If you have oily skin, you’ve probably been guilty of this at least once: skipping sunscreen. I get it, it feels like every sunscreen out there was designed to turn your face into a greasy frying pan. Between clogged pores, shiny T-zones, and that suffocating “mask-like” layer, sunscreen often ends up being the first thing oily-skin folks cut out of their routine.
But here’s the reality check: skipping SPF is the fastest ticket to sun damage, premature aging, and pigmentation that’s way harder to treat later. And guess what? Having oily skin doesn’t mean you’re doomed to shine under the sun. The trick is choosing the right formula, lightweight, matte, and non-comedogenic, that protects without adding to the oil party happening on your face.
That’s where today’s guide comes in. After diving deep into ingredient lists, dermatologists’ advice, and plenty of product research, I’ve rounded up the best sunscreen for oily skin that feel weightless, control shine, and still give you top-notch protection. No more excuses, your skin deserves this shield.
Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin
1) Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel (SPF 50+ PA++++)
- Short take: a chemical (filter) sun-gel loaded with hydrating actives. Lovely if you like a watery, serum-like sunscreen that layers under makeup, though some oily-skin wearers do find it too dewy.
- Active filters & notable ingredients: Chemical filters such as Ethylhexyl Salicylate and Homosalate, plus broad-spectrum filters (e.g., Tinosorb-type filters listed on detailed INCI breakdowns). It also includes niacinamide, ceramide NP, centella asiatica, and a carousel of multiple hyaluronic acid derivatives (Isntree highlights several types of HA).
- Texture & finish: Lightweight, watery-gel. Absorbs quickly for many people and layers well under makeup. Finish is described as hydrating / slightly dewy, helpful for dry cheeks, but some oily-skin reviewers say it can look a touch shiny on the T-zone.
- Packaging: Squeezable tube (50 ml is common). Travel-friendly size and common in K-beauty retailers.
- Scent: Label lists no fragrance. Many reviewers say it’s effectively fragrance-free, though a few note a faint “sunscreen” scent right at application that fades quickly.
- Price: Varies by retailer: roughly $18–$20 for 50 ml, depending on retailer and region. (prices fluctuate.)
- Why pick it (who it’s best for): You want hydrate-but-protect without heaviness. You wear makeup over sunscreen. You like K-beauty textures.
- Be careful if: your skin is very oily and you want an aggressively matte finish, some users find Isntree more hydrating than mattifying.
- 🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
2) Cetaphil DermaControl Oil-Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30
- Short take: an SPF + moisturizer hybrid built for oily and sensitive skin. It’s a classic drugstore-style choice if you want oil control and simplicity.
- Active filters & standout ingredients: Active filters: Avobenzone 3%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7% (broad-spectrum chemical protection). Skin helpers: glycerin (hydration), silica / micropearl tech (absorbs surface oil), zinc and soothing extracts, formulation aimed at oil control and sensitivity.
- Texture & finish: Lightweight lotion that dries down matte for many users. Designed to reduce shine and act as a non-greasy day moisturiser. Reviewers and Cetaphil marketing both call out a “matte” finish thanks to micropearls/silica.
- Packaging: Pump/tube (4 fl oz / ~118 ml variants common in stores). Practical for daily face use and a staple in many clinics and cabinets.
- Scent: No added fragrance, Cetaphil emphasizes hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formulas. Good for sensitive skin types.
- Price: Drugstore price: often around $12–$18, depending on retailer and promotions. Example listing shows roughly $14 at some stores.
- Why pick it: You want a reliable, wallet-friendly SPF that reduces midday shine and won’t irritate sensitive skin. Great for acne-prone oily skin (many derms recommend it).
- 🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: Cetaphil DermaControl Oil-Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30
3) Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte SPF 45
- Short take: a gel sunscreen launched to be no white-cast and definitely aimed at darker skin tones. This “matte” version focuses on a shine-controlled finish with skin-loving oils and humectants.
- Active filters & standout ingredients: Active filters include Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), and Octocrylene (5%) (chemical filters listed on official labels). The formula also contains aloe leaf, shea butter, and squalane for skin comfort and moisture balance.
- Texture & finish: Gel texture marketed for a matte finish and to leave no white residue. Many users say it layers well under makeup and helps keep shine down. Some reviewers especially like it for medium-to-deeper skin tones because it avoids ashy residue.
- Packaging: Pump or tube formats are common for this lineup; the matte variant is sold in face-optimized packaging (pump bottle). Retailers list it in the face-sunscreen category.
- Scent: Brand messaging and many vetting sites list it as free from added fragrances; consumer chatter points to little or no scent.
- Price: Typically around $17–$22 (sale price or list price varies by store).
- Why pick it: You want a chemical SPF that’s made to reduce shine and avoid white cast, especially handy if you have deeper skin tones and oily skin. Dermatologists have noted it as a good, widely available option for daily use.
