Top 10 Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin (Dermatologist Recommended)

Claim victory over your oily skin this summer! Find your next holy grail sunscreen with our dermatologist-recommended list of the best sun protection for oily skin.

Top 10 Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin in 2021 (Dermatologist Recommended)

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Find the Perfect Sunscreen for your Complexion

The benefits of putting on daily sunscreen is not exactly news but people with oily or acne-prone skin are still hesitant to use sunscreens because they’re afraid that it can cause or aggravate their condition.

Normal sunscreen formulations are indeed thick and add a greasy layer on the skin, so this belief is not unwarranted.

For people like us with oily skin, choosing the right sunscreen is (really) easier said than done; especially with thousands of products out there and with our health on the line.

What you need from your sunscreen goes beyond sun protection–it should complement your skin and adjust to your skin’s needs at every turn.

Luckily, sunscreens have come a long way from making you look like a geisha on the street!

The key is choosing a sunscreen that not only has solid sun protection but also has the right formulation that suits your needs and skin type. One that makes you look good and feel great.[1]

In this article, we’ll tackle the type of sunscreen products those with oily and acne-prone skin types should be choosing, as well as a list of the highest-rated and best-performing ones out in the market today.

In the end, we want you to be an educated consumer and make an informed choice when choosing the perfect sunscreen.

Ask the Expert: What to look for in sunscreens for oily & acne-prone skin

BY SAMANTHA WELCH, ESTHETICIAN

A great sunscreen should also blend flawlessly into your skin for invisible protection.

When looking for sunscreens for oily and acne-prone skin, there are a few key factors to consider:

  1. Non-comedogenic – Look for sunscreens labeled as non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog your pores or cause breakouts. Non-comedogenicity should apply to all your products as well, from moisturizers to primers and foundations. It only takes one bad product to break you out.[2]
  2. Oil-free – Similarly, opt for oil-free sunscreens that won't add to the shine and oiliness of your skin.
  3. Lightweight – Choose lightweight formulas that won't feel heavy or greasy on your skin.
  4. Broad-spectrum – Make sure the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, protecting against UVA and UVB rays.
  5. SPF 30 or higher – Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to ensure adequate protection from the sun's harmful rays.
  6. Matte finish – Consider sunscreens that offer a matte finish, which can help control oil production, reduce shine, and provide a smooth base for makeup.

Regarding which sunscreen is ultimately better–once all the boxes above are ticked, it all comes down to its compatibility with your skin.

Finding the right sunscreen for oily and acne-prone skin can be challenging, but with these tips in mind, you can help protect your skin from sun damage without causing additional breakouts or congestion.

Make sure to check the Best for line below to see which one is most suited for your skin condition.

Related: The Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Oily Skin

Esthetician's Choice:
Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin

We’ve reviewed the best-selling at-home laser hair removal devices today, but included only the ones that cut above the rest in our list. These are based on the latest technology, performance, product quality, specifications, value for money, consumer reviews, and our experience with laser hair removal.

For a more comprehensive analysis, please click on the ‘Read Review‘ button on the comparison chart and refer to the main table at the top of the post.

Here are our top picks for the best at home laser hair removal machines:

Obagi Medical – Sun Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Matte Sunscreen Lotion

Obagi Medical – Sun Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Matte Sunscreen Lotion

Best for: Oily skin, Under makeup

Our Review

As mentioned in the earlier video, this is a mineral-based product with a super matte finish that’s perfect for oily skin. It has a silky and lightweight consistency which makes it easy to apply (unlike most sunscreens). I’m quite surprised though that for an anti-aging brand, it has very few anti-aging ingredients (less than Paula’s Choice!). That said, I still love that it’s a solid SPF 50 and has a formulation that doubles as a primer. It melts into the skin so it can be worn flawlessly under makeup. Make sure to pair with the best non comedogenic primers to avoid any breakouts.

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50 Sunscreen
  • Actives: 10.5% Zinc Oxide, 7.5% Octinoxate – deflects solar radiation, absorbs UV, and disperses it as heat

Additional Benefits:

  • Great formulation – can double as a primer and worn flawlessly under makeup.
  • Brand prestige & endorsement – Widely used by dermatologists, surgeons, and physicians around the globe.
  • PABA-free – PABA (Para-Aminobenzoic acid) is used in many sunscreen formulations that can cause allergic dermatitis rash and in the worst cases deepen pigment in the skin, causing an even greater risk for skin cancer.
  • Fragrance-free.
  • Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended for Daily Use.

