Acne Sensitizers

If you have acne, be aware of these known acne sensitizers. These ingredients can exacerbate acne.

• Chemical sunscreens (Avobenzone, oxybenzone)
• Retin-A (Tretinoin)
• Benzoyl Peroxide (more than 5%)
• Propylene glycol
• Tocopherol (more than 5%)
• Sulfate surfactants used in cleansers (e.g. Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate)

Note that Benzoyl Peroxide and Retin-A are common acne treatments. They are on this list because, at high concentration, they can increase inflammation.

If you use Benzoyl Peroxide, don’t use a concentration greater than 5%.

A Zinc Oxide sunscreen is a good alternative to a chemical sunscreen if you have acneic skin.