In recent times, following a standard skincare routine has become the norm for most individuals – this includes finding the perfect sunscreen that offers a good amount of UV protection while also being shine-free. This is where the best oil-free sunscreens come into the picture – they are effective and offer a matte finish. You’ll be able to achieve a desirable glow without any of that unwanted shine, making it a great product for those with oily and combination skin.

While our skincare experts explored an array of options, they also came across oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreens that promised to shield the skin from harmful UV rays while also ensuring to not clog the pores. If you’re someone who has oily or acne-prone skin, this would be a great option for you.

So hop on aboard and join us as we go over a list of the top-rated matte sunscreens, also sharing valuable insights on how you can choose the best non-oily sunscreen for yourself and some tips for you to achieve a seamless application.

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  Editor’s Pick

  EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Tinted Face Sunscreen

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This tinted oil-free sunscreen is made with zinc oxide and has a sun protection factor of 46. The formula is lightweight, has calming properties, and protects sensitive skin types that are prone to acne, rosacea, and discoloration. It’s also travel-sized and comes with a pump dispenser, making it super convenient to be carried anywhere and used while on the go. If you detest the white cast that regular sunscreens leave behind, this one is for you – it goes on clear and blends effortlessly into the skin.

SPF: 46

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Best Lightweight Formula

Supergroop! Unseen Sunscreen

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Weightless, scentless, and completely invisible – this oil-free sunscreen from Supergoop! is the game-changer that you’ve been waiting for. It’s ideal for all skin types and tones and helps filter out blue light, UVA, UVB, and IRA rays. The formula applies smoothly onto the skin, preventing the appearance of shine, and leaving behind a velvety finish that acts like a primer for your makeup. Additionally, the composition is made up of clean and potent ingredients such as calming frankincense and hydrating meadowfoam seed that nourishes the skin while also offering protection. Moreover, it’s beard-friendly, making it a great option for men.

SPF: 40

3

Best Water-resistant Formula

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen

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Formulated with broad spectrum SPF 60 for the face and body, this oil-free sunscreen from La Roche-Posay has a non-greasy and quick-absorbing texture. When applied, it makes the skin soft, smooth, and hydrated, leaving it feeling velvety to the touch. It’s also free from parabens and can be used on all skin types, including sensitive skin. The best part about this product is that it’s formulated with Cell-Ox Shield Technology, offering antioxidant protection, while also being free from oxybenzone.

SPF: 60

Quick Tip:

To get the most out of this non-oily sunscreen, apply it thoroughly 15 minutes before your skin is exposed to the sun. Also, reapply it at least every 2 hours.

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Best Unscented Formula

Coppertone Oil Free Face Sunscreen

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If you have skin that gets easily irritated, then this hypoallergenic sunscreen from Coppertone will be a great addition to your daily skincare ritual. It delivers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection without the risk of clogged pores or unwanted acne breakouts. It also makes the skin feel soft and smooth while remaining water-resistant for 80 minutes after application.

The unscented formula and convenient travel size are among many more reasons that it’s worth the purchase. Whether you’re heading to the office, running errands, or chilling at the beach, this oil-free sunscreen for sensitive skin is just what you need.

SPF: 50

5

Best Non-greasy Finish

Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen

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This matte-finish sunscreen from Paula’s Choice will help you bid goodbye to greasiness while also offering broad-spectrum sun protection. It’s lightweight and oil-free, enriching your skin with antioxidants that promote a youthful appearance. With water and sweat-resistant properties, it’s ideal to be used for a wide range of outdoor and water-based activities. The silky formula goes on smoothly on the skin – it gets absorbed almost instantly without the need for rigorous rubbing. Moreover, it’s safe to be used on all skin types, including oily and combination skin.

