Top 15 Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin [December, 2023]

Having oily skin comes with its own set of skincare challenges, and finding the right sunscreen is one of them. Most sunscreens tend to feel heavy, greasy and promote breakouts on oily skin. Choosing a sunscreen formulated specifically for oily and acne-prone skin is key to avoid these issues.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the 15 best sunscreen for oily skin and share tips on what to look for when buying sunscreen for oily skin. We have also included a comparison table to help you easily find the best sunscreen for oily skin based on ratings and reviews. By the end, you’ll know exactly which sunscreen is best for oily skin!

What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the best sunscreen for oily skin:

1. Gel-Based Formulas

Gel-based sunscreens have a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture that does not feel heavy or greasy on oily skin. They provide sun protection without clogging pores or making skin look more oily.

2. Mattifying Finishes

Sunscreens labelled as ‘matte’ or ‘ultra-matte’ have a powdery finish that helps control excess oil and shine on the skin. Mattifying sunscreens are great for oily and acne-prone skin types.

3. Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic

Ensure the sunscreen is labelled oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. This helps prevent breakouts which oily skin is prone to.

4. Higher SPF

SPF 30 is the minimum recommended, but SPF 50 or higher is ideal for oily skin as it provides stronger UV protection without needing frequent reapplication which can be quite oily.

5. PA+++ or PA++++ Rating

This indicates high UVA protection which prevents tanning and hyperpigmentation – concerns for oily skin.

6. Sweat and Water Resistant

For oily skin that tends to sweat more, water and sweat-resistant sunscreens retain protection despite humidity and sweating.

15 Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin in 2023

After extensive research, here are the top 15 sunscreens that deliver superior sun protection without aggravating oily, acne-prone skin:

1. The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Gel SPF 50

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Key Features:

• Ultra lightweight gel-based formula
• Contains 1% hyaluronic acid for hydration
• SPF 50, PA++++ protects from UVA/UVB rays
• Oil-free, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free

Price: ₹278 for 30g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (10.3K+ ratings)

With its refreshing aqua gel texture, this quickly dissolving sunscreen provides UV protection without ever feeling heavy or greasy. Hyaluronic acid hydrates while the SPF50 PA++++ shields from sun damage. It’s a superb sunscreen choice for oily, acne-prone skin.

2. Fixderma Shadow Gel Sunscreen SPF 30+

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Key Features:

• Lightweight gel formula
• SPF 30, PA+++ broad spectrum protection
• Sweat and water resistant for 80 minutes
• Non-greasy, gets absorbed quickly

Price: ₹186 for 40g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (4.8K+ ratings)

Fixderma’s Shadow sunscreen has an oil-controlling gel-cream texture that leaves a matte, powdery finish on oily skin. Enriched with green tea extracts, it provides broad spectrum SPF 30 protection while keeping excessive oil and shine at bay for up to 80 minutes.

3. Minimalist SPF 50 Sunscreen Gel

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Key Features:

• Oil-free SPF 50 PA++++ sunscreen
• Lightweight gel texture
• Enriched with multi-vitamins
• No white cast, for all skin types

Price: ₹399 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (13.9K+ ratings)

Minimalist’s SPF 50 sunscreen has an ultra-light, quick-absorbing gel consistency that works beautifully for oily skin. Broad spectrum SPF50 PA++++ protects from sun damage without leaving a greasy residue or white cast. The antioxidant vitamin complex nourishes skin as well.

4. Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen Cream

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Key Features:

• Dewy finish sunscreen cream
• SPF 50 PA+++ broad spectrum protection
• Contains hyaluronic acid & vitamin E
• Blue light protection
• Fragrance-free

Price: ₹350 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (7.8K+ ratings)

This sunscreen cream has a lightweight, quick-absorbing texture despite its dewy finish. With SPF50 PA+++ shields and skin-nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, it hydrates oily skin without ever feeling heavy or greasy. The blue light protection is an added bonus.

5. Re’equil Oxybenzone-Free Sunscreen Gel

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Key Features:

• Oxybenzone and OMC free
• Oil-free SPF 50 PA+++ sunscreen
• Sweat resistant with matte finish
• Suited for oily, acne-prone skin

Price: ₹360 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (7.8K+ ratings)

This lightweight sunscreen gel gives broad spectrum protection with no oily residues being left behind. It is also free of oxybenzone and OMC chemicals that can irritate acne-prone skin. The matte, sweat-resistant formula is just perfect for oily skin types.

