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Accutane and the Sun
If there’s one thing that you need to have figured out before starting Accutane, it’s sun protection.
Accutane (isotretinoin) is a powerful acne medication that reduces oil production and shrinks sebaceous glands. It’s really effective for severe acne, this process leaves the skin highly vulnerable to sun damage.
I’ve written a bunch about accutane as a drying treatment (and recommended lip balm for accutane and alternatives to accutane treatment). But sometimes Accutane really is necessary, and it makes your skin really sensitive to the sun.
Research shows that isotretinoin increases photosensitivity by thinning the outer layer of the skin and reducing melanin production, which naturally provides some sun protection. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that Accutane users had a significantly higher risk of sunburn and long-term UV damage compared to those not on the medication. Even brief sun exposure can cause severe burns, irritation, and hyperpigmentation, which may lead to lasting acne scars.
For a lot of us with acne, the sun used to help! Getting a little bit of a tan used to improve my skin and make blemishes less obvious. I used to use a tan to hide my skin issues. But with Accutane, you can’t do that anymore.
Why use sunscreen with Accutane?
Sunscreen is 100% necessary to prevent sun damage. When I say sun damage, I don’t mean a sunburn (though you will totally get a sunburn!). I mean permanent dark spots. You are not trying to trade red blemishes for brown spots. This sun damage ages your skin prematurely, and you won’t get the clear, glass skin effect that you were hoping to get from Accutane!
You don’t have to take my word for it! The American Academy of Dermatology recommends daily broad-spectrum sunscreen use with an SPF of at least 30 for anyone taking Accutane. This helps protect the skin from both UVA rays, which contribute to premature aging and deep skin damage, and UVB rays, which cause sunburn.
Failing to use sunscreen can lead to increased skin irritation, prolonged redness, and a higher chance of developing dark spots after acne breakouts heal. Sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy skin and support the healing process while on Accutane. You’ll also need a strong sunscreen for the months after your treatment, while your skin is still sensitive.
Sunscreens for Accutane Sensitivity and Dryness
Choosing the best sunscreen for Accutane requires formulas that provide broad-spectrum sun protection without irritating sensitive skin. The ideal sunscreen should be:
- Hydrating to counteract dry skin
- Non-comedogenic to prevent clogged pores
- Mineral-based for gentle protection
Many Accutane patients also choose to avoid fragrances, which can be irritating.
Since skin dryness and dry lips are major concerns, pairing sunscreen with a good lip balm that has SPF is essential.
Best Sunscreen Ingredients for Accutane
When on isotretinoin treatment, look for sunscreens with these active ingredients:
- Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide: These mineral sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection and are gentle on sensitive skin.
- Hyaluronic acid and shea butter: Help replenish moisture and reduce skin dryness.
- Niacinamide: Soothes skin irritation and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Ceramides: Support the skin’s protective layer to prevent excessive dryness.
Best US Sunscreens for Accutane
If you’re in the United States, here are some good options:
Hook Ya! – This is my daily sunscreen because I like the texture. I find that this sunscreen almost works like a primer for me. I feel like it fills in my pores and fine lines in a way that really helps with makeup primer! There’s a white cast initially, but it does fade within 30 seconds on my light skin.
- Non-Nano Zinic and Titanium Dioxide, Hawaii Reef compliant, Bait Safe, Boat Safe, Fragrance Free. After 18 months of testing, we developed a formulation that will withstand the extreme environment of offshore fishing, be bait safe, hawaii reef compliant and SAVE your boat from staining that traditional sunscreens cause. Cruelty-free, vegan, PABA-free, GMO-free, paraben-free, no synthetic colors, no fragrances added
- SPF 50 protection for 80 minutes of water resistance in extreme sport water conditions. We were formulated with the sports enthusiast in mind. Our formulation is non-greasy and ultra sweat resistant. Gone are the days of burning eyes when your sweat is running hard! Our formulation does not come off easy in the water, so rest assured you are always protected
- Sport Mineral Sunscreen with an Ultralight white finish. Many brands of mineral sunscreen are either good for daily use but lack sport protection or are made for sport activity but leave you pasty white. We have found the perfect balance between sun protection in extreme outdoor activities while leaving an ultralight finish
- Being mineral based our sunscreens active ingredients do not absorb into your skin or bloodstream like the chemical versions. Instead you are protected with a ultralight white finish that can be hard to detect when you are dry. Smooth enough for daily use, tough enough to handle extreme outdoor conditions. Carry on friendly! The 3oz size is under the 3.4 oz TSA limit for liquid containers allowed on airplanes.
