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The 9 Best Oil-Free Sunscreens That Won't Break You Out
Ultimate sun protection without the clogged pores
There are a number of benefits to wearing one of the best oil-free sunscreens on a daily basis. Not only do many of these staples feature versatile formulas that won't leave a white cast behind on your face, but they also are helpful in preventing new breakouts from forming. And when you're naturally oily or deal with acne-prone skin, applying an SPF without adding greasiness is key.
According to experts, your go-to sunscreen should have a minimum of SPF 30 protection to properly guard against potential UVA and UVB damage. "I recommend using a formula that is oil-free and not greasy so it doesn’t clog your pores," Angela J. Lamb, associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City, tells Bazaar.
Beloved oil-free sunscreens from editor and dermatologist-favorite brands, like Elta MD and La Roche-Posay, are the perfect . Here, we've rounded up a short list of some of the very best broad-spectrum essentials that are ideal for just about any skin type—each featuring protection coverage of SPF 30 or more.
Related: The Best Korean Sunscreens for Serious Sun Protection
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
This highly popular zinc oxide sunscreen is ideal for both acne and hyperpigmentation, and also happens to be entirely fragrance-free. It's formulated with hardworking ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, and since it goes on clear, it works for all skin tones, too.
One satisfied customer writes: "I love this stuff. Very light to wear under makeup. I use it everyday. Even got my husband using it." —Allison
Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, this zinc oxide SPF 50 pick has a formula that evens your skin tone as you wear it, since it features a subtle tint.
One satisfied customer writes: "My dermatologist recommended this years ago, and I've been using it religiously ever since. It's the only sunscreen that I can wear over serums and moisturizers without being too greasy, and the color blends really nicely. I've tried a lot of sunscreens and this is one of the best by far." —Tracie
Pros
- Works as a makeup primer
Cons
Supergoop's cult-favorite SPF 40 sunscreen is not only popular, but also happens to be oil-free. And since it doubles as a makeup primer, it wrangles in excess shine throughout the day so your skin looks silky smooth and not overly glossy.
One satisfied customer writes: "This sunscreen is clear, leaves no white cast, and is perfect use as a primer as well! Does not leave me oily as I wear it. Def recommend!" —Anonymous
Urban Environment Oil-Free Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum
Pros
- Works as a primer
Cons
Shiseido is well-known for its cult-favorite skincare products, and this top-rated sunscreen is no different. It contains a dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested formula that's also non-comedogenic, making it a great choice for combination, acne-prone, and oily types.
One satisfied customer writes: "This product feels amazing on my skin; it absorbs quickly and leaves a surface ready for foundation, or not!" —Margaret
Pros
- Fragrance-free
Cons
Looking for a no-nonsense, budget-friendly sunscreen? We recommend Neutrogena’s Clear Face Oil-Free sunscreen. Since it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, it's ideal for the person with oily or acne-prone skin that also stays active with outside activities, like jogging, skiing, or tennis.
One satisfied customer writes: "Love this sunscreen as it is one of my daily go-tos. Initially after application it does leave your face a little greasy, but it dries. It’s very light and I do notice that I break out less using this product than some other competitors (I have very sensitive skin). I’ve been using this product, almost daily, for about a year now." —Katie
Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
This barely-there, matte finish sunscreen is part of Paula's Choice's Clear collection, which is formulated to help prevent new breakouts from occurring. Its titanium dioxide formula uses plant-derived ingredients like black elderberry, green tea leaf extract, and more to minimize dryness while calming skin.
One satisfied customer writes: "I use it every morning after I moisturizer and have been noticing my skin is more hydrated and my acne has been going away!" —Liz
Anthelios 60 Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60
Pros
- Water-resistant
Cons
Somehow, this oil-free sunscreen from La Roche-Posay actually helps soak up any extra oil on your face throughout the day while still offering SPF 60. Perlite and silica control shine, and antioxidants send free radicals packing.
| Key ingredients: | Senna alata (tropical leaf extract), perlite, silica |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "Due to my sensitive and acne prone skin, I have never successfully been able to use sunscreen on my face without causing major breakouts. This stuff is absolutely amazing. It goes on light and smooth, turning into almost a powdery feel. Makes my skin beautifully smooth and matte for make up application as a bonus." —Victoria |
Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
Nearly 2,000 Ulta customers are raving about this hydrating sunscreen from Origins. It features an antioxidant-packed silver tip white tea-infused formula that helps minimize fine lines while protecting skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays.
One satisfied customer writes: "I live in Alaska where it is very dry, so we are very picky about our moisturizers. A Perfect World moisturizer keeps my skin soft and moist. I love it, and love having the SPF in there as I work under harsh lights during the day. I have sensitive skin and have no problems with it." —Sherina
Pros
- Paraben-free
Cons
While not exactly oil-free (contains ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil), this SPF 45 sunscreen gel does have a matte formula that helps keep T-zone shine at a minimum. And, it not only happens to be vegan, but also reef-friendly, which is perfect for long days at the beach.
One satisfied customer writes: "I love that it’s a gel. It’s doesn’t feel heavy or tacky. And a little goes a long way. So glad I bought this. Definitely a go to for me." —ADee
Meet the Experts
- Angela J. Lamb is a board-certified dermatologist, and the associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City.
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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
