Don't Sweat the SPF Breakouts—The Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin Is Acne-Safe

Vogue

09-05-2025

By now you already know that liking your daily SPF as important as applying it. (Derms, we've been listening!) The best sunscreen for oily skin ensures application as enjoyable as wear—with no little to no greasiness or breakouts left behind. What sets these acne-safe formulas apart is their lightweight, non-comedogenic ingredients, carefully chosen to keep pores clear and minimize redness ad shine.
Non-toxic and mineral sunscreen formulas tend to be the go-to recommendations for the dermatologists we've spoken to—and we'll get into the why later on. But first, our top picks, plus what to look for in the best sunscreen for oily skin and how to apply it so you're glowing, not glistening—and always safe under the sun.
Vogue's Favorite Sunscreens for Oily Skin
In This Story
Best Non-Greasy: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay
Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen
$33
AMAZON
Why We Love It: Esthetician Jade Haifa says this lightweight sunscreen features a non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly without leaving any residue. With SPF 60, it provides a high level of protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It's incredibly easy to apply with no elbow grease required. The milky texture glides effortlessly over the skin, leaving a smooth finish and a natural, healthy glow. It's also fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you're in the clear on your beach vacation for a bit longer than some other options.
Esthetician Jade Haifa says this lightweight sunscreen features a non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly without leaving any residue. With SPF 60, it provides a high level of protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It's incredibly easy to apply with no elbow grease required. The milky texture glides effortlessly over the skin, leaving a smooth finish and a natural, healthy glow. It's also fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you're in the clear on your beach vacation for a bit longer than some other options. Key Ingredients : Vitamin E, silica
: Vitamin E, silica Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 60
SPF 60 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: Yes
Yes Finish: Matte
Best Clear Option: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen
EltaMD
UV Clear Face Sunscreen
$44
AMAZON
Why We Love It: 'This non-comedogenic and fragrance-free sunscreen is ideal for individuals with dehydrated, acne-prone skin,' says Haifa. It absorbs easily without leaving a white cast and leaves the skin with a smooth, healthy-looking finish. Enriched with antioxidants, it also helps protect against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. 'The formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, dermatologist-tested, and free from oxybenzone, parabens, and sulfates,' she adds.
'This non-comedogenic and fragrance-free sunscreen is ideal for individuals with dehydrated, acne-prone skin,' says Haifa. It absorbs easily without leaving a white cast and leaves the skin with a smooth, healthy-looking finish. Enriched with antioxidants, it also helps protect against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. 'The formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, dermatologist-tested, and free from oxybenzone, parabens, and sulfates,' she adds. Key Ingredients : Niacinamide
: Niacinamide Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 46
SPF 46 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: Yes
Yes Finish: Natural
Best Matte Finish: Supergoop! 100% Mineral Mattescreen Sunscreen
Supergoop!
100% Mineral Mattescreen Sunscreen SPF 40
$40
AMAZON
Why We Love It: If you're a matte-finish apologist, it can be frustrating how many products lean dewy or glowy, but not this one. Supergoop's Mattescreen is a tinted SPF 40 mineral sunscreen that delivers exactly what it promises: a natural matte finish. 'Doubling as a makeup primer, this oil-free formula protects the skin from UV damage and premature aging while providing a smooth, blurred effect,' explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp. And because it's tinted, there's no white cast—just a soft-focus finish that doesn't exaggerate texture or fine lines.
If you're a matte-finish apologist, it can be frustrating how many products lean dewy or glowy, but not this one. Supergoop's Mattescreen is a tinted SPF 40 mineral sunscreen that delivers exactly what it promises: a natural matte finish. 'Doubling as a makeup primer, this oil-free formula protects the skin from UV damage and premature aging while providing a smooth, blurred effect,' explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp. And because it's tinted, there's no white cast—just a soft-focus finish that doesn't exaggerate texture or fine lines. Key Ingredients : Wild butterfly ginger, bamboo extract
: Wild butterfly ginger, bamboo extract Chemical or Mineral: Mineral
Mineral SPF Level: SPF 40
SPF 40 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: Yes
Yes Finish: Matte
Best Sunscreen Stick: Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Shiseido
Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
$32
NORDSTROM
Why We Love It: For life on the go or those moments when you're too lazy to wash your hands after scrolling through your phone, this sunscreen stick is a lifesaver. Dr. Camp explains, 'Portable in size, this lightweight SPF 50+ chemical sunscreen stick is made with proprietary SynchroShield Technology, which offers stronger protection when exposed to heat and water.' It glides on clear and is perfect for travel, fitting easily into your pocket or bag. Plus, it makes reapplication a breeze—something experts recommend doing every two hours when you're out in the sun.