SPF: 50

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Best Fragrance

Hawaiian Tropic Weightless Hydration Lotion Sunscreen

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This weightless sunscreen from Hawaiian Tropic is equipped with SPF30 and when applied, it feels like it’s barely on. It delivers an intense moisturizing effect that lasts for up to 12 hours, making it perfect for those with dry skin. Moreover, since it’s oil-free, it leaves no residue behind and feels non-greasy. Plus, it’s also tested by dermatologists and remains water resistant for 80 minutes. A customer on Amazon says, “I love this sunscreen! I wear this every day. I love the smell of it and the shimmer it gives my skin!”.

SPF: 30

7

Most Budget-friendly

Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen

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When it comes to finding a sunscreen that’s safe to be worn every day, this product will cut your search short! The formula is oil-free and contains powerful active ingredients like avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene. Ideal for both men and women, it features an SPF of 40. Once it’s applied, it almost becomes invisible, leaving behind no white cast. What’s more – it’s also resistant to water and sweat for up to 40 minutes. We’d recommend this oil-free sunscreen for anyone with fragrance sensitivities since it contains no added or artificial scents.

SPF: 40

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Best Non-comedogenic Formula

Coppertone Sport Face Sunscreen

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As one of the most trusted sunscreen brands, Coppertone hit the nail on the head with this product! It’s 100% naturally sourced and offers mineral sun protection with zinc oxide as an active ingredient. Zinc oxide boosts skin barrier function and also has anti-aging benefits, making it a great skincare ingredient (study published in the National Library of Medicine). Moreover, the formula is water resistant – ideal for the summer season and for individuals who live an active lifestyle. You can rest assured that it doesn’t trickle down to the eyes when you sweat, avoiding the risk of stinging and burning.

It’s also very mild on the skin and is free from oxybenzone, PABA, and dyes. Lastly, because it is non-comedogenic, it won’t clog your pores or trigger acne breakouts.

SPF: 50

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Best Reef-friendly Pick

Rubber Ducky No-Ox Sunscreen

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With SPF 50, this oil-free face sunscreen lotion is free from any added fragrances, making it great to be used daily, by the entire family. The formula is loaded with vitamin E – this makes it super moisturizing, keeping your skin hydrated. It’s also vegan and remains water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. 

What sets it apart is that it’s not tested on animals and is completely free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. A customer on Amazon says, “I use this product daily on my face, after moisturizer. I appreciate the price and how well this works. I have been using it for the last 5 years. It’s my go-to sunscreen for my face”.

SPF: 50

Now that we’ve gone over the best oil-free sunscreens, let’s find out how you can choose one that’s best suited for you. Take a look at our buying guide below.

When it comes to choosing an oil-free facial sunscreen, you need to keep a few factors in mind. To find out what they are, take a look below:

Consider Your Skin Type

Firstly, you need to be aware of the type of skin that you have. If it’s oily or prone to regular breakouts, then an oil-free face sunscreen is the right fit for you.

Check for a Non-comedogenic Formula

Take a look at the product labels and check for an oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen. These formulas will not clog your pores, ensuring that you don’t break out and that it doesn’t worsen any existing acne, if present.

Opt for a Good SPF Level

When purchasing sunscreen, it’s important that you choose one with an appropriate SPF level, according to your skin’s requirements. We suggest that you go for SPF 30 at minimum, especially if you’ll be using it every day.

Prioritize Broad Spectrum Protection

If your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, it means that it will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays – this is something that’s very essential.

Inspect the Ingredients

Before buying sunscreen, quickly run through the ingredients to check if you may be allergic to something. Also, if you have sensitive skin, fragrance-free options would be a better choice for you.

Look for Extended Water Resistance

If you live an active lifestyle, you’re bound to sweat a lot. In this case, good water-resistant sunscreens can come in handy, offering prolonged protection.

Applying any type of sunscreen is a straightforward process, go over the following tips to wear it the right way:

1. Start with skin that’s both clean and dry.
2. Take a dime-sized amount of your favorite sunscreen in your hands.
3. Using a gentle touch, apply the product in an upward motion.
4. Apply some to your neck as well – you can use more sunscreen if required.
5. Give it a few minutes to get fully absorbed into your skin.
6. Lastly, if required, you can use makeup over it.