sunscreen for oily skin

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If your skin feels greasy and looks shiny a few hours after washing your face, you likely have oily skin. Having oily skin means the sebaceous glands under your hair follicles are overactive and produce more sebum than usual.

The last thing you want is to add more oil to your skin with skin care products. You may assume this means that you shouldn’t wear sunscreen if you have oily skin, but every skin type needs sunscreen.

The right products will not add more oil to your skin and will cause you to have skin problems.

“Healthline’s team of experts searched the market for the best sunscreens for oily skin.”

The process of finding the best sunscreen for your skin can be a bit of a trial and error.

Our dermatologists is not affiliated with any of the companies.

We enlisted the help of our team of dermatologists to create a list of the best sunscreens for oily skin. I have oily skin. You are welcome for that visual, as nearly every product that sits on my skin results in a slippery mess within a few hours.

However, after years of testing and trying out products that mesh well with my skin type, I’d consider myself to be pretty well-versed in choosing oily skin-approved items, including sunscreens.

Important factors were taken into account.

  • Customer ratings and reviews: In order to make our list, these products had to have glowing reviews from users. Bonus: I’ve even tried out some of these sunscreens and can pledge for the quality of the products.
  • Broad spectrum formulas: Broad spectrum formulas are the best for sun protection, so all items on our list have to shield from UVA and UVB rays.
  • Price: We made sure to include products that are priced in a wide range, so everyone can find a sunscreen fit for their budget.
  • SPF: According to the American Cancer Society, sunscreens with at least SPF 30. will protect your skin from about 97 percent of UVB rays.

A note on picking products

Our team of experts vet products before they are included. They are safe, medically approved, and of high quality.

You can read more about our content integrity process here.

Price guide

  • $ = under $10
  • $$ = $10–$20
  • $$$ = over $20

Best overall

Bliss Block Star Invisible Daily Sunscreen

  • Price: $$
  • SPF: 30
  • Water resistant: not listed

This is my daily sunscreen. I use it on top of my makeup and moisturizers.

It has a mineral sunscreen with SPF 30. and a Noncomedogenic. The spectrum is broad. formula.

“It contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to reflect the sun’s UV rays.”

“It doesn’t have a white cast like other sunscreens do, because it’s tinted. It is not suitable for every skin tone because it is only one color.”

Pros

  • SPF 30.
  • The spectrum is broad.
  • Noncomedogenic.
  • It is cruelty-free.

Cons

  • Only one shade is available.
  • “Some users don’t like the finish.”
Shop now at Amazon Shop now at Ulta

Best Unsane. formula

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

  • Price: $$$
  • SPF: 40
  • Water resistant: yes

If you aim to steer clear of fragrances, check out the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen, a The spectrum is broad. formula with SPF 40. and PA+++ protection.

It is water and sweat resistant, making it a better choice to wear during the summer when you are hitting the beach or doing an outdoor workout.

“This product feels light on the skin, so you don’t have to worry about any white casts appearing. It is Oil-free. and has shine control.”

Pros

  • SPF 40.
  • The spectrum is broad.
  • Unsane.
  • Water- and sweat- resistant.
  • Oil-free.

Cons

  • pricey
  • Some reviewers think it broke them out.
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Best everyday moisturizer

Aveeno Positively Radiant Sheer Daily Moisturizer

  • Price: $$
  • SPF: 30
  • Water resistant: no

A dual moisturizer and sunscreen is one way to get in your daily dose of sunscreen.

Healthline’s dermatologists like this graceful aging support sunscreen, because it offers The spectrum is broad. protection against both UVA and UVB rays while still being lightweight.

Chemicals that help absorb UV rays are the key active ingredients.

  • A person named Homosalate.
  • Octisalate
  • Avobenzone is avobenzone.
  • oxybenzone is a drug.
  • Acrylene.

Pros

  • “Doesn’t feel greasy.”
  • Oil-free. and Noncomedogenic.
  • sunscreen and a moisturizer
  • Dark spots are reduced for a more even skin tone.

Cons

  • Some skin types may be irritated by soy.
  • It may stain clothing.
  • Not water-resistant.
Shop now at Amazon Shop now at Ulta

Best broad-spectrum formula

EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

  • Price: $$$
  • SPF: 46
  • Water resistant: no

While all the sunscreens on our list are The spectrum is broad., this option from EltaMD has top-notch ratings from shoppers all over the web. It has SPF 46 and is zinc oxide-based.

It contains high purity niacinamide, which helps calm and protect the face from dark spots. It is also formulated with hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkling.

