The Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin: Find Your Favourite

Banish the Shine: Unveiling The Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Oily skin, a blessing and a curse, can be a real challenge when it comes to finding skincare products that work effectively without exacerbating the shine factor.

Sunscreen, an essential skincare staple, can be particularly tricky for those with oily complexions, as many formulas leave a greasy, sticky residue that can worsen the situation.

Moreover, those with oily and acne-prone skin can struggle with finding a sunscreen that they can use and re-apply every day without breaking out. (as we know, sunscreen is not only for the beach; it is an integral part of a daily skincare routine!)

Photo by Angelo Pantazis on Unsplash

But fear not! There are a multitude of sunscreens specifically designed to address the needs of our oil-prone faces, keeping them protected from the sun’s harmful rays without adding to the shine and causing breakouts.

In this post, we’ll delve into the world of sunscreens for oily skin, exploring the key considerations when selecting the right one and highlighting some of the top-rated options available.

How to Chose the Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Choosing the best face sunscreen for oily skin can be daunting. However, focusing on key factors allows you to narrow your choices and find the perfect fit for your complexion.

Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens

Sunscreens primarily fall into two categories: physical and chemical.

Physical sunscreens

Also known as mineral sunscreens, they work by physically blocking UV rays from reaching the skin.

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are physical sunscreens’ main active ingredients. They are generally considered non-comedogenic, meaning they are unlikely to clog pores and cause breakouts.

Chemical sunscreens

On the other hand, absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, preventing them from damaging the skin. Common chemical sunscreen ingredients include oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. Chemical sunscreens tend to be more lightweight and cosmetically elegant than physical sunscreens, but some individuals may experience skin irritation or breakouts when using them.

Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic Formulations

As oily skin is prone to clogged pores, it’s essential to choose sunscreens that are specifically formulated to be oil-free and non-comedogenic. These formulations are designed to absorb excess oil and prevent the buildup of sebum, which can lead to breakouts.

Lightweight and Mattifying Textures

The best face sunscreen for oily skin should be lightweight, preferably oil-free, and many people also prefer mattifying sunscreens. A good sunscreen for oily skin leaves a matte finish on the skin, absorbing excess oil and preventing the shine that often plagues oily complexions.

Water Resistance and Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

Sunscreens are rated by their Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which indicates how well they protect the skin from UVB rays. An SPF of 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 blocks 98%.

30 and 50 indicate that you can stay out thirty or fifty times longer before getting sunburned – e.g. if the sun is that intense to get a sunburn of unprotected skin in 10 minutes, SPF 30 would enlarge this time to 300 and SPF 50 – to 500. But this is not that simple as sunscreen components tend to degrade in the sun rays and are affected by swimming and sweating (though water-resistant, they are less prone to being washed out), so you still need to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours while under the sun.

Studies say sunscreen can’t be less than SPF 30 to protect to an acceptable extent.

Sunscreen facts, from aptmedicalaesthetics. com

The Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin: The List for any Taste and Budget

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge to select the right sunscreen for oily skin let’s explore some of the highest-rated options.

Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier

Protection: SPF45 PA++++;

Standard size: 50ml;

Price: ± 45$/50€

Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier

This Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier sunscreen is more on the pricey side, but it can be called one of the best sunscreens for acne-prone and oily skin. It is non-comedogenic, super lightweight, and doesn’t leave a white cast.

It is oil-free and lightweight, moisturizes and instantly minimizes the appearance of pores (by 54%, as Murad says), and delivers 10 hours of oil, shine, and pore control. It has oil-trapping microspheres and, therefore, mattifies, smooths, and blurs imperfections. 

Ready to try? Buy it here: Amazon

Neutrogena, “Sport Face” Oil-Free Sunscreen

Protection: SPF 70+;

Standard size: 2.5 fl oz (73 ml);

Price: ±10$/17 €

Neutrogena, "Sport Face" Oil-Free Sunscreen

This oil-free sunscreen doesn’t leave a white cast. It is perfect for summer and travel/sports/swimming—the best sunscreen for oily skin for the holiday season. It resists wear off from water, rubbing, and sweating and is designed to be sweat-resistant and water-resistant. The price for the volume is just perfect, especially when it’s on sale!

This sunscreen is a chemical one, but it is claimed to be non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) – and the ingredients list proves this, so it might be considered the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin.