- Does this sunscreen work? Absolutely! The developer is a three time head and neck cancer survivor. They received intense radiation to the skin and cannot run the risk of a sun burn. With this formulation, it is comfortable for daily use but keeps you protected from sun damage to your skin in intense sport activities. Developed in Saint Augustine Florida and bottled in Miami Florida. Made in the USA with pride!
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 – Contains zinc oxide, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, making it perfect for acne-prone skin. If you’re experiencing dryness, this can help rehydrate you too. If you have a deeper skin tone, this product also comes in tinted versions. That will help you prevent a white cast.
- CLEAR SUNSCREEN FOR FACE: This transparent zinc oxide sunscreen lotion is lightweight and silky, designed to blend into your skin without leaving a whitish cast or residue.
- ACNE SUNSCREEN: Elta MD UV Clear is an oil-free sunscreen that offers lightweight, non-greasy sun protection for acne-prone skin.
- TRAVEL SIZE SUNSCREEN: This travel sunscreen for face comes in a convenient 1.7 oz pump bottle.
- SUITABLE FOR HYPERPIGMENTED SKIN: This face sunscreen for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation contains Zinc Oxide and Niacinamide to soothe skin while providing 46 SPF sun protection.
- WEAR ALONE OR UNDER MAKEUP: This non-comedogenic facial sunscreen is a suitable non greasy sunscreen for oily skin and can be worn on its own or under makeup.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 60 – A lightweight option with broad-spectrum protection.If you don’t like mineral sunscreens because of the texture, this is a great place for you to start.
- Multi-award winning body sunscreen with advanced protection in a fast-absorbing, velvety texture that leaves skin hydrated and smooth. Broad Spectrum SPF 60
- Allure 2022 Best of Beauty Award Winner. Water resistant (80 minutes)
- Formulated with Cell-Ox Shield technology: broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants. This daily sunscreen for sensitive skin is formulated and rigorously tested for skin tolerance
- Body and facial sunscreen in a non-greasy, fast-absorbing texture leaves skin hydrated and smooth with a velvety texture
- Octinoxate- & Oxybenzone-free sunscreen provides broad spectrum SPF 60 protection
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 – Features ceramides and hyaluronic acid to combat dry skin. If you’re really struggling with dryness, consider this one!
- [ BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN FOR FACE ] 100% Mineral-based, chemical free sunscreen, also known as a physical sunscreen, reflects UVA/UVB rays to help protect the skin. Daily face sunscreen for broad spectrum protection.
- [ MINERAL SUNSCREEN APPLICATION ] Mineral based sunscreen for face can often leave a white cast. For best results, apply evenly to the entire face & neck in thin layers & thoroughly massage into skin. Facial sunscreen is suitable for use under makeup.
- [ HAWAII COMPLIANT SUNSCREEN ] Oxybenzone free, avobenzone free & benzene free, this sunscreen contains physical filters Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide. Hawaii prohibits the sale, offer of sale and distribution of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone.
- [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and can become damaged with sun exposure. All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Developed with dermatologist.
- [ GENTLE FORMULA ] Formula is oil free; fragrance free; noncomedogenic; and suitable for sensitive skin. Recommended by both the Skin Cancer Foundation and National Eczema Association as an effective; broad spectrum sunscreen. FSA Eligible & HSA Eligible
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ – A fragrance-free choice with zinc oxide for sensitive skin. If fragrances re irritating you, this is a great choice.