6. La Shield Fisico Mineral Sunscreen Gel

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Key Features:

• 100% mineral based sunscreen
• SPF 50+ PA+++ broad spectrum protection
• Lightweight gel texture
• Sweat and water resistant

Price: ₹554 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (5.2K+ ratings)

With its mineral-based SPF 50+ PA+++ sun filters and lightweight gel consistency, this sunscreen delivers powerful sun protection that gets quickly absorbed by oily skin without any stickiness or white cast. It stays put even when you sweat, making it apt for oily skin.

7. Dot & Key Hyaluronic Sunscreen Gel

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Key Features:

• Oil-free SPF 50 PA+++ sunscreen
• Contains hyaluronic acid for hydration
• Lightweight gel texture
• Quick absorbing, no white cast

Price: ₹378 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (734 ratings)

This lightweight sunscreen gel nourishes oily skin with hyaluronic acid while providing SPF 50 PA+++ broad spectrum sun protection. It delivers a cooling hydration boost without ever feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. The non-comedogenic formula is suitable for even acne-prone skin.

8. Deconstruct Gel Sunscreen SPF 55+

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Key Features:

• Lightweight broad spectrum SPF 55+ PA+++ sunscreen
• Oil-free gel formula
• Non-greasy finish absorbs quickly
• No white cast

Price: ₹321 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (343 ratings)

This sunscreen gel provides powerful SPF 55+ PA+++ sun protection in a lightweight, quick-absorbing base that suits even the most acne-prone, oily skin without causing breakouts. It leaves a matte, shine-free finish without any white cast.

9. Plum Green Tea Sunscreen SPF 35

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Key Features:

• SPF 35 broad spectrum sunscreen
• Enriched with antioxidant green tea
• Oil-free, gel-based texture
• No parabens or sulfates
• Vegan and cruelty-free

Price: ₹374 for 50ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (2K+ ratings)

With green tea extracts to soothe inflammation and oil-free gel base, this lightweight SPF35 sunscreen absorbs quickly without aggravating acne or leaving a greasy finish. The vegan formula is also free of irritants like sulfates and parabens.

10. mCaffeine Niacinamide Sunscreen Gel

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Key Features:

• Oil-free SPF 50++ sunscreen gel
• Contains niacinamide for oil control
• Matte, non-sticky finish
• Sweat and water resistant

Price: ₹350 for 50ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (289 ratings)

mCaffeine’s sunscreen gel delivers powerful broad spectrum sun protection in an ultra-light, non-greasy base that suits oily, acne-prone skin. Niacinamide helps control excess oil while the sweat-resistant formula stays put even when active outdoors.

11. DermaCo Pore Minimising Sunscreen Cream

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Key Features:

• Priming sunscreen cream with SPF 50 PA+++
• Minimizes appearance of pores
• Oil-free, non-comedogenic
• Matte finish

Price: ₹346 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (458 ratings)

This sunscreen cream doubles up as a pore minimizer with its blurring, matte finish that disguises enlarged pores while providing broad spectrum SPF 50 PA+++ sun protection. The lightweight, non-greasy texture suits oily skin without clogging pores.

12. Happier Ultra Light Sunscreen Gel

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Key Features:

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 PA+++ sunscreen
• Ultra lightweight gel texture
• Dries quickly without an oily finish
• Sweat and water resistant
• Non-comedogenic

Price: ₹396 for 50ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (81 ratings)

True to its name, this sunscreen feels ultralight on oily skin without leaving behind any greasy residue. The quick-drying gel absorbs fast, providing reliable broad spectrum protection that stays put even when sweating or in water.

13. UrbanBotanics Advanced Sunscreen Gel

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Key Features:

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 PA+++ sunscreen
• Ultra lightweight gel formula
• Oil-free, non-comedogenic
• Sweat and water resistant
• Fragrance-free

Price: ₹299 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (171 ratings)

With its refreshing gel texture, this sunscreen delivers powerful broad spectrum protection that gets quickly absorbed without blocking pores or leaving an oily residue. The fragrance-free formula is gentle enough even for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

14. Biotique SPF 50+ Sunscreen Lotion

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Key Features:

• Broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen
• Water-resistant
• Enriched with natural ingredients like sandalwood and saffron
• Suited for all skin types

Price: ₹246 for 120ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (8.5K+ ratings)

This broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen has a lightweight, non-greasy lotion texture that gets absorbed quickly without leaving an oily residue. Enriched with sandalwood, saffron and other herbs, it provides sun protection while soothing oily, inflamed skin prone to acne breakouts.

