The Best Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens for Oily Skin

July 26, 2023

The Best Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens for Oily Skin

All the sun protection, no clogged pores

BY LINDY SEGAL | PUBLISHED: JUL 26, 2023

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, it can be tempting to skip sunscreen—especially during the summer. After all, when your skin is already shiny and then you add in sweat, the last thing you want is to layer a heavy SPF on top. But sunscreen is fundamental, and many sunscreen formulas are formulated to be non-comedogenic—meaning they won’t lead to breakouts.

“This type of sunscreen shields without clogging pores,” says Jean Charles, a board-certified dermatologist with U.S. Dermatology Partners Cedar Park. Ahead, we put together a list of the best 12 non-comedogenic sunscreens, with expert picks courtesy of Charles, along with products with some of the best reviews on the beach and beyond. Read on to find your new favorite SPF, clogged pores not included.

Along with the following two picks, Charles recommends this popular—and yes, non-comedogenic—pick from EltaMD. So if you haven’t been tempted to try this TikTok-fave formula yet, now’s the time.

Customer review: “I’ve been using EltaMD for years…daily! Great protection! Great Product! Not greasy and does not leave a slimy film on my face!” —pcon227

Derms, including Charles, love SkinCeuticals’ sunscreen. This lightweight lotion is also lightly tinted to blend in with (and enhance) a natural skin tone, and has an impressive SPF 50.

Customer review: “I’ve been using this sunscreen for a few months now and am a repeat buyer. It has a nice tint that blends well, and I like how easy it is to apply. It’s comfortable and soothing on my aging skin.” —Abigail

Both oil-free and shine-absorbing, this SPF 60 lotion is great for high-heat, sunny environments.

Customer review: “I really, really like this stuff – it has become my go-to face sunscreen this summer. It goes on really smoothly and to me it rubbed in really easily (disclaimer: I did not try it under makeup, though). I love how high the SPF is and that it’s oil-free. Also, a pretty good price for a quality face sunscreen.” —Lisa

This featherlight serum sunscreen blends in like a dream; you won’t believe it’s a mineral formula. Plus, it has brightening ingredients and hydrating squalane to keep skin happy, too.

Customer review: “Very impressed by this glow serum with SPF. It has almost a blurring effect on my skin and it absorbs non-greasy and sets with a nice subtle glow. The SPF in it gives me great sense of relief that my skin is protected against UV rays. I love it.” —Sara

A “watery lotion” may sound a little unusual, but once you try this lightweight formula, you’ll realize it’s the perfect description. Not only is it refreshing to apply, it also has a high SPF 50.

Customer review: “I recommend this product so much, there’s no pilling, cute packaging, great sunscreen.” —Miraiscool

One pump of this clear gel, and you’ll understand the hype of this brand from Down Under. Yes, it’s completely clear, but it’s also infused with hydrating squalane and watermelon extract and dries down to a semi-matte finish.

Customer review: “I absolutely love this stuff. I have oily skin so I was worried at first but she leaves no shine behind and keeps me moisturized and protected.” —Kylie

Glowy and oily aren’t mutually exclusive, and this Sun Bum sunscreen is exhibit A. With a bronzy tint and Kakadu plum for a boost of vitamin C, it adds radiance without looking greasy.

Customer review: “Great glow I have been using in combination with Sun Bum tinted sunscreen. I am Hispanic, medium skin tone, the color works very well on my skin. Would buy again and have recommended this product to all of my friends and family.” —Danielle

If you plan on spending a good amount of time by the pool, try this drugstore-fave lotion. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and the oil-free formula leaves skin with a matte finish.

Customer review: “The only sunscreen that has ever worked for me and it’s super affordable! Highly recommend if you break out easily!” —Landon

No-white-cast alert: This tinted mineral sunscreen from tennis champion Naomi Osaka’s line comes in three skin-matching shades and blends in seamlessly.

Customer review: “I used the light-tinted Golden Rays Sunscreen. It feels so good on my face, it is not oily or gritty. I will use this every day.” —Carmen16

Another super-lightweight lotion you’ll be shocked to learn is mineral-based, this SPF 50 serum feels silky as it’s applied, not chalky. Better still, it contains pentapeptides to protect against signs of aging and helps reduce shine.

Customer review: “It’s so hard for me to find a mineral face sunscreen that isn’t tinted. Not only is this not tinted it feels like luxurious skin care when applying! My skin looked amazing after and even hours later it had a glowing from within effect! And I’m a sleep-deprived mom haha need all the help I can get. Love it! No white cast and the smell is fine.” —Candace

This fun yellow bottle brightens up any beach bag, but it’s what’s on the inside that counts. The SPF 30 mineral lotion is made for both the face and body and also has skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and panthenol.

Customer review: “Smooth and very light lotion with a subtle and pleasant fragrance. Absolutely no skin irritation–always a good thing. It’s a lovely product.” —Scott G.

A primer and mineral sunscreen in one, this formula blurs the look of pores while still keeping things breathable—and has a skin-evening tint.

Customer review: “This primer is amazing. I love how my face looks after putting it on. No foundation is needed. Plus it has SPF. Just amazing.” —Amy

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