It’s free from fragrance, oil, and parabens, and the brand says it won’t clog pores. We tested this product, too, you can read our review here. It’s available in both a tinted and untinted version.

Pros

  • Oil-free. and lightweight
  • The zinc oxide in the mineral is sun protection without being greasy.
  • tinted to help with skin tone.
  • “It’s safe to use for rosacea.”

Cons

  • It is It is expensive..
  • Not water-resistant.
  • Only one shade is available. for tinted version
Shop now at Amazon Shop now at EltaMD

Best matte formula

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid

  • Price: $$$
  • SPF: 60
  • Water resistant: up to 80 minutes

This SPF 60. sunscreen isn’t greasy and is Noncomedogenic.. The ultra-lightweight formula contains The spectrum is broad. protection and La Roche-Posay’s Cell-Ox Shield technology, which uses powerful antioxidants to fight against damaging free radicals.

It is a good pick for oily skin because of its fast absorption and matt finish.

Pros

  • SPF 60.
  • It blocks free radicals and UV rays.
  • lightweight feel.

Cons

  • It is It is expensive..
  • SPF 60. can be misleading — SPF 15 blocks 90 percent of UV rays, while SPF 45 blocks up to 98 percent
  • Your skin It may feel greasy..
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Best anti-aging formula

Olay Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30.

  • Price: $$
  • SPF: 30
  • Water resistant: no

Olay Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 is a more affordable sunscreen for oily skin..

While slightly thicker than the mattifying effects of EltaMD and La Roche-Posay products, Olay’s version is still Oil-free. and Noncomedogenic..

The main active ingredients in this sunscreen are.

  • octinoxate
  • zinc oxide
  • Acrylene.
  • Octisalate

Pros

  • Noncomedogenic. and Oil-free.
  • It has vitamins B3 and B5 for anti-aging benefits.
  • The skin is soothed by the ali
  • It is It is suitable for sensitive skin..

Cons

  • It It may feel greasy..
  • “It shouldn’t be applied to the skin that is damaged.”
  • Not water-resistant.
Shop now at Olay Shop now at Target

Best formula with retinoids

CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cream

  • Price: $$
  • SPF: 30
  • Water resistant: no

CeraVe is a brand known for its line of products for skin inflammation.

The CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cream has the added benefit of a The spectrum is broad. sunscreen with SPF 30..

Aside from the active sun-protecting ingredients, zinc oxide and octinoxate, this product also has retinoids to treat the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Pros

  • It is It is suitable for sensitive skin..
  • There are anti-aging ingredients.
  • It may have a plumping effect on the skin.

Cons

  • It can leave a greasy feeling.
  • The texture is heavier.
  • Not water-resistant.
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Best for all-day wear

Neutrogena Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

  • Price: $
  • SPF: 15
  • Water resistant: no

Neutrogena is a well-known brand for oily skin. The product is an SPF 15 combination.

Although this sunscreen isn’t mineral, it still offers The spectrum is broad. coverage. It’s also free of oil, fragrance, and alcohol, and it’s hypoallergenic.

If you like to keep your morning skin care routine short and to the point, this two-in-one is a great buy.

Pros

  • Oil-free. and Noncomedogenic.
  • It was advertised to last up to 12 hours.
  • Alcohol, oil, and It is fragrance-free..

Cons

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Best stick

Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50.+

  • Price: $$$
  • SPF: 50+
  • Water resistant: up to 80 minutes

If you have a bit more cash to spend, this sunscreen stick from Shiseido is an awesome option. The The spectrum is broad. formula contains SPF 50. and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Better yet, it’s clear, making it a solid pick for sun protection.

“It has the company’s WetForce and HotForce technology, which helps create a lightweight, invisible SPF layer that’s most effective in the heat or in the water.”

It has a protective layer called Synchro Shield that strengthens when exposed to water and heat.

Pros

  • clear
  • SPF 50.
  • The spectrum is broad.
  • water-resistant

Cons

  • It may feel greasy.
  • contains oxybenzone is a drug., a harmful ingredient that can bleach coral reef
Shop now at Sephora Shop now at Ulta

Best for melanated skin

Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.

  • Price: $$
  • SPF: 30
  • Water resistant: up to 80 minutes

This vegan sunscreen made for People of Color can be used on the face and body. Reviewers say the formula is lightweight and sheer, and that it dries clear, with no white cast behind.

It’s free from parabens and fragrance. It also leaves out oxybenzone is a drug. and octinoxate, which are two controversial ingredients when it comes to sunscreen.

Instead, this product contains natural ingredients like avocado for added antioxidants and jojoba for soothing the skin. While many users say it worked well for their acne-prone skin, some note that it actually broke them out.