Active Ingredients

Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 15%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 4%, Oxybenzone 5%;

Ready to try? Buy it here: Amazon

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen

Protection: SPF 46;

Standard size: 48g;

Price: ±40$/56€;

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, SPF 46, is a mineral Oil-free Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide. It is also often recommended by dermatologists. It’s formulated to be gentle on the skin and leaves a matte finish.

EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 stands out as the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin and oily skin. This lightweight sunscreen is fortified with high-purity niacinamide (vitamin B3), meticulously crafted to diminish the appearance of blemishes and skin discoloration.

This broad-spectrum sunscreen features micronized zinc oxide, providing a powerful shield against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Its oil-free, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free formulation ensures a gentle yet effective sun protection experience.

Beyond sun defense, this hypoallergenic sunscreen is specifically designed to calm and protect skin prone to discoloration and breakouts. Suited for daily use on various skin types, including combination, dry, and oily skin, its lightweight formula won’t clog pores, allowing for seamless layering under makeup. The absence of residue contributes to a smooth and even complexion.

Highlighted in publications like InStyle, NewBeauty, SkinStore, and RealSimple, EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 has earned its reputation as a trusted choice for those seeking the best sunscreen for acne-prone and oily skin. It offers effective sun protection coupled with skincare benefits.

This sunscreen also has a tinted option; read more in the best tinted sunscreen for oily skin article.

Active Ingredients

Zinc oxide, Octinoxate;

Ready to try? Buy it here: Amazon

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

Protection: SPF 40;

Standard size: 50ml;

Price: ±38$/21€;

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

Renowned as the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin, this SPF favorite boasts an invisible, weightless, and scentless formula suitable for all skin types.

Going beyond sun protection, Unseen Sunscreen is a dual-purpose primer, making it the best face sunscreen for oily skin. Its oil-free formula controls shine, leaving a velvety finish – an ideal makeup base.

Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, this everyday sunscreen nourishes and protects with clean, potent ingredients like soothing frankincense and hydrating meadowfoam seed.

Whether you’re a man or a woman, its clear texture is beard-friendly, ensuring a barely-there feel on the skin. This Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is often considered the best for oily and acne-prone skin and a flawless, protected complexion.

Active Ingredients

Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (8%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (4%);

Ready to try? Buy it here: Amazon

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen

Protection: SPF 50;

Standard size: 50ml;

Price: ±36$/25€;

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen

This SPF50+ PA+++ mineral and chemical sunscreen is often recognized as the best for acne-prone and oily skin. This oil-free sunscreen for sensitive skin ensures robust defense against UVA and UVB rays while delivering a refreshing, non-sticky feel. The lightweight cream-type texture provides a tone-up effect, leaving your skin glowing.

Enriched with brightening ingredients like myrciaria dubia fruit extract, this sun milk is your daily sun protection companion. It goes beyond the Natural Barrier Complex and Thanaka extract to defend against environmental stressors and enhance hydration.

Please note that it may not be suitable for deep skin tones, as it can leave a white cast.

In summary, this daily sun protection solution, infused with mineral sunblock, stands out as the best sunscreen for oily and acne-prone skin. It delivers a lightweight, non-sticky feel for a radiant and shielded complexion.

Ready to try? Buy it here: Amazon

Missha Sun Milk Soft Finish

Protection: SPF 50 PA+++;

Standard size: 70ml;

Price: ±20$/15€;

Missha Sun Milk Soft Finish

This Korean SPF50+ PA+++ mineral and chemical sunscreen is recognized as the best sunscreen for acne-prone and oily skin. It is often claimed that Korean sunscreens are better because they are constantly innovating and don’t have as long an approval process as the US, for example. Nonetheless, the sunscreens are also safe despite this shortened process.

Its cutting-edge formula ensures robust defense against UVA and UVB rays. It delivers a refreshing, non-sticky feel and a cream-type texture for a tone-up effect that leaves your skin glowing. Infused with brightening myrciaria dubia fruit extract, it enhances the skin’s radiance.

This sun milk boasts a Double Layer UV Blocking System for long-lasting and impenetrable UV protection, even in humid conditions. The silky porous powder, stabilized in a low-viscosity fluid, guarantees a lightweight and smooth application – perfect for layering without discomfort.

Your skin will look radiant and feel fresh, not oily. The formula leaves a powdery finish, eliminating shine for a polished appearance.

