12 best sunscreens for oily skin, according to dermatologists and GLAMOUR editors
The best sunscreens for oily skin will not only protect you from the sun’s rays, but also act like skincare to minimise shine and acne flare-ups. The thought of adding a greasy product into your carefully calibrated regimen may send you running for cover if you're already an acne-prone girlie — but trust me when I tell you that there are tonnes of face SPF formulas out there that balance protection with an oil-free texture.
“Oily skin usually presents itself with more visible pores and greater sebum (oil) production — which can lead to clogged pores, and the development of blemishes and acne," explains Daniel Isaacs, director of research at Medik8. With this in mind, oily skin types will want to swap the slimy, pore-clogging pastes for lightweight gel and water-based formulas.
Not sure where to start? Don't worry — I've spoken with dozens of dermatologists to find out what they recommend for oily-prone skin types, and have spent countless hours over the past few years reviewing all of the top options on the market. Plus, I've even tapped up GLAMOUR editors and testers who have oily skin to share their personal sunscreen recommendations. Below, you'll find all of our top tried and tested picks.
How we tested sunscreens for oily skin
To help you find the best options to add to your skincare routine — the ones with a matte finish that won’t contribute to excess shine — we asked dermatologists what they recommend to their patients. We also polled our expert editorial team for their favourites, plus tapped our team of testers to try out more than two dozen of the most promising formulas over the course of a year and a half. Our final list of the best SPF for oily skin includes only the cream of the crop — the ones that were readily absorbed, left a natural finish, wore well throughout the day (i.e., didn’t leave us shiny and sticky after an hour or two), and effectively blocked UV rays. We frequently update this story as we continue to test sunscreens throughout the year.
What type of sunscreen is best for oily skin?
Similar to your go-to shine-quenchers — salicylic acid or retinoids, for example — the best types of sunscreens for oily skin can help with oil control, minimising the excess shine that standard broad-spectrum sunscreens leave behind.
When shopping, start by seeking out mineral sunscreens when possible. Since they’re formulated with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide rather than chemical components that soak into skin, they’re generally less irritating, says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Mineral sunscreens also tend to be fragrance-free, noncomedogenic, and noninflammatory,” she says, making them ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
If you’re concerned about a white cast, there are some chemical sunscreens that fit the bill. Just look for buzzwords like noncomedogenic, which indicates it won’t clog pores, says Deeptej Singh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Sandia Dermatology in Albuquerque, who notes oil-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic are other terms to look for on the labels of sunscreen for oily skin.
Does SPF level matter when shopping for a sunscreen for oily skin?
In short, yes, as it does with a body sunscreen – says Pooja Rambhia MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm in New Jersey. “I always recommend SPF 30 or higher for all my patients, but it’s especially crucial for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Patients, particularly those with acne, often develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and adequate sun protection is essential to prevent darkening of these spots. I recommend a tinted sunscreen as the iron oxides in tinted formulations provide additional protection against visible light that can worsen pigmentation.”
What ingredients should you avoid in sunscreen if you have oily skin?
“It’s important to avoid comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil, isopropyl myristate, or heavy occlusives [moisturisers] that may trap oil and debris in pores,” says Hope Mitchell MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology. She also recommends being cautious with fragrances, alcohols, and certain chemical filters (like oxybenzone) that may cause irritation in some individuals.
Can sunscreen make your face oily?
While some sunscreens — especially emollient-heavy formulas meant to trap in moisture — can make oily skin feel greasier, it’s important to look for sunscreens labeled “dry touch,” “matte finish,” or “oil free,” says Dr. Mitchell. “Using a mattifying daily sunscreen can actually help improve the appearance and longevity of makeup too,” she adds.
Meet the experts
- Daniel Isaacs, director of research at Medik8.
- Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
- Deeptej Singh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Sandia Dermatology in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- Debra Ibrahim, DO, co-owner of Aesthetica Medspa in New Jersey.
- Marisa Garshick, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in NYC.
- Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Idriss Dermatology in NYC.
- Pooja Rambhia MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm in New Jersey.
- Hope Mitchell MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology.
Ahead, the very best sunscreens for oily skin, according to GLAMOUR editors and derms.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Oil Control Fluid SPF50+
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Mexoryl 400 — an exclusive UV filter.
- SPF level: 50+.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: Totally weightless and invisible; Sweat-resistant; Mattifying and completely non-greasy.
- Cons: It contains alcohol.
This daily facial sunscreen not only provides impressive SPF 50+ protection, but also boasts a clever filter that protects your skin from damage from the longest UVA rays. Formulated specifically for oily and acne-prone skin types, it absorbs seamlessly into the skin thanks to its lightweight fluid texture and invisible finish — mopping up any excess sebum and minimising shine along the way.
What our tester says: "If you suffer from breakouts and find that wearing face SPFs tends to make matters worse, make a beeline for this bestselling product from La Roche-Posay," says Fiona Embleton, "It's got a lovely mattifying effect, and the invisible, non-greasy finish is really pleasing on the skin — meaning you'll actually enjoy reapplying it.”
