Latest news with #DrMarisaGarshick
CNN
13-07-2025
- Health
- CNN
11 of the best castor oils for hair growth and a healthy scalp
Castor oil for hair quick picks Organic pure castor oil: Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Pre-shower scalp treatment: Fable & Mane HoliRoots Prewash Hair Treatment Oil No-rinse conditioning blend: Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Scalp and Hair Oil Helping to keep strands hydrated and soothe the scalp, castor oil is commonly found in many hair care products and standalone treatments. Rumors have swirled in online communities that castor oil, much like rosemary oil, not only helps hair look and feel healthier, but it can make it grow faster too. To help investigate these claims, we tapped board-certified dermatologists to better understand castor oil's benefits, how it works and whether it can truly help with hair growth. Keryòl Essence Haitian Black Castor Oil Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana, said you can use this richly textured oil as a deep conditioner to treat damaged hair. Harvested and hand-processed in Haiti, this oil can be used on the scalp, hair, skin and beard for adding extra moisture. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil Made with a combination of rosemary, mint, castor and other essential oils, this Mielle treatment helps boost circulation to the scalp, which Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, said helps stimulate hair follicles, aiding in hair growth and thickening. Though your results may vary for hair growth, this under-$10 oil is an affordable option for those curious to try castor oil for themselves. Fable & Mane HoliRoots Prewash Hair Treatment Oil Made with castor oil and ashwagandha, an antioxidant and adaptogen that's believed to lower stress hormones, this Fable & Mane oil is a favorite of Dr. Michele J. Farber, a board-certified dermatologist from Philadelphia. Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, is also a fan, noting that the blend also contains dashmool — a combination of Indian herbs that help to calm the scalp. Nioxin Night Density Rescue Treatment Garshick recommends this clinically proven hair treatment for those looking to thicken their hair. It contains castor oil, along with a blend of antioxidants, biotin and hydrating panthenol. Use it as an overnight leave-in treatment and with consistent use, you should notice less shedding and hair fall. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density While you can use standalone castor oil, you'll see it formulated into other hair care products, like this serum from The Ordinary. The water-based formula is lightweight but packed with peptides, antioxidants, vitamins, humectants and conditioners that work to support overall scalp and hair health. In addition to castor oil, this blend also contains caffeine, which Garshick said aids in boosting the scalp's circulation. Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Farber likes this pure cold-pressed castor oil from Sky Organics, which is made for the scalp, hair and other uses. Beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw is also a fan of this organic castor oil and likes the eyelash serum kit that comes with applicators for the brows and lashes. ArtNaturals Organic Rosemary & Castor Hair Growth Oil and Scalp Massager Set This scalp set from ArtNaturals comes with a blend of castor and rosemary oils, and a scalp massager that Spearman said can help further enhance circulation to the head. Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Scalp Oil Suitable for all hair types, this silicone-free scalp oil is made to treat common scalp concerns like dryness and itchiness. You can use it one to two times a week as a pre-shower treatment, or if you have an extra-dry scalp, you can leave the oil on overnight and wash it out in the morning. Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil Infused with 13 oils, including castor, sea buckthorn, baobab, argan and sweet almond, this nourishing hair oil from Beyoncé's Cécred hair care line comes recommended by Camp for its ability to seal in moisture, ensuring hair stays hydrated, soft and flexible. Briogeo Curl Charisma Organic and Cold-Pressed 100% Castor Oil 'This cold-pressed castor oil contains humectants, vitamin E and omega fatty acids, which work together to keep the hair healthy and hydrated,' Garshick said. 'It can be used on the hair, as well as eyebrows and eyelashes.' Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Scalp and Hair Oil With a no-rinse application, this Carol's Daughter hair oil is made to be spread over the scalp after hair washing. The lightweight formula is gentle enough to use daily, and the nozzle-tip applicator makes it easy to apply the seven oil blend directly to the scalp. Unlike some oils that are composed mostly of fats, castor oil is rich in protein, antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. 'As a result, it can be helpful for the skin, scalp and hair,' Garshick said. 