The Ultimate Sunscreen Guide For Oily Skin

6th October 2024 | By Tamara Corin

Are you guilty of avoiding SPF because you’re worried about acne flare-ups? With ‘Every Sunscreen Breaks Me Out’ reaching 76 million posts on TikTok, it’s no surprise that those with oilier skin types actively avoid reaching for their SPF.

However, Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Emma Wedgeworth, sets the record straight: “for those prone to blemishes, there’s often concern that SPF will cause breakouts.

SPF filters themselves aren’t comedogenic (pore-blocking), so with the right formulation, sunscreen won’t break you out

“In other words, no matter your skin type, sunscreen is your daily essential for healthy, protected skin.” Here’s what you need to know…

What to Look For: Your Sunscreen Shopping Checklist

Oil-Free Formulas: Say goodbye to breakouts and hello to clear, happy skin!

Non-Comedogenic: Because clogged pores are so last season.

Matte Finish: Keep that shine under control and rock a velvety, smooth look.

Lightweight Texture: Opt for gel-based or fluid sunscreens that feel like a dream.

Broad Spectrum Protection: Guard against both UVA and UVB rays.

SPF 30 or Higher: Because you deserve the best shield against the sun.

Ingredients To Avoid

Oils: Heavy oils like coconut oil can turn your skin into an oil field – no thanks!

Alcohol: It can dry you out, making your skin pump out even more oil.

Fragrance: Keep it simple to avoid irritations and unwanted flare-ups.

Occlusive Agents: Ingredients like petrolatum and paraffin can trap heat and sweat.

Ingredients To Seek Out

Zinc Oxide: Broad-spectrum protection that’s gentle and effective – a true hero!

Titanium Dioxide: Another fab physical blocker that won’t clog your pores.

Silica: Absorbs oil and keeps you looking flawlessly matte.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces inflammation and keeps oil at bay.

Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates like a boss without adding grease

Best SPFs For Oily Skin

It’s oil-free, non-comedogenic, and gives you that matte magic with a high SPF. It’s a bit of a splurge, but totally worth it!
Mattifies and controls oil for up to 10 hours. It’s on the luxury side, but your skin will thank you.
Affordable and works brilliantly under makeup. It has a lovely cooling sensation to calm irritated skin.
A hardworking hybrid formula that doubles up as skincare and sunscreen. It wipes up oil all-day long.
Considered formula that ticks all the right boxes. This dries down to a seamless matte finish.
It’s alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and oil-free- tick, tick, tick! The finish is natural – not too matte, not too dewy.
This literally soaks up oil in its path while leaving a velvety finish on skin. A little goes a long way, and the slimline packaging is handbag friendly.
Lightweight, hydrating, and non-comedogenic – what’s not to love? It does have fragrance, so test it out if you’re super sensitive.

The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.


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