Coco & Eve Daily Watergel SPF 50+
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and vitamin E.
- SPF level: 50+.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: No white cast; Lightweight formula; Really hydrating; Works well under makeup.
- Cons: Finish might be a little too dewy for some.
A lightweight, oil-free sunscreen is definitely something we can all get on board with. Not only does it use hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and vitamin E to nourish your skin and give it a radiant glow, it also defends you against UVB and UVA rays while helping prevent the creation of newer fine lines and wrinkles. Take that, sunburns.
What our tester says: “Packed with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and antioxidant-rich vitamin E, this lightweight gel delivers hydration and protection in one effortless step," says Senior European Commerce Editor, Sophie Cockett. "As someone who loves a dewy, fresh-faced look, I’m all about products that enhance that glow – and Coco & Eve’s Water Gel nails the brief. It leaves my skin plump, radiant, and subtly luminous. Bonus: it packs SPF 50 protection, so it’s doing double duty.”
Medik8 Advanced Day Ultimate Protect SPF50+
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: The DNA repair enzyme photolyase, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, squalane..
- SPF level: 50+.
- Oil-free? No — but it's non-comedogenic.
- Pros: Lightweight consistency; Lessens the appearance of fine lines; Actively repairing formula.
- Cons: Pretty pricey.
Designed to boost your free radical defences and your natural collagen production, this non-comedogenic facial sunscreen for mature skin is an ideal addition to your skincare routine as the final piece of the puzzle. Seriously hydrating, it's infused with nourishing squalane and hydrating multi-weight hyaluronic acid that delivers an additional daily dose of moisture to the complexion.
What our tester says: According to beauty contributor, Denise Primbet, you can expect to be left with a glowing complexion. “I've used this SPF for a whole year now and it's genuinely one of the most convenient, effective and hydrating formulas around,” she says. "The consistency is non-greasy, it doesn't leave a white cast, and it works very well underneath makeup — a win.”
Supergoop! Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint SPF50
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, homosalate, and octisalate.
- SPF level: 50.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: Light, buildable coverage; Smooths skin; Wide range of shades.
- Cons: May take a few coats to cover acne and blemishes.
Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Idriss Dermatology in NYC, says this fragrance-free sunscreen is a “standout option” for those with oily or sensitive skin. Shop more of the best sunscreens for sensitive skin here.
“The brand offers 14 shades to perfectly match your skin tone with light, buildable coverage and a natural finish,” she says. The product is also a daily go-to for multiple GLAMOUR editors who tested Supergoop’s Protect(tint) formula.
What our testers say: “It provides my ideal trifecta: coverage but not too much, no orange hands (key), and a little hint of dewy glow,” says senior editor Stephanie McNeal. “The colour match is literal perfection,” adds senior manager of social media Jazmin Gathers, who recommends setting it with a little powder.
Shop more of the best tinted sunscreens this way.
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Eucerin Sun Protection Oil Control Dry Touch Sun Gel-Cream Ultra-Light
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Glycyrrhetinic Acid, L-Carnitine, and Licochalcone A.
- SPF level: 50+.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: Really long-wearing; Great base for foundation; Dermatologist-recommended for acne.
- Cons: Could be a little drying for some.
Finally — a suitable option as an everyday sunscreen for those of us with particularly oily and blemish-prone skin. With its ultra-light and non-greasy texture, it helps control excess oil and provides an instantly dry and shine-free matte base for up to 8 hours at a time.
Alongside defending the skin from broad-spectrum UVA and UVB rays with SPF 50+, the innovative gel cream is formulated with antioxidant-rich licochalcone A to visibly soothe redness, glycyrrhetinic acid to help brighten and nourish the skin, and sebum-regulating L-Carnitine that'll absorb any excess oil. It's a seriously impressive product!
Kosas DreamBeam Sunscreen SPF30 - Sunlit
- Type: Mineral.
- Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, ceramides, and peptides.
- SPF level: 40.
- Oil-free? No.
- Pros: Hydrating and brightening; Lightly tinted; Smoothing.
- Cons: Slightly tacky formula.
We’ve spent the better part of the past year testing this sunscreen, evaluating just how well it works across a variety of temperatures, climates, and environments. It’s aced just about every test, solidifying its spot as an editor-favourite, especially for wearing underneath makeup.
It’s basically a skin care product and SPF hybrid. It has a peachy-pink tint that lightly colour corrects, but it also contains enough moisturising ingredients (like hyaluronic acid) to plump and smooth. Of course, you get that coveted SPF too—40, to be exact. It’s lightweight and quick to absorb, so it layers beautifully under makeup should you choose to do so.
What our testers say: Danielle Sinay, GLAMOUR’s former associate beauty editor, says it’s a “dream for oily yet highly sensitive skin,” while commerce director Brie Schwartz praises it as the perfect solution for those who prefer to skip out on foundation. GLAMOUR’s Kilkeary says, “It’s never pilled in the times I’ve used it over the past year, and it always plays well with my makeup.”
Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF50
- Type: Mineral.
- Key ingredients: Zinc oxide.