'Castor oil provides hydration and conditions the hair since it's rich in ricinoleic acid and fatty acids, which serve as natural emollients for the hair.' Spearman added that the ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help keep the scalp clean while the emollients in castor oil prevent dryness and improve hair texture. Despite all of its great features, there's no concrete clinical evidence to support castor oil's ability to grow hair. However, because of castor oil's antimicrobial and antifungal properties, it can help to nourish the scalp and create a healthy environment for hair to grow, which is why Garshick said there are some anecdotal tales of people noticing an improvement in their hair after using it. Farber added that castor oil is also humectant, meaning it helps to reduce moisture loss that can lead to hair breakage. Though there are medications like minoxidil and finasteride that can help increase hair growth, some people prefer natural treatments like oils since they're more affordable, more accessible and made without synthetic chemicals. Though, Camp said you should see a board-certified dermatologist if you're experiencing hair loss that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments or is negatively impacting your quality of life. After drying and detangling your hair, section it and apply castor oil to the scalp and hair using your finger or a small applicator. If you're new to castor oil, Farber recommends starting with a small amount of oil and leaving it on for only 15 to 20 minutes to prevent clogging pores around the hair follicles. Depending on the specific formulation and what your hair and scalp can tolerate, you can leave castor oil on for several hours or even overnight, according to Garshick. Spearman said some people prefer to leave the oil on overnight for better absorption into the scalp, but she recommends covering your hair with a towel or shower cap to protect your bedding. If you're applying oil during the day, Spearman said to leave it on for one to two hours in order to reap the benefits without risking irritation or buildup. 'The frequency of applying castor oil typically depends on your hair type, but usually applying one to two times per week is enough to benefit from its effects without causing excessive buildup,' Spearman said. The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Brendan Camp, Dr. Dara Spearman and Dr. Joshua Zeichner. What is castor oil? What is castor oil? Castor oil is created by cold-pressing the seeds or beans of the castor plant, which is commonly found in regions of Africa, India and South America. 'Castor oil is loaded with ricinoleic acid, a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage that causes collagen damage and wrinkles,' Zeichner said. 'It contains fatty acids [that] naturally have emollient benefits to hydrate and soothe the skin.' How long will it take castor oil to grow hair? How long will it take castor oil to grow hair? Camp said you might notice softer, more hydrated or flexible hair after one to two weeks of using castor oil or castor oil-based hair care products. For hair growth, you should use castor oil regularly for at least three to four months before deciding whether or not it's an effective treatment for you. Remember, hair grows slowly at around a half-inch per month. Results can also depend on hair type. Spearman said some people might see improvements in hair health and texture after just a few weeks, but more noticeable changes usually occur after around three to six months of consistent application. What are the disadvantages of castor oil on hair? What are the disadvantages of castor oil on hair? Castor oil is generally well-tolerated by most people, but any topical treatment risks irritating the skin. 'There have been some allergic reactions to castor oil noted, which may lead to a chance of getting allergic dermatitis,' Garshick said. 'Overuse and improper hair washing of the castor oil may also lead to buildup, which may contribute to irritation and breakouts.' With this in mind, it's always a good idea to patch test some product on a small area of skin before using castor oil all over your scalp. You should also deeply wash your hair and scalp to make sure no oil is left behind post-treatment. Spearman said that if you have fine hair, you may want to be careful of thick oil formulations that can be more likely to clog pores and weigh hair down. What will happen if I leave castor oil on my hair for too long? What will happen if I leave castor oil on my hair for too long? Overuse of castor oil can lead to clogged pores, greasy hair or scalp irritation, according to Spearman. She also said that in some cases, castor oil can lead to hair felting, where the hair becomes irreversibly tangled and matted. Other risks include redness, itching, rashes and allergic reactions. Camp also cautions that any oil-based product may exacerbate acne in those with oily or acne-prone skin. Is it safe to use castor oil on eyebrows? Is it safe to use castor oil on eyebrows? Spearman said it's common for people to use castor oil for eyebrow and beard hair, though you should patch test beforehand to check for signs of skin irritation. If you are applying castor oil to your eyebrows, you only need to use a small amount and should avoid any contact with the eyes or eye area. A Q-tip or clean brow spoolie can be helpful for getting a more precise application. For this article, we consulted the following dermatologists to gain their professional insights. Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Michele J. Farber, a board-certified dermatologist from Philadelphia. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy consulted five dermatologists to better explain how castor oil can benefit your hair and scalp.
