How Do I Choose the Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin?

To choose the best sunscreen for oily skin, you need a product that is oil-free that will not block your pores or irritate your skin. You also need the protection of both physical and chemical sunscreens. If you are using the sunscreen on your face, you will want one that dries to a powder or matte finish. Before shopping for sunscreen for oily skin, you should understand how the ingredients in sunscreens work and how they affect your skin.

There are two types of sunscreen: physical and chemical. A physical sunscreen, also called sunblock, actually remains on the outside of your skin and creates a thin, protective layer that reflects the sun. Typical sunblock ingredients are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Both protect against ultraviolet A and B rays (UVA and UVB) but often leave a white residue on the skin. Titanium dioxide is non-comedogenic, which means it will not block your pores. It is also good for sensitive skin and, typically, does not cause inflammation or other allergic reactions.

A sunscreen, or chemical protectant, is absorbed by your skin. The chemicals absorb harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing them from damaging your skin. Some common chemical sunscreen ingredients are avobenzone, mexoryl, helioplex, octylcrylene, tinosorb, and uvinul. Chemical sunscreens are not as thick as sunblocks, and they usually leave no white residue. They can, however, irritate sensitive skin.

Many chemical sunscreens do not provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays. For the best coverage, you need a combination of sunblock and chemical sunscreen. Sunscreen for oily skin should have the advantages of sunblock, which won't irritate your skin, but come in a thinner formula that dries to a powder.

Look for a product which states that it is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic. You may not usually have sensitive skin, however, many sunscreen chemicals are concentrated. Your skin may not react well if the formula is too strong.

If you believe you will pespire heavily or if you plan to swim, look for a waterproof sunscreen. A waterproof formula will last longer than a water-resistant formula, and you won't have to reapply it as often. Waterproof formulas are available for face and body sunscreens.

Some foundations and facial moisturizers include sunscreen for oily skin in their formulas. As with any other sunscreen, look for the ingredients that you need to get the best coverage, as well as oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas. You will also want to have a foundation that dries to a powder, or matte, finish.