Our Favorite Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens for Oily Skin
February 10, 2023
Considering how important it is to wear sunscreen every day all year long, finding a formula for your skin type is key. But if you have oily or acne-prone skin and every new product you introduce into your routine is a potential breakout risk, finding a sunscreen that doesn’t clog pores can feel like an impossible feat. To save you time, money and spot treatment, just look for the words “non-comedogenic” on the packaging.
What Is Non-Comedogenic Sunscreen?
Non-comedogenic sunscreens are formulated to not clog pores, meaning they’re free of ingredients that might otherwise cause pimples and blackheads on the skin. New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Michele Farber previously explained to Skincare.com that non-comedogenic products in general “have ingredients that do not cause oil build-up or lead to breakouts.”
Who Should Use Non-Comedogenic Sunscreen?
According to Dr. Farber, “non-comedogenic products are most important for acne-prone or oily skin, as these products tend to be more lightweight. However, non-comedogenic products are generally appropriate in any skin type.” This means that if you have oily-prone skin or struggle with acne, a non-comedogenic sunscreen option might be the right choice for you.
Ahead, we’re sharing our favorite non-comedogenic sunscreens to try ASAP.
The 20 Best Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens and Oil-Free Sunscreens
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct Face Sunscreen SPF 70 With Niacinamide
For a skin-smoothing formula, try this SPF 70 sunscreen from La Roche-Posay. It helps protect and shield the skin from UVA/UVB rays and contains nourishing niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 to help improve skin texture and uneven tone.
CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Face Lotion 30
This mineral-based sunscreen is made with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to protect your skin from UV damage. The hydrating formula — which features the brand's signature blend of three essential ceramides to help repair the skin’s natural moisture barrier — is also non-comedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin.
Lancôme UV Expert Defense 50+ Primer and Moisturizer
This three-in-one moisturizer, sunscreen and primer leaves skin protected and prepped for wear under makeup. It’s super lightweight and has a gel-like consistency that disappears into the skin with zero white cast.
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
Sheer and tinted, this sunscreen adjusts to your skin tone to keep from leaving a chalky cast. A combination of zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and artemia salina (plankton extract) defend skin from the sun and environmental stressors.
Kiehl’s Super Fluid Daily UV Defense SPF 50+
This lightweight facial sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. Not only is it non-comedogenic, but it’s also is enhanced by antioxidants and provides a matte finish to leave your skin looking grease-free.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Invisible UV Fluid
This lightweight and invisible option is non-comedogenic, making it perfect for acne-prone skin. It’s also formulated with vitamins C and E to help brighten and even out skin tone — and won’t leave behind a greasy residue, either.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60
If you’re looking for an oil-free option that you can use on your face and body, we love this super silky formula that melts seamlessly into the skin. It has antioxidants, helps block breakouts and is extremely lightweight and fast-absorbing.
Vichy Capital Soleil Daily Anti-Aging Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Opt for this anti-aging sunscreen if you’re looking to improve the appearance of uneven texture and tone. It has antioxidants, plus UV filters, mineral-rich spring water and SPF 50 for major protection.
Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Sunscreen
Add a layer of this lightweight protection on top of your moisturizer to help shield your skin from UV rays. According to the brand, it physically blocks UVA/UVB rays with zinc oxide and has a weightless consistency that sinks into skin.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
You won’t have to worry about a white cast with this completely transparent sunscreen that’s also non-comedogenic, oil-free and reef-safe. It can double as a makeup primer, too, according to the brand.
Starface Clear as Day SPF 46
As the brand explains, this completely transparent, gel-like formula helps to protect skin from UVA and UVB rays without clogging pores or causing irritation. As an added bonus, it has a matte finish and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
EltaMD UV Restore SPF 40
For a broad-spectrum option that has UVA/UVB protection, opt for this oil-free formula that won’t leave behind any residue. According to the brand, it can be worn alone or under makeup and helps protect all skin types.
Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen
If you’re in search of a tinted sunscreen option that can double as a foundation, try this pick that’s formulated with SPF 30. According to Tower 28, it’s non-comedogenic and approved by the National Eczema Association — making it ideal for all skin types, especially those that are sensitive.
Zitsticka Megashade Breakout-Proof SPF 50 Serum
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, this lightweight serum is a mineral-chemical hybrid that blends in clear once applied. As Zitsticka explains, it helps protect, brighten and hydrate the skin, all while keeping pimples at bay.
Everyday Humans Rose From Above Mineral Sunscreen Base
This lightweight sunscreen is non-comedogenic and contains moisturizing squalane, ceramides and rose oil. According to the brand, it will leave your complexion hydrated and clarified, which sounds like the ultimate base for makeup application.
Nécessaire The Sunscreen
This 100% mineral-based sunscreen has a broad spectrum SPF 30, plus zinc, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. In our editors’ experience, it’s super lightweight to the touch and absorbs very quickly, making it ideal for oily skin types.
Coola Classic Face Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
For a non-comedogenic sunscreen that will give you a lightweight, non-greasy finish, try this fragrance-free, antioxidant-infused formula from Coola.
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
This ultra-sheer sunscreen won’t leave behind a white cast and dries completely clear. It’s also non-comedogenic, lightweight and formulated with antioxidants to ensure your skin is protected and nourished, according to the brand.
Bliss Block Star Mineral Daily Sunscreen
This daily mineral sunscreen seems like the perfect bridge between your skincare and makeup routine. As the brand explains, the non-comedogenic, dermatologist-tested formula has SPF 30 to protect against UVA/UVB rays and doesn’t leave behind a white cast.
Rare Beauty Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen
Another non-comedogenic tinted option, this SPF-infused moisturizer can replace your foundation for a lightweight no-makeup makeup finish. It’s hydrating, has lightweight coverage, a radiant finish — but won’t make you look greasy or shiny.
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