CNN
25-06-2025
- Health
- CNN
Thinning hair? Try these 9 rosemary oils for hair growth, recommended by dermatologists
Rosemary oil for hair growth quick picks Editor-favorite scalp and hair oil: JVN Complete Pre-Wash Scalp Oil Quick pre-shower treatment: Kiehl's Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment Affordable and clean ingredient oil: Plant Therapy Rosemary & Castor Hair Oil Whether you're concerned about hair thinning or hair loss, or just wish your hair had a healthier look and feel, some quick online research might have led you down the path of rosemary oil treatments. Derived from the same plant that gives us fragrant herbs for cooking, rosemary oil is regarded as a powerful natural remedy due to its antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial profile that many people on the internet claim helps boost hair growth. But with so many ill-sourced beauty claims flying around online these days, we sought out dermatologists to better understand what benefits rosemary oil can bring to your scalp and whether it's worth adding into your hair care routine. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil Both a viral product and a favorite of board-certified dermatologists Dr. Marisa Garshick and Dr. Dara Spearman, this Mielle blend of rosemary, castor and mint oils is also infused with biotin, which Spearman said helps hydrate hair, improve dry scalp symptoms and address split ends. Cliganic Organic Rosemary Essential Oil You can make your own hair oil blend at home by diluting a few drops of a rosemary essential oil, like this Cliganic one, into a more neutral carrier oil, like jojoba or argan. Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City, said that pure rosemary essential oil is very potent, so it's important to dilute it by adding two to three drops into two tablespoons of a carrier oil before applying it to your hair and scalp. Nature Spell Natural Rosemary Oil This natural hair oil that CNN Underscored beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw recommends has a simple, five-ingredient formula. The rosemary oil is the star of the show, and it comes pre-diluted in sweet almond and sunflower oils. She likes to use it as a pre-shampoo treatment on her scalp, massaging the oil in at least 30 minutes before showering. Kiehl's Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment With a blend of avocado and rosemary oil, this Kiehl's treatment only needs to be left on for 10 minutes to fully work its magic. Designed to help increase your hair's moisture and shine, this treatment is safe for all hair types, even for those with fine hair who might worry about oils leaving behind a greasy look or feel. Weleda Condition & Shine Hair Oil You can use this deep conditioning oil on wet or dry hair to improve shine, restore moisture and soften split ends. According to board-certified dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology Dr. Sejal Shah, the combination of rosemary oil with clover and burdock extracts in this formula helps to condition the hair and scalp while also encouraging growth. The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum Spearman likes this thickening scalp serum from The Nue Co., which features ingredients like rosemary leaf and peppermint oil to stimulate circulation, as well as clary sage oil to strengthen the hair shaft. Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Scalp and Hair Oil Suitable to use pre-wash or as an overnight treatment, this Briogeo blend is made with rosemary oil to help scalp circulation, as well as castor oil for replenishing moisture. Safe for use on all hair types and textures, this oil is also designed to be 'tingle-free,' so even those with ultra-sensitive scalps can benefit from the gentle formula. JVN Complete Pre-Wash Scalp Oil We tested a whole bunch of products from 'Queer Eye' star Jonathan Van Ness' hair care line when it launched in 2022, and this scalp oil was among our editors' favorites. CNN Underscored newsletter editor Lindsey Smith said this oil — which is made with rosemary extract — was a game changer for soothing her itchy and dry scalp, while other editors noted that it made their hair more manageable to style daily. Plant Therapy Rosemary & Castor Hair Oil Focused on making products with clean and simple formulas, Plant Therapy created this oil blend with only three ingredients: rosemary, castor and almond oil. Gentle enough to leave on your scalp overnight, this blend can also be used to style dry hair and add extra shine to your ends. 'Rosemary oil can help condition and strengthen the hair and also works to reduce damage and breakage, making the hair appear stronger,' said Garshick. 'Additionally, some studies have shown that rosemary oil can help to boost hair growth; it is thought to help improve circulation in the scalp, which, by increasing blood flow, may help stimulate hair growth.' Hair oils, in general, can help restore moisture to dry or damaged hair, providing vitamins and nutrients that aid in limiting shedding and breakage. These oils, however, do not directly create hair growth. Double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Brendan Camp said that hair oils help create good scalp conditions, which can improve the overall health of the scalp skin and hair follicles. Green said the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in rosemary oil help protect hair from oxidative stress and environmental aggressors like UV radiation and pollution, thus aiding in preventing hair loss. Green also said that by boosting circulation and helping increase blood flow to the scalp, rosemary oil can allow more