Best for: All Skin types especially Oily and Acne-prone Skin, Daily Use, Under makeup (doubles as a primer)

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Hybrid – physical sunblock + chemical sunscreen

Consistency & Finish: Non-greasy, Sheer, Silky (almost immediately blends into the skin), Matte finish

Cons: On the high-end scale, the Obagi line is primarily used by physicians and dermatologists. Only a few antioxidants, which is quite a letdown as it comes from a well-known anti-aging brand. Not water-resistant. Great for daily use, but not intense outdoor activities.

About the Brand: Obagi Medical is one of the leading skincare providers for dermatologists, plastic surgeons, medical clinics, and other skincare professionals worldwide. Obagi products specialize in anti-aging, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and other skin issues. Whilst some of their products are available only via prescription (and come with a “system” or regimen), their sunscreen line is made available OTC and for individual use.


MDSolarSciences™ - Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen

MDSolarSciences™ – Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen

Best for: Oily & Sensitive skin

Our Review

MDSolarSciences™’ flagship product is not actually this mineral crème, but their Daily Anti-Aging Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB SPF 30. It’s an all-in-one protection/repair moisturizer-sunscreen-and-anti-aging lotion that has powerful collagen peptides, niacinamide, and antioxidants that help reduce the signs of UV damage like sun spots, fine lines, redness. It’s a lightweight lotion ideal for all skin types. Now while this is a great product, the reason we’ve ultimately chosen the mineral crème is because of its matte finish and quick bendability. These two key benefits are essential in sunscreens for oily skin.

The mineral crème is also heavily favored by makeup artists because it feels more like a primer rather than a sunscreen. It’s non-comedogenic as well, so it won’t clog your pores even if you have acne-prone skin.

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50 Sunscreen
  • Actives: 2% Titanium Dioxide / 17% Zinc Oxide – Non-nano zinc, meaning its small enough to blend beautifully but bigger than a nano-particle so it stays on the surface of the skin

Additional Benefits:

  • Antioxidants to help skin repair – Vitamin C, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract
  • Non-Comedogenic – won’t clog pores. Ideal for Acne-prone skin.
  • Water-resistant – up to 80 minutes.
  • Hypoallergenic. Oil-Free. Paraben-Free. Fragrance-Free. Gluten-Free. – Ideal for Very Sensitive Skin. Gentle enough for kids 6 months and older.
  • Animal Testing Free. EcoCert® Certified. Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended.

Best for: Normal to Oily Skin including Acne/Rosacea Prone (we’re not recommending dry skin based on experience), Sensitive Skin

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Physical sunblock

Consistency & Finish: Lightweight, Creamy, Primer-like/Silicone, Matte finish

Cons: If you have dry patches of skin, it’s going to accentuate them like crazy. It doesn’t moisturize dry areas even though it has a silky consistency, so you’ll have to make sure to exfoliate well and moisturize before using. If you pack it on, it has a tendency to feel heavy because of its silicone, primer-like texture and can leave a white cast. Make sure to only apply a thin layer to avoid this. It’s water-resistant, which is good for outdoor activities but can be tenacious when washing it off. You might need a cleansing brush or an oil cleanser to break it up.

About the Brand: MDSolarSciences™ is created by upper east side dermatologic oncologist Robert J. Friedman, M.D., M.Sc. (Med.) who is a pioneer in the skincare – melanoma field. Together with the Scientific Advisory Council (SAC), the brand specializes in an innovative line of sun care and skin repair products that vary from mineral or physical sunscreens to chemical sunscreens. The difference is their patented formulation that doesn’t use any of the controversial chemicals that can be damaging to coral reefs and are not good for the environment.


Dermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories – Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50

Dermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories – Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50

Best for: Oily, Dehydrated, Acne-prone, & Sensitive skin

Our Review

The DCL Sheer Sunscreen has UVA blockers and UVB absorption for solid sun protection. In the same vein; it has hydration, antioxidants, and anti-aging ingredients as well that help erase the signs of skin damage and protect it from further environmental harm. This is one of the leading products that offer dual anti-aging and sun protection.[3]

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50 Sunscreen
  • 10.5% Zinc Oxide, 7.5% Octinoxate – Ultra-micronized zinc oxide that scatters, absorbs, and deflects UVA light

Additional Benefits:

  • Strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier – by supplying the skin with its essential fatty acids
  • Non-Comedogenic – won’t clog pores.
  • Hypoallergenic. Paraben-free.
  • An innovative form of Vitamin C – helps evens out skin tone
  • Coenzyme Q10 & Grapeseed – Strong antioxidant protection
  • Sodium Hyaluronate – boosts moisture and helps maintain hydration
  • Vitamin B5 – moisturizes, conditions, and calms the skin
  • Green Tea & Aloe Vera – soothes inflamed or irritated skin
  • Advanced moisturizing complex derived from Sugar Cane and Maize – Prevents skin dehydration

Best for: All skin types including oily skin and acne-prone skin

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Hybrid – physical sunblock + chemical sunscreen

Consistency & Finish: Lightweight, fast-absorbing, translucent, immaculate matte finish that primes skin for makeup

Cons: While that does seem like a lot of added benefits, on the flip side it also opens the possibility of irritation for those with very sensitive skin.

About the Brand: Since the 1980s, Dermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories (DCL) has been developing cutting-edge formulations using only the highest-grade ingredients to treat skin and hair issues. (DCL is one of the first companies to use glycolic acid in their products.)

They have a proprietary approach to skincare called Total Skin™, which is focused on nourishing, strengthening, and protecting the key components of the skin: the stratum corneum, the epidermis, the dermal-epidermal junction, and the dermis. This is why their products are holistic and well-rounded in their functions; from replenishing, repairing, clarifying, and refining the skin while preventing future damage for long-term results. This same philosophy in skincare is reflected in their sunscreen.


Physician's Choice - PCA Skin Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45

Physician's Choice – PCA Skin Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45

Best for: Acne-prone, Irritated & sensitive skin; On acne-medication; Dry & flaky skin.

Our Review

Their sunscreen formulation is very impressive. It’s one of the fastest to blend, as it absorbs quickly and goes on weightlessly. It’s perfect even under light makeup and from our experience, doesn’t leave a white cast even in flash photography. It’s also recommended for sensitive skin and can be used even after peeling.

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 45 Sunscreen
  • Actives: 9.0% Zinc Oxide / 7.5% Octinoxate – provides broad-spectrum UV protection by reflecting, scattering and absorbing UV rays; absorbs and filters UV rays.

Additional Benefits:

  • Antioxidants that protect skin from UV damage – Silybin, Caffeine
  • Free of synthetic dyes and fragrances, mineral oil, petrolatum, lanolin, and phthalates. – Designed to deliver results without irritation. Ideal for Sensitive Skin.
  • No Animal Testing.
  • Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended for Daily Use.

Best for: Oily, Acne-prone, and Sensitive Skin; Daily Use

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Hybrid – physical sunblock + chemical sunscreen

Consistency & Finish: Ultra-sheer, quick-absorbing, weightless finish

Cons: Not water-resistant. Has a tendency to pill if piled on without giving it time to absorb properly.

About the Brand: For over 20 years, PCA Skin has been well-renowned for its chemical peels and professional treatments. They’ve since then expanded to clinically advanced daily skincare, originally distributed only to physicians and licensed medical professionals. Their formulations are results-oriented and only use ingredients that are uniquely compatible with the skin. Their line of products is especially effective for treating varied skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and fine lines and wrinkles.


TIZO 2 - Non-Tinted Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40

TIZO 2 – Non-Tinted Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40

Best for: Oily & Sensitive skin, Post-procedures

Our Review

Another dermatologist-recommended sunscreen is known for its sensitive skin formulation and cosmetically elegant matte finish. It’s gentle enough even for post-procedure use, which makes it a popular go-to sunscreen for clinics.

Their proprietary particle size technology also creates a base that helps foundation and makeup glide flawlessly.

This formulation is free of oils, fragrances, dyes, preservatives, and chemical sunscreen filters. This lessens any chance of irritation even to the most sensitive of skins.

