The Sun-Acne Myth Explained — Plus My Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sunscreen Review

There’s nothing like that early summer sunshine — bright, golden, and full of possibility. But as much as we all crave that radiant warmth, protecting your skin daily is one of the best long-term acts of care. Still, not every sunscreen gets it right. Some clog pores, some harm marine life, and others leave skin feeling greasy or dull. That’s why Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen has been a standout for me. It’s lightweight, reef-safe, breakout-friendly, and leaves behind a healthy, hydrated glow — no white cast, no sticky finish.

This post contains affiliate links and professional skincare commentary. For full details, please read my disclaimer.

The Truth About “Sun Helps Acne”

There’s a common myth that a little sun exposure can clear up acne — and while it might seem true at first, it’s not the whole story.

Sunlight can temporarily dry out breakouts and reduce surface oil, but it often leads to increased oil production, thicker skin texture, and even worsened hyperpigmentation over time. Plus, UV damage breaks down collagen and weakens the skin barrier — which can make acne more difficult to manage in the long run.

A better option? Using a non-comedogenic sunscreen that protects the skin barrier and works with acne-prone skin — exactly what Glow Recipe’s SPF is formulated for.

Why Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen Works

Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Sunscreen SPF 50

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The original Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50 was a cult-favorite hybrid formula that offered broad-spectrum protection while doubling as skincare. Lightweight and breathable, it blended chemical UV filters with brightening niacinamide and hydrating hyaluronic acid, leaving the skin glowing, even toned, and perfectly prepped for makeup. It was a go-to for dewy skin lovers who wanted serious sun protection without the usual weight or white case.

Since it’s discontinuation, Glow Recipe has reimagined this fan favorite formula into something even juicier: the Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Balm SPF 45. This next-generation formula maintains the signature glow, while introducing a balm-like texture and a refreshed mix of skin-loving ingredients. With niacinamide still at its core, plus squalene and chemical + mineral UV filters, the Dew Balm offers a nourishing, radiant finish that feels more like skincare than sunscreen. Let’s dive into what makes this new version so special-and how it compares to the original.

Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Balm SPF 45

While the original Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50 came in a lightweight lotion format with a silky, serum-like feel, the new Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Balm SPF45 takes a different approach-delivering sun protection in a solid balm form that melts into your skin. Both formulas feature niacinamide to brighten and refine skin tone, but the Dew Balm leans more into hydration and barrier support with added ingredients like squalane and hyaluronic acid. It’s less of a traditional sunscreen and more of a skincare-meets SPF moment, ideal for those who want a moisturizing glow without layering multiple products.

What it is:

This translucent, non-comedogenic formula contains broad spectrum SPF 45 and is rated PA+++, to shield against UVA/UVB rays and helps to even tone & prevent hyperpigmentation. Inspired by Korean sunscreen innovations, this balm makes application and reapplication easy for healthy, hydrated, and glowing skin.

How to Use:

• Before applying, warm the bullet up on the back of your hand.
• For each area of skin, apply 4 passes back and forth as the last step of your skincare routine for optimal protection.
• Ophthalmologist tested to be used all over face, including eye area
• Continue to apply until you achieve your desired level of glow
• Rub in any remaining product for an even layer of coverage

If you would like to try Glow Recipe, you can click my Amazon link here.

Watermelon Glow Dew Shield SPF 30

For those who prefer a more traditional sunscreen over a balm, Glow Recipe also introduced the Watermelon Glow Dew Shield SPF 30-a sheer, fluid mineral sunscreen that offers gentle, daily protection with a hydrating finish and that same signature watermelon glow.

What it is:

This daily sunscreen features the best of Korean skincare with clean, broad-spectrum PA+++ UV protection and a skin nourishing formula. Clinically proven to boost moisture, it blends seamlessly with no white cast, greasiness, or pilling. Wear solo for a fresh glow or under makeup for a dewy, protected finish.

How to use:

Generously apply to your face and neck as the last step in your skincare routine for hydrated and protected skin—no pilling, greasiness, or white cast.

