Pimples caused by sunscreen: How to avoid skin problems
Summer, sun, sunshine... And pimples? Sunscreen is essential for preventing sunburn and skin cancer, but it often comes with unpleasant side effects. Unfortunately, pimples caused by sunscreen are not uncommon and occur because bacteria thrive in the mixture of oily cream and heat.
In this article, we explain the causes and provide our readers with important tips on how to significantly improve their skin, not only in the summer.
Pimples caused by sunscreen: Reasons
Sunscreen causes breakouts. Not only because of ingredients, but mainly due to the high fat content of most creams. Together, these factors create a combination that promotes bacteria and impurities on the skin.
Fat and heat as a basis for bacterial growth
Most consumers are unaware that creams, whether skincare products or sunscreens, are harmful for the skin. Applying fat on the skin via creams is therefore often counterproductive. On the one hand, the skin produces less sebum, which reduces skin moisture over time, and on the other hand, fat is a breeding ground for bacteria. In addition, creams contain a variety of other additives that can have negative effects depending on the manufacturer and user.
Sunscreens have another problem: products with sun protection factor (SPF) are not intended to penetrate the skin, but merely to protect it from UV radiation. These products, therefore, form a film on the skin, which prevents it from flaking.
In addition, sunscreen is mostly used in warm and humid climates, which intensifies the breeding of bacteria. Other factors such as travel stress, climatic changes or unfamiliar food can also influence the metabolism and thus the appearance of the skin.
A layer on the skin causes clogged pores
The skin's function is therefore affected by the climate in combination with sunscreen. Pores can become clogged because a layer remains on the skin and because the skin cannot exfoliate properly. This can lead to pimples and blackheads. Bacteria are an additional inflammatory factor in this environment.
Should I skip applying SPF?
The answer isn't to skip sunscreen — its filters protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn in the short term and increase the risk of skin cancer over time.
But how to avoid blemishes on your face from sun cream?
Does all this mean that you should avoid sun cream or even sunbathing completely? Of course not! You can already do a lot for your skin with the right care before and after applying sun cream. It is also important to avoid greasy and oily creams as much as possible.
Avoiding creams
Most consumers have the misconception that greasy oils and skin creams are good for the skin. However, as already discussed, the opposite is often the case. They are therefore only suitable for skin care after sunbathing to a limited extent.
Cleansing before and after applying sun cream
Proper cleansing is key to preventing blemishes after sunbathing.
Sun cream can clog pores, especially on the face, so it’s important to remove it both effectively and gently. Thorough cleansing helps eliminate the greasy film and prevents bacteria from forming. It also removes dead skin cells, reducing the risk of clogged pores. The risk is even lower if you cleanse your skin properly before sun exposure as well.
But as always, cleansing is just the foundation. On its own, it’s not a complete skincare routine. After spending time in the sun, your skin needs to be nourished with the right nutrients tailored to your skin type. And when it comes to active ingredients, the rule still applies: the fewer additives, the better.
Reduce pimples on the face caused by sun cream: Filabé makes it possible
Filabé is ideal for treating your skin before and after sun exposure. Because it deeply cleanses the pores — without alcohol, oils, or chemical additives — Filabé offers gentle yet effective care for sun-stressed skin. In fact, it’s the only cosmetic product in the world that contains no additives at all.
Instead of using creams, Filabé delivers active ingredients through a high-tech microfiber cloth. This means no oils are left behind to clog pores, and bacteria are not just reduced — they’re removed during cleansing. At the same time, your skin stays free of obstructive additives, allowing the active ingredients to be fully absorbed and do their job properly.
Clean, nourished skin — without compromise.
Our products
We recommend Filabé Balanced Skin for cleansing before sunbathing. You can find the ideal product for your skin type for after-sun care here:
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