These non-greasy staples are set to become your new sun saviours
We know the drill: sunscreen, particularly for the face, is an everyday essential that helps protect our skin against harmful UV rays and premature ageing. If, however, you have an oily skin type, you may have been put off in the past by thick, heavy creams that leave behind a greasy film.
Thankfully, times have changed. The latest sunscreens boast new-generation formulas, spanning everything from silky fluids to dry-touch gels laced with skin-loving ingredients for even sensitive skin. So much more than a sunscreen, these savvy staples hydrate, mattify and prevent pigmentation – all while providing the best sun protection for you and your family.
You’ll find thousands of summer essentials for you and your family at Boots, including a vast selection of sunscreens for oily skin, for every budget. So, whether you’re heading to a festival, beach, wedding or barbecue, be sure to arm yourself with one of these sun-damage, broad-spectrum shields for everyday protection.
Is sunscreen good for oily skin?
Most definitely. “Broad spectrum sunscreen is crucial for all skin types,” says Abi Cleeve, founder and managing director of Ultrasun. It’s an essential for helping reduce the risk of developing skin cancers as well as supporting overall skin health.
What’s more, using sun protection may even be able to help with excess oil in the long-term. “Those with an oily skin type may find exposure to sunlight initially makes their skin feel less oily,” Abi says. “However, it can cause dehydration which can ultimately lead to even more oil production.”
What’s the best sunscreen for oily skin?
If you’re wondering if sunscreen makes skin oily, you may have good reason. After all, the sunscreens of yesteryear could often feel heavy and look greasy. Thankfully, today’s formulas help address that common concern and then some.
Dr Catharine Denning, an advanced aesthetic doctor, suggests looking for a product that’s lightweight and oil-free for weightless protection. It may be handy to select products that are non-comedogenic, which means they’re less likely to clog pores.
Some sunscreens also include mattifying ingredients that those who are shine-prone might find helpful.
In terms of texture, Dr Denning recommends gel: “It’s one of the best options for oily skin,” she says. We also love milky, fluid-like formulas that sink into skin without a trace.
When choosing between mineral vs chemical sunscreens, Dr Denning confirms that both are fine for oily skin. Although if you have sensitive skin, mineral sunscreen may be best as it’s generally considered to be gentler.
There are a number of sunscreens out there that use a combination of mineral and chemical filters for a belt-and-braces approach to ward off UV damage in a variety of ways. If you’re worried about a white cast, opt for a tinted or invisible formula that dries without marks.
What to avoid when choosing the best sunscreen for oily skin
Try to avoid rich formulas that contain ingredients that may clog pores. “As you can imagine, the more oil you add to an already oily complexion, the more likely you are to cause congestion and leave skin shiny,” says Dr Denning.
Watch out for sunscreens that are occlusive-heavy (designed to trap moisture). “The most commonly-used occlusives are petrolatum and silicone-based ingredients, which can seal sweat glands, blocking the pores from releasing oil and leading to skin congestion.”
Can you skip moisturiser and only use sunscreen for oily skin?
Go for it! Today’s formulas are brimming with skincare as well as sun care benefits. “If you feel your skin may feel overwhelmed by too many layers, use a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen on its own,” suggests Abi.
Want to learn how to layer your skincare? Watch our easy-to-follow, step-by-step video for top tips and tricks.
12 of the best sunscreens for oily skin at Boots
From oil-absorbing sunscreens to water-resistant formulas and more, here are 12 oily skin sunscreens that protect and perfect in one fell swoop.
Best for everyday wear
Try: Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream Dry Touch SPF50+
• Size: 50ml
• SPF50+
• Unprefumed
Want a sunscreen that’s ultra-lightweight and sits well under make-up? Meet your new go-to. This gel-to-cream formula quickly sinks into skin, delivering high protection from UVA and UVB rays while helping balance a slippery T-zone. Skin is left matte, shine-free and perfectly primed for your base.
Best for dark spots
Try: Garnier Ambre Solaire Anti-Dark Spots & Anti-Pollution Super UV SPF50+
• Size: 40ml
• SPF50+
• Non-comedogenic
• Fragrance-free
• Cruelty-free
Another great everyday sunscreen for oily skin, this milky textured face fluid contains nourishing vitamin E and hyaluronic acid as well as UV filters. Skin is left hydrated and protected without any leftover residue. Top tip? Shake well before application.