Pros

  • The spectrum is broad.
  • It is sheer and lightweight.
  • Can be used on the face and body.
  • Can use under makeup.

Cons

  • There is oil.
  • Some reviewers say it led to problems.
Shop now at Black Girl Suncreen Shop now at Ulta

Best powder

Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50.

  • Price: $$$
  • SPF: 50
  • Water resistant: up to 80 minutes

If you have oily skin, a powder formula may be the best option.

This mineral broad-spectrum formula uses titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to protect you from ultraviolet A and B (UVA and UVB) rays, and it’s also It is cruelty-free.. It contains a mix of antioxidants and hyaluronic acid.

“Reviewers say they appreciate that the tinted powder doesn’t leave white marks on their skin, but only in four shades.”

Pros

  • Noncomedogenic.
  • Oil-free.
  • It is undenatured.
  • It is fragrance-free.
  • sulfate-free.

Cons

  • pricey
  • “The product’s applicator is difficult to use.”
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Product Price SPF Water resistant
Bliss Block Star Invisible Daily Sunscreen $$ 30 —
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen $$$ 40 yes
Aveeno Positively Radiant Sheer Daily Moisturizer $$ 30 no
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Moisturizer $$$ 46 no
$$$ 60 up to 80 minutes
Olay Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30. $$ 30 no
CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cream $$ 30 no
Neutrogena Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 Sunscreen $ 15 no
$$$ 50+ up to 80 minutes
Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30. $$ 30 up to 80 minutes
Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50. $$$ 50 up to 80 minutes

If you have a skin type that is not normal, you should look for a sunscreen. There are sunscreens for sensitive skin, oily skin, and other skin types.

You will have to decide if chemical sunscreen or mineral sunscreen is best for you, and you’ll want to look for a broad-spectrum option of at least SPF 30.. You can also shop for different forms of sunscreen, like lotions, sticks, powders, etc.

Before applying a sunscreen, check reviews and labels. It is a good idea to perform a patch test before applying sunscreen.

Yes, short answer.

“It is important to wear sunscreen every day to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. When the sun is shining, it is even more true for when the rays can be seen through the windows.”

An effective sunscreen is necessary.

  • Have a SPF 30..
  • be The spectrum is broad., which means it protects you from UVA and UVB rays
  • Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are active ingredients that reflect the UV rays.

Chemical absorbers or physical blockers will protect against UV rays.

Research shows that sunscreen can help prevent skin damage, which can lead to skin cancer and melanoma, a specific type of skin cancer.

Reapplying your sunscreen every 2 hours is the best way to get the most out of it. You should also use a water-resistant sunscreen.

Some products on this list may help minimize the signs of sun damage, and if you wear sunscreen every day, you can protect your skin from sun damage.

You may need to take other measures to keep your skin looking its best without the added grease and shine.

You can help treat oily skin.

What causes oily skin?

There are a few things that can cause oily skin.

  • Genetics
  • age
  • The time of year and your location are important.
  • enlarged skin
  • “It’s a problem using too many products in your skin care routine.”

Are mineral sunscreens better than chemical sunscreens?

Most dermatologists will recommend a mineral sunscreen that’s made with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. This is because mineral sunscreens sit on top of your skin and reflect sunlight.

“Synthetic ingredients will absorb the sun’s rays only after they’ve penetrated the skin, while chemical sunscreens use ingredients that are already in the skin.”

Are there any side effects from using sunscreen for oily skin?

There is a minimal risk of serious side effects from sunscreen.

If your sunscreen There is oil.s, there’s a chance it can cause an oilier skin texture. Plus, some sunscreens may stain clothing.

If you choose a sunscreen that is too harsh for sensitive skin, skin with rosacea, or psoriasis, there’s a chance irritation may occur. In that case, try to stick with a gentle mineral sunscreen that has a short list of ingredients, preferably ones that keep out fragrance, alcohol, and other harsh ingredients.

When you have oily skin, it may be tempting to skip sunscreen out of fear of making your skin even oilier. However, not only can UV rays lead to skin damage and skin cancer, but sunburns can dry out surface oils and make your sebaceous glands even more active.

The key is to choose a sunscreen that protects your skin without making it oilier. You can start with the ones on the list until you find the product that works for you.

When in doubt, review the product label and look for key terms, such as “sheer,” “water-based,” and “Oil-free..”

Melissa Lee is a market wellness editor at Healthline. She’s based in Pittsburgh, PA. When she’s not trying out new skin care or researching wellness product trends, she can be found buying books to add to her TBR pile. Follow her on Instagram.