Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Your skin type plays a huge role in finding the right sunscreen for you. If you notice extra shine (especially on your forehead, nose, and chin), enlarged pores, or frequent breakouts, chances are you have oily skin. And that’s completely normal.

Oily skin has to do with sebum, the natural oil your skin produces to stay hydrated and protected. Some of us just make a little more of it, which can come down to genetics, hormones, age, or even where you live.

Oily skin can be tricky to deal with. The good news? With the right routine — yes, including sunscreen — you can help keep excess oil in check, support your skin’s health, and feel your best every day.

Why Sunscreen Is Essential, Even for Oily Skin

Let’s clear one thing up: All skin types need SPF protection, including oily skin. Just like any other skin type, oily skin can burn, develop sun damage, and age prematurely. In fact, the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology suggests that sun exposure may exacerbate oily skin concerns, since UV rays can damage your skin barrier and trigger more oil production.

No matter your skin type, daily SPF is a non-negotiable. It helps prevent sunburns, supports your skin’s long-term health, and some formulas can even help keep oil production in check.

What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Not all sunscreens are the same, and if you have oily skin, you’ll want to be selective. Here’s what makes a good match:

1. Non-Comedogenic Formula

First things first: Look for “non-comedogenic” on the label. For our formulas, this means the sunscreen is specifically formulated without pore-clogging oils and has passed a lab-performed patch test to confirm it won’t cause comedones (whiteheads or blackheads). Because of this, non-comedogenic SPF is less likely to cause breakouts from clogged pores, hair follicles, or sweat glands.

2. Lightweight Formulas

Heavy, greasy sunscreen formulas can weigh down oily skin and make it feel slicker than it already is. Reach for lightweight and/or mattifying formulas that absorb quickly without leaving residue behind (more on that later). You’ll get the protection you need without the extra shine.

3 Supergoop! Sunscreens for Oily Skin

At Supergoop! we know that oily skin needs SPF just as much as any other skin type, so we have options made just for you. Here are three you’ll want to keep in your routine:

Triple Prep Weightless Multitasking Moisturizer SPF 40

Just because oily skin produces more oil, doesn’t mean it needs less moisture. Skipping moisturizer can actually make oily skin produce more oil to compensate. That’s where Triple Prep comes in. This weightless multitasking moisturizer with SPF 40 keeps oily skin hydrated without feeling greasy. It absorbs quickly, supports your moisture barrier, and contains red algae which is known to help balance skin. 96% of users agreed their skin felt naturally balanced after using Triple Prep.*

“With lifelong oily skin, I’ve searched the world over for a moisturizer that controls oil, doesn’t clog pores, and doesn’t result in superficial flaking. This product does it all.” — Julie

Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Mineral Mattescreen is a lightweight, whipped mineral sunscreen that helps mattify shine and visibly blur your pores. It’s non-comedogenic and doubles as a primer, so your makeup goes on smoother and stays put.

“I have a very oily T-zone and this is one of the only products I’ve found that not only blocks sun but keeps oil at bay all day.” — Mari

Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

If you want SPF that disappears completely, Unseen Sunscreen is your match. This cult-favorite gel is totally weightless, non-greasy, and blurs pores without leaving a white cast. It’s also non-acnegenic and non-comedogenic, so you can count on protection without clogged pores. Don’t take our word for it, though: 92% of users agreed Unseen Sunscreen didn’t settle into their pores.**

“I honestly don’t know how this can be so velvety soft and smooth without making me feel oily. It’s the best face sunscreen.” — Marissa

Sun Protection That Works With Your Skin? That’s Super!

One of the smartest decisions you can make is choosing a sunscreen that respects your skin type. Look for non-comedogenic, lightweight formulas formulated for oily skin, with bonus points for mattifying powers. Your future self (and your T-zone) will thank you.

*Based on a consumer study with 53 participants after 2 weeks

**Based on an independent consumer study with 53 participants after one product application