For life on the go or those moments when you're too lazy to wash your hands after scrolling through your phone, this sunscreen stick is a lifesaver. Dr. Camp explains, 'Portable in size, this lightweight SPF 50+ chemical sunscreen stick is made with proprietary SynchroShield Technology, which offers stronger protection when exposed to heat and water.' It glides on clear and is perfect for travel, fitting easily into your pocket or bag. Plus, it makes reapplication a breeze—something experts recommend doing every two hours when you're out in the sun. Key Ingredients : Licorice root extract, soy lecithin
: Licorice root extract, soy lecithin Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 50
SPF 50 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: N/A
N/A Finish: Natural
Best for Darker Skin Tones: Live Tinted Hueguard 3-in-1 Mineral Sunscreen
Live Tinted
Hueguard 3-in-1 Mineral Sunscreen
$34
AMAZON
Why We Love It: If white cast is one of your main grievances with mineral SPF, we get it, but thankfully this formula blends seamlessly across all skin tones. That inclusivity is central to the brand's mission, which was founded by Deepica Mutyala, a South Asian beauty influencer and entrepreneur. This 3-in-1 product functions as a mineral sunscreen, moisturizer, and primer. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dara Spearman calls it 'a great combination product that can help streamline things for those who like a simple routine.' It's formulated with ingredients like tocopherol (vitamin E), bisabolol, and glycerin to help hydrate and soothe. However, she notes that 'given it's designed to be used as a primer, the lightweight formula is great for oily or acne-prone skin, but may not offer enough coverage for those who prefer a more traditional, standalone primer.'
If white cast is one of your main grievances with mineral SPF, we get it, but thankfully this formula blends seamlessly across all skin tones. That inclusivity is central to the brand's mission, which was founded by Deepica Mutyala, a South Asian beauty influencer and entrepreneur. This 3-in-1 product functions as a mineral sunscreen, moisturizer, and primer. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dara Spearman calls it 'a great combination product that can help streamline things for those who like a simple routine.' It's formulated with ingredients like tocopherol (vitamin E), bisabolol, and glycerin to help hydrate and soothe. However, she notes that 'given it's designed to be used as a primer, the lightweight formula is great for oily or acne-prone skin, but may not offer enough coverage for those who prefer a more traditional, standalone primer.' Key Ingredients : Tocopherol, bisabolol, glycerin
: Tocopherol, bisabolol, glycerin Chemical or Mineral: Mineral
Mineral SPF Level: SPF 30
SPF 30 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: N/A
N/A Finish: Natural
Best K-Beauty: Glow Recipe Dew Shield SPF 30
Glow Recipe
Dew Shield SPF 30
$35
GLOW RECIPE
Why We Love It: The latest launch from Glow Recipe, Dew Shield, is a new addition to the brand's beloved Watermelon Glow line—so expect the same dewy, plump, and hydrated skin benefits. This fluid sunscreen blends seamlessly into the skin and feels completely weightless. It doesn't pill or leave behind any greasiness, making it an ideal base for makeup. You can thank the thoughtfully curated ingredient list for that. Dr. Camp notes that it's 'rated for UVA protection' and 'formulated with niacinamide, rice blend extract, and watermelon seed oil to keep skin protected from UV rays and well nourished.'
The latest launch from Glow Recipe, Dew Shield, is a new addition to the brand's beloved Watermelon Glow line—so expect the same dewy, plump, and hydrated skin benefits. This fluid sunscreen blends seamlessly into the skin and feels completely weightless. It doesn't pill or leave behind any greasiness, making it an ideal base for makeup. You can thank the thoughtfully curated ingredient list for that. Dr. Camp notes that it's 'rated for UVA protection' and 'formulated with niacinamide, rice blend extract, and watermelon seed oil to keep skin protected from UV rays and well nourished.' Key Ingredients : Glycerin, watermelon seed oil, vitamin E, niacinamide
: Glycerin, watermelon seed oil, vitamin E, niacinamide Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 30
SPF 30 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: N/A
N/A Finish: Dewy
Best Sheer Option: U Beauty Multimodal Sheer Mineral Sunscreen
Multimodal Sheer Mineral Sunscreen
$98
NORDSTROM
Why We Love It: If you're after an airbrushed finish, look no further than U Beauty's newest launch—a sheer mineral broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 25. Haifa explains, 'While the SPF rating is 25, that doesn't mean it offers only 25% protection. In fact, it blocks about 96% of the sun's harmful rays.' For context, SPF 50 blocks about 98% in most cases. The formula leaves skin with a velvety matte, poreless finish and wears beautifully under makeup thanks to its blurring effect. However, Haifa notes that it can leave a slightly gray cast on deeper skin tones, which is common with many mineral sunscreens. That said, she adds, 'When used under makeup, this effect is easily balanced out, making it a great base.'