- POWERFUL MINERAL SUNSCREEN – Protect sensitive skin from the sun’s harmful rays with Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion it contains no harsh chemical active ingredients that might irritate sensitive skin.
- SPF 50 BROAD SPECTRUM PROTECTION – The water-resistant formula provides broad spectrum protection and helps protect skin from up to 98% of UVB rays.
- FORMULATED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN – Developed specifically for sensitive skin, the hypoallergenic formula is also paraben-free and fragrance-free.
- INFUSED WITH ORGANIC ALOE VERA – gently soothes and moisturizes.
- WE ♥ THE REEF – The reef-friendly formula is formulated without Oxybenzone or Octinoxate to help protect fragile reef ecosystems.
Supergoop! Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40 – Provides smoother skin without a white cast. Pricier than some of the other options, but if you’re someone who cares about the aesthetic packaging, this might be your choice. They also sell it in a huge container.
Best International Sunscreens for Accutane
Outside the US, there are excellent broad-spectrum sunscreens available. I’ve written more about this in my post about UVA/UVB sunscreens. But basically: they have different chemical sunscreen ingredients abroad that haven’t been approved in the US.
(Don’t let that make you think they aren’t safe – the FDA hasn’t rejected them either. It has to do with how the US classifies sunscreen as a drug/medication rather than a cosmetic.)
For those outside the United States, or Americans travelling, here are some top choices using the high-tech sunscreen ingredients available in other countries:
Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ (Japan) – A lightweight, hydrating formula that absorbs quickly.
- 3 BENEFITS IN 1 STEP – Daily facial moisturizer, SPF 50 sun protection, and primer for makeup
- All DAY HYDRATION – Infused with hyaluronic acid for all-day visible hydration while protecting your skin from UVA & UVB rays
- NO WHITE CAST – Fast-absorbing and invisible, this facial sunscreen hydrates and protects, absorbing instantly on all skin tones
- DOUBLES AS A PRIMER – This oil-free and non-comedogenic (doesn’t clog pores) facial moisturizing lotion hydrates & smooths skin without pilling or feeling greasy
- SAFE INGREDIENTS – This sensitive skin moisturizer with broad spectrum SPF 50 protection is oxybenzone-free, octinoxate-free, oil free, dermatologist-tested and vegan friendly
Purito Daily Go-To Sunscreen SPF 50+ (Korea) – A chemical sunscreen that won’t dry out sensitive skin.
- [ The Smoothest, Lightest Sunscreen ] A daily SPF 50 Korean sunscreen with an ultra-smooth, gliding texture that absorbs instantly. The lightweight, oil-free formula hydrates while shielding your skin against UVA & UVB rays—leaving a naturally radiant finish without heaviness or stickiness.
- [ Broad-Spectrum UV Protection ] Formulated to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, this advanced SPF 50 sunscreen offers strong, broad-spectrum UV defense, clinically tested and confirmed by Florida Suncare Testing, Inc.
- [ No White Cast ] Designed for all skin tones, this sunscreen absorbs seamlessly with zero white cast. The breathable, non-greasy texture glides on smoothly, keeping skin fresh and comfortable.
- [ Triple-Tested for Skin Safety ] Clinically tested for skin irritation, non-comedogenic properties, and hypoallergenic formulation. A gentle, non-pore-clogging sunscreen suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and FA skin.
- [ Makeup-Friendly Sunscreen ] This makeup-friendly sunscreen defends against UV-induced damage while supporting skin vitality and radiance. The oil-free, lightweight formula layers effortlessly under makeup.
La Roche-Posay Uvidea XL SPF 50+ (Europe) – A high-protection formula that works well under makeup. This one isn’t available on Amazon but it’s on Yesstyle.
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+ (Spain) – Contains zinc oxide and DNA repairsomes to help with skin concerns.