oxygen and nutrients necessary for hair growth to be delivered to the hair follicles. This increased blood flow — as well as the antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties — is potentially the reason rosemary oil can help with hair regrowth. These mechanisms are similar to the ones by which minoxidil, the main ingredient in Rogaine, also works, Shah said. You should take a slight pause of caution before slicking anything to your scalp. Spearman said allergic reactions and scalp irritation are the most common risks when using rosemary oil. She added that the safety of rosemary oil use during pregnancy has not been well-established, so you may want to consult with a medical professional before adding something new into your routine if you're expecting. While you can opt for prescription medications to help treat hair loss, some people prefer the affordability and availability of natural alternatives like rosemary oil, which are also made without synthetic chemicals. If you're experiencing hair loss that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments or is negatively impacting your quality of life, Spearman recommends you consult a board-certified dermatologist for help. There's still limited evidence to support the efficacy of rosemary oil for hair loss and regrowth, but there have been multiple studies that demonstrate its potential. 'One study found that rosemary oil stimulated hair growth in mice who had hair loss due to testosterone treatment, and another found that rosemary oil was as effective as minoxidil 2% for regrowing hair in men with male pattern hair loss,' Shah said, but noted that we need more data before we can make any definitive conclusions about rosemary oil's effectiveness. Depending on the formulation, you can leave rosemary oil on your scalp for anywhere from a few hours to overnight, but Green said you should follow the application instructions for the product you're using. '[Rosemary oil] can also be mixed into your shampoo or hair creams as a part of your hair care routine, but when using rosemary on its own, it's important to dilute it with a carrier [oil] such as jojoba, coconut or argan oil before application,' Green said. If you want to save your fingers from getting greasy, a scalp massager can help both to distribute hair oil on dry hair and ensure you get a nice, deep clean when you want to shampoo oils away in the shower. As with other hair treatments, it can take several months before you see any noticeable improvements from using rosemary oil, but staying consistent is key for getting results. If you have sensitive skin, Garshick said you should patch test some rosemary oil on a small area of your skin to check for any reactions before applying it all over your scalp. You can also utilize rosemary oil in other parts of your grooming routine. Spearman said rosemary oil is commonly used for beard hair growth, though added that as with hair on the head, it should still be diluted with a carrier oil before use. Rosemary oil's effectiveness in helping with the growth of eyebrow hairs or other body hairs has not been as well-documented, so if you're looking to use it for things other than your scalp or beard, Spearman said the efficacy may vary. The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Dara Spearman and Dr. Brendan Camp. Can rosemary oil be left on hair overnight? Can rosemary oil be left on hair overnight? Though Camp recommends massaging a diluted mix into your scalp and only letting it sit for 30 minutes before washing out, Spearman said that rosemary oil is safe to keep on overnight if it's diluted with a carrier oil. To apply, part your hair and use either your fingers or an applicator to gently spread and massage the diluted oil over your scalp. Both Camp and Spearman said it's best to apply rosemary oil one to two times per week to see how your scalp responds and to allow the oil to work efficiently without causing excess buildup. How long does rosemary oil take to grow hair? How long does rosemary oil take to grow hair? While you might notice softer, more hydrated and flexible hair within the first one to two weeks of using rosemary oil products, it can take months before you see any sort of hair growth. Camp said that because most people's hair grows slowly — around 0.5 inches per month — you'll need to use rosemary oil regularly for at least three to four months before deciding whether or not it's an effective treatment for you. Spearman added that the amount of time it takes to see results varies from person to person, but generally, you'll see some progress after two to three months with consistent application and more significant results after about six months of regular use. Is castor oil or rosemary oil better for hair growth? Is castor oil or rosemary oil better for hair growth? Spearman said that rosemary oil currently has better data to back its claims for hair growth, while castor oil is thought to be better at improving strength and thickness in dry or brittle hair. Camp added that there is limited data overall to support the use of rosemary or castor oil for hair growth, so you could consider integrating both into your hair care routine to see which works best for you. For this article, we consulted the following dermatologists to gain their professional insights. Dr. Brendan Camp, double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City Dr. Sejal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology Dr. Dara Spearman, board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy consulted five dermatologists to better explain how rosemary oil can benefit your hair and scalp.