If you're after an airbrushed finish, look no further than U Beauty's newest launch—a sheer mineral broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 25. Haifa explains, 'While the SPF rating is 25, that doesn't mean it offers only 25% protection. In fact, it blocks about 96% of the sun's harmful rays.' For context, SPF 50 blocks about 98% in most cases. The formula leaves skin with a velvety matte, poreless finish and wears beautifully under makeup thanks to its blurring effect. However, Haifa notes that it can leave a slightly gray cast on deeper skin tones, which is common with many mineral sunscreens. That said, she adds, 'When used under makeup, this effect is easily balanced out, making it a great base.' Key Ingredients : Macroalgae, vitamin C, clary sage, golden seaweed
: Macroalgae, vitamin C, clary sage, golden seaweed Chemical or Mineral: Mineral
Mineral SPF Level: SPF 25
SPF 25 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: N/A
N/A Finish: Matte
Best For Discoloration: YSE Beauty SPF 30 Primer Skin Glow
YSE Beauty
SPF 30 Primer Skin Glow
$48
YSE BEAUTY
Why We Love It: A personal favorite of mine for days when I skip makeup, this SPF gives just the right amount of glow to make it look like I naturally woke up with even-toned skin. Haifa agrees, adding, 'With a slight blurring effect, it helps naturally camouflage hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone for a smoother appearance.' The 3-in-1 formula primes, protects, and adds radiance. 'It can be used as a makeup primer, offers SPF 30 protection that blocks 97% of UVB rays, and delivers an instant, radiant finish,' Haifa explains. (I do find the bottle to be a bit heavy, and therefor less than ideal for travel, but here's hoping a more portable version comes along soon.)
A personal favorite of mine for days when I skip makeup, this SPF gives just the right amount of glow to make it look like I naturally woke up with even-toned skin. Haifa agrees, adding, 'With a slight blurring effect, it helps naturally camouflage hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone for a smoother appearance.' The 3-in-1 formula primes, protects, and adds radiance. 'It can be used as a makeup primer, offers SPF 30 protection that blocks 97% of UVB rays, and delivers an instant, radiant finish,' Haifa explains. (I do find the bottle to be a bit heavy, and therefor less than ideal for travel, but here's hoping a more portable version comes along soon.) Key Ingredients : Niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, spirulina maxima extract
: Niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, spirulina maxima extract Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 30
SPF 30 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: N/A
N/A Finish: Radiant
Best for Mature Skin: Eve Lom Daily Protection SPF 50
Eve Lom
Daily Protection SPF 50
$95
AMAZON
Why We Love It: While it falls on the pricier end of this list, this SPF was formulated by holistic herbalist and celebrity esthetician Eve Lom as a natural alternative, thanks to its formula that's free of zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, parabens, and synthetic fragrance. Haifa explains, 'This oil-free sunscreen contains a vitamin C derivative to help brighten the skin, and paracress flower extract to promote firmness.' She adds, 'It suits all skin tones and leaves no white cast on the skin's surface.' With SPF 50, it offers up to 98% protection against UVB rays. And while it's oil-free, the radiant finish might just be mistaken for your inner glow breaking through.
