For people with oily skin, choosing the right sunscreen might be challenging. Because sunscreens are generally greasy and might be heavy when applied on skin post moisturization. In such cases, skipping sunscreen is not the right option, especially when you have acne-prone skin and oily skin.
Dermatologists recommended the sunscreen should be used everyday irrespective of skin type, climatic condition, or any other case. Picking the right sunscreen might be a skeptical task, but once after you get one, it will make your skin protected from the harsh rays. Along with the protection, they also help in fading away the pigmentation, prevents breakouts, and even helps in keeping your skin fresh.
In this blog, you will know how to choose the best sunscreen for oily skin, the key ingredients to look for, their usage, and tips and tricky everything in detail.
Types of Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin Dermatologist Recommended
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Type of Sunscreen (No Brand Names) |
Texture & Feel |
Why Dermatologists Recommend It for Oily Skin |
|
Gel Sunscreen (Matte Finish) |
Lightweight, non-sticky |
Controls oil, absorbs quickly, best for acne-prone skin |
|
Water-Based Fluid Sunscreen |
Ultra-light, watery texture |
Zero greasiness, spreads easily, suitable for humid weather |
|
Silicone-Based Gel-Cream SPF |
Smooth, velvety finish |
Minimizes shine, blurs pores, ideal for daily wear |
|
Mineral Sunscreen (Zinc + Titanium) |
Slightly matte, gentle |
Good for sensitive oily skin, prevents breakouts |
|
Hybrid Sunscreen (Mineral + Chemical) |
Balanced texture |
No white cast, great protection, lightweight |
|
Oil-Control Matte Sunscreen |
Powder-matte finish |
Controls shine for 6–8 hours, suitable for very oily skin |
|
Anti-Acne Sunscreen |
Non-comedogenic, soothing |
Contains niacinamide or tea tree, reduces breakouts |
|
Sweat-Resistant Sunscreen |
Lightweight but long-wearing |
Perfect for outdoor activities and sweaty skin |
|
Tinted Sunscreen |
Matte tint, no greasiness |
Covers marks & protects, good for oily skin with pigmentation |
What Makes a Sunscreen Suitable for Oily Skin?
For people with oily skin, using sunscreen is uff because of the greasiness and stickiness in the skin post application. Here are some of the dermat recommended tips while choosing sunscreen for oily skin:
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Go for sunscreen which is light in weight - eg, oil-free and cream-free
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Get based ones or water based one’s suit best for oily skin
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No White cast formulation
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Pick them which are sweat-resistant and water-resistant.
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Pick Non-comedogenic ones that do not increase or enhance oil production.
Key Ingredients Dermatologists Recommend for Oily Skin Sunscreens
When you are picking sunscreen for oily skin, ensure to choose ingredients that prevent greasiness and irritation in the skin. Some of the ingredients to look for includes:
1. Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide - They are the physical UV blockers which even helps in providing matte look and is also non-irritating.
2. Niacinamide - Helps in controlling the excess oil secretion and reducing the larger pores size.
3. Silica / Mattifying Powders - Works on keeping the skin free from oiliness or greasiness for the whole day.
4. Green Tea Extract - Treats the inflammation in the skin and also prevents acne.
5. Salicylic Acid - Starting with a lower percentage as a beginner helps. PPrevents pores from getting clogged.
6. Hyaluronic Acid - Light-in-weight, and suits oily skin better. Hydrates the skin without being heavy on the skin.
7. Tea Tree Extract - Works on controlling the acne-causing bacteria.
Why Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable for Oily Skin
People with oily skin generally think that skin is also hydrated considering the greasiness in the skin; But the fact is, the skin is getting dehydrated more and secretes even more oiliness. So, skipping sunscreen is not a better option and they may even lead to tan, pigmentation, and even uneven skin tone.
UV rays damage skin in different ways like:
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Increasing melanin production, which automatically leads to dark spots and skin tan.
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Damages the collagen production, which leads to fine lines.
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The post acne marks will be even more pigmented which leads to darker skin.
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Dehydrates skin, since the oil production increases.
So, ensure to pick a lightweight sunscreen, which helps in controlling the oil secretion which keeps skin protected and reduces skin damages.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin?
Here are some of the dermatologist-backed tips to pick sunscreen for oily skin:
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Choose SPF 30 sunscreen, which is a perfect choice for indian skin type.
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Go with sunscreen which is gel-based, matte-based, or even water-based to avoid skin greasiness.
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Pick products which are not-comedogenic for preventing clogged pores and blackheads.
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Also get your hands on PA+++ or even PA++++ for protecting skin from UVA rays.
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Preferring mineral-based sunscreen is the best choice, especially when you have sensitive skin or acne-prone skin.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly for Oily Skin?
Sunscreen should only be used in AM routine; And here is a step-by-step routine:
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Wash your hands first, and start by cleansing skin with face wash.
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Pick the right toner and wait for a few seconds.
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When the skin is damp, apply moisturizer. Wait for 20seconds
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And then layer with a sunscreen
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Use the required amount for face and neck, considering your skin type and sunscreen consistency.
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When you are stepping out, carry sunscreen with you and reapply
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Do not rub harshly on the skin; Gently dab them
Things to correct - People with Oily Skin Make with Sunscreen
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Never go with thick creamy sunscreens
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Never use very little product, like you use concealer or foundation.
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Skipping sunscreen when stepping out
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Travelling without reapplication on heavy sunny days
Conclusion
Finding the right sunscreen might seem complicated; But with the right guidance you can easily choose one for your skin type. MAke sure to skip products which are heavy, since they might cause more shining and greasiness on the face.
Use them everyday, reapply whenever you are stepping outside, and pair up with right skincare products for balanced and glowing skin.
FAQs:
Can oily skin skip moisturizer before sunscreen?
No. Skipping moisturizer can dehydrate skin, causing it to produce more oil. Use a lightweight gel moisturizer before sunscreen.
How much sunscreen should oily skin apply?
Use the 2–3 finger rule for ideal coverage. Less sunscreen means inadequate protection and faster tanning.
Can sunscreen cause acne?
Yes—only if the formula is oily or comedogenic. Choose gel-based, oil-free, non-comedogenic options to prevent breakouts.
Should sunscreen be reapplied indoors?
Yes, if you sit near windows or use devices emitting blue light. Reapply every 4 hours indoors and every 2 hours outdoors.
Which sunscreen is best under makeup?
A matte gel or tinted sunscreen works best. It controls oil, acts like a primer, and prevents makeup from melting.