Glow Tip:

Apply after moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration, under makeup for a primed glow, or solo for a naturally dewy finish.

If you would like to try Glow Recipe, you can click my Amazon link here.

Understanding Sunscreen Ingredients: Mineral vs. Chemical

Not all sunscreens are created equal and knowing what’s inside your SPF can make a huge difference for both your skin and the planet. There are two main types of sunscreens: mineral (physical) and chemical. 

Mineral sunscreens use natural ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on top of your skin and physically block or scatter UV rays. Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow Sunscreen uses non-nano zinc oxide, which means the particles are large enough to sit on the surface without penetrating your skin, offering gentle, broad-spectrum protection. Mineral formulas tend to be less irritating and are usually a better fit for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Plus, they’re safer for marine life and coral reefs- a huge bonus for ocean lovers.

On the other hand, chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays through active ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate. These are effective but have come under scrutiny for their potential to cause hormonal disruption in people and devastating effects on coral reefs. In fact, many places like Hawaii and Palau have banned sunscreens containing these ingredients to protect their fragile marine ecosystems.

Beyond sun protection, Glow Recipe’s formula includes powerhouse ingredients like niacinamide to calm redness and reduce breakouts, and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and keep your skin plump and hydrated. This thoughtful ingredient blend means you’re not just blocking the sun-you’re nourishing your skin every time you apply.

Understanding what’s in your sunscreen helps you make choices that support your skin’s health and the environment-and Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen nails both beautifully.

Sustainability

Is the packaging recyclable?

Their SPF is in plastic packaging to ensure you can bring your sunscreen wherever you go for year-round for daily protection. The plastic cap and tube can be recycled through Glow Recipe’s Terracycle program, and the cartons are FSC-certified and made with recyclable materials to be recycled curbside per your local guidelines.

Was the watermelon in this formula harvested with the earth in mind?

Yes! The watermelon in this formula is processed in a way that helps conserve energy, water, and utilizes all parts of the fruit to help minimize food waste.

Watermelon & Spirituality: More Than Just a Summer Fruit

Beyond its juicy sweetness, watermelon has spiritual symbolism in many cultures. Often associated with abundance, vitality, and emotional healing, watermelon carries the energy of water — making it a symbol of cleansing, renewal, and heart-centered nourishment. Its vibrant red flesh is linked to the root and heart chakras, connecting us to both grounding energy and emotional flow. Spiritually, watermelon reminds us to slow down, stay hydrated in body and soul, and embrace softness — making it the perfect ally in a summer skincare ritual that’s all about balance, beauty, and inner glow.

The Reef-Safe Difference

Many conventional sunscreens use ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are now banned in places like Hawaii and Palau because of their harmful effects on marine ecosystems. These chemicals can bleach coral reefs, disrupt marine hormones, and damage aquatic environments — even in tiny amounts.

Glow Recipe’s sunscreen is made with reef-safe, mineral-based ingredients, including non-nano zinc oxide, which means it won’t harm ocean life and is safer for long-term environmental use. It’s a responsible choice whether you’re swimming in the ocean, lounging by the pool, or just wearing SPF daily like your skin deserves. 

If you would like to learn more about this topic, you can visit the Save the Reef website.

Can Sunscreen Clog Pores?

Unfortunately, yes — certain sunscreens can lead to congestion, especially if they’re heavy, oil-based, or loaded with silicones. That’s a big concern for anyone with acne-prone or combination skin.

Glow Recipe’s sunscreen is labeled non-comedogenic, meaning it’s designed not to clog pores. The added niacinamide helps regulate oil production, while the formula stays light enough for daily wear — no irritation, no breakouts.

Final Thoughts

Sunscreen doesn’t have to feel like a chore. The right formula should fit into your skincare ritual with ease — nourishing, protecting, and helping your skin stay balanced in the long run.

Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen offers that perfect mix of function and feel: it protects without harming the environment, supports the skin barrier, and gives that lit-from-within look without the weight.