Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin: 7 Expert Picks [2025]

Discover the best sunscreen for oily skin and wave goodbye to greasy shine and clogged pores. With these top picks, you’ll be ready for clear, protected skin!

Introduction

If your face turns into a greasy frying pan by lunchtime, welcome to the club. Having oily skin is already a full-time job, and finding a sunscreen that doesn’t make it worse? That’s next-level frustration. Most sunscreens feel heavy, greasy, and ready to turn your pores into a breakout buffet.

But here’s the thing – sun protection doesn’t have to come with shine. The best sunscreen for oily skin keeps your face matte, protected, and comfortably fresh, even on the hottest days. No stickiness. No clogged pores. No “why does my face look like glass?” moments.

We’ve tested and rounded up the 7 best sunscreens for oily skin that actually do what they promise: protect, control oil, and leave your skin feeling light and clean. Say goodbye to greasy shine and hello to the perfect matte glow.

The Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin: At a glance

• Best Matte Finish: Brinton UV Doux Gel SPF 50 PA+++ – Controls shine and feels lightweight.
• Best Lightweight Formula: Cetaphil Light Gel SPF 50+ – Absorbs quickly, gentle on sensitive skin.
• Best Overall Protection: Minimalist SPF 50 – Broad protection without greasiness.
• Best Drugstore Option: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 50 – Affordable and reliable matte finish.
• Best Hydrating: The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic SPF 50 P++++ – Hydrates while protecting.
• Best Dewy Glow: Dot & Key Watermelon & Hyaluronic SPF 50 – Refreshing with a subtle glow.
• Best Daily Use: Plum Green Tea SPF 35 P+++ – Comfortable, non-greasy for all-day wear.

1 – Brinton Healthcare UV Doux Silicone Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 PA+++

Summary

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)

If your skin gets shiny faster than a non-stick pan, this sunscreen will save you. The Brinton UV Doux Gel is light, spreads easily, and feels more like a primer than a heavy cream. You still get strong SPF 50 protection without the greasy mess. The matte finish is a blessing for oily skin, and it doesn’t sting if you’ve got sensitive skin either. Plus, it’s water-resistant – so you can sweat, and it still holds up. No wonder people call it one of the best sunscreens for oily skin.

Pros

• Gel texture that feels weightless.
• SPF 50 PA+++ protects skin daily.
• Matte finish that lasts long.
• Paraben-free, gentle on skin.

Cons

• Takes time to absorb fully.
• Needs reapplication in harsh sun.

Active Ingredients

• Zinc Oxide: Protects from harmful UV rays.
• Octinoxate: Blocks harmful UVB rays.
• Silicone: Leaves a smooth, matte finish.
• Vitamin E: Protects and nourishes skin.

Skin Type

• Best for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.
• Suitable for combination skin as well.

An Amazon Reviewer Says:
“Love this stuff, been using it for years. Goes on smoothly, dries super quickly, with no greasy mess. I’ve got oily skin, and honestly, this is the best sunscreen for oily skin I’ve found.”

Shop on Amazon 💄 Grab it on Nykaa

2 – Cetaphil Very High Protection Sunscreen Light Gel SPF 50+

Summary

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)

Most sunscreens make oily skin worse. They’re thick, greasy, and feel like you’ve smeared butter on your face. This one is different. The Cetaphil Light Gel is extremely thin, sinks in quickly, and provides SPF 50+ protection without a heavy feel. This feels more like a light moisturizer: it has no strong smell, no burning, and no clogged pores. Honestly, if you’ve hated sunscreen before, this might change your mind. It’s easily one of the best sunscreens for oily skin you can grab right now.

Pros

• SPF 50+ protects against sun rays
• Gel texture spreads easily, dries fast
• No scent, safe for sensitive skin
• Stays on during swimming sessions

Cons

• May feel dry on dehydrated skin
• A small tube means it runs out fast

Active Ingredients

• Zinc Oxide: A Mineral that blocks UVA and UVB rays.
• Octocrylene: Keeps the sunscreen stable in heat.
• Titanium Dioxide: Another mineral that stops UV damage.
• Vitamin E: Gives skin extra protection.

