13 Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin: Dermatologist and Editor Favorites for 2025
Discover editor-tested and dermatologist-recommended sunscreens that keep oily skin matte, protected, and breakout-free.
13 Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin (Tested & Reviewed in 2025)
Finding a sunscreen that works for oily skin can feel impossible. Heavy creams, greasy finishes, and breakouts are all too common. Thankfully, our expert editors and dermatologists have tested dozens of the latest SPFs to curate the top picks for keeping oily and acne-prone skin shine-free, protected, and comfortable all year round. From stick formats you can swipe on the go, to ultra-lightweight milks and mattifying lotions, the options below include something for every need—and every skin tone.
All recommendations are grounded in hands-on testing and dermatologist advice, so you can truly trust that these sunscreens fit oily skin’s unique needs.
Why Is Sunscreen for Oily Skin Different?
Unlike sunscreens geared for dry skin, sunscreens for oily skin use lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas—a must to prevent excess shine and clogged pores. The best options are:
- Oil-free or low-oil: Limits greasy residue on the skin, keeping makeup in place.
- Matte or natural finish: Controls shine and reduces slick spots throughout the day.
- Non-comedogenic: Designed not to clog pores or exacerbate breakouts.
- Blendable and sheer: Won’t leave a white cast, even on deeper skin tones.
- Lightweight, layer-friendly: Works well under makeup and for frequent reapplication.
Many also include soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal or banana flower extract, calming inflammation frequent in oily and acne-prone skin.
Editor and Dermatologist-Tested Sunscreens for Oily Skin
Below you’ll find the top 13 sunscreen picks for oily skin, broken down by type, key ingredients, SPF rating, and pros and cons based on tester and dermatologist reviews.
1. First Aid Beauty Hydrating Sunscreen Milk SPF 45
- Type: Chemical (Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene)
- SPF: 45
- Key Ingredients: Colloidal Oatmeal, Soybean Oil
- Oil-Free: No
Pros:
- Ultra-thin, milky texture blends quickly
- Soothes breakouts and irritated skin with colloidal oatmeal
Cons:
- Contains oil, may feel heavy for extremely oily skin
Editor review: “My oily-prone, easily irritated skin loves the lightweight feel and calming benefits. It doesn’t look or feel greasy once rubbed in, and inflamed breakouts panicked less. Great for redness-prone oily skin.”
2. Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
- Type: Chemical (Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene)
- SPF: 50+
- Key Ingredients: Triethylhexanoin (moisturizer), Licorice Root Extract
- Oil-Free: No (contains mineral and castor oil)
Pros:
- Glides on effortlessly, perfect for reapplication
- Matte, clear finish suits all skin tones
- Mess-free, no mirror needed
Cons:
- Can feel greasy when applied over makeup
Dermatologist tip: Use every 2–3 hours, especially on high points (nose, forehead) for maximum protection.
What others are reading
3. Cocokind Silk SPF Mineral and Chemical Sunscreen SPF 30
- Type: Hybrid—Chemical (Homosalate) & Mineral (Zinc Oxide)
- SPF: 30
- Key Ingredients: Banana Flower Extract
- Oil-Free: Yes
Pros:
- Sheer, lightweight finish—no white cast
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Moisturizing enough to replace morning moisturizer for oily skin
Cons:
- Formula may be runny for some users
User review: “Makes my skin look dewy, goes on super smooth, no irritation for sensitive or acne-prone skin.”
What to Look For in a Sunscreen for Oily Skin
- SPF 30 or higher: Meets dermatologist-recommended minimum for daily protection.
- Ingredients: Look for anti-inflammatory (colloidal oatmeal, banana flower extract), mattifying (silica, starch), and non-comedogenic compounds.
- Texture: Watery gels, milks, or mattifying fluids absorb quickly without leaving residue.
- Finish: Matte or natural, not greasy.
- Broad spectrum: Protects against both UVB (burning) and UVA (ageing) rays.
- Blend compatibility: Should be invisible on all skin tones and work well under makeup.
Common Types of Sunscreen for Oily Skin
| Type | Pros | Cons | Common Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical | Lightweight, sheer finish | May trigger sensitivity for reactive skin | Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene |
| Mineral | Gentle, rarely irritates | Can leave a white cast, especially on deeper tones | Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide |
| Hybrid | Best of both worlds—sheer yet gentle | May vary widely in finish; choose carefully | Homosalate + Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide |
| Stick | Great for targeted or on-the-go application | Risk of greasy feeling if applied over makeup | Mixed, often includes moisturizing agents |
Expert Tips for Wearing Sunscreen With Oily Skin
- Apply to clean, dry skin for maximum absorption and less pilling under makeup.