In summary, this daily sun protection solution, featuring a double-layer UV Blocking System and a silky porous powder, stands out as the best face sunscreen for oily skin. It ensures effective UV protection while providing a smooth, radiant finish with a powdery touch.

Ready to try? Buy it here: Amazon

Cetaphil, Derma Control, Oil Absorbing Moisturizer,

Protection: SPF 30;

Standard size: 4 fl oz (118 ml);

Price: ±15$/16€;

Cetaphil, Derma Control, Oil Absorbing Moisturizer,

Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30 is a lightweight, oil-free lotion that provides 24-hour hydration while controlling shine. It is formulated with broad-spectrum SPF 30 to protect against harmful UVA/UVB rays.

Cetaphil is claimed to be №1 dermatologist’s recommended company, so this sunscreen can also be referred to as the best sunscreen for acne-prone skin dermatologists recommended.

The moisturizer is designed for oily and sensitive skin and contains MicroPearl technology that helps to absorb surface oil, reduce shine, and give skin a matte finish. The product also contains Oleosome technology that uses a lower concentration of sunscreen filters for less irritation and greater hydration.

The moisturizer is dermatologist-tested and clinically proven to be gentle on sensitive skin. It is fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, oxybenzone-free, hypoallergenic, and it won’t clog pores.

Active Ingredients

Avobenzone 3%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7%;

Ready to try? Buy it here: Amazon

Paula’s Choice RESIST Daily Hydrating Fluid Face Moisturizer

Protection: SPF 50;

Standard size: 60 ml;

Price: ±38$;

Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Hydrating Fluid Face Moisturizer

Paula’s Choice Resist Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 is an ideal choice for oily, combination, and breakout-prone skin. This weightless moisturizer combines broad-spectrum SPF 50 with nourishing antioxidants to protect the skin from sun damage without feeling heavy or clogging pores. The formula, enriched with green tea extract and avobenzone, fights against free radicals and provides effective UVA and UVB protection.

  • Lightweight moisturizer with broad-spectrum sun protection.
  • Boosts skin defenses with potent antioxidants.
  • Water-light consistency with a matte finish.

Paula’s Choice products are tailored to various skincare concerns, offering effective, science-backed formulas without fragrance or parabens.

Active Ingredients

Zinc Oxide;

Looking for tinted sunscreens? Find it in the best tinted sunscreen for oily skin.

Or, find your Best Cleanser for Oily Skin.

Trying to build your skincare routine and need to know the general rules for oily skin? Find them out in the Skincare Routine for Oily Skin. Or, for any skin type – Beginner basic skincare routine tips.

Need a serum to target oily skin concerns? Look into Serum for Oily Skin

Ready to try? Buy it here: Amazon

Conclusion: Sunscreen Selection for Oily Skin

Physical vs. Chemical

Physical sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are preferred for oily skin as they are less likely to clog pores. Chemical sunscreens are lighter but may irritate.

Formulations

Opt for oil-free and non-comedogenic sunscreens to prevent breakouts and manage shine.

Textures

Lightweight, mattifying sunscreens that leave a matte finish help absorb excess oil and reduce shine.

SPF and Water Resistance

Choose sunscreens with at least SPF 30 for adequate protection and water resistance for durability during activities.

In summary, the ideal sunscreen for oily skin should offer effective UV protection and be non-comedogenic.

Keep exploring:

Frequently Asked Questions

How much SPF is good for oily skin?

SPF 30 to 50 is generally recommended for all skin types, including oily skin. It strikes a balance between protection and wearability. Higher SPF values offer only marginal benefits, so focus on consistent application and reapplication.

How do I choose sunscreen for oily skin?

Opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic, and matte-finish sunscreens. Look for labels like “oil-free,” “gel,” or “lightweight.” Ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide work well for oily skin.

Does oily skin need moisturizer before sunscreen?

Yes, even oily skin needs hydration. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer before applying sunscreen. It helps maintain the skin’s barrier function without making it greasy. Nonetheless, if your moisturizer has SPF, you can skip using sunscreen straight after it. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen during the day, though.

Which sunscreen is best for oily skin: gel or lotion?

Both can work. Lotion sunscreens may feel heavier, but there are lotion sunscreens that work perfectly for oily skin.

Is gel or cream sunscreen better for oily skin?

Gel sunscreens might feel more comfortable for oily skin while applying; nonetheless, lightweight cream sunscreens might work just as well, especially if they have mattifying ingredients.

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