Skin Type

• Works best on oily and acne-prone skin.
• Safe for sensitive and normal skin types.

An Amazon Reviewer Says:
“Love this stuff, been using it for years. Goes on smoothly, dries super quickly, with no greasy mess. I’ve got oily skin, and honestly, this is the best sunscreen for oily skin I’ve found.”

🛒 Get it on Amazon 💄 Grab it on Nykaa

3 – Minimalist Sunscreen SPF 50 with Silymarin

Summary

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)

This sunscreen is simple but does the job. SPF 50 keeps your skin safe in the sun, and it doesn’t feel heavy. The cream sinks in fast and doesn’t leave a shiny, greasy layer. It has Silymarin too, which helps fight damage and slows aging. No parabens, no perfume. If your skin gets oily or breaks out, this might be the best sunscreen for oily skin to try.

Pros

• Strong sun protection with SPF 50
• Feels light once it sets completely
• Silymarin protects your skin daily
• No harsh chemicals or fragrance

Cons

• A bit heavier than gel sunscreens
• Needs reapplication outdoors

Active Ingredients

• Silymarin: Antioxidant, keeps skin calm.
• Zinc Oxide: Blocks UV rays.
• Titanium Dioxide: Extra sun protection.
• Vitamin E: Keeps skin soft and smooth.

Skin Type

• Works for all, but oily and acne-prone skin will like it most.

An Amazon Reviewer Says:
“Love this stuff, been using it for years. Goes on smoothly, dries super quickly, with no greasy mess. I’ve got oily skin, and honestly, this is the best sunscreen for oily skin I’ve found.”

🛒 Get it on Amazon 💄 Grab it on Nykaa

4 – Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50

Summary

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)

This sunscreen has been around for ages, and it’s still a solid pick. With SPF 50, you’re safe from both UVA and UVB rays. The texture feels light – no heavy, sticky layer. The “Dry-Touch” claim isn’t just hype either; it really does leave a matte finish. If your skin gets oily fast, that’s a big win. It also holds up while you sweat or swim for about an hour. Nothing complicated here, just simple, dependable sun protection. Honestly, one of the best sunscreens for oily skin if you want something easy that just does its job.

Pros

• Strong sun protection with SPF 50
• Matte finish stops greasy forehead
• Lasts through sweat and swimming
• Absorbs fast and feels light

Cons

• May leave a white cast initially
• May feel sticky in humidity

Active Ingredients

• Avobenzone: Protects from UVA rays.
• Homosalate: Blocks UVB rays.
• Octocrylene: Makes it last longer.
• Oxybenzone: Extra UVB filter (but can bother very sensitive skin).

Skin Type

• Pretty much all skin types. Works best if your skin leans oily or shiny.

An Amazon Reviewer Says:
“Love this stuff, been using it for years. Goes on smoothly, dries super quickly, with no greasy mess. I’ve got oily skin, and honestly, this is the best sunscreen for oily skin I’ve found.”

🛒 Get it on Amazon 💄 Grab it on Nykaa

5 – The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen SPF 50 P++++

Summary

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)

This sunscreen does exactly what you need without overcomplicating things. SPF 50 with PA++++ protects from UVA and UVB rays. The texture is light, blends quickly, and leaves no white cast. Hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated and fresh. Perfect for daily use, especially for oily or combination skin. Honestly, it feels like a winter body cream – protective but soft.

Pros

• Strong SPF 50 with UVA protection
• Feels light, never greasy
• Hydration boost from hyaluronic acid
• No white cast on skin

Cons

• Takes a little longer to settle in
• Makeup needs blending on top

Active Ingredients

• Hyaluronic Acid: Keeps skin plump with moisture.
• Zinc Oxide: Blocks UVA + UVB.
• Titanium Dioxide: Extra mineral shield.
• Vitamin E: Protects skin from damage.