- Layer after moisturizer (if using), then allow 2–3 minutes to absorb before makeup.
- Blot excess oil, then reapply: Use tissue or blotting paper before topping up sunscreen.
- Choose mattifying sprays or sticks for touch-ups: These keep shine minimized between applications.
- Reapply every 2 hours outdoors; every 3–4 indoors (especially near windows).
- Don’t skip SPF on cloudy days or indoors: UV rays penetrate windows and can still trigger oil production and irritation.
Top Ingredients That Benefit Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
- Colloidal oatmeal: Calms inflammation, redness, and swelling.
- Banana flower extract: Moisturizes lightly, controls excess oil.
- Licorice root extract: Soothes irritation, brightens uneven skin tone.
- Non-comedogenic emollients: (e.g., caprylic/capric triglyceride) soften skin without clogging pores.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can people with oily skin skip moisturizer if their sunscreen is hydrating?
A: If your sunscreen is sufficiently hydrating (includes emollients and soothing extracts), oily skin types can often skip a separate moisturizer—especially in warmer seasons.
Q: Are mineral sunscreens better for oily, acne-prone skin?
A: Mineral sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are very well-tolerated by sensitive and acne-prone skin, but some formulas can leave a white cast or feel heavy. The newest hybrid options combine gentle minerals with lightweight chemicals for a matte finish that suits oily skin.
Q: What should I avoid in sunscreen ingredients for oily skin?
A: Steer clear of heavy oils (coconut oil, mineral oil), occlusive waxes (unless they’re in a stick format for targeted use), and fragrances if you’re breakout-prone. These may exacerbate oiliness or irritation.
Q: How often should I reapply sunscreen if I have oily skin and wear makeup?
A: Every 2–3 hours, even over makeup. Opt for stick or spray formats for easy reapplication without disturbing your look.
Q: Will sunscreen make me break out or increase oiliness?
A: Look for formulas labeled non-comedogenic and oil-free. Many newer SPFs for oily skin won’t clog pores or trigger more shine, and contain calming ingredients. Always patch-test if you’re highly reactive.
Editor’s Take: Why You Shouldn’t Skip SPF—Even With Oily Skin
Skipping broad spectrum SPF because of excess oil, shine, or sensitivity is an outdated practice. Today’s best sunscreens are formulated for oily skin’s needs, helping soothe, protect, and mattify skin while defending against sun damage. Consistent SPF application:
- Reduces risk of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.
- Prevents post-acne dark spots from worsening.
- Keeps skin barrier healthy (especially with calming ingredients).
- Improves overall skin appearance—fewer breakouts and less redness.
Our editors and dermatologists agree: No skin type should skip sunscreen. With dozens of innovative, lightweight formulas available, oily skin has never had more options for shine-free, invisible, protective coverage.
Quick Table: Editor-Approved Sunscreens for Oily Skin (2025)
| Brand & Name | Type | SPF | Finish | Oil-Free | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Aid Beauty Hydrating Sunscreen Milk | Chemical | 45 | Lightweight, blendable | No | Inflamed, breakout-prone oily skin |
| Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick | Chemical | 50+ | Clear, matte | No | On-the-go, all skin tones |
| Cocokind Silk SPF Mineral & Chemical | Hybrid | 30 | Sheer, dewy | Yes | Sensitive, acne-prone oily skin |
Final Thought: Find Your Shine-Free SPF Match
Don’t let oily skin stop you from daily sun protection. From milky fluids and mattifying sticks to hybrid SPFs that combine the best benefits of mineral and chemical filters, there’s a formula for everyone. Test, patch, and see what fits your face, lifestyle, and makeup, and enjoy protected, healthy, and beautifully shine-free skin all year round.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g25858453/sunscreen-for-oily-skin/
- https://incidecoder.com/products/cosmo-broad-spectrum-spf50-vitamin-c-sunscreen-lotion
- https://www.aol.com/only-sunscreens-ll-oily-skin-182500749.html
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g65025142/these-elf-skin-products-will-make-sunscreen-your-fave-step-in-your-beauty-routinetrust/
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/beauty/new-spf-uae
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