Sunscreen is an essential component of every rosacea management routine, as sun exposure is the #1 reported rosacea trigger. The number of sun care products being manufactured is growing every year; the Environmental Working Group (EWG) evaluated 1,700 SPF products as part of their 2024 guide to sunscreens, compared to 1,300 in 2020.
The expanding product landscape means that the days of applying white, sticky lotions on vacation have evolved to include formulas that are easier to apply and meant for everyday use — but choosing the right product may be more difficult. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right sunscreen for your face.
For rosacea patients, it’s important to choose sunscreens that are formulated for sensitive skin.
“Look for a formulation that does not have irritants such as alcohol, fragrances, and harsh chemicals,” recommended Dr. Steven Q. Wang, medical director of dermatologic oncology at the Hoag Family Cancer Institute and chair of the photobiology committee of the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Physical, or mineral, sunscreens containing zinc oxide (ZnO) or titanium dioxide (TiO2) are often recommended for rosacea as they are less likely to cause irritation. Chemical sunscreens are made with ingredients such as avobezone and homosolates, and mainly work by absorbing UV rays. Mineral sunscreens work by both reflecting and absorbing UV light. However, the best sunscreen is one that you’ll wear and won’t irritate your skin. Some mineral sunscreen products can leave a white cast on the skin, which may be a deal breaker for folks with darker complexions.
You may also consider using different sunscreen formulations for your body and your face. Facial sunscreens are often formulated to be lighter and less greasy compared to body sunscreens.
“While it’s perfectly fine to use facial sunscreen on the body, using body sunscreen on the face might not always be ideal, especially if it has a thicker, greasier consistency that can potentially clog pores or irritate facial skin,” Dr. Wang warned.
Most importantly, wear sunscreen on your face daily — an SPF of 30+ is recommended. In addition to avoiding a rosacea flare-up, daily sun care can prevent skin cancer and premature aging. To make sure you don’t forget it, Dr. Wang recommended incorporating sunscreen application into your morning routine, such as when you brush your teeth and clean your face. Sunscreen should be the final step in your facial care regimen, following your moisturizer, and a nickel-sized amount should be adequate to cover your face.