- YOUR SOLUTION FOR: non-greasy year-round sun protection for the face with ultralight mineral formula that melts into the skin
- TESTED: Fast-absorbing, ultralight emulsion providing all-mineral broad spectrum sun protection
- TECHNOLOGY: Repairs existing sun damage with Patented DNA Repairsomes, unique formula containing Vitamin E and photolyase enzymes, clinically proven to repair sun damage
- DEVELOPED IN: Spain
Physical Sunscreens Without White Cast for Deeper Skin Tones
One common issue with mineral sunscreens is the white cast they leave on darker skin tones. Many traditional formulas contain large zinc oxide particles that sit visibly on the skin.
For people with darker skin, the white tones are more pronounced. What blends in more on a lighter skin tone might stand out on deeper or warmer skin tones.
But people of color are still going to experience increased sun sensitivity with Accutane! So it’s just as important to find a sunscreen that you feel comfortable using.
Newer formulations are a lot better – they use micronized or tinted versions to blend better. So, many of the more modern mineral sunscreens have an inital white cast that will fade as the sunscreen is absorbed into the skin.
If you have a deeper skin tone, look for sunscreens labeled “sheer” or “invisible.” Tinted mineral sunscreens can also help neutralize any remaining white cast while evening out the complexion.
Recommended product:
Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black woman-owned brand that was developed specifically to address the cast that can be left on skin of color.
- Tailored for Melanin Rich Skin: Specially formulated for dark skin tones, our SPF 30 sunscreen lotion offers robust protection against UVA and UVB rays, preventing premature aging, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots.
- Dual-Action Moisturizing: Acting as both a sunscreen and a moisturizer, our lotion is infused with nourishing natural ingredients like Jojoba, Cacao, and Avocado, providing all-over skin protection and hydration.
- Sheer, Residue-Free Application: Enjoy a sunscreen that leaves no white-cast or residue behind. Our sheer formula ensures a clear, lightweight base, perfect for daily use under makeup or on its own.
- Safe and Sustainable: Committed to your health and the environment, our sunscreen is free from Parabens, Fragrance, Oxybenzone, and Octinoxate, making it a friendly choice.
- Water Resistant & Easy to Use: Stay protected even in water with our sunscreen’s 80-minute water resistance. For optimal protection, apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply after swimming, sweating, or at least every 2 hours.
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 – This lightweight sunscreen contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, making it a great choice for sensitive, acne-prone skin on Accutane. The skin tone tints in the product will dramatically improve the cast. There’s only a few options in tone, so this one may not work for everyone.
- UVA/UVB PROTECTION: Dermatology tinted moisturizer SPF 46 with transparent Zinc Oxide shields facial skin from damaging rays, suitable as face sunscreen for sensitive skin, including acne-prone skin
- NON-GREASY FORMULA: This Elta MD sunscreen is a ightweight, oil-free sunscreen that blends effortlessly for non-greasy finish, ideal under makeup. This sunscreen for oily skin is also a great sunscreen face option
- PROMOTES HEALTHY SKIN: Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and antioxidants enrich this sunscreen lotion, enhancing skin’s appearance and serving as a daily face sunscreen for all types
- SMALL AND PORTABLE: Travel size sunscreen in 1.7 oz pump bottle perfect for on-the-go sun care, offering easy reapplication of portable protector solar para la cara whenever needed
- DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED: Specially formulated md sunscreen for sensitive skin, this tinted SPF sunscreen for acne-prone skin is tested to improve texture and calm skin
Final Thoughts
Before you start Accutane, you need to have a sunscreen option figured out. You don’t want the Accutane sun damage! While you’ll probably eventually want lip balm and maybe even eye drops, sunscreen is the product you need on lock from day one.
Look for hydrating, broad-spectrum options that support sensitive skin while preventing sun damage. Pair your sunscreen with lip balm, protective clothing, and a gentle cleanser for a clear skin routine.
I hope this list helps you get ready for Accutane. Good luck!
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