We’ve chosen the non-tinted version because the shade of the tinted versions we’ve found is not universally flattering. The TIZO3 in our opinion can be too dark for those with fair skin and the TIZO 2 tinted can be too white. (You can purchase both and blend but who has time for this really.) When you apply this version, there’s a slight white cast on the initial application that fades into transparency once blended.

Key Sun Protection:

  • Physical Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 40 Sunscreen
  • Actives: Titanium Dioxide 8%, Zinc Oxide 3.8%

Additional Benefits:

  • Cosmetically elegant – their proprietary particle size technology creates a smooth, flawless base that turns into a silky matte finish; amazing under makeup
  • Gentle enough for very sensitive skin and post-procedures like peels and lasers
  • Photostable – this means it won’t degrade under sunlight unlike most sunscreens
  • Free from preservatives, oils, fragrances, dyes, and chemical sunscreen filters

Best for: Oily and Sensitive Skin, Post-procedure like peels and lasers

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Physical sunblock

Consistency & Finish: Cosmetically elegant, feels like an expensive primer instead of a sunscreen; Velvety, matte finish

Cons: Not water-resistant. Alternatively, the TIZO3 Tinted Facial Mineral Sunscreen is water-resistant for 80 minutes.


Jan Marini - Skin Research Marini Physical Protectant SPF 45

Jan Marini – Skin Research Marini Physical Protectant SPF 45

Best for: Oily & Sensitive skin, Rosacea

Our Review

Unlike chemical sunscreens that get absorbed by the skin, this is a gentle alternative for those who have rosacea or are sensitive to synthetic sunscreen ingredients. It uses physical filters to shield the skin from sun damage and premature aging.

Instead of the usual white cast that mineral sunscreens are notorious for, this has a sheer slight tint that works very well for fair to medium tan skin tones. Once blended, it finishes with a satin matte glow.

The formulation includes a unique dose of antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage and help fight free radicals while soothing the skin from the heat.

It’s water-resistant as well, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 45 Sunscreen
  • Actives: Titanium Dioxide 6%, Zinc Oxide 8% – use physical filters for full broad-spectrum sun protection

Additional Benefits:

  • Oil Capture System – has microscopic oil absorbing particles for additional oil control
  • Green Tea Extract & Alpha-Bisabolol – Antioxidants that provide free radical protection while soothing and calming the skin from the stress of UV and heat
  • Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)
  • Water-resistant – 80 minutes

Best for: Normal to Oily Skin, Acne-Prone Skin, Sensitive Skin concerned with irritants from chemical sunscreens, Looking for protection from free-radicals

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Physical sunblock

Consistency & Finish: Weightless, universal tint with a sheer matte finish

Cons: It’s slightly tinted but is too sheer to provide any real coverage. It's there when you apply it but blends out almost invisibly.

The tint is ideal for those with warm undertones. If you’re on the cooler side i.e. pink, you might look a bit too yellow.


Vichy - Idéal Capital Soleil SPF 60 Silkscreen Dry-Finish Sunscreen Lotion for Face & Body with Antioxidants

Vichy – Idéal Capital Soleil SPF 60 Silkscreen Dry-Finish Sunscreen Lotion for Face & Body with Antioxidants

Best for: Oily & Sensitive skin

Our Review

This oil-free sunscreen has a solid SPF of 45 in combination with effective UVA & UVB filters for broad-spectrum defense against damaging sun rays.

Vichy is one of the leading brands in European pharmacies on anti-aging. This sunscreen doesn’t fall short of anti-aging antioxidants aimed at the face and body. It has white grape polyphenol and vitamin E to help neutralize free radical damage and protect skin at the cellular level.

The texture is non-sticky, non-greasy, and leaves no whitening residue. It has a cooling application with a silky, dry-touch finish that absorbs quickly into the face and body.

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 45 Sunscreen
  • Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 15%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 5%, Oxybenzone 6%

Additional Benefits:

  • Vitamin E & White Grape Extract – Powerful antioxidants that protect at a cellular level to keep the skin healthier and younger
  • Oil-free. Non-comedogenic. Tested under dermatological control.
  • Allergy-tested. Paraben-free. PABA-free. Suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Water-resistant.