While it falls on the pricier end of this list, this SPF was formulated by holistic herbalist and celebrity esthetician Eve Lom as a natural alternative, thanks to its formula that's free of zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, parabens, and synthetic fragrance. Haifa explains, 'This oil-free sunscreen contains a vitamin C derivative to help brighten the skin, and paracress flower extract to promote firmness.' She adds, 'It suits all skin tones and leaves no white cast on the skin's surface.' With SPF 50, it offers up to 98% protection against UVB rays. And while it's oil-free, the radiant finish might just be mistaken for your inner glow breaking through. Key Ingredients : Niacinamide, paracress flower extract
: Niacinamide, paracress flower extract Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 50
SPF 50 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: Yes
Yes Finish: Radiant
Best Glowy Finish: Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Sunscreen
Innisfree
Daily UV Defense SPF 36 Sunscreen
$18
AMAZON
Why We Love It: Another great K-beauty sunscreen, this chemical SPF moisturizer offers SPF 36 protection. 'It promises no white cast and includes green tea and sunflower seed oil to provide a fresh, dewy glow,' explains Dr. Camp. The lightweight cream blends easily into the skin and is nearly invisible, so there's no need to worry about any chalky residue. It's also water-resistant, making it ideal for long runs, pool days, or daily life as a sweaty person.
Another great K-beauty sunscreen, this chemical SPF moisturizer offers SPF 36 protection. 'It promises no white cast and includes green tea and sunflower seed oil to provide a fresh, dewy glow,' explains Dr. Camp. The lightweight cream blends easily into the skin and is nearly invisible, so there's no need to worry about any chalky residue. It's also water-resistant, making it ideal for long runs, pool days, or daily life as a sweaty person. Key Ingredients : Green tea, sunflower seed oil, cica
: Green tea, sunflower seed oil, cica Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 36
SPF 36 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: N/A
N/A Finish: Glowy
Best for Redness: Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30
Hero Cosmetics
Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 $20
$12
AMAZON
Why We Love It: If redness is one of your main concerns, Haifa says this 100% mineral sunscreen is ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin. 'It features a subtle green tint that helps neutralize and blur redness for a more even complexion,' she explains. The lightweight, matte-finish makes it perfect for wearing under makeup, but she recommends applying it quickly to prevent it from drying too fast. It's also great for humid conditions, staying comfortable and shine-free throughout the day.
If redness is one of your main concerns, Haifa says this 100% mineral sunscreen is ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin. 'It features a subtle green tint that helps neutralize and blur redness for a more even complexion,' she explains. The lightweight, matte-finish makes it perfect for wearing under makeup, but she recommends applying it quickly to prevent it from drying too fast. It's also great for humid conditions, staying comfortable and shine-free throughout the day. Key Ingredients : Raspberry seed oil, green tea leaf extract, turmeric extract
: Raspberry seed oil, green tea leaf extract, turmeric extract Chemical or Mineral: Mineral
Mineral SPF Level: SPF 30
SPF 30 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: N/A
N/A Finish: Matte
Best Gel: Coola Refreshing Water Plumping Gel
Coola
Refreshing Water Plumping Gel
$48
AMAZON
Why We Love It: Gel textures can sometimes feel better on the skin than heavier creams, especially in the summer, which is why this plumping water gel is one of our top picks. It boosts the skin's water retention and delivers hydration to the deeper layers, explains Haifa. 'Although I believe the primary purpose of sunscreen is to protect the skin from UV rays, this one also aims to stimulate collagen production,' she says. It also contains a technology the brand says helps mitigate skin damage caused by blue light, infrared, and pollution—for all of us city dwellers and iPad babies (adults).
Gel textures can sometimes feel better on the skin than heavier creams, especially in the summer, which is why this plumping water gel is one of our top picks. It boosts the skin's water retention and delivers hydration to the deeper layers, explains Haifa. 'Although I believe the primary purpose of sunscreen is to protect the skin from UV rays, this one also aims to stimulate collagen production,' she says. It also contains a technology the brand says helps mitigate skin damage caused by blue light, infrared, and pollution—for all of us city dwellers and iPad babies (adults). Key Ingredients : Hyaluronic acid, aloe, coconut water
: Hyaluronic acid, aloe, coconut water Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 30
SPF 30 Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: No
No Finish: Dewy
Best Tinted: Ciele Tint & Protect SPF 50+ Tinted Serum Foundation
Ciele
Tint & Protect Serum Foundation
$44
SEPHORA
Why We Love It: Founded by celebrity makeup artist Nikki DeRoest—whose clients include Barbara Palvin and Phoebe Dynevor—Ciele is an SPF makeup brand that prioritizes both sun protection and acne prevention. Dr. Spearman notes that the brand's mineral-based, broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against UVA, UVB, blue light, and infrared radiation. She adds that it's 'designed to leave a dewy finish like a serum, so it's less occlusive than a heavy cream but still offers hydration.'
