The 9 Best Oil-Free Sunscreens in 2024: Elta MD, Supergoop, More
Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Launchmetrics SpotlightElta MD
UV Daily Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 40
Elta MD
UV Daily Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 40
Credit: BluemercuryPros
- Dermatologist-tested
This highly popular zinc oxide sunscreen is ideal for both acne and hyperpigmentation, and also happens to be entirely fragrance-free. It's formulated with hardworking ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, and since it goes on clear, it works for all skin tones, too.
One satisfied customer writes: "I love this stuff. Very light to wear under makeup. I use it everyday. Even got my husband using it." —Allison
SkinCeuticals
Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
SkinCeuticals
Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
Credit: BluemercuryFragrance-free and non-comedogenic, this zinc oxide SPF 50 pick has a formula that evens your skin tone as you wear it, since it features a subtle tint.
One satisfied customer writes: "My dermatologist recommended this years ago, and I've been using it religiously ever since. It's the only sunscreen that I can wear over serums and moisturizers without being too greasy, and the color blends really nicely. I've tried a lot of sunscreens and this is one of the best by far." —Tracie
Supergoop!
Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Supergoop!
Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Credit: Supergoop!Pros
- Works as a makeup primer
Supergoop's cult-favorite SPF 40 sunscreen is not only popular, but also happens to be oil-free. And since it doubles as a makeup primer, it wrangles in excess shine throughout the day so your skin looks silky smooth and not overly glossy.
One satisfied customer writes: "This sunscreen is clear, leaves no white cast, and is perfect use as a primer as well! Does not leave me oily as I wear it. Def recommend!" —Anonymous
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Shiseido
Urban Environment Oil-Free Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum
Shiseido
Urban Environment Oil-Free Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum
Credit: UltaPros
- Works as a primer
Shiseido is well-known for its cult-favorite skincare products, and this top-rated sunscreen is no different. It contains a dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested formula that's also non-comedogenic, making it a great choice for combination, acne-prone, and oily types.
One satisfied customer writes: "This product feels amazing on my skin; it absorbs quickly and leaves a surface ready for foundation, or not!" —Margaret
Neutrogena
Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 50
Neutrogena
Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 50
Now 41% Off
Credit: AmazonPros
- Fragrance-free
Looking for a no-nonsense, budget-friendly sunscreen? We recommend Neutrogena’s Clear Face Oil-Free sunscreen. Since it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, it's ideal for the person with oily or acne-prone skin that also stays active with outside activities, like jogging, skiing, or tennis.
One satisfied customer writes: "Love this sunscreen as it is one of my daily go-tos. Initially after application it does leave your face a little greasy, but it dries. It’s very light and I do notice that I break out less using this product than some other competitors (I have very sensitive skin). I’ve been using this product, almost daily, for about a year now." —Katie
Paula's Choice
Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
Paula's Choice
Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
Now 20% Off
Credit: Paula's ChoicePros
- Lightweight
This barely-there, matte finish sunscreen is part of Paula's Choice's Clear collection, which is formulated to help prevent new breakouts from occurring. Its titanium dioxide formula uses plant-derived ingredients like black elderberry, green tea leaf extract, and more to minimize dryness while calming skin.
One satisfied customer writes: "I use it every morning after I moisturizer and have been noticing my skin is more hydrated and my acne has been going away!" —Liz
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
La Roche-Posay
Anthelios 60 Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60
La Roche-Posay
