As we approach the summer months, there's no better time than now to stock up on the SPF. Ask any dermatologist and they will confirm that SPF is the single most important step in any skincare routine. Why? Because the sun is the main cause of skin ageing and according to Paula’s Choice Skincare – ‘UV rays have a harmful effect on your skin 365 days a year including on dark and cloudy days. It is important, then, to protect your skin all year round against damaging UV radiation from the sun.’
And if you have oily or acne-prone skin and you're not sure where to start, we've collated a list of the best SPFs that are worth the purchase.
Grazia's Shortlist Of The Top Three SPFs For Oily Skin
Editor's Choice for best SPF for oily skin: Dermalogica Oil Free SPF30 Matte Sunscreen, £55 on LookFantastic
Best sheer SPF for oily skin: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 30, £15 on Sephora
Best spray mist SPF for oily skin: Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Hydrating Hypoallergenic Face Sun Cream Mist SPF 50, £13 on Boots
No matter what your skin type, skin tone, or how extensive your morning routine is, always make sure you apply a facial SPF as the final step. In the past, sunscreens have received a bad rap for being too thick or feeling greasy – leaving a film of residue sitting on the skin. This is especially disconcerting for oily skin types as adding sunscreen onto an already-oily face won’t help with any attempts to prevent our skin from turning into a shiny mess.
Thankfully, times have changed and expertly crafted formulas are here to save our skin, paving the way for sheer, antioxidant-enhanced SPF. So, if you’ve got oily skin and are in pursuit of a new favourite sunscreen that will keep your skin protected all day while looking clean and polished, look no further than to these SPF heroes. From lightweight face mists to travel-friendly mattifying sticks, we've got you covered with our curated edit of the best SPFs for oily skin below.
SHOP: The Best SPFs/Suncreams For Oily Skin 2024
Editor's Choice
Dermalogicawww.lookfantastic.com
Dermalogica's Oil-Free Matte sunscreen helps to prevent shine, soothe inflamed skin and slough off excess oil production with zinc gluconate, caffeine, niacinamide, biotin and yeast extract. Unlike others, this formula is lightweight and ultra-sheer so will not leave that unwanted residue. Some reviews state this suncream is great for blemish-prone skin types.
Pros
- Oil-free formula
- For all skin types
Cons
- Only SPF 30 coverage
Best sheer SPF for oily skin
Supergoop! www.sephora.co.uk
A cult US classic that finally made its way over to the UK Supergoop! Sunscreen is loved for its sheer formula that's perfect for every complexion. It also sits well under makeup and minimises shine – a must for oily skin types.
Pros
- Invisible finish
- Perfect for all skin types
Cons
- Not as accessible to purchase
Best spray mist SPF for oily skin
Garnierwww.boots.com
Sensitive, oily skin? This dermatologically tested concoction is for you. With a non-greasy formula, it can be applied underneath or on top of makeup to protect skin and is completely transparent upon application. Ideal for continued SPF protection over your make-up throughout the day without disturbing your look.
Pros
- 24-hour protection
- Keeps your make-up intact
Cons
- Some reviews say it may leave white marks
Best sensitive SPF for oily skin
Pai Skincarewww.lookfantastic.com
This do-it-all wonder cream protects skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays, blue light and infrared. Super silky and lightweight, the formula is 99% natural, suitable for sensitive skin and sits well under makeup. Created with zinc and cotton extracts, this mineral sunscreen works well for daily use whether you're lounging on a beach or running around the city.
Pros
- Great for sensitive skin
- Ideal for daily use
Cons
- Slightly tinted
Best lightweight SPF for oily skin
Saltee www.saltee.co.uk
The new brand on the block Saltee not only looks chic but feels incredible, too. Light not heavy and super sheer - apply as a make-up primer or wear alone for healthier-looking, protected skin. Packed with avocado oil enriched with vitamin E to nourish and replenish the skin as it protects.
Pros
- Ideal protection for warmer weather
- Vegan-friendly
Cons
- Slightly scented
Best antioxidant SPF for oily skin
Paula's Choicewww.paulaschoice.co.uk
Blended with powerful antioxidants and vitamins for optimum defence, this silky textured lotion can be used on the body and face. Great for blemish-prone skin that's prone to breakouts and oiliness - the lightweight formula mattifies any unwanted shininess to keep your skin feeling fresh and protected throughout the day.
