The 8 Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin in Summer (Tested & Loved)
If you have oily skin, you already know the constant battle: your face feels greasy by noon, and sunscreen? It either makes things worse or slides right off. But going without SPF just isn’t an option — not unless you’re okay with sun damage, premature aging, or breakouts (and we’re guessing you’re not). The good news: there are sunscreens made specifically for oily and acne-prone skin — ones that feel light, help control shine, and don’t clog your pores.
After years of testing SPFs on my own oily, acne-prone skin — especially in the hot, sticky summer months — I’ve learned exactly what ingredients to look for (and which ones to avoid). I also spoke with top dermatologists and estheticians to compile a list of the best formulas that actually work.
In this guide, I’ll break down how to choose the right sunscreen for oily skin, including the best textures, finishes, and active ingredients. And then I’ll get into the 8 best sunscreens for oily skin in summer, all tested, loved, and reviewed — so you can find the one that’s right for you.
What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Oily Skin
1. Oil-Free or Non-Comedogenic Formulas
These won’t clog pores or contribute to acne. Avoid mineral oils or thick occlusives that can sit on the skin and cause congestion.
2. Lightweight, Matte, or Gel Textures
Gel-based SPFs or matte-finish creams help absorb excess oil throughout the day. They also layer better under makeup without sliding off or making you shine like a disco ball.
3. Ingredients That Help with Oil Control
Think niacinamide, green tea extract, silica, and zinc — all of which can help reduce oil production and calm inflammation. Bonus points if the sunscreen has soothing ingredients that prevent breakouts.
4. Broad-Spectrum Protection (SPF 30 or Higher)
Always choose an SPF 30 or higher for daily use. Broad-spectrum formulas protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
Best Picks
1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60
This one’s a cult favorite — and for good reason. La Roche-Posay’s Dry Touch SPF 60 is one of the few sunscreens that offers high protection without feeling thick or greasy. It has a true matte finish, which makes it a dream for oily skin, especially during summer when everything feels extra sticky.
Why I love it: It’s incredibly lightweight and doesn’t leave a white cast. Even better, it contains silica, which helps absorb oil and reduce shine.
Dermatologist-backed: Many dermatologists recommend it for acne-prone or oily skin types.
Bonus: Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes — so it’s great for beach days too.
2. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
If you want a sunscreen that feels like nothing on your face, this is it. Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen has a totally clear, weightless gel texture that disappears into skin. It also doubles as a makeup primer thanks to its smooth, silicone-like finish.
Why I love it: It glides on without any greasy residue and actually helps blur pores. On days when I wear foundation, it keeps my T-zone way less shiny.
No white cast: Ideal for deeper skin tones or anyone who hates the chalky look.
Note: It’s more of a chemical sunscreen, so sensitive-skin types may want to patch test first.
3. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
This dermatologist-loved SPF has built a reputation for being ultra-gentle yet effective. It’s oil-free, fragrance-free, and packed with niacinamide — a multitasking ingredient that soothes skin, brightens dark spots, and controls sebum production.
Why I love it: It feels like a lightweight moisturizer, making it perfect for days when I’m skipping full skincare. Plus, it calms redness and doesn’t trigger breakouts.
Great for layering: Works well under makeup or alone on bare skin.
Bonus: Comes in a tinted version that’s great for evening out the complexion.
4. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50
Don’t let the word “boost” fool you — this hydrating sunscreen was made with oily skin in mind. It’s a water-based gel that soaks in instantly, leaving skin plump but never greasy. If your oily skin still gets dehydrated (yes, that’s a thing), this is the one to reach for.
Why I love it: It’s affordable, fragrance-light, and works great as an everyday SPF. My skin feels smooth, never tacky, and there’s zero residue.
Bonus: Packed with hyaluronic acid to hydrate without heaviness.
Drawback: Not the most water-resistant, so not ideal for heavy outdoor activities.
5. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++
K-beauty fans, this one’s for you. COSRX’s Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is a cult classic that’s ideal for oily or combo skin. Though technically a cream, its texture is more like a light lotion that sinks in fast without clogging pores or causing excess shine.
Why I love it: It provides strong sun protection while feeling almost like a moisturizer. Aloe vera helps soothe redness and irritation (especially if you’ve overexfoliated or had a breakout).