Best for: All Skin Types especially Oily, Acne-prone skin, and Sensitive skin

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Chemical sunscreen

Consistency & Finish: Dry finish lotion for face & body, Non-sticky, Fast absorbing

Cons: Not as photostable, meaning it gradually deteriorates under sun exposure.


Replenix - UltiMATTE Perfection SPF 50+

Replenix – UltiMATTE Perfection SPF 50+

Best for: Oily & Acne-prone skin, Anti-aging, Pores, fine lines & wrinkles

Our Review

This sunscreen (or should I say BB cream?) has a triple crown that protects, repairs, and conceal imperfections. If you’re looking for an all-in-one product to put on and you’re out the door, this is it.

The Replenix UltiMATTE is a tinted physical sunscreen that provides sheer coverage to help give a healthy touch of color to the skin. The universal tint enhances the skin tone and prevents any white cast.

It also doubles as an all-day, oil control make-up base to keep shine at bay.

Additionally, it’s also loaded with skin-repairing antioxidants to help repair the skin and minimize pores and fine lines. Ingredients like vitamin C and green tea are proven to protect the skin against environmental damage.

Its hydrating ingredients also manage to keep up with the high amount of zinc oxide that can cause the skin to feel dry and tight. There’s a mix of silicones in there are well so it can function as a primer of sorts.

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50 Sunscreen
  • Actives: 16.2% Micronized Zinc Oxide

Additional Benefits:

  • Universal Tinted Technology – to help conceal imperfections, prevents any white cast, suited for most skin tones
  • Ceramide 2, Phospholipids – deliver gentle moisturization and mattifying oil control
  • Green tea polyphenols, Resveratrol, Biotin, Vitamin C, Emblica, Centella Asiatica, Ascorbic Acid, CoQ10 – Antioxidant enriched that helps minimize fine lines, pores, and wrinkles
  • Non-Comedogenic – won’t clog pores. Ideal for Acne-prone skin.
  • Gluten, Paraben, Oil, Chemical, Alcohol, and Fragrance-free.

Best for: Oily skin, Acne-prone skin, All Skin types especially post-procedure, melasma, and sensitive skin; Minimizing pores & fine lines, Anti-aging

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Physical sunblock

Consistency & Finish: Sheer, tinted (light coverage), initially creamy texture that blends out to a feathery, silky matte finish

Cons: Not water-resistant. The universal tint has a slight tinge of tan and may not work on all skin types (from our experience, although the label says otherwise)


COUI Skincare – Moisturizing SPF 30 Facial Sunscreen Lotion

COUI Skincare – Moisturizing SPF 30 Facial Sunscreen Lotion

Best for: Oily & Acne-prone skin, Anti-aging, Pores, fine lines & wrinkles

Our Review

A moisturizing facial sunscreen that gives proper skin hydration while providing excellent UVA & UVB protection.[4]

It comes in a non-greasy, highly absorbent light cream that’s ideal for oily complexions.

It’s supplemented as well with vitamin E, plant extracts, and antioxidants that have anti-irritating properties to prevent any redness and peeling due to prolonged sun exposure.

Made in the USA, FDA-approved, and cruelty-free.

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 30 Sunscreen
  • Actives: Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 5%, Zinc Oxide 7% (Z-Cote) – An innovative and transparent form of microfine zinc oxide that is invisible when applied to the skin

Additional Benefits:

  • Japanese Green Tea Extract (Camellia oleifera) – a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce redness, peeling, and skin irritations
  • Vitamin E – protects the skin from free radical damage
  • Ginseng (Panax ginseng), Gingko Biloba, and Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Extracts – condition and revitalizes sluggish skin
  • Cruelty-free

Best for: Oily and Sensitive skin, Cruelty-free

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Hybrid – physical sunblock + chemical sunscreen

Consistency & Finish: Non-greasy, Lightweight cream, Smooth matte finish

Cons: Not water-resistant. Also not labeled as non-comedogenic, so best to avoid if you have acne-prone skin.


La Roche-Posay - Anthelios 60 Cooling Water-Lotion Sunscreen for Face & Body, with Antioxidants

La Roche-Posay – Anthelios 60 Cooling Water-Lotion Sunscreen for Face & Body, with Antioxidants

Best for: Oily & Sensitive skin

Our Review

One of the best-selling sunscreens in the world, the Anthelios line from the European brand La Roche-Posay has won over 60 beauty awards since its launch. The line is developed especially for sensitive skin, with multiple textures and unique formulas to cater to different skin types.