CNN
06-06-2025
- Health
- CNN
The best sunscreens for acne-prone skin, according to dermatologists
When you're struggling with breakouts, your skin care routine becomes a true science and the last step is finding a sunscreen for acne-prone skin that will keep it both protected and happy. Applying a daily sunscreen can help reduce signs of aging, prevent scarring from blemishes and is an overall smart way to keep your skin safe from damaging UV rays from sun exposure. I spoke to skin experts to find out the safest sunscreens for those dealing with frustrating flare-ups ahead of summer. From name brands you may already have in your medicine cabinet to K-beauty formulas you haven't tried yet, there's a sunscreen that's a right fit for you and your skin. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 "For everyday use, I love this product. It comes tinted, which is great for minimizing blemishes," said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Goldwasser. The mineral sunscreen is available in four shades, and the light tint can help cover redness from breakouts. Face Reality Daily Sunscreen SPF 30 Plus Recommended by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, this is a great sunscreen option for all skin types but especially for those with acne-prone skin. "It contains niacinamide, witch hazel and hyaluronic acid. It offers broad-spectrum coverage while also supporting the skin," she said. The packaging makes it clear too, with a small "acne-safe" marker right on the front. Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 50 This option from Neutrogena is great if you're looking for a daily-use sunscreen that won't break the bank when it's time to pick up a new bottle. "This oil-free formulation is lightweight and absorbs easily, leaving behind a matte finish on the skin and reducing the appearance of oiliness," Garshick said. "It offers broad-spectrum coverage and is water-resistant, making it especially great for those who are active outdoors." Goldwasser also recommends this sunscreen, noting it doesn't look or feel greasy after application. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 50 La Roche-Posay is a brand you've likely seen in the skin care aisles, and our experts and editors are fans of it. "This one's oil-free, dries down matte and is specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin," said Tiffany M. Rice, aesthetic medicine nurse practitioner. "It also contains perlite and silica to help absorb excess oil throughout the day." Clearstem You Are Sunshine Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ CNN Underscored's director of social Stephanie Griffin swears by Clearstem's lineup and notes this SPF as one of her most-used products from the brand. The mineral sunscreen also packs ingredients like green tea and centella asiatica (gotu kola) for calming irritated skin. Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Broad-Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ Rice likes this mineral sunscreen because it's oil-free, dries with a matte finish and is specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. She called out key ingredients, like perlite and silica, which help absorb excess oil throughout the day. Tthe SPF 50 also gives you ample protection for beach days or hiking. Innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45 K-beauty products often go viral on social media and for usually for good reason. This one came dermatologist recommended in our search for the best Korean sunscreens. It's formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin, and the lotion has the slightest green tint to help neutralize redness. Dr. Tiffany M Rice Protect Sun Drops SPF 50 Rice designed these drops to be noncomedogenic and suitable for all skin types. "These sheer, lightweight mineral sun drops provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with 25% zinc oxide, the highest allowable for mineral filters," she said. "Infused with potent antioxidants like green tea polyphenols and vitamin C, it soothes and hydrates skin while leaving a soft, natural radiance." The formula is easy to layer with makeup if you're looking for daily protection. Paula's Choice Extra Care Nongreasy Sunscreen SPF 50 Dr. Noreen Galaria, a board-certified dermatologist, notes that her patients remark how lightweight this sunscreen feels on their skin. You'll find aloe vera and kaolin clay on the ingredients list, which can help soothe irritation and redness. It's a hybrid chemical and mineral sunscreen option and comes in at a reasonable sub-$30 price. Eucerin Sun Clear Skin Face Sunscreen SPF 50 This Eucerin sunscreen comes recommended by Dr. Connie Yang, cosmetic dermatologist at PFrankMD by Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, and is another sunscreen that's labeled as safe for acne-prone skin. The lotion has antioxidants and oil-absorbing ingredients. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 If you don't want another serum or lotion, this option provides mineral sun protection in powder form, similar to a powder foundation. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nazanin Saedi recommends it for people with acne-prone skin types since it doesn't clog pores. The brush applicator makes it easy to reapply throughout the day too. Between shopping for mineral sunscreens over chemical options, varying SPF levels and long lists of ingredients that are hard to read let alone pronounce, the sunscreen aisle can be confusing. There are a few key points to focus on, though, according to dermatologists. 