- SPF level: 50.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: Lightweight; Water and sweat-resistant; Also protects against blue light and environmental aggressors.
- Cons: Has quite a thick consistency.
Another favourite of Dr. Garshick, this lightweight sunscreen is powered by zinc oxide and iron oxide, plus is made with a patented Enviroscreen technology to protect against UVA and UVB, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation, she says. It also boasts antioxidants to help keep the skin hydrated.
What our testers say: GLAMOUR contributor Hanna Lustig uses this tinted product daily and loves the way the pigments adapt to your specific skin tone for the perfect match. “The formula is hydrating enough to glide over dry patches and problem areas, but within minutes it dries down to a semi-matte finish with surprisingly substantial coverage,” she says.
GLAMOUR’s Calle uses it as a foundation base. “It comes out as a white liquid — but once you blend it, you’ll get the shade and coverage you’re looking for. Plus, it leaves a lovely dewy finish.”
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Cream SPF50+
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate.
- SPF level: 50+.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: Widely available drugstore brand; Fast-absorbing; Water-resistant for 80 minutes.
- Cons: Can leave a bit of a white cast if not fully blended in.
Dr. Garshick generally recommends lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreens like this “dry touch” formula, which sinks in instantly, creating a blurred, matte finish. “[These sunscreens] create a smooth base without leaving a greasy or sticky residue,” says Dr. Garshick, noting it’s a great daily option for layering under makeup or tinted moisturiser.
What our tester says: GLAMOUR senior analyst Loneeja Talukdar, who has sensitive skin, raved about this SPF during testing. “It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and provides great sun protection without leaving any white cast,” she said. “My skin feels smooth and matte all day, making it perfect for everyday use.”
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e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable! Whoa Glow SPF30
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene 8.0, homosalate, meadowfoam seed, aloe.
- SPF level: 35.
- Oil-free? No — contains meadowfoam seed oil.
- Pros: Doubles as a primer for makeup; Completely clear gel formula.
- Cons: Small tube.
Unlike your average lotion SPF, this affordable pick is a clear, lightweight gel sunscreen. It spreads easily and absorbs almost instantly, so even though the bottle is small, a little bit goes a long way. Because of this, it’s also a great everyday pick for the face. Our tester says it feels a lot like an oil at first, but once it dries, it doesn’t leave skin greasy at all.
What our tester says: GLAMOUR’s Calle, who has combination skin, tells us the consistency is perfect for layering under makeup. And even though the tube is very small (perfect for popping in your cosmetics case), a little bit goes a long way, extending the life and overall value.
INNISFREE Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30
- Type: Mineral.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, squalane, and cica
- SPF level: 30.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: Soothing ingredients; Colour corrects redness and dark spots; Nice dewy finish.
- Cons: May not be matte enough for some.
This pick is one of the top Korean sunscreens we rely on over and over again. It has a slight green tint, which allows it to colour correct redness and neutralise uneven tone. The best part? It makes your skin look radiant and soft, but never shiny.
What our tester says: “I have combination skin and I sometimes get red around my nose and cheeks. The green (though it’s more like jade colour) diminishes any redness. But, you do have to rub it in pretty well to avoid any white cast since it’s a thick consistency,” says GLAMOUR’s Calle. She ranks this among her favourite sunscreens because of its “glowy finish.”
Murad Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Vitamin C, D, E, and F, and chia seed.
- SPF level: 50.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: Totally transparent formula; Rich in antioxidants; Strengthens your skin barrier.
- Cons: Some might find it a little too greasy.
This formula is completely clear — like, invisible. It comes straight out of the tube as a transparent gel, making it a game-changing formula for POC skin. Plus, this sunscreen is like a skin treatment and SPF combined, featuring nourishing omegas to strengthen the skin barrier, vitamin C to brighten, and antioxidants to fight free radicals (which are atoms that damage your cells, break down collagen and might even result in blemishes, fine lines or dark spots).
What our tester says: As soon as she tried a sample of this SPF, GLAMOUR Commerce Contributor, Humeara Mohamed, was instantly hooked. “This SPF feels just like the Benefit Porefessional Primer — giving a delicious demi-matte base for later makeup application," she says. “I'm utterly obsessed with it, and was relishing every single last drop of that teeny sample.”
Hello Sunday The Matte One Sebum Control Fluid SPF 50
- Type: Chemical.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C.
- SPF level: 50.
- Oil-free? Yes.
- Pros: Long-wearing; Lightweight formula; Great for priming.
- Cons: Some reviewers say it can pill under makeup.
What's not to love? Designed to keep your pores clear, this SPF is ideal for those oily and acne-prone people who usually skip sunscreen in case it breaks them out. There's no chance of that happening here — thanks to the formula's non-comedogenic formula of oil-zapping and mattifying silica, and soothing CBD extract.
The Matte One also protects against the likes of blue light, infrared and pollution, all without drying out your skin and leaving it feeling parched. Instead, you can expect fully protected, hydrated, matte-looking skin.
After something else? Shop the best scalp sunscreens and the best sunscreen sprays.