This Water-Lotion sunscreen has high-performing sun protection and super-absorbent properties. It goes on like water and cools the skin, unlike most chemical sunscreens which dissipate heat. This is extremely important for oily skin because thick lotions and heat can aggravate oil production.

La Roche-Posay’s sunscreens are very cosmetically elegant and sink into the skin without leaving any white residue.

Awards: 2015 TotalBeauty.com Editor’s Pick – Sunscreen Winner

Key Sun Protection:

  • Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 60 Sunscreen
  • Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10.72%, Octisalate 3.21%, Octocrylene 6%, Oxybenzone 3.86%

Additional Benefits:

  • Cell-Ox Shield™ XL antioxidant technology – multi-patented technology that allows UV filters to work with antioxidants to protect the skin from free radicals
  • Water-resistant – 80 minutes
  • For face & body use
  • Oil-free. Non-Comedogenic. Dermatologist tested.
  • Fragrance-free. Paraben-free. Allergy tested.

Best for: Oily and Sensitive skin, All skin types

Type + Consistency & Finish + Cons + About the Brand

Type of Sunscreen: Chemical sunscreen

Consistency & Finish: Water-like lotion upon skin contact, Cooling effect, Light and breathable

Cons: Still comes with most of the cons of chemical sunscreens, including photosensitivity and chemicals that can harm coral reefs.


Product Comparison Table:
The Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin

Brand / Product Name:Product Image:Key Sun Protection:Best for (Skin Type & Condition):Our Verdict:
Obagi Medical – Sun Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Matte Sunscreen LotionObagi Medical – Sun Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Matte Sunscreen LotionBroad Spectrum SPF 50. Hybrid sunscreen: 10.5% Zinc Oxide, 7.5% OctinoxateAll Skin types especially Oily and Acne-prone SkinBest sunscreen for oily skin under makeupRead Review
MDSolarSciences™ – Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 50 SunscreenMDSolarSciences™ - Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 50 SunscreenBroad Spectrum SPF 50. Physical sunblock: 2% Titanium Dioxide, 17% Zinc Oxide.All Skin Types especially Oily Sensitive, & Acne-prone skin, RosaceaBest mineral sunscreen for oily & sensitive skinRead Review
Dermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories – Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50Dermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories – Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50Broad Spectrum SPF 50. Hybrid sunscreen: 0.5% Zinc Oxide, 7.5% Octinoxate.All skin types including Oily Skin & Dehydrated SkinBest sunscreen for oily & dehydrated skin; Best sunscreen for oily & sensitive skinRead Review
Physicians Choice – PCA Skin Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45Physician's Choice - PCA Skin Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45Broad Spectrum SPF 45. Hybrid sunscreen: 9.0% Zinc Oxide, 7.5% Octinoxate.Oily, Acne-prone, and Sensitive Skin; Daily UseBest sunscreen for sensitive, acne-prone, & oily skinRead Review
TIZO 2 – Non-Tinted Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40TIZO 2 - Non-Tinted Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40Broad Spectrum SPF 40. Physical sunblock: Titanium Dioxide 8%, Zinc Oxide 3.8%Oily and Sensitive Skin, Post-procedure like peels and lasersBest face sunscreen for oily, sensitive skinRead Review
Jan Marini – Skin Research Marini Physical Protectant SPF 45Jan Marini - Skin Research Marini Physical Protectant SPF 45Broad Spectrum SPF 45. Physical sunblock: Titanium Dioxide 6%, Zinc Oxide 8%.Normal to Oily Skin, Acne-Prone Skin, Sensitive Skin concerned with irritants from chemical sunscreens, Looking for protection from free-radicalsBest physical sunblock for oily skinRead Review
Vichy – Idéal Capital Soleil SPF 45 Silkscreen Dry-Finish Sunscreen Lotion for Face & Body with AntioxidantsVichy - Idéal Capital Soleil SPF 60 Silkscreen Dry-Finish Sunscreen Lotion for Face & Body with AntioxidantsBroad Spectrum SPF 45. Chemical sunscreen: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 15%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 5%, Oxybenzone 6%.All Skin Types especially Oily, Acne-prone skin, and Sensitive skin; Outdoor ActivitiesBest drugstore sunscreen for oily faceRead Review
Replenix – UltiMATTE Perfection SPF 50+Replenix - UltiMATTE Perfection SPF 50+Broad Spectrum SPF 50. Physical sunblock: 16.2% Micronized Zinc OxideOily skin, Acne-prone skin, All Skin types especially post-procedure, melasma, and sensitive skin; Minimizing pores & fine lines, Anti-agingBest tinted sunscreen for oily skinRead Review
COUI Skincare – Moisturizing SPF 30 Facial Sunscreen LotionCOUI Skincare – Moisturizing SPF 30 Facial Sunscreen LotionBroad Spectrum SPF 30. Hybrid sunscreen: Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 5%, Zinc Oxide 7% (Z-Cote)Oily and Sensitive skin, Cruelty-freeBest sunscreen lotion for oily skinRead Review
La Roche-Posay – Anthelios Cooling Water-Lotion Sunscreen, Body & Face Sunscreen with AntioxidantsLa Roche-Posay - Anthelios 60 Cooling Water-Lotion Sunscreen for Face & Body, with AntioxidantsBroad Spectrum SPF 60. Chemical sunscreen: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10.72%, Octisalate 3.21%, Octocrylene 6%, Oxybenzone 3.86%Oily and Sensitive skin, All skin typesBest drugstore sunscreen for oily faceRead Review