15. Moody Ultra Light Sunscreen Gel

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Key Features:

• SPF 50 PA+++ broad spectrum sunscreen
• Lightweight gel-cream formula
• Contains hyaluronic acid for hydration
• Sweat proof, non-greasy finish
• Fragrance free

Price: ₹420 for 50ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (221 ratings)

This lightweight sunscreen gel delivers powerful broad spectrum sun protection with skincare benefits of hyaluronic acid. It has a refreshing, non-greasy gel-cream texture that suits oily skin and stays put even when sweating, making outdoor activity hassle-free.

Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin Recommended by Dermatologists

Dermatologists highly recommend using sunscreen daily to protect oily skin from sun damage that can worsen issues like acne, pigmentation and premature aging. Here are the best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens tailored for oily skin:

1. Cetaphil Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30

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Key Features:

• Lightweight, oil-free moisturizer
• Provides SPF 30 sun protection
• Micropearl technology mattifies skin

Price: ₹620 for 50ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (1,132 ratings)

This oil-free moisturizer with SPF 30 blends into oily skin seamlessly without leaving a greasy residue. It contains micropearl powder that controls excess oil and gives the skin a soft, matte finish. Dermatologists recommend it as it hydrates without clogging pores.

2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 50+

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Key Features:

• Ultra lightweight sunscreen lotion
• Provides SPF 50+ broad spectrum protection
• Fast absorbing, non-greasy finish

Price: ₹199 for 30ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (52.1K+ ratings)

This popular sunscreen lotion delivers powerful SPF 50+ protection in a fast-absorbing, dry touch formula. It provides sun protection without leaving behind a greasy residue, making it one of the top dermatologist-recommended sunscreens for acne and oily skin types.

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

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Key Features:

• Oil-free SPF 50+ sunscreen
• Fast absorbing gel-cream texture
• Sweat resistant up to 80 minutes
• Dermatologically tested for acne-prone skin

Price: ₹2,490 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (388 ratings)

This sun gel cream provides very high SPF 50+ broad spectrum protection in a refreshing, oil-free texture. It gets rapidly absorbed without leaving a tacky finish. Dermatologists often recommend this sweat-resistant sunscreen for oily, acne-prone skin types.

Using a broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen tailored for oily skin and recommended by dermatologists ensures your skin stays protected without any clogged pores, excess grease or breakouts.

Best Sunscreens for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin

Oily, acne-prone skin needs sun protection that doesn’t trigger more acne breakouts. Here are the top sunscreen picks for oily and acne-prone skin:

1. Garnier Oil-Free UV Mist SPF 50+

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Key Features:

• Lightweight SPF 50+ sunscreen mist
• Oil-free, alcohol-free formula
• Portable, mess-free application
• Dries with a powder-soft matte finish

Price: ₹349 for 100g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (1,123 ratings)

This innovative sunscreen mist allows easy mess-free application of SPF 50+ on acne-prone skin whenever needed. Enriched with moringa and vitamin E, the lightweight formula mattifies skin without causing new breakouts.

2. The Face Shop Natural Sun Eco Sebum Control SPF 40 PA+++

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Key Features:

• Oil controlling SPF 40 PA+++ sunscreen
• Gel cream texture suitable for oily skin
• Contains jeju green tea extracts
• Alcohol-free, non-drying formula

Price: ₹750 for 50ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (1,132 ratings)

This sunscreen gel cream provides broad spectrum SPF 40 protection while controlling excess oil and sebum on acne-prone skin. Enriched with antioxidant green tea, it protects skin without causing dryness or irritation. The lightweight texture gets absorbed quickly without clogging pores.

Using non-comedogenic sunscreens designed specifically for acne-prone skin ensures your skin is shielded from the sun without worsening breakouts.

