Best Sunscreen For Oily Sensitive Skin

What to Look for in Sunscreen for Oily, Sensitive Skin

Choosing the right sunscreen can help protect oily, sensitive skin without causing irritation or breakouts.

1. Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic Formulas

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Look for sunscreens labeled as oil-free and non-comedogenic to prevent clogged pores and excess shine. These formulas are designed not to contribute to breakouts or make your skin feel greasy.

2. Gentle, Fragrance-Free Ingredients

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Sensitive skin is prone to irritation, so opt for sunscreens that are fragrance-free and contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera or niacinamide. Avoid harsh chemicals and alcohols that may trigger redness or discomfort.

3. Broad-Spectrum Protection

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Ensure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. A minimum SPF of at least SPF30 is recommended for daily use.

4. Lightweight Texture

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Gel-based or fluid sunscreens tend to absorb quickly and feel lighter on oily skin. These textures help minimize a heavy or sticky feeling while still providing effective sun protection.

  1. 1
    Mineral Matte Screen SPF 40

    Supergoop!

    Mineral Matte Screen SPF 40

    $40
    1,183 REVIEWS
    An ultra-light, translucent, weightless, non-whitening SPF that soothes the skin while it primes and creates a blurring matte finish.
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  2. 2
    UV Skin Recovery Broad Spectrum SPF 50

    EltaMD

    UV Skin Recovery Broad Spectrum SPF 50

    $50
    903 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A 100% mineral sunscreen designed to protect, recover and strengthen sensitive and post-procedure skin.
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  3. 3
    Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+

    $45
    2,581 REVIEWS
    A lightweight sunscreen serum with Collagen Peptide that helps protect against sun damage and helps visibly correct early signs of aging.
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  4. 4
    UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

    EltaMD

    UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

    $46
    2,445 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Protect and calm your sensitive skin with this tinted sunscreen designed to improve discoloration and breakouts due to acne and rosacea.
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  5. 5
    EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

    EltaMD

    EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

    $44
    1,342 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Formulated with 5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to help reduce the appearance of blemishes and discoloration on your skin.
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  6. 6
    Powder-Me Dry Sunscreen SPF 30

    Jane Iredale

    Powder-Me Dry Sunscreen SPF 30

    $55
    1,172 REVIEWS
    Nourish, protect and soothe your skin with this broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for body, face and scalp. 
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  7. 7
    UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50

    EltaMD

    UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50

    $50
    1,026 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    100% mineral sunscreen designed to protect, recover and strengthen sensitive and post-procedure skin.**
    View full details
  8. 8
    Super Fluid Daily UV Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    Super Fluid Daily UV Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

    $79
    736 REVIEWS
    A lightweight facial sunscreen with SPF 50+ and pollution protection.
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  9. 9
    UV Physical Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 41

    EltaMD

    UV Physical Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 41

    $46
    710 REVIEWS
    For oil-free sun protection with just a touch of color, this lightly tinted UV Physical is a healthy choice.
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  10. 10
    Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

    Supergoop!

    Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

    $48
    505 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    The iconic 100% invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen that's non-irritating and doubles as a primer.
    View full details

What to Look for in Sunscreen for Oily, Sensitive Skin

Choosing the right sunscreen can help protect oily, sensitive skin without causing irritation or breakouts.

1. Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic Formulas

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for sunscreens labeled as oil-free and non-comedogenic to prevent clogged pores and excess shine. These formulas are designed not to contribute to breakouts or make your skin feel greasy.

2. Gentle, Fragrance-Free Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Sensitive skin is prone to irritation, so opt for sunscreens that are fragrance-free and contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera or niacinamide. Avoid harsh chemicals and alcohols that may trigger redness or discomfort.

3. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Ensure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. A minimum SPF of at least SPF30 is recommended for daily use.

4. Lightweight Texture

Citrus catapult arrow

Gel-based or fluid sunscreens tend to absorb quickly and feel lighter on oily skin. These textures help minimize a heavy or sticky feeling while still providing effective sun protection.

When it comes to finding the best sunscreen for oily, sensitive skin, the struggle is real. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the multitude of products and find one that truly works for your specific needs. Whether you're prone to breakouts or dealing with excessive shine, these user-approved sunscreens are formulated to keep your skin protected and comfortable all day long.

FAQ

What ingredients should I look for in sunscreen if I have oily, sensitive skin? + -

For oily, sensitive skin, look for sunscreens labeled as non-comedogenic and oil-free. Ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are gentle mineral filters that are less likely to irritate sensitive skin or clog pores.

Are gel or fluid sunscreens better for oily, sensitive skin? + -

Gel or fluid sunscreens are often preferred for oily, sensitive skin because they feel lightweight, absorb quickly, and typically leave a matte finish without adding extra shine.

Can I use sunscreen as a moisturizer if I have oily, sensitive skin? + -

Many sunscreens formulated for oily, sensitive skin offer hydrating benefits without being heavy. However, if your skin needs extra moisture, consider layering a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer underneath your sunscreen.

How often should I reapply sunscreen on oily, sensitive skin? + -

It's recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours when exposed to the sun, regardless of your skin type. For oily skin, using blotting papers before reapplication can help maintain a fresh look.

Will sunscreen make my oily skin feel greasy or cause breakouts? + -

Choosing a sunscreen specifically designed for oily or acne-prone skin can help prevent greasiness and breakouts. Look for products labeled as non-comedogenic and mattifying to keep your complexion balanced.