- 🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte SPF 45
4) Derma E Sun Protection Mineral Powder SPF 30 (brush-on)
- Short take: not a primary daily sunscreen, but a brilliant reapply option and a midday oil-control tool. This mineral brush powder is great to top off over makeup and to mop up shine without disturbing your base.
- Active filters & standout ingredients: Mineral filters: Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide in the formula (the powder uses zinc as the main block). The formula is also fortified with ceramides and vitamin E to help barrier repair and antioxidant protection.
- Texture & finish: Translucent, mattifying powder that blurs pores and soaks up oil. It’s handy for touch-ups and for people who want to reapply SPF over makeup without a greasy mess.
- Packaging: Self-depositing brush / compact that makes reapplication simple. Photo-ready for on-the-go touch-ups.
- Scent: Reported as no scent / unscented by many users and brand listings. Good for sensitive or fragrance-averse folks.
- Price: Powder formats often land around $25–$35, depending on promo and seller.
- Why pick it: You want an easy way to reapply SPF and reduce shine through the day without redoing makeup. Also great for oily skin that gets slick by lunchtime.
- 🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: Derma E Sun Protection Mineral Powder SPF 30
Perfect 👍 You want me to write about La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch SPF 60 in the same structured style as your Cetaphil example. Here’s a matching version:
5) La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch SPF 60
Short take: A dermatologist-favorite chemical sunscreen made for oily and acne-prone skin. Its oil-absorbing formula keeps shine at bay while delivering powerful broad-spectrum protection.
Active filters & standout ingredients:
- Active filters: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7%, Oxybenzone 6% (high SPF chemical protection).
- Skin helpers: Perlite + silica (oil-absorbing minerals that mattify), antioxidants for environmental defense, and a non-comedogenic, fragrance-free base suited to breakout-prone skin.
Texture & finish: A lightweight cream-gel that dries down to a true matte finish. Many reviewers note it blurs shine and helps makeup grip better. Some with drier areas may find it slightly drying, which makes it extra suitable for oily complexions.
Packaging: Squeeze tube (1.7 fl oz / ~50 ml). Compact, travel-friendly, and easy to apply evenly without over-dispensing.
Scent: Fragrance-free, which reduces risk of irritation. Like most La Roche-Posay products, it’s tested on sensitive skin.
Price: Mid-range dermatologist sunscreen: typically $20–$30 depending on retailer. Many pharmacies and derm offices stock it as a go-to for oily/acne-prone patients.
Why pick it: If you want high protection + a matte finish, this sunscreen delivers. The oil-absorbing perlite/silica tech makes it a standout for anyone who struggles with a greasy T-zone by midday. It’s also non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores—a must for acne-prone skin.
🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch SPF 60
More Korean Sunscreen for Oily Skin on Amazon
1) SOME BY MI V10 Hyal Air Fit Sunscreen SPF 50
- What it is: 50 ml lightweight Korean sunscreen with centella, hyaluronic acid, plus “10 vitamins” blend. Non-greasy, no white cast, made for sensitive skin.
- Key ingredients:
• Active UV filters: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene.
• Skin helpers: Niacinamide (which helps with oil control + brightening), hyaluronic acid derivatives (for hydration), centella asiatica & botanicals for soothing. - Texture / finish: Lotion/cream is fairly light, absorbs well, many reviewers say it doesn’t leave a heavy or greasy film. Leaves a natural finish that isn’t too dewy.
- Price: ~ $14–$17 (50 ml) depending on deals on Amazon.
- Who it’s good for: Oily-combination skin, acne prone, those who want something lighter but still protective.
- Drawbacks: Some users with very oily T-zones might still see some shine after several hours; might need blotting or powder. Also, fragrance + some botanical extracts might irritate super sensitive skin.
- 🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: SOME BY MI V10 Hyal Air Fit Sunscreen SPF 50
2) ANUA Zero-Cast Moisturizing Finish Sunscreen SPF 50
- What it is: Lightweight moisturizing sunscreen with “zero cast” claim (i.e. no white cast), made to feel natural, not heavy or greasy. 80-minute water resistance.
- Key ingredients:
• UV filters: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene.
• Oil modifiers + hydrators: Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid), Niacinamide, Panthenol, Dimethicone.
• Free from fragrance / essential oils in many versions; low irritation potential. - Texture / finish: Lotion/creamy yet lightweight; blends well with skin; “glowy finish” but not slick. On many reviews people love that it doesn’t turn into a greasy mask.
- Price: About $18 USD for 1.69 oz (50 ml).
- Who it’s good for: Those who want a moisturizer + sunscreen in one; want deeper protection but still want a natural finish. Great under makeup.
- Drawbacks: Even though advertised low white cast, on some medium/darker skin tones there could be a very subtle cast or satin sheen; in very hot/humid weather might need setting powder to control mid-day shine.
- 🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: ANUA Zero-Cast Moisturizing Finish Sunscreen SPF 50
3) Bio Watery Sunscreen SPF 50 (TOCOBO US)
- What it is: Lightweight daily face sunscreen, “watery serum-like” feeling; vegan, hypoallergenic, oxybenzone-free.
