By Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, but if you have oily skin, finding the right one can be tricky. Many sunscreens feel greasy, cause breakouts, or leave an unwanted shine. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that protects your skin without making it feel heavy or oily.
In this guide, we’ll share the 10 best sunscreens for oily skin that provide broad-spectrum protection while keeping your skin shine-free and breathable.
What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Oily Skin
When choosing a sunscreen for oily skin, consider the following factors:
✅ Oil-Free & Non-Comedogenic – Prevents clogged pores and breakouts.
✅ Matte or Lightweight Formula – Controls excess shine without feeling heavy.
✅ Broad-Spectrum Protection – Shields against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
✅ SPF 30 or Higher – Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30 for daily protection.
✅ Water-Resistant – Ideal if you sweat or spend time outdoors.
✅ Gel-Based or Mineral Sunscreens – These are often lighter and absorb oil better than creamy formulas.
Now, let’s dive into the 10 best sunscreens for oily skin that tick all these boxes!
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Best for: Acne-Prone & Sensitive Skin
This dermatologist-recommended sunscreen is lightweight, non-greasy, and enriched with niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to soothe acne-prone skin. It absorbs quickly and provides broad-spectrum protection without clogging pores.
✔ Oil-free and lightweight
✔ Contains niacinamide to calm redness
✔ SPF 46 for high protection
Price: ~$39 (1.7 oz)
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
Best for: High SPF & Sun Protection
This sunscreen is lightweight yet ultra-protective, offering SPF 60 while blending seamlessly into the skin. It’s oil-free, fast-absorbing, and water-resistant, making it great for hot, humid climates.
✔ Broad-spectrum SPF 60
✔ Absorbs quickly without residue
✔ Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Price: ~$38 (3 oz)
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55
Best for: Budget-Friendly & Everyday Use
If you need an affordable yet effective sunscreen, Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch is a great choice. It has a non-greasy, matte finish and absorbs excess oil without clogging pores.
✔ Lightweight and budget-friendly
✔ Non-comedogenic formula
✔ Matte finish for shine control
Price: ~$10 (3 oz)
Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
Best for: Anti-Aging & Matte Finish
This tinted sunscreen not only protects your skin but also offers anti-aging benefits with antioxidants. It’s perfect for oily, acne-prone skin that needs hydration without excess shine.
✔ Contains antioxidants to prevent premature aging
✔ Light tint for evening out skin tone
✔ Non-greasy, matte formula
Price: ~$35 (2 oz)
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Best for: Invisible, Weightless Protection
This gel-based sunscreen feels completely weightless on the skin. It works as a makeup primer while providing SPF 40 protection. The oil-free, scent-free formula makes it ideal for sensitive and oily skin types.
✔ Completely invisible and weightless
✔ Works as a primer under makeup
✔ SPF 40 broad-spectrum protection
Price: ~$38 (1.7 oz)
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Best for: Hydration & Lightweight Moisture
This 2-in-1 sunscreen and moisturizer is perfect if you prefer a simple routine. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin without making it greasy.
✔ Lightweight and oil-free
✔ Hydrates while providing sun protection
✔ Non-comedogenic formula
Price: ~$16 (1.7 oz)
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+
Best for: Repairing Sun Damage
This sunscreen contains DNA repair enzymes to reverse early signs of sun damage while protecting against UV rays. The formula is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and perfect for oily skin types.
✔ SPF 50+ for extra protection
✔ Helps repair sun-damaged skin
✔ Non-greasy and water-resistant
Price: ~$55 (3.4 oz)
Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+
Best for: Lightweight, Water-Based Sunscreen
A fan favorite in Asia, this sunscreen has a water-gel texture that absorbs quickly and leaves no residue. It’s perfect for humid weather and provides broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection.
✔ Water-based formula (no greasy feel)
✔ SPF 50+ with PA++++ protection
✔ Lightweight and refreshing
Price: ~$15 (1.7 oz)
Eucerin Oil Control Sunscreen SPF 50
Best for: Long-Lasting Matte Finish
This sunscreen is designed for oily and acne-prone skin, offering a long-lasting matte effect while protecting against UVA & UVB rays. It absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast.
✔ SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection
✔ Controls shine for up to 8 hours
✔ Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free
Price: ~$20 (2.5 oz)
Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42
Best for: City Life & Pollution Protection
This oil-free, lightweight sunscreen is perfect for daily use in urban environments. It contains antioxidants to protect against pollution and free radicals while keeping the skin matte and shine-free.
✔ SPF 42 broad-spectrum protection
✔ Anti-pollution benefits
✔ Water-resistant and lightweight
Price: ~$35 (1.7 oz)
Conclusion
The best sunscreen for oily skin should provide broad-spectrum protection without leaving a greasy or sticky feel. Whether you prefer a gel-based, matte, or tinted formula, there’s an option that fits your needs.
FAQs
Which type of sunscreen is best for oily skin?
Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic, and mattifying formulas, preferably in gel-based or lightweight liquid form.
Can sunscreen cause breakouts on oily skin?
Yes, if it contains heavy oils, silicones, or comedogenic ingredients. Stick to non-greasy, oil-free sunscreens.
Should I use sunscreen daily if I have oily skin?
Absolutely! Sunscreen protects against UV damage, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging—even if you have oily skin.
Is mineral sunscreen better for oily skin?
Yes! Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide absorb excess oil and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Can I wear sunscreen under makeup?
Yes, many sunscreens (like Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen) double as a primer for a smooth makeup application.
Also read: Natural Skincare for Acne: Simple & Effective Remedies for Clear Skin
