One of the biggest skin care mistakes people with oily, acne-prone skin make is not wearing sunscreen. However, the fact is that, regardless of your skin type, sunscreen is a must. That’s why specific sunscreens exist for people with oily and breakout-prone skin. These sunscreens are mild, non-comedogenic, and oil-free to protect your skin without clogging pores or triggering breakouts.
Most of these sunscreens are gel, liquid or water-based and absorb quickly and leave a matte or natural finish, helping to control shine throughout the day. When looking for sunscreen for acne-prone, oily skin, look for ingredients like zinc oxide, niacinamide, and salicylic acid, which can soothe inflammation.
To help you find the perfect pick, we’ve created this list of top 8 sunscreens for oily and acne-prone skin.
Top 8 Sunscreens for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
The Derma Company 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++ provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with a lightweight, oil-free texture. This sunscreen is powered by hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin without clogging pores, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. The aqua gel formula absorbs quickly, leaves no white spots, and works well under makeup. It is suitable for daily use and helps protect against sun damage, tanning and premature ageing.
reason to buy
High SPF 50 and PA++++ broad-spectrum protection.
Light, non-greasy aqua gel that absorbs quickly.
Infused with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and niacinamide for hydration and antioxidant support.
No white spots, suitable for normal, oily, acne-prone skin.
reason to avoid
The texture may seem too dewy for those who prefer matte finishes.
Not suitable for people with very dry skin
customer feedback
Customers praise its non-greasy feel, and it doesn’t leave any white spots. It is perfect for people with acne-prone skin. Some people mention slight stickiness after sweating.
Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ provides high sun protection with a hydrating, glow-enhancing formula. It contains papaya and vitamin C, which helps protect the skin from harmful UV damage while enhancing the natural glow. Its light gel texture absorbs quickly, feels non-sticky, and leaves a dewy finish without white spots, making it perfect for oily and acne-prone skin and works well for daily outdoor exposure.
reason to buy
High SPF 50 and PA++++ broad-spectrum protection.
Light, non-greasy aqua gel that absorbs quickly.
Infused with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and niacinamide for hydration and antioxidant support.
Light gel with no white cast.
reason to avoid
Re-applying again and again can be a task.
Dewy finish may feel sticky or heavy in heat/humidity.
customer feedback:
Buyers love the instant glow this sunscreen provides. It is popular for daily indoor and outdoor use. However, some users with oily skin may find it too shiny. It is appreciated for its easy propagation ability.
Dr. Sheth’s Saffron and Kojic Acid Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ combines sun protection with brightening benefits. This sunscreen for oily and acne-prone skin is enriched with saffron and kojic acid, which helps reduce tanning and uneven skin tone while protecting the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Its creamy yet lightweight formula blends easily without leaving white spots, making it suitable for Indian skin tones. This sunscreen supports daily protection while enhancing skin clarity and radiance.
reason to buy
Infused with brightening ingredients like saffron/saffron and kojic acid to target dullness and hyperpigmentation.
A lightweight, daily-use sunscreen ideal for those who want a cosmetic glow and protection.
reason to avoid
Expensive compared to other sunscreens
Active brightening ingredients may be too sensitive for very sensitive skin.
customer feedback
Users responded positively to the brightening effect, praising this sunscreen for evening out skin tone and claiming it reduced tanning. However, some users with oily skin reported that the texture may feel a little heavy.
Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow Sunscreen provides SPF protection while promoting glowing, healthy-looking skin. Rich in Vitamin C, it helps prevent sun damage, dullness and uneven complexion. The light cream formula spreads evenly and gets absorbed without leaving white spots. Designed for everyday use, it is suitable for normal to combination skin and leaves skin glowing with consistent application. Dermatologically tested and suitable for Indian climatic conditions.
reason to buy
Budget-friendly daily sunscreen with Vitamin C for radiance and antioxidant support.
Generally light texture and suitable for most skin types as a daytime sunscreen.
reason to avoid
Effectiveness in strong sunlight may be less strong than higher-rated broad-spectrum sunscreens.
Vitamin C may not be suitable for people with very dry skin.
customer feedback
Customers love its brightening effect and report that it’s perfect for daily use. However, some users report mild oiliness. It is appreciated for its affordable price.
Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++ Gel provides broad-spectrum sun protection with a dermatologist-recommended, oil-free formula. Designed for oily and acne-prone skin, it absorbs quickly without clogging pores or leaving residue. Its gel texture feels lightweight and works well in hot, humid weather. This sunscreen is ideal for daily external use and helps prevent tanning, sunburn and premature aging while maintaining a matte finish.
reason to buy
High SPF 50+ gel formula is especially good for oily/sensitive skin (non-greasy).
Light and easy to blend, it is often praised for comfort and everyday wear.
reason to avoid
Being gel-based, it may not feel moisturizing enough for very dry skin. Re-application is often required.
customer feedback
This sunscreen is trusted by dermatologists and is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin. It is widely praised for its matte effect. It does not report any breakouts; However, it may feel dry.
Deconstructed Gel Sunscreen provides effective SPF protection in a lightweight, minimalist formulation. Designed for oily and acne-prone skin, it provides broad-spectrum UV protection without fragrance or unnecessary additives. The gel texture absorbs quickly, leaves no white spots, and layers well under makeup. Ideal for daily use, this sunscreen helps prevent sun damage, tanning and early signs of aging while keeping skin comfortable and shine-free.
reason to buy
This sunscreen for oily skin is often known for its matte finish and easy blending.
The lightweight gel texture is good for everyday use and under makeup.
It is ideal for people with pigmentation.
reason to avoid
Slight dryness may be felt for dry or sensitive skin types.
For shine lovers, matte finishes may lack hydration.
More expensive than basic sunscreen
customer feedback
Customers love this sunscreen because of its clean ingredient list, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It is appreciated for its non-greasy finish. However, it is more expensive than other options.
UV Doux Silicone Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 PA+++ is a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen known for its smooth, primer-like texture. Formulated with silicone base, it provides broad spectrum protection while controlling excess oil. The gel spreads evenly, blurs pores, and leaves a matte, non-sticky finish. Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, it works well under makeup and is suitable for extended periods of exposure to outdoor environments.
reason to buy
Its silicone-based gel often acts like a primer under makeup with a smooth finish.
High SPF protection (usually SPF 50) and good spreadability.
reason to avoid
Silicone formulas may pill or clump when layered over incompatible products.
Some people may find it heavier than water-gel sunscreens.
customer feedback
This sunscreen is highly rated for oil control and is preferred as a makeup base. It is perfectly suitable for outdoor use, but there have been some reports of pilling.
La Shield SPF 40 PA+++ Mineral Sunscreen Gel provides physical sun protection using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Designed for sensitive and acne-prone skin, it creates a protective barrier against UVA and UVB rays. The gel-cream texture spreads evenly and is free of harsh chemical filters. Suitable for daily use, it helps prevent sunburn, tanning and irritation, making it a reliable choice for reactive skin types.
reason to buy
Mineral sunscreen is perfect for sensitive and reactive skin.
Typically a more natural broad-spectrum guard with a mild UV filter.
reason to avoid
Lower SPF (40) and PA+++ versus SPF 50 and PA++++ competitors, less effective in bright sunlight.
Mineral formulas may leave a slight white coating.
customer feedback
Customers trust this sunscreen for sensitive skin and appreciate it for its mineral filters.
However, it leaves a white cast.
comparison table
|
product |
SPF and PA ratings |
finish/texture |
main benefits |
| Derma Company 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen | 50/PA++++ | gel, hydrating | Hydration + blue-light protection |
| Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen | 50+ / PA++++ | dew gel | Glare + UV + Pollution + Blue Light Protection |
| Dr. Sheth’s Saffron and Kojic Sunscreen | 50+ / PA++++ | cream/gel | Brightening + Sun Protection |
| Mamaearth Daily Glow Sunscreen | ~50/Pa+* | light lotion/gel | Vitamin C Glow (Budget) |
| Fixderma Shadow Gel Sunscreen | 50+ / PA+++ | Jail | Sensitive everyday security |
| Deconstruct Gel Sunscreen | ~50/Pa+* | matte gel | Matte finish for oily skin |
| UV Doux Silicone Sunscreen Gel | 50/PA++* | silicone gel | primer smooth base |
| La Shield Mineral Sunscreen Gel | 40/PA+++ | mineral gel | Mineral Alternatives for Sensitive |
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay updated with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a share of the revenue when you make a purchase. We will not be liable for any claims under applicable laws including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, relating to the Products. The first four products listed in this article are sponsored, and the others are in no particular order of priority.