- Key ingredients:
• Hyaluronic acid (for hydration)
• Niacinamide (brightening and oil-regulating)
• Mung Bean Extract (antioxidant, cool & calming) - Texture / finish: Very light lotion / serum feel. Absorbs quickly. Many users say it doesn’t leave heavy residue. Slight dewy sheen because hydration, but not grease.
- Price: ~ $14.44 USD (for the size listed ~1.35 fl oz) often with Amazon discounts.
- Who it’s good for: Oily skin that also gets dehydrated; people who dislike heavy lotions; good under makeup or alone.
- Drawbacks: Less oil-control than some mattifying formulas; may require blotting/powder mid-day if you get oily; not sure about water-resistance for heavy sweat.
- 🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: Bio Watery Sunscreen SPF 50 TOCOBO US
4) Carenel No-Sebum Perfect UV Shield SPF 50+ PA++++
- What it is: No-Sebum Perfect UV Shield / Lotion from CARE:NEL. Porous powder formulation intended to help control greasiness (“no sebum”) + strong UV protection.
- Key ingredients: Porous powder (helps absorb surface oil); natural extracts (for sensitivity); broad spectrum UV filters; sunscreen active strength SPF50, PA++++ (strong UVA protection).
- Texture / finish: “Body lotion type” formula that’s lighter than thick creams; helps control shine; designed to feel less sticky. Some users report it feels smooth, with reduced greasy feel.
- Price: Variable depending on seller; tends to be budget / mid-range.
- Who it’s good for: Oily / combination skin that wants a “control sebum” effect; people who dislike super creamy sunscreens; those seeking PA++++ protection for UVA.
- Drawbacks: Because it has powder and sebum-absorbing particles, if you apply too much it might feel chalky or heavy; might interfere a bit under heavy makeup; may need reapplication. Also scent/extracts might bother sensitive skin.
- 🛒 Grab it on Amazon here: Carenel No-Sebum Perfect UV Shield SPF 50+ PA++++
How to choose a sunscreen for oily skin
- Pick the finish you want. Want visibly matte? Look for silica, perlite, micropearls, or “matte” branding. Want light hydration? Look for hyaluronic acid or glycerin + fast absorbency.
- Chemical vs mineral: Both can be made to suit oily skin. Chemical sunscreens often feel thinner and can be great under makeup; mineral sunscreens (zinc/titanium) are gentler and now come in lighter formulations and powders for touch-ups. Dermatologists recommend daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ regardless of filter type.
- Spot-check ingredients for oil-control: silica, perlite, and dimethicone variants can control shine. Niacinamide and zinc can help regulate oil production long-term.
- No white cast ≠ no protection. Brands can formulate to avoid white cast (Black Girl Sunscreen, modern mineral tech). Still check reviews with your skin tone.
If you want more details about choosing the right sunscreen for you, read here👉 how to choose sunscreen the right way
FAQ: How Do You Layer Sunscreen and Makeup With Oily Skin?
If you have oily skin, the thought of layering sunscreen under makeup can feel like setting yourself up for a mid-day oil slick. But with the right application steps and reapplication hacks, you can keep your skin protected and your makeup intact.
1. Does sunscreen go before or after moisturizer and makeup?
Sunscreen is always the last step of skincare, right before makeup. If you’re using a hydrating sunscreen like the Isntree Watery Sun Gel, you can often skip a heavy daytime moisturizer, especially in humid or summer weather. This keeps your base lighter and helps prevent excess shine.
2. How should I apply sunscreen so it doesn’t pill or streak?
Application matters a lot:
Mineral sunscreens (zinc/titanium): Don’t rub aggressively. Instead, pat the product into the skin. If the texture feels thick or pasty, gently buff it in small circular motions until blended.
Chemical/gel sunscreens: These usually glide on smoothly. Spread a thin, even layer, then give it 1–2 minutes to “set” before moving on to primer or foundation.
3. How do I stop my makeup from sliding off after sunscreen?
Setting your makeup is key. A lightweight powder can lock everything in place. The Derma E Sun Protection Mineral Powder SPF 30 is designed for this, just a light dusting not only mattifies but also adds a bonus layer of SPF. You can also carry a translucent mattifying powder for touch-ups throughout the day.
4. How to reapply sunscreen over makeup?
This is the trickiest part but not impossible. Traditional lotions or gels will mess up your base, so the smarter choice is:
Brush-on mineral powders (like Derma E): These add actual SPF and won’t disturb your foundation.
Mattifying blotting powders: While these don’t add SPF, they absorb excess oil and refresh your makeup. Combine with a powder sunscreen if you want both protection and oil control.
✨ Pro tip: A quick mid-day blot with oil-absorbing sheets before reapplying powder sunscreen keeps your skin fresh, matte, and protected without that cakey look.
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