Skin Type

• Works for most, especially oily and combination skin.

An Amazon Reviewer Says:
“Love this stuff, been using it for years. Goes on smoothly, dries super quickly, with no greasy mess. I’ve got oily skin, and honestly, this is the best sunscreen for oily skin I’ve found.”

🛒 Get it on Amazon 💄 Grab it on Nykaa

6 – Dot & Key Watermelon & Hyaluronic Acid Sunscreen SPF 50

Summary

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)

This sunscreen feels fresh immediately. SPF 50 gives solid protection, and watermelon extract keeps skin hydrated. Hyaluronic acid makes skin soft and bouncy instead of tight. Light, fast-absorbing, and non-greasy. Works great for oily or shiny skin. Truly one of the best sunscreens for oily skin.

Pros

• SPF 50, safe sun protection.
• Light, non-sticky texture.
• Hydrating – watermelon + hyaluronic acid.
• Fun watermelon scent.

Cons

• The small bottle runs out quickly.
• No tint option – goes on clear.

Active Ingredients

• Watermelon Extract: Hydrates and protects with antioxidants.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Pulls in moisture, keeps skin plump.
• Zinc Oxide: Mineral UV blocker.
• Titanium Dioxide: Extra sun defense.

Skin Type

• Good for most skin types, especially oily and combination skin.

An Amazon Reviewer Says:
“Love this stuff, been using it for years. Goes on smoothly, dries super quickly, with no greasy mess. I’ve got oily skin, and honestly, this is the best sunscreen for oily skin I’ve found.”

🛒 Get it on Amazon 💄 Grab it on Nykaa

7 – Plum Green Tea Day-Light Sunscreen SPF 35 P+++

Summary

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)

Plum Green Tea Day-Light SPF 35 feels light and non-greasy, perfect if your skin gets oily or breaks out. It shields from UVA and UVB while calming your skin with green tea extract. Absorbs fast, no sticky or heavy feel. With SPF 35 and PA+++, it gives solid daily protection. Truly the best sunscreen for oily skin, keeping your face fresh and comfortable all day.

Pros

• SPF 35 protects from sun damage
• PA+++ gives extra UVA coverage
• Green tea naturally calms skin
• Hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated

Cons

• Leaves a minimal layer occasionally
• No glow but solid protection

Active Ingredients

• Green Tea Extract: Antioxidants that soothe and protect
• Zinc Oxide: Blocks UVA and UVB rays
• Titanium Dioxide: Adds extra sun protection
• Hyaluronic Acid: Keeps skin hydrated and plump

Skin Type

• Ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin.

An Amazon Reviewer Says:
“Love this stuff, been using it for years. Goes on smoothly, dries super quickly, with no greasy mess. I’ve got oily skin, and honestly, this is the best sunscreen for oily skin I’ve found.”

🛒 Get it on Amazon 💄 Grab it on Nykaa

Why Oily Skin Needs Special Sunscreen Care

Oily skin means your oil glands work too hard. They pump out way more sebum than you need. Some oil helps protect your skin. But too much clogs pores and causes breakouts. Plus, you get that greasy shine nobody wants.

Regular sunscreens make the problem worse. Thick creams sit on top of your skin like a heavy blanket. They trap oil and dirt underneath. Your pores get clogged. Your T-zone turns shiny by noon. Your makeup slides off before lunch.

That’s why you need the right sunscreen. The best sunscreen for oily skin feels light and soaks in fast. It won’t clog your pores or add extra oil. These formulas control shine and create a smooth base. You get sun protection without the greasy mess.

What To Look For When Picking The Best Sunscreen For Oily Skin

If you’ve got oily skin, you know the struggle. Most sunscreens feel heavy, make your face greasy, or clog your pores. Some even lead to breakouts, which is the last thing anyone wants. The truth is, the best sunscreen for oily skin should feel light, protect well, and keep your face fresh all day. Here’s what to look for before you buy.