Great under makeup: It doesn’t pill or feel tacky, and it leaves a semi-matte finish.
Drawback: May be slightly too moisturizing for very oily skin on extremely hot days — better for combination types.
6. Paula’s Choice RESIST Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
This multitasker checks a lot of boxes. It’s a mineral sunscreen (zinc-based), has a slight tint to help even skin tone, and includes antioxidants to help with early signs of aging — all in a formula that’s ideal for oily skin.
Why I love it: It has a soft matte finish that helps control shine all day. Plus, it provides broad-spectrum protection without irritating the skin.
Tinted, but sheer: Works for light to medium skin tones and gives a slight blurring effect.
Bonus: Helps reduce the look of enlarged pores over time thanks to antioxidant-rich ingredients.
7. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
This Japanese sunscreen is a game-changer for anyone who hates the feel of sunscreen. It’s water-based, alcohol-free, and absorbs almost instantly, leaving no white cast behind — even on deeper skin tones. Great for layering under makeup or just using on its own.
Why I love it: It’s truly weightless. It almost feels like a splash of water when applied, and yet still gives serious SPF 50+ protection.
Oil-free & shine-free: Great for hot, humid climates where you need something breathable.
Drawback: Not water-resistant, so not ideal for swimming or intense sweating.
8. CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
CeraVe is beloved for its no-nonsense formulas, and this one is no exception. Designed for normal to oily skin, this sunscreen-moisturizer hybrid delivers just the right amount of hydration without heaviness — plus SPF 30. It also supports your skin barrier with ceramides and niacinamide.
Why I love it: It’s a simple, effective SPF that doesn’t break me out or make me feel greasy. A great drugstore staple.
Skin-soothing: Niacinamide helps with redness and excess oil production.
Drawback: If you’re looking for water resistance or high SPF, this might not be your go-to for beach days — but perfect for daily city wear.
Can people with oily skin skip sunscreen?
Absolutely not — and here’s why: even if your skin produces more oil than average, it still needs sun protection. Oily skin does not have a built-in SPF. In fact, skipping sunscreen can lead to sun damage, hyperpigmentation, premature aging, and even increase the risk of skin cancer. The key is finding a formula that works with your skin type — one that feels light, controls shine, and won’t clog your pores. There are tons of great options now specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin.
What type of sunscreen is best for oily skin?
The best sunscreens for oily skin are oil-free, non-comedogenic, and lightweight. Look for terms like:
“matte finish”
“gel-based”
“water-light”
“dry touch”
Mineral sunscreens (like those with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) can be a good option because they sit on top of the skin and are often less pore-clogging. However, many modern chemical sunscreens are also non-comedogenic and absorb quickly without residue. If you prefer a natural finish or wear makeup, look for a tinted SPF or one that doubles as a primer.
Does sunscreen clog pores or cause breakouts?
Not if you choose the right one. Many people with oily or acne-prone skin skip sunscreen because they’re afraid it will break them out. The real issue is often using a sunscreen that’s too thick or too greasy for your skin type.
To avoid breakouts, look for:
Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
Fragrance-free (fragrances can irritate acne-prone skin)
Oil-free or water-based
Ingredients like niacinamide or zinc which help balance oil
Pro tip: Always patch test a new sunscreen on a small area of your face for 2–3 days before using it daily.
Can sunscreen actually help with oily skin?
Surprisingly — yes! Some sunscreens contain ingredients that help reduce oil production or soothe acne-prone skin, including:
Niacinamide – regulates sebum, brightens dark spots
Zinc oxide – calms inflammation, mattifies skin
Silica or perlite – absorbs excess oil
Green tea or aloe – anti-inflammatory, calming
Some matte-finish sunscreens can even replace your primer or moisturizer if you want to simplify your routine.
Should I moisturize before sunscreen if I have oily skin?
That depends on your skin’s needs. If you have oily but dehydrated skin (yes, that’s a real thing), you may still need a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer before applying sunscreen.
However, many modern sunscreens double as moisturizers — especially those with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or niacinamide. If your sunscreen is hydrating enough and your skin feels comfortable, it’s totally fine to skip an extra moisturizer.
Just avoid layering too many products, which can lead to pilling or excess shine.