Best Sunscreens for Men with Oily Skin

For men, sun protection for oily skin needs to be super lightweight and non-greasy. Here are the best sunscreen picks for men with oily skin:

1. Nivea Oil Control SPF 50 Sunscreen for Men

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Key Features:

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen
• Ultralight lotion texture
• Mattifies oily skin
• Sweat resistant

Price: ₹249 for 50ml

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (1,482 ratings)

This sunscreen formulated specially for men’s oily skin provides powerful SPF 50 protection in an easy-to-apply, ultralight lotion. It helps control oil and shine on the face while resisting sweat, making it ideal for men.

2. Man Arden Ultra Light Sunscreen Gel SPF 50+

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Key Features:

• Broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen
• Oil-free gel formula
• Sweat resistant
• Non-greasy and quick absorbing

Price: ₹349 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (1,493 ratings)

With its oil-free gel texture, this sunscreen delivers very high SPF 50+ sun protection that gets rapidly absorbed into men’s oily skin without leaving greasiness or shine. It is also resistant to sweat for outdoor activity.

3. Beardo Sunproof SPF 50 Ultradefense Sunscreen

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Key Features:

• Very high SPF 50 broad spectrum protection
• Sweat and water resistant
• Oil-free matte finish
• Suitable for all skin types

Price: ₹227 for 50g

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (2,826 ratings)

With SPF 50, this is amongst the highest sun protection sunscreens for men. The oil-free formula gives a matte, shine-free finish while resisting sweat and water. It shields men’s skin effectively without feeling greasy.

Choosing an SPF 50+ oil-free sunscreen with sweat resistance allows men with oily skin to stay protected from sun exposure without any greasy shine or residue.

Comparison Table of the Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin

How to Apply the Right Amount of Sunscreen on Oily Skin?

Applying inadequate sunscreen can diminish its protective effects. Follow these tips to apply the optimum amount for oily skin:

• Take enough sunscreen to fill a shot glass (about 30ml) for the face, neck, ears and exposed part of the chest.
• Dot the sunscreen all over the face and spread it evenly using upward strokes. Apply gently without dragging or pulling the skin.
• Spread down to the neck, ears and upper chest area. Apply everywhere the sun hits – don’t forget the ears, lips, around the eyes and even the scalp if the hair is thin.
• For the body, use around 30-60ml depending on your frame. Spread evenly on all exposed areas like hands, arms, feet etc.
• Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors especially if sweating or swimming.
• Apply 15-30 minutes before sun exposure so it has time to form a protective layer on the skin.

Sunscreen Tips for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

• Always check the expiry date before purchasing sunscreens. Chemical filters like avobenzone can become less effective over time.
• Apply sunscreen after your skincare routine once the products have fully absorbed into the skin.
• Use a mattifying primer underneath sunscreen for extra oil control. This also improves adherence and efficacy of sunscreen.
• Opt for tinted mineral sunscreens to disguise acne or blemishes. The iron oxide pigments provide a light coverage.
• Use oil-blotting sheets or translucent powder to blot excess oil and refresh sun protection during the day.
• Wash face with a gentle cleanser after sun exposure to prevent breakouts and remove residue. Avoid abrasive scrubs.

FAQs about Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Q. Is gel or lotion sunscreen better for oily skin?

A. Gel sunscreens are better suited for oily skin as they provide sun protection without a greasy, heavy feel. Lotions tend to feel more occlusive and greasy.

Q. Should oily skin use chemical or mineral sunscreen?

A. Either works well as long as the texture is lightweight. Gel-based chemical sunscreens are popular for oily skin. But lightweight mineral options are also available now without a white cast.

Q. Can sunscreen cause acne on oily skin?

A. Yes, comedogenic sunscreens heavy in oils, fragrances and alcohol can trigger breakouts. Using non-comedogenic, oil-free sunscreens formulated for acne-prone skin minimizes this risk.

Q. How much sunscreen should you apply on oily skin?

A. Apply the same recommended amount as other skin types – around 1/4 tsp for face, 1 tsp for each arm etc. Oily skin still needs adequate protection despite excess greasiness.

Q. Should you use sunscreen daily if you have oily skin?

A. Yes, daily sunscreen is highly recommended for oily skin to prevent further damage from the sun’s UV rays. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic SPF 30+ formula and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.

Conclusion

Caring for oily, acne-prone skin can be challenging but finding the right sunscreen makes protection from the sun’s harmful rays easy. Look for lightweight gel-based formulas with a matte, oil-controlling finish. Don’t skimp on application and reapply regularly. With these tips, you can enjoy sun protection without aggravating your oily skin woes.