'Look for noncomedogenic, fragrance-free and oil-free formulas,' Rice said. 'Ingredients like zinc oxide, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are especially acne-friendly. Avoid heavy oils, added fragrance and alcohol-based sunscreens that can clog pores or trigger irritation.' Garshick recommends looking for sunscreens that are oil-free and have ingredients that can be calming to irritated skin. 'It can also help to look for ingredients that may be calming, such as niacinamide and those that support the skin barrier, such as ceramides, which can be especially important for those using acne treatments that can be drying,' she said. She recommends those with oily skin might opt for a gel or lightweight option that rubs in easily and said it's best to avoid formulas that contain alcohols since they can dry out the skin. Sticking to well known and name brands can be a safer shopping experience if you're not sure where to start, according to Goldwasser, because major manufacturers will state if a product is noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic. 'Smaller manufacturers may not have the wherewithal to do that sort of testing, so I recommend that patients stick with the well-known brand names, and read the packaging,' she said. The last thing you want to do while adding a sunscreen into your daily routine is to add in something that stresses your skin out more. It can be daunting to add in a new product, but there are smart steps to take before you incorporate it into your routine. 'Start with clean, moisturized skin. Pat or gently press sunscreen into the skin, don't rub aggressively, especially over breakouts,' Rice said. 'Sunscreen should be the final layer in your daytime skin care routine. Allow it to absorb fully before applying makeup. Reapply every two hours when outdoors or sweating.' Goldwasser recommends applying sunscreen liberally and, ideally, even before you get dressed or change into your bathing suit. 'I recommend lotions over sprays, generally. If you're using a mineral block (that means the active ingredient is zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both) you'll be protected immediately,' she said. 'If you're using a chemical sunscreen, you'll need to wait 20 to 30 minutes before exposure to the sun.' Garshick and Goldwasser both mentioned that reapplying sunscreen is important throughout the day, especially while out in the sun for extended periods of time. 'It is best to apply sunscreen daily and remember to reapply every two hours,' Garshick said. 'For those with acne who prefer to avoid wearing heavy makeup, a tinted sunscreen can be a good option to provide some cosmetic camouflage while also offering protection.' The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Marisa Garshick, Dr. Jennifer Goldwasser and aesthetic medicine nurse practitioner Tiffany M. Rice. Should I use sunscreen if I have acne? Should I use sunscreen if I have acne? The resounding answer from each expert we spoke to was yes: It's important to use sunscreen if you have acne (and if you don't!). Goldwasser said that many acne treatments make your skin more sensitive to the sun. 'Sun exposure can worsen inflammation, darken post-acne discoloration (also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and accelerate skin aging,' Rice said. 'Many acne treatments such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, AHAs, BHAs and azelaic acid increase sun sensitivity. Daily sunscreen is essential not just to prevent sunburn but also to protect the skin barrier while it heals.' Is SPF 30 or 50 better for acne-prone skin? Is SPF 30 or 50 better for acne-prone skin? 'Both are effective, but SPF 50 offers more protection, especially for those using active ingredients or treating hyperpigmentation,' Rice said. 'The key is choosing a noncomedogenic formula that won't clog pores. SPF 50 no longer means thick or greasy. Modern formulas can feel weightless.' Goldwasser said that an SPF of 30 will give you excellent coverage for most situations, but if you're spending time outdoors while the UV is high, or you're near reflective surfaces like sand or water, it's advisable to use an SPF 50 option. Garshick said either SPF 30 or SPF 50 will do the trick, as long as you've applied enough to get the full benefits listed on the bottle. Which sunscreen is best for acne-prone skin mineral or chemical? Which sunscreen is best for acne-prone skin mineral or chemical? Either option will be effective, so it comes down to more of a personal preference. 'Either mineral or chemical sunscreen may be used by those with acne-prone skin, but those with acne who may also have sensitive skin may prefer a mineral sunscreen as they tend to be less irritating,' Garshick said. Goldwasser agreed, saying she's partial to mineral sunscreens for her acne-prone patients since their skin may be extra sensitive. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Dr. Noreen Galaria, Virginia-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York and New Jersey Dr. Jennifer Goldwasser, board-certified dermatologist based in Westchester County, New York Tiffany M. Rice, aesthetic medicine nurse practitioner and founder of Dr. Tiffany M. Rice Dr. Nazanin Saedi, double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Connie Yang, cosmetic dermatologist at PFrankMD by Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank CNN Underscored has a skilled team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, writer Ellen McAlpine consulted dermatologists on the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin.