Pros
- Made with vitamin E to nourish
- Lightweight fluid
Cons
- Not ideal for dry skin
Best non-clogging SPF for oily skin
Cliniquewww.lookfantastic.com
When looking for sunscreens for oily skin, it's best to go for those which are oil-free. One of our favourites which steers clear from all oils is the Clinique Super City Block. The broad-spectrum sun protector-come-moisturiser can also be used as a makeup primer to achieve an even complexion. A three-in-one wonder.
Pros
- Sheer, oil-free formula
- Ideal primer for make-up
Cons
- Slightly tinted
Best gel SPF for oily skin
By Terrywww.lookfantastic.com
Sunscreen can easily be forgotten when applying makeup. However, it is integral to integrate it into your routine to protect your skin. There is no compromise with this oil-free gel-cream primer as it sits perfectly under makeup and is anything but thick, greasy or pore-clogging.
Pros
- Weightless formula
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
- Slightly rose scented like typical rose products
Best anti-pollution SPF for oily skin
Kiehl'swww.lookfantastic.com
This aptly named lightweight facial sunscreen helps to defend the skin against UV rays and pollution with its advanced UVA/UVB technology. As well as being highly protective, the formula is non-comedogenic, meaning the product has been made specifically to avoid causing clogged pores.
Pros
- Light, gel texture
- Anti-pollution properties
Cons
- Hard to tell when product needs replenishing
Best water-resistant SPF for oily skin
La Roche-Posaywww.lookfantastic.com
When thinking of the best brands in skincare, one that automatically jumps out is La Roche-Posay. Providing a solution for those with oil-prone skin is the anti-shine SPF; a dry-touch, water-resistant gel cream that offers optimal sun protection and a matte finish.
Pros
- Matte-finish - ideal for oily skin
- Water-resistent
Cons
- Not suitable for dry skin
Best mineral filtered SPF for oily skin
SkinCeuticalswww.skinceuticals.co.uk
Suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive of skin, this silky sheer fluid spreads evenly and dries quickly. Formulated with 100% mineral filters (which contain titanium dioxide and work to form a physical barrier that deflects or bounces harmful UV rays away), this mattifying fluid is a comfortable wear for anyone, especially those with oily skin. Be wary, it does come with a white cast that takes a while to fade.
Pros
- Radiant finish
- Great for sensitive skin
Cons
- Slight white cast
Best stick SPF for oily skin
Shiseido 
With Wetforce Technology, this sunscreen acts as a protective veil for 80 minutes and actually becomes stronger when it comes into contact with water or perspiration. Being a clear stick formula means a non-sticky, smooth texture with no residue left on the skin. No mess, no fuss.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Product might run out quickly
How to stay safe in the sun
With the arrival of summer also comes a change in routine - whether that’s a result of changing weather or being on holiday mode. From skin and eyes to our hair, temperature extremes, excessive dryness and sun exposure can cause long-term damage that lasts well beyond rosé season. We interviewed experts across the hair and beauty sector to find out how to stay efficiently safe in the sun.
Can SPF congest the skin?
The leading facialist who is anti-applying oils to the face, Kate Kerr advises that constant application of sunscreen in tandem with an excess of sunshine can stimulate the skin’s oil production and lead to congestion.
“SPF is really important,’ says Kate, “but after a day relaxing in the sun with even the best SPF for oily skin, it’s beneficial to use a deep cleansing clay mask to ensure that your complexion stays clear and uncompromised. Look for masks that contain sulphur which not only deep cleans but also provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.”
How to look after your skin barrier in the sun
You’ve heard of the all-important microbiome, the essential layer of goodness that when balanced, keeps skin in tip-top health. Unfortunately, Dr Miriam, founder of Dr Miriam A. confirms that excess exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can upset this function, resulting in the appearance of transient microbiomes which exacerbate inflammatory disorders such as acne, rosacea, and eczema. Not only this, but a disrupted microbiome can also result in a loss of hydration, so protecting the skin to keep it supple through the summer is key.
To fix a compromised skin barrier or one that’s becoming vulnerable, anti-inflammatory products are your best friend. Aloe vera contains several chemicals that are antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral, so it’s a multi-tasker for dermatological conditions where inflammation is a key component, such as acne, eczema, and dermatitis. While, products that contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid and B5 are also key for balancing summer skin.
Georgia Scott is a Beauty & Fashion Product Writer for Bauer Media, writing for Grazia, Closer and heat. Georgia specialises in beauty writing and spends her days hunting for the latest trending beauty products to get her hands on and review.