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Sunscreens and breakouts

Asked by Andy

Hi Dr. Schultz:

Are physical sunscreens less likely than chemical sunscreens to cause breakouts because they are less irritating to the skin?

Would a 2% BHA cleanser used twice daily be enough exfoliation for acne-prone skin? Or should an additional chemical exfoliant be used?

Thank you so much, Dr Schultz.

Andy answered
    Dr. Schultz 1.86K Rep.

    Physical sunscreens are less likely than chemical sunscreens to cause breakouts for many reasons and they are less irritating to the skin but their gentle quality is not what makes them less apt to cause breakouts.

    A 2% BHA cleanser used twice daily is good for acne prone skin, but because of the very brief contact time of the 2% BHA during washing, for more effective exfoliation, I believe a “leave on” chemical exfoliant should also be used.

    Dr. Schultz answered

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