1. Non-Comedogenic Formula

First things first – check the label for “non-comedogenic.” This simply means the sunscreen won’t block your pores. Blocked pores usually turn into pimples or blackheads, which oily skin is already prone to. A non-comedogenic formula feels light, sits better on the skin, and helps prevent extra breakouts. If your skin tends to act up, this small detail can make a big difference.

2. Oil-Free Formula

The last thing oily skin needs is more oil. Skip heavy, greasy creams and choose sunscreens labeled “oil-free.” They sink into your skin quickly, leaving it fresh instead of shiny. Bonus—they keep that sweaty, sticky look away even on humid days. Think of it as sun care that doesn’t add extra baggage.

3. Matte Finish

Shiny skin can ruin even the best morning routine. If you’re constantly blotting your face, a matte sunscreen is your best friend. It controls oil throughout the day, keeps your skin balanced, and gives you that clean, smooth finish. Basically, protection and oil-control rolled into one.

4. SPF and PA Level

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) shows how well a sunscreen guards against UVB rays. Aim for SPF 30 to 50 for daily use.

PA tells you how well a sunscreen blocks harmful UVA rays from the sun:

• PA+ blocks a little (for about 4 hours)
• PA++ blocks more (for about 8 hours)
• PA+++ blocks a lot (for about 12 hours)

For the best sun protection, pick a sunscreen that has both SPF and PA ratings.

5. Lightweight Texture

Nobody likes sunscreen that feels like it’s glued on. Heavy creams just sit there and make oily skin worse. That’s why lightweight gels or milky lotions work better. They spread easily, sink in fast, and don’t leave that suffocating layer. The best part? You’ll forget you’re even wearing them.

6. Water-Based or Gel-Based:

If thick creams always leave you shiny, water or gel-based sunscreens are a game-changer. They feel cool when you put them on, then disappear without a trace. No extra grease, no clogged pores, just clean protection. For oily skin, they’re about as close to perfect as it gets.

7. Skin-Loving Ingredients

When choosing sunscreen for oily skin, check what’s in it. Look for stuff that’s good for the skin. Try to find sunscreens with:

• Niacinamide
• Titanium dioxide
• Zinc oxide
• Green tea
• Cica
• Hyaluronic acid

These ingredients sit on your skin and block the sun’s rays, which is good if your skin is oily or sensitive.

8. New-Gen Filters

Old sunscreens can feel heavy and irritating. New-gen filters are lighter, gentler, and give longer-lasting protection. If your skin gets sensitive or red easily, these are worth trying. They’re designed to be safer and more comfortable for daily wear.

How to Apply The Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin 

If you’ve got oily skin, you know the drill. By midday, your face is shiny, makeup starts slipping, and you’re left wondering if your sunscreen is making things worse. The truth? It doesn’t have to. The best sunscreen for oily skin can actually keep you protected without that greasy feel – if you apply it the right way.

Step 1 – Give Your Face a Fresh Start

Wash your face first. Sounds obvious, but it really makes a difference. Think of it like painting – you wouldn’t slap paint on a dusty wall, right? Same idea. Grab a gentle face wash for oily skin, clear off the sweat and oil, and then your sunscreen actually sticks and protects the way it should.

Step 2 – Use A Toner

Next, grab a toner. A lot of people skip this step, but it really makes a difference. A good toner tightens up pores and helps balance out oil. That means less shine and fewer chances of clogged pores later. Go for one with calming or oil-control ingredients (like witch hazel or niacinamide). It’s a quick step that preps your skin so your sunscreen doesn’t just sit on top.

Step 3 – Apply Sunscreen, Here We Come

Now for the star of the show. Squeeze out about a nickel-sized amount and spread it evenly over your face and neck. Use upward strokes and don’t forget sneaky spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and even around your eyes (yes, the sun ages those areas too). Apply it at least 15 minutes before heading out – that way it has time to settle in and actually do its job.