Founded by celebrity makeup artist Nikki DeRoest—whose clients include Barbara Palvin and Phoebe Dynevor—Ciele is an SPF makeup brand that prioritizes both sun protection and acne prevention. Dr. Spearman notes that the brand's mineral-based, broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against UVA, UVB, blue light, and infrared radiation. She adds that it's 'designed to leave a dewy finish like a serum, so it's less occlusive than a heavy cream but still offers hydration.' Key Ingredients : Allantoin, bisabolol, niacinamide
: Allantoin, bisabolol, niacinamide Chemical or Mineral: Mineral
Mineral SPF Level: SPF 50+
SPF 50+ Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: Yes
Yes Finish: Natural
Best Spray: Naked Sundays Hydrating Glow Mist Top Up Spray SPF50+
Naked Sundays
Hydrating Glow Mist Spray SPF 50
$23
AMAZON
Why We Love It: Even as a seasoned beauty editor, I still have days when I forget to apply sunscreen, and don't even get me started on how annoying it can be to reapply. That's exactly why I keep a hydrating spray within reach. It's effortless to spritz on, whether you're using it as a base layer or touching up midday. The mist is completely invisible and even doubles as a setting spray. The formula is just as impressive. 'This is an SPF 50+ chemical sunscreen spray that contains vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-rich watermelon extract,' says Dr. Camp.
Even as a seasoned beauty editor, I still have days when I forget to apply sunscreen, and don't even get me started on how annoying it can be to reapply. That's exactly why I keep a hydrating spray within reach. It's effortless to spritz on, whether you're using it as a base layer or touching up midday. The mist is completely invisible and even doubles as a setting spray. The formula is just as impressive. 'This is an SPF 50+ chemical sunscreen spray that contains vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-rich watermelon extract,' says Dr. Camp. Key Ingredients : Watermelon seed oil, kakadu plum
: Watermelon seed oil, kakadu plum Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
Chemical SPF Level: SPF 50+
SPF 50+ Broad-Spectrum : Yes
: Yes Oil-Free: N/A
N/A Finish: Dewy
Everything You Need to Know:
What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Oily Skin
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For those with oily skin, Dr. Spearman says the number one thing to look for is a non-comedogenic formula. Dr. Camp adds that oil-free, lightweight sunscreens with a mattifying or gel-based texture tend to work best. 'A gel-based formula may work better than a heavy cream,' says Dr. Spearman. 'Some brands even offer liquid sunscreens that dry down to a matte finish, which is ideal for oily skin.'
Should oily skin types use mineral or chemical sunscreens?
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It really just depends on your preference. 'Oily skin types can use mineral or chemical sunscreens, but should look for a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula,' says Dr. Camp. However, Dr. Spearman suggests opting for mineral formulas, noting that 'chemical-based sunscreens can leave skin feeling greasy.'
Can I skip moisturizer and use sunscreen for oily skin?
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While it's always best to experiment and see what works for your skin, Dr. Spearman says it's absolutely fine to skip moisturizer if you're using a sunscreen that suits your needs. 'Doubling up with moisturizer and sunscreen is not necessary for those with oily skin. In fact, I often recommend that my acne-prone patients skip moisturizer in the morning and instead use their medications followed by sunscreen,' she explains. Dr. Camp adds that if you do opt to skip moisturizer, make sure your sunscreen offers added skin benefits beyond UV protection. 'This might include hydration, skin barrier support, and antioxidant protection,' he says.
Why does my sunscreen make my face so oily?
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'Many sunscreens are composed of emollients or oils to help moisturize the skin and improve spreadability. This can make facial skin, which naturally has more oil glands, appear even oilier,' explains Dr. Spearman. She also notes that some barrier sunscreens can trap sebum or natural oils on the skin's surface, which contributes to a greasy look. Dr. Camp adds that products made with emollient or occlusive ingredients are more likely to trap oil, while lightweight liquid or gel-based sunscreens tend to leave a more matte finish.
How to Wear Sunscreen Without Looking Greasy
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If greasiness is one of your main concerns, look for a matte-based physical sunscreen in either a liquid or gel formula, or one with a naturally mattifying finish. Dr. Camp recommends ingredients like niacinamide, silica, and zinc—all of which may help reduce shine. Another option, according to Dr. Spearman, is to skip moisturizer altogether and consider using a powder-based sunscreen for reapplication throughout the day.