The 8 Best Sunscreens For Oily Skin of 2024

Shine-Free Protection: The 8 Top Sunscreens for Oily Skin 

In the quest for flawless makeup that lasts all day, the challenge of finding the perfect sunscreen for oily skin types can often feel like an uphill battle. The delicate balance between achieving essential sun protection without exacerbating oiliness or disrupting your makeup is a common concern. However, the landscape of skincare has evolved, offering innovative solutions that cater specifically to those with oily complexions. Dive into our list of the top sunscreens designed to provide high-level UV defense while maintaining a matte, shine-free finish under your makeup. These selections promise not only to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays but also to enhance your makeup application, ensuring a radiant look without the unwanted greasiness. Discover the ultimate sunscreens that are changing the game for oily skin types, making daily sun protection a seamless and enjoyable part of your beauty routine.

1. Supergoop - Mattescreen SPF 40

The Supergoop Mattescreen SPF 40 is celebrated for its unique ability to provide high sun protection while maintaining a matte finish on oily skin. Reviewers like Niki Maragos, Tesia Kuh, and Yena P appreciate its 100% mineral formula, vegan and cruelty-free credentials, and its effectiveness as a makeup primer. The sunscreen’s mousse-like texture ensures a smooth application without leaving a white cast, making it ideal for photo-ready skin.

• 100% mineral formula, cruelty-free and vegan
• Smooth, mousse-like texture with a matte finish
• Doubles as an effective makeup primer

2. COOLA - Organic Makeup Setting Spray SPF 30

The COOLA Organic Makeup Setting Spray SPF 30 stands out for its dual functionality, blending sunscreen protection with makeup setting capabilities. Reviews from Danielle, Amy, and Erin highlight its organic, vegan formulation and easy application. This spray offers a refreshing, matte finish and SPF 30 protection without leaving the skin feeling heavy or greasy.

• Organic, cruelty-free, and vegan
• Lightweight, non-greasy formula with a matte finish
• Convenient spray application

3. Kate Somerville - UnCompliKated Setting Spray SPF 50

The Kate Somerville UnCompliKated Setting Spray SPF 50 is a favorite for its high SPF protection and makeup setting properties. Reviews by Laiane, Dominiquea, and Beverly Beal praise its pleasant scent and the convenience it offers for reapplication over makeup. While some users noted challenges with makeup longevity, its protection level and ease of use make it a top pick.

• SPF 50 protection plus makeup setting
• Pleasant scent and easy reapplication
• Convenient spray format

4. MDSolarSciences - Mineral Creme SPF 50+

The MDSolarSciences Mineral Creme SPF 50+ is lauded for its gentle yet effective protection, especially for oily skin. Reviewers like Viviana Bennawan, Shannon, and Ariana enjoy its fragrance-free formula, which does not clog pores and leaves no white tint. Its hydrating properties and soft texture make it a preferred choice for daily use.

• Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
• Hydrating, soft texture with no white tint
• High SPF 50+ protection

5. Inde Wild - AM Sunscreen Glow Drops

The Inde Wild AM Sunscreen Glow Drops revolutionize sun protection with their serum-like consistency. Reviews from Melissa, Carol, and Adriana rave about its lightweight formula, high SPF 50 protection, and suitability for acne-prone skin. Its blend of zinc oxide and niacinamide, along with its water and sweat resistance, make it an innovative and effective choice.

• SPF 50 with zinc oxide and niacinamide
• Water and sweat resistant
• Serum-like consistency suitable for oily skin

6. Dr. Dennis Gross - All-Physical Lt weight Sunscreen SPF30

The Dr. Dennis Gross All-Physical Lt weight Sunscreen SPF30 is acclaimed for its comprehensive protection against UV rays, pollution, and blue light. Customers like Alondra and leslie love its non-greasy formula, hydration benefits, and ability to apply smoothly under makeup. This sunscreen is a daily essential for those seeking a lightweight solution that does not compromise on protection.

• Protects against UV rays, pollution, and blue light
• Lightweight, hydrating, and non-greasy
• Works well under makeup

7. Chantecaille - Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen SPF45

The Chantecaille Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen SPF45 offers high-level UV protection with a smooth application. According to Jen's review, despite its watery consistency, the sunscreen absorbs well, leaving no sticky residue and ensuring a pleasant finish. It's ideal for those seeking a high SPF option that feels light on the skin.

• High SPF 45 protection
• Smooth application with no sticky residue
• Watery consistency for easy absorption

8. Urban Skin Rx - SheerGlow Even Tone Daily Defense Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30

The Urban Skin Rx SheerGlow Even Tone Daily Defense Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30 combines sun protection with skincare benefits. Its lightweight and silky cream texture, subtle citrus scent, and SheerGenius™ Technology offer a sheer finish suitable for all skin tones. It provides effective sun protection while helping to prevent hyperpigmentation and early skin aging, making it a standout choice for daily wear.

• 100% mineral-active broad spectrum protection
• Lightweight and silky cream texture
• Formulated for all skin types, particularly sensitive and acne-prone skin

FAQ: Sun Protection for Oily Skin

Should I use SPF on oily skin?

Absolutely! Regardless of your skin type, SPF is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and increase the risk of skin cancer. For oily skin, it’s all about finding the right formula that won’t exacerbate oiliness or clog pores.

How do I choose sunblock for oily skin?

When selecting a sunblock for oily skin, look for products labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning they are formulated not to clog pores. Lightweight, oil-free formulas are ideal, as they provide the necessary protection without adding extra oil to the skin. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often well-tolerated by oily skin types.

Is SPF 50 more greasy?

Not necessarily. The SPF number indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, not the greasiness of the formula. Many SPF 50 products are available in lightweight, oil-free formulations suitable for oily skin. The key is to read the product descriptions and choose sunscreens designed for your skin type.

What to avoid in sunscreen for oily skin?

For oily skin, it’s best to avoid sunscreens with heavy, occlusive ingredients that can trap oil and lead to breakouts. Ingredients like coconut oil, mineral oil, and certain silicones (like dimethicone) can be too heavy for oily skin. Instead, opt for sunscreens with a matte finish or those specifically formulated for oily or acne-prone skin to ensure your skin stays protected without feeling greasy.