spots people miss!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How often should I apply sunscreen?
   Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.
2. Can I skip sunscreen on cloudy days?
   No. Up to 80% of UV rays penetrate clouds. So, daily use is crucial.
3. Is SPF 30 enough for daily use?
   Yes, SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, making it ideal for regular use.
4. Can sunscreen cause acne?
   Yes, certain heavy or oily formulas can clog pores. Choose non-comedogenic types instead.
5. Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical sunscreen?
   It depends on your skin type. Mineral sun-screens are better for sensitive or acne-prone skin, while chemical ones suit normal or dry skin.
6. What is the best sunscreen for oily skin?
   Oil-free, lightweight options like EltaMD UV Clear or Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen are great for oily skin.
7. What is the best sunscreen for dry skin?
   Hydrating creams such as EltaMD UV Daily or CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen work best.
8. Can I use sunscreen at night?
   It is unnecessary at night but you can use moisturizing products to repair your skin barrier.
9. How do I remove sunscreen properly?
   Use a gentle oil cleanser or micellar water before your regular cleanser.
10. Which sunscreen works best for dark skin?
    Black Girl Sun-screen and Supergoop! Unseen are excellent options for deeper skin tones.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type can transform your skincare routine. Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin, there is a perfect sunscreen waiting for you. Brands like Beauty of Joseon Sun-screen, EltaMD and Black Girl Sun-screen offer innovative, skin-friendly formulas for every tone and texture.

The key is consistency only works if you wear it daily and reapply as needed. Do not forget to check the label for broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher and non-comedogenic features.

By making sun-screen a habit, you are not just protecting your skin from the sun, you are preserving its youth, glow and health for years to come.