Best for a matte finish
Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Oil Control Gel SPF50+
• Size: 50ml
• SPF50+
• Sweat resistant
• Non-perfumed
This new-generation sunscreen is formulated with air licium, an oil-absorbing ingredient that helps keep skin matte and shine-free. It also contains the brand’s hydrating thermal spring water and is non-greasy and non-sticky. Sensitive skin is left feeling comforted and protected.
Best for maximum protection
Try: Ultrasun Anti Pollution Face Fluid SPF50+
• Size: 40ml
• SPF50+
• Non-comedogenic
• Unperfumed
• Water resistant
• Vegan friendly
Not only does this high-performance shield protect skin from the sun’s rays, it defends against urban pollution and environmental aggressors. Containing ectoin, the brand’s hero skin-health enzyme, the fluid can be used as a lightweight moisturiser and sunscreen in one. It acts as a great base for make-up.
Best for the beach
Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+
• SPF50+
• Water-, sweat-, and sand-resistant
• Boots Beauty Award Winner
In terms of texture, fluid formulas reign supreme for oily skin types. And this one from La Roche-Posay comes up trumps, protecting skin from UVB and UVA rays without leaving behind a greasy residue or unwanted marks. What’s more, it’s resistant to water, sweat and sand.
Best for body
Try: Soltan Clear & Cool Protect Suncare Mist SPF50
• Size: 200ml
• SPF50
• Instant cooling effect
• Water resistant
• Vegan friendly
A 5-star UVA rating and high SPF are just two of the benefits this sun mist has to offer. It’s also water-resistant, quick drying, transparent and instantly cooling, so that summer skin is left refreshed and tropically scented.
Best for humid conditions
Try: Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50 PA++++
• Size: 30ml
• SPF50
• Non-comedogenic
• Fragrance free
Specifically created with oily skin types in mind, this refreshing gel sunscreen stands up to humid conditions with its lightweight formula that leaves skin shine-free and soft. The water-like texture makes it a great fit for hot summer days and holidays alike.
Best for city breaks
Try: Shiseido Urban Environment Age Defense SPF30
• Size: 30ml
• SPF30
• Oil free
• Water resistant
Off on a city break? Protect your skin from harmful UV rays and environmental aggressors with this hard-working SPF30 that blends and sinks in quickly. Suitable for all skin types, the silky texture spreads seamlessly without ever feeling sticky in the heat.
Best for congestion
Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Correct SPF50+
• Size: 50ml
• SPF50+
Sun care meets skincare in this broad-spectrum protector laced with salicylic acid to help decongest pores, niacinamide to help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, as well as zinc to reduce shine. Talk about multitasking.
Best for water resistance
Try: Bondi Sands Face Sunscreen Lotion Fragrance Free SPF50+
• Size: 75ml
• SPF50+
• Water resistant
• Vegan friendly
• Cruelty free
Although this sunscreen is brimming with hydrating ingredients, like aloe vera and vitamin E, it doesn’t leave skin feeling greasy. Instead, it sinks straight in to provide UVA and UVB protection and dries to an invisible finish. Impressive, right?
Best for reapplying
Try: Ultrasun Face Sun Protection UV Face & Scalp Mist SPF50
• Size: 75ml
• SPF50
• Non-comedogenic
• Vegan friendly
The real secret behind good sun protection? Reapplying. This easy-to-use, super-lightweight, non-greasy spray provides quick-drying, broad-spectrum protection. It can be worn on top of, or beneath, make-up for top ups when you need them. Make sure you don’t overlook your sensitive scalp; this formula is non-greasy enough to spritz along your hair parting, too.
Best for darker skin tones
Try: Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen with Niacinamide & Kalahari Melon SPF30
• Size: 50ml
• SPF30
• Non-comedogenic
• Refillable
• Vegan friendly
If you’re worried about a chalky cast dulling your skin’s shine, give this lightweight sunscreen from Fenty Beauty a go. The smart formula absorbs instantly without leaving your skin looking or feeling greasy, creating the perfect base for your make-up on top.
