Finding the best sunscreen for oily skin is a big challenge because there are many issues related to sunscreens, such as making the skin more greasy or shiny, causing breakouts or acne, feeling heavy or suffocating on the skin, leaving a white cast, and having no mattifying effect.

Worldwide, dermatologists recommend that using sunscreen is very important to protect ourselves from premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and diseases like skin cancer.

Do you know what the good news is? There are sunscreens available that solve all these challenges and provide us with an excellent sunscreen effect.

Today, in this blog, we will find out which sunscreens are best for oily skin.

What is the Difference Between Sunscreen and Sunblock?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology,

"Both sunscreen and sunblock protect the skin, but their ingredients and mechanisms differ."

Why is Sunscreen Important for Oily Skin?

People with oily skin often believe their skin's natural oils provide protection, but dermatologists clarify that sebum does not block UV rays. Sunscreen protects your skin from

• UVA (ageing) rays

• UVB (burning) rays

• Preventing dark spots

• Acne marks

• Worsening of oiliness due to sun damage.

As the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) mentions:

"Daily sunscreen use prevents photoaging and hyperpigmentation, regardless of skin type."

How to Select the Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin?

1. Oil-free / non-comedogenic

• Won't clog pores or cause breakouts.

2. Lightweight texture

• Gel-based, fluid, or water-based formulas absorb quickly without heaviness.

3. Matte or semi-matte finish

• Controls shine and give a smooth, oil-free look.

4. Broad-spectrum protection (SPF 30 or higher)

• Shields against both UVA and UVB rays effectively.

5. Fast absorbing & non-greasy

• Feels comfortable throughout the day.

6. Fragrance-free (or minimal fragrance)

• Reduces the risk of irritation, especially for acne-prone oily skin.

7. Dermatologically tested and approved

• Proven safe for sensitive and oily skin types.

8. Water resistant (if needed)

• Stays longer if you sweat or during outdoor activities.

9. Contains beneficial ingredients

• Like niacinamide (oil control + soothing), green tea extract (antioxidant), or silica (oil absorbing).

10. No white cast (for daily use)

• Especially if using mineral sunscreen, choose micronized or tinted versions to avoid visible residue.

5 Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin This Summer

Here is the list of the top best sunscreens for oily skin:

1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Dry Touch Gel-Cream SPF 50+

• Origin: It is a French-made product, manufactured by L'Oréal S.A. in France.

• Qualities:

• • SPF 50+ broad-spectrum

  • Matte, non-greasy finish

  • Tested on sensitive skin

  • Dry touch gel-cream texture

  • Ideal for extremely oily and acne-prone skin.

  • Absorbs instantly without leaving residue or clogging pores.

  • Lightweight

Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, Dermatologist, Mount Sinai Hospital:

"La Roche-Posay sunscreens are ideal for sensitive oily skin due to their lightweight formulations."

2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 50

• Origin: It is an American brand (Neutrogena, USA)

• Qualities:

  • Dry-touch technology

  • Globally recommended for oily skin

  • Provides a sheer, shine-free finish

  • Strong sun protection.

  • SPF 50 broad-spectrum

  • Water-resistant

  • Oil-free, non-comedogenic

As Dr. Shereene Idriss, Board Certified Dermatologist, mentioned,

"Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch is great for oily skin as it feels like you're wearing nothing."

3. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

 

• Origin: An American-made sunscreen.

• Qualities:

  • Formulated with niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

  • Lightweight sunscreen

  • Protecting from UVA/UVB

  • Reduce redness and oiliness

  • With SPF 46

  • Oil-free and non-comedogenic

  • Fragrance-free

In the words of Dr. Muneeb Shah, Board Certified Dermatologist,

"EltaMD UV Clear is my top recommendation for oily, acne-prone patients needing daily SPF."

4. Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream SPF 50+

• Origin: It is manufactured by Beiersdorf AG in Germany, under the German‑based dermo‑cosmetic Eucerin brand.

• Qualities:

• Oil control technology

• Non-comedogenic,

• long-lasting matte finish

• lightweight gel-cream texture

• No white cast

• Water-resistant

• SPF 50+

Dr. Sam Bunting, Cosmetic Dermatologist, said,

"Eucerin's Oil Control SPF 50+ combines L-Carnitine to reduce oil production and mattify the skin effectively throughout the day."

5. Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30

• Origin: Manufactured in the USA

• Qualities:

  • SPF 30 broad-spectrum

  • Oil-absorbing micro pearl technology

  • Lightweight

  • Fragrance-free

  • Hydrating the skin barrier

  • An all-in-one solution for oily and sensitive skin.

Dr. Michelle Henry, Clinical Instructor of Dermatology, Weill Cornell, said,

"Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing SPF is ideal for oily, sensitive skin needing hydration without shine."

Final Thoughts:

Choosing the right sunscreen can transform oily skin management. These 5 dermatologist-approved sunscreens not only protect your skin from harsh summer rays but also control oil production and prevent breakouts. If you want to buy the best sunscreens in Pakistan, you can buy from the MedoGet online store. Remember, consistent sunscreen use is your best anti-ageing treatment. 

If you need any skincare consultation or want to treat your skin problems effectively, you can consult with the best dermatologists near you by visiting Apka Muaalij. For quick consultation, dial 042 3238 0001, and book your doctor's appointment through Apka Muaalij, the best telehealth platform in Pakistan.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can oily skin skip sunscreen if staying indoors?

No, UVA rays penetrate windows, so sunscreen is essential even indoors.

Should I reapply sunscreen if I have oily skin?

Yes, reapply every 2-3 hours, especially if outdoors.

Do gel sunscreens work better for oily skin?

Yes, they provide a lightweight, non-greasy feel suitable for oily skin.

Should I apply sunscreen before or after moisturizing?

Sunscreen should be applied after moisturiser as the last skincare step.

Can I use sunscreen at night?

No, sunscreen is only needed during the day for UV protection.

Does sunscreen reduce oil production?

Some mattifying sunscreens help control excess oil.