We know that sunscreen is an essential part of any beauty routine, but that doesn’t stop us from complaining about it. As much as we’re aware of sunscreen’s UVA and UVB protection and how it helps prevent premature aging, it doesn’t make thick, greasy formulas that cause breakouts any more enjoyable to apply. Good news: It’s 2018 and there are plenty of next-gen sunscreens for oily skin and acne-prone skin that also happen to be a pleasure to wear.
Sunscreen may not be as thrilling to shop for as a new lipstick or an eyeshadow palette but take the time to browse and see there are a surprising number of formulas to suit your needs and skin type. The last thing those with oily or acne-prone skin want is a formula that makes shiny skin feel greasier, which is why there are dermatologist-tested, noncomedogenic and mattifying formulas that won’t clog pores. And they won’t leave skin with that telltale whitish finish, so there’s no excuse not to wear sunscreen on the daily.
Stop settling for an OK formula and get an SPF product you genuinely want to apply (and reapply) with these best sunscreens for oily skin and acne-prone skin.
[ Next: 9 Lightweight Sunscreens That Won’t Clog Your Pores ]
Sunscreens for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin That You'll Actually Want to Wear Every Day
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A'Pieu
Pure Block Aqua Sun Gel, $10 at Beautytap
Forget sunscreens, sun gels are the formula for oily skin. There's nothing heavy or sticky about the product. Apply it to your face and it dries down to a clear, matte finish with no whitish cast. It may feel like nothing, but it provides ample protection thanks to its SPF 50+ PA+++ formula.
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Neutrogena
Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $7.19 at Target
The packaging is very reassuring that this sunscreen doesn't cause breakouts, but the real proof comes from wearing it. The formula is dermatologist tested and noncomedogenic, so it won't clog pores. The liquid lotion is very lightweight and leaves skin with a soft matte finish. Apply it to faces and bodies and get broad spectrum SPF 30 protection. Going for a swim? It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
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Peter Thomas Roth
Instant Mineral Oily Problem Skin Translucent Brush-On Powder SPF 30, $30 at Nordstrom
This brush-on sunscreen is about as opposite as we can get from thick, cold sun creams. Push up the retractable brush and apply the mess-free sunscreen over skin for UVA and UVB SPF 30 protection. The transparent formula helps manage excess oil without an unnatural or cakey finish. Thanks to the sleek design, it's perfect for touch-ups on the go.
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La Roche-Posay
Anthelios Clear Skin SPF 60 Sunscreen, $19.99 at La Roche-Posay
There's no messing around with this sunscreen with its broad spectrum SPF 60 protection. It's also free of oil, parabens and fragrance. Apply it and enjoy the dry-touch texture that leaves skin with a natural matte finish. Even when it's a hot and humid mess outside, the formula absorbs excess oil without clogging pores. It's also suitable for those with sensitive skin.
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Clinique
Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen Oil-Free Face Cream, $25 at Clinique
This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types. What's more, it's non-acnegenic and even safe to use on the eye area. The sunscreen merges UVA and UVB filters plus SolarSmart+ technology to defend against sun damage. The velvety formula genuinely feels nice on skin and is easy to layer with other beauty products.
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Shiseido
Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum SPF 42 For Face, $34 at Sephora
Finding the right sunscreen for faces is key. This oil-free option is geared toward those with greasier complexions. It addresses three major issues: UV rays, oxidation and excessive production of sebum that could lead to damage. The lightweight formula has broad spectrum SPF 42 protection and manages grease to give skin a flattering matte finish. It absorbs quickly and even functions as a decent makeup primer. The sunscreen is also noncomedogenic, dermatologist tested and ophthalmologist tested.
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MD Solar Sciences
Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $30 at Space.NK
The wrong sunscreen can feel like a thick layer of goop on skin. When the brand says this sunscreen is barely there, it's the truth. It blends easily and the only way you'll notice it is thanks to the matte finish and natural tint. The latter helps minimize the appearance of redness in acne and rosacea-prone skin. The noncomedogenic formula is developed and approved by dermatologists and relies on naturally derived UV protection. Even those with the most sensitive skin should be able to use it without risk of a reaction.
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Juice Beauty
SPF 30 Oil-Free Moisturizer, $30 at Ulta Beauty
This product is designed for oily, combination and acne-prone skin types. Those who find mattifying sunscreens too drying will like the oil-free formula because it soothes and nourishes thanks to aloe and hyaluronic acid. Plus, it's a broad spectrum non-nano natural mineral zinc oxide sunscreen.
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Kiehl's
Super Fluid UV Mineral Defense Titanium Dioxide Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+, $38 at Sephora
This is the sunscreen for people who hate sunscreen. The 100 percent mineral-based sunscreen is described as a lotion, but it's miles lighter than any lotion you're thinking of. The formula is noncomedogenic and specifically formulated for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It's nonirritating and made without fragrance and chemical filters. Shake the bottle and apply the lightweight liquid for UVA and UVB broad spectrum protection. It also has a subtle tint that enhances — not camouflages — skin.
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Biossance
Squalane + Mineral SPF 45, $39 at Biossance
Nongreasy? Check. Lightweight? Check. The formula is also dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested, noncomedogenic and EWG verified. It's a multipurpose product that's suitable for all skin types and protects skin against UVA, UVB and infrared rays and environmental stressors. Apply a dime-size amount and it will absorb into skin leaving a soft, luminous finish and a great base for makeup.
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Make P:rem
Blue Ray Sun Fluid, $38 at Glow Recipe
Cool down with this lightweight sunscreen fluid. It provides broad spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++ UVA and UVB protection while cooling down skin's temperature. Remember that when it feels like a sauna outside. What's more, the milky texture glides easily across skin and disappears without a whitish cast or greasy feel. Anyone with oily skin who has ever complained about sunscreen being too heavy will like the formula.
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Glossier
Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen SPF 35, $25 at Glossier
This is one sunscreen you will actually want to use every day. Dubbed the "sunscreen for people who hate sunscreen," the formula is a clear watergel that absorbs without leaving behind any greasy residue or ghostly tinge. It's noncomedogenic, hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested and suitable for all skin types. It's also breathable and has a pleasant fragrance that's nothing like artificial coconut.
