There is no good excuse not to use sunscreen every day. Along with finding shade, covering up and avoiding the sun's peak hours, wearing sunscreen is a crucial way to protect the health of your skin, as unprotected UV exposure can cause sunburn, premature signs of aging and even some types of cancer. However, if you have oily skin, the thought of slathering sunscreen on your face can sometimes be a little unappealing, especially since many formulas on the market tend to leave behind an oily layer after application. Good news? There are many matte sunscreens that provide good coverage without shine.
ContentSunscreen Unseen SPF 40Mineral matte cream SPF 40 Supergoop MattescreenUltra-light moisturizing lotion CeraVe SPF 30EltaMD UV Clear broad spectrum SPF 46EleVen in Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
We found the best sunscreens for oily skin, ranking them by active ingredients, SPF, how they interact with water, and what ingredients they contain. After consulting with a dermatologist, and having considered dozens of options, WomanEL settled on these:
Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
There is lightweight sunscreen and also undetectable sunscreen that you forget about. The formula of this cream undoubtedly belongs to the latter — It is not only oil-free, but also weightless, odorless and transparent. While it's great for all skin types, dermatologists especially recommend it for oily skin due to its completely undetectable texture. However, it provides powerful protection, protecting not only from UVA and UVB rays, but also from blue light, the type of light emitted by all of our electronic devices, and many of the latest studies show that it can be potentially harmful. It also has a matte finish and goes well under makeup. Everyone loves the way it looks and feels on the face.
Mineral matte cream SPF 40 Supergoop Mattescreen
We especially love that the formula is all mineral (but contains no white cast) and mattifies shine, blurs pores, and creates a smooth, even finish on bare skin or under makeup.
It comes in one universal a peachy tint that is designed to offset the white tint that is synonymous with mineral formulations; it's flexible and matches a wide range of skin tones.
Ultra-light moisturizing lotion CeraVe SPF 30
Dermatologists love this brand, a drugstore staple, for its simple skin care offerings containing ceramides, essential ingredients that help strengthen and maintain a healthy skin barrier. This formula also provides additional hydrating benefits thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid, as well as SPF 30 protection and a matte finish.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46
Yes, this lightweight, clear formula (a dermatologist favorite) touts a powerful combination of chemical and mineral sunscreen ingredients that help effectively protect your skin from the sun. But what's even more noteworthy is the addition of two skin-care ingredients: lactic acid, a gentle exfoliant, and niacinamide, an antioxidant that helps even out skin tone and reduce redness. In tandem, they help make your complexion glow. Best of all, it is easily absorbed, non-irritating and perfect for those who like low-maintenance care.
EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
True to the name, this is more like a luxury skin care serum than any traditional sunscreen you've ever used. Even though it is completely mineral based, it blends clear skin tones. A plant extract from comfrey, called allantoin, treats oily skin, leaving your face soft and essential hydrated.
If you're a fan of all-natural remedies, make your own sunscreen at home — it's not difficult.