References:

  1. Paul R. Tanner, Sunscreen Product Formulation, Dermatologic Clinics, Volume 24, Issue 1, 2006, Pages 53-62, ISSN 0733-8635, ISBN 9781416034629, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.det.2005.09.002. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0733863505001087)
  2. Loesch H, Kaplan DL. Pitfalls in Sunscreen Application. Arch Dermatol. 1994;130(5):665–666. doi:10.1001/archderm.1994.01690050135029
  3. Shanbhag S, Nayak A, Narayan R, Nayak UY. Anti-aging and Sunscreens: Paradigm Shift in Cosmetics. Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin. 2019 Aug;9(3):348-359. DOI: 10.15171/apb.2019.042. PMID: 31592127; PMCID: PMC6773941.
  4. Kaczvinsky, J., V. Bertucci and Juian-juian L. Fu. “Practical application of genomics to the development of a topical cosmetic anti-aging regimen.” Skin therapy letter 16 7 (2011): 4-7 .Kaczvinsky JR, Bertucci V, Fu JJ. Practical application of genomics to the development of a topical cosmetic anti-aging regimen. Skin Therapy Lett. 2011 Jul-Aug;16(7):4-7. PMID: 21833464.
  5. By, S. and Lines, P. Anthelios | Sunscreen | La Roche-Posay.
  6. Couiskincare.com.
  7. Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov. (2019). DailyMed – MDSOLARSCIENCES SPF 50 MINERAL- titanium dioxide and zinc oxide cream. [Source]
  8. DCL Skincare. Professional Skin Care Products for Healthy Skin – DCL Skincare.
  9. Draelos, Z. D. (2011). The multifunctional value of sunscreen-containing cosmetics. Skin Therapy Lett, 16(7), 1-3.
  10. Drugs.com. (2019). SUN SHIELD BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50 MATTE SUNSCREEN OTC Brands – Drugs.com. [Source]
  11. Jan Marini Skin Research. Jan Marini Skin Research: Professional Science-Backed Skincare.
  12. MDSolarSciences™. MDSolarSciences – Great skin through science.
  13. Obagi Medical Products. Home.
  14. Pcaskin.com. Skin Care Products.
  15. TIZO – Age Defying Fusion. TIZO – Age Defying Fusion.
  16. Tanner, P. R. (2006). Sunscreen product formulation. Dermatologic clinics, 24(1), 53-62. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.det.2005.09.002
  17. Topixpharm.com. Replenix.
  18. Vichyusa.com. Vichy Skin Care | Vichy Laboratories.

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Samantha Welch
Samantha Welch is an esthetician and professional makeup artist. She co-founded Healthy Beautiful to create a space where she can share her experiences and channel her love for all things beauty. Samantha believes that through education and resources, everyone can make informed choices that can change their lives.