Step 4 – Let It Get Absorbed

This step is all about patience. Give your sunscreen a few minutes to fully absorb before you pile on makeup or moisturizer. Otherwise, things can get messy—clumps, greasiness, or that weird patchy look. Once it’s absorbed, your skin should feel smooth, not sticky. Plus, your makeup will glide on so much better.

Step 5 – Apply Again When Needed

Here’s the part most people ignore: sunscreen isn’t a “once-a-day” deal. It fades. If you’re out in the sun, sweating, or even just going about your day, you need to reapply every two hours. It sounds annoying, but your future skin will thank you. Keep a small tube or stick in your bag for easy touch-ups. 

Pro tip: if your skin looks greasy, blot with a tissue first, then reapply. That way, the new layer can stick properly instead of sliding around.

Pro Tips

1. Powder It Down

Even the best sunscreen for oily skin makes your face look greasy. Ugh, right? Grab some translucent powder and dust it on lightly. It kills the shine fast. Your makeup won’t slide around anymore. You’ll look fresh instead of oily. Don’t pile it on, though – that looks weird and fake.

2. Blot, Don’t Pile On

By midday, oily skin loves to show up uninvited. Instead of piling more stuff on your face, just blot. Oil sheets are perfect, but honestly, even a plain tissue works if you’re stuck. Dab, don’t wipe. It’ll soak up shine without messing up your sunscreen layer.

3. Layer the Smart Way

Here’s the thing: sunscreen only works if it’s in the right spot. It should always go on last in your skincare routine. Cleanser, serums, moisturizer – let them do their thing first. Then sunscreen, then makeup if you wear it. That way, every product actually works like it’s supposed to.

When to Expect Results: Timeline for Oily Skin Benefits 

Right Away (First Use)

• Your shine calms down in just a few hours.
• Skin feels way less greasy with a nice matte look.
• Makeup actually stays put instead of sliding around.
• Sun protection starts working the second you put it on.

First Couple Weeks (1–2 Weeks)

• That awful midday oil slick is no longer as bad.
• Skin feels smoother since you’re protecting it daily.
• Way less redness and irritation from sun damage.
• Your makeup game gets seriously better all day long.

Long Term (1–3 Months)

• Your oil glands stop producing excessive oil due to sun damage.
• Pores don’t look as huge and gross anymore.
• Dark spots start fading away for good.
• Your skin just feels normal and balanced again.

What to Watch For

• How long do you actually stay shine-free each day?
• Whether it plays nicely with your moisturizer and makeup.
• If you’re breaking out more or way less than before.
• How much longer does your foundation actually last now?

Real talk: Don’t expect magic overnight. Sunscreen works slowly – stick with it and your skin will thank you later.

Why Trust Our Website

You know the struggle. Most sunscreens turn oily skin into a shiny, greasy mess. We get it completely. That’s exactly why we put every product through real tests. We check what’s inside, see how they actually work on oily and breakout-prone skin, and dig through honest reviews from people who used them daily for weeks.

We only pick sunscreens that truly deliver. They protect your skin without clogging your pores. They keep shine under control and feel light enough that you’ll actually want to use them every single day. When we say something is the best sunscreen for oily skin, it has earned that title. It passed our tough tests for how it feels, how well it protects, and whether it’s worth your money. No fancy marketing tricks. Just real recommendations that work with your skin instead of fighting against it.

Final Thoughts

The best sunscreen for oily skin helps, but it’s not everything. Good food and water matter too. Keep routines simple. Do them daily, and the skin improves.

Mornings suck when you’re rushing. Gel sunscreens work great here. They’re light, go on fast, and don’t leave you looking greasy. Thirty seconds max and you’re protected.

Some days, your skin still gets shiny. That’s normal. Keep blotting papers around or dust on some powder. Works like a charm.

Skin deals with pollution, stress, and weather daily. Sun damage makes everything worse. Find something that works and use it consistently. That’s what actually makes the difference.

Protection beats perfection every time. Consistency matters more than brand names or fancy ingredients.