10 Non-Greasy Sunscreens Perfect For Oily Skins
Sunscreens are known to occasionally leave a too-shiny finish on oily skin. If you are facing this problem, these non-greasy ones are for you.
By Kayce Teo, Nadine Chua, Shazrina Shamsudin -
Mandatory mask-wearing outdoors has finally eased. If you are going to be taking off your mask and enjoying the fresh air; we hear you! No longer will we have to worry about smudged makeup and even unsightly tan lines. However, we now have a bigger issue to worry about - UV rays.
With maks off outdoors, our skin is exposed to UV rays far more than in the past two years. This means that it's imperative that we apply our daily dose of sunscreen. (If you’re guilty of not doing so, even with a mask on, it’s about time you should) From physical to chemical sunscreens, mattifying to moisturising formulas, the options are aplenty.
However, when it comes to finding the perfect one to suit your skin type, it can be a bit trickier for those with oily skin. This is because sunscreens, which are generally made to be lasting and water- and sweat-resistant to actually protect you when you’re under the sun, can also feel like they’re leaving a greasy finish behind.
But fret not. Ahead, we’ve sussed out 12 sunscreens with lightweight formulas that get absorbed so quickly, so you won’t feel like they’re just adding to the sebum that your skin is already producing.
Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen Lotion for Face, Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $14.97 (U.P. $20.27), Amazon
Yes, this sunscreen feels as light as a feather on your skin. In fact, this particular product is formulated with feel-good ingredients like naturally sourced 100 per cent zinc oxide active ingredient, vitamin E, feverfew and oats, and is especially good for those with sensitive skin. It goes on seamlessly onto the skin, leaves a beautiful and luxurious matte finish and works well as your base before you apply your makeup. Plus, because it’s non-comedogenic, there’s no need to worry about clogged pores or possible pimples.
Available on Amazon. Buy 3 get 10% off, Buy 2 get 5% off from now till 10 Apr on Amazon.sg International Store.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Moisturiser with SPF 30 Sunscreen, $21.75 (U.P. $35.90), Amazon
This sunscreen offers more than just sun protection. Eponymous to its name, the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Moisturiser tackles signs of ageing such as lines and wrinkles with each use. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid and retinol to restore moisture without weighing down the skin and keep it looking smooth and plump.
Available on Amazon.
Dior Prestige Light-In-White The UV Protector Youth And Light Sheer Glow SPF 50+ PA+++, $175, Sephora
Willing to splurge on something a little more luxurious? Peep this exceptional brightening fluid by Dior. This bougie number is specifically made to illuminate your skin while delivering full protection against harmful UV rays like UVA, UVB, artificial light, visible light, infrared, as well as fine particles in the air. It’s a full face shield that protects you for up to 10 hours.
Oh, and did we mention, it also leaves a beautiful and delicate rosy glow too? Score!
Available at Sephora
Dr. Dennis Gross All Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $64, Sephora
Great at preventing fine lines and wrinkles, this Dr. Dennis Gross sunscreen is made with transparent zinc oxide and antioxidant-rich bearberry, sea buckthorn, lingonberry, and ferulic acid that protects the skin from UVA/UVB rays, pollution, and blue light emitted from phones and computer screens. Perfect for all skin tones, this sunscreen also gives an invisible, non-greasy finish and works well as a primer before you layer on your makeup.
Available at Sephora
It doesn’t matter if you’ve been spending most of your days cooped up at home, the The INKEY List SPF30 Sunscreen 100% Mineral UV Filters is one to add to your beauty arsenal all year round. Formulated with skin sensitivity in mind, this sunscreen is made with 22 per cent non-nano Zinc Oxide which is great for those who are prone to breakouts and sensitivity. Boasting non-comedogenic and anti-irritation properties, it glides on your face seamlessly, absorbs quickly into the skin and is great for everyday use. Its super lightweight formula also allows you to layer on your makeup effortlessly without looking cakey.
Available at Lookfantastic
Supergoop! Matte Screen 100% Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40, $59, Sephora
If you’ve got oily skin, your best bet is opting for a matte sunscreen that provides protection from the UV rays while reducing shine and oil that builds up throughout the day. We love this matte sunscreen from Supergoop!, a brand that specialises in creating sunscreens for all different skin types.
Formulated to be smooth and lightweight, the sunscreen helps to blur out pores, uneven texture and wrinkles while ensuring that your skin is fully protected from the harsh rays. Remember to pop this in your bag if you’re heading to the pool or the beach for easy reapplication, especially if you’ve been in the water.
Available at Sephora
A sunscreen with a watery base always beats one with a thick and sticky formula, especially if you struggle with an oily complexion. This nourishing and moisturising sunscreen has a lightweight and watery finish and is perfect for those extra hot days in the sun. It’s also waterproof, which means it’ll work well even as you sweat throughout the day.
Plus, this sunscreen is infused with nutrient-rich botanicals such as birch sap extract, which ensures that the moisture lost in your skin due to the sun is replenished instantly.
Available at Sephora
Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF50+ PA++++, $41.90 for 60ml, Watsons
This milky sunscreen spreads easily and gives a smooth and non-sticky finish that’s perfect for those with normal or oily complexions. Besides being free of fragrance and parabens, this sunscreen also does not have octinoxate and oxybenzone – two coral-bleaching ingredients, so it’s reef-friendly too.
Available at selected Watsons and Watsons online, BHG and Don Don Donki
This lightweight sunscreen utilises a technology where the UV protective particles are so small that they cover even the tiniest of gaps (not-so-enlarged pores, we’re looking at you) in skin to protect it from UV rays. It also has unique water capsules that release moisture upon application so skin feels light and refreshed too.
Available at leading pharmacies, supermarkets, hypermarkets, Guardian, Don Don Donki and Welcia BHG
This mineral sunscreen is packed with ingredients such as antioxidants and vitamins to keep skin hydrated while boosting protection against skin damage caused by free radicals. It also has aloe vera leaf juice to soothe and cool skin.
Available at Sephora
Packed with an anti-pollution protection complex and ingredients such as chamomile, calendula and marshmallow root extracts, this helps protect against environmental aggressors to prevent premature skin ageing. It also has echinacea and paracress extracts to balance sebum production in skin.
Available at TANGS
Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++, $89 for 60ml, Kiehl's
With an unscented, non-comedogenic and lightweight formula, this sunscreen is especially suited for humid climates such as that of Singapore’s and people with oily skin. It is absorbed into skin quickly to diminish the appearance of enlarged pores and doesn’t leave a shiny finish.
Available at Kiehl’s
Text by: Kayce Teo, Nadine Chua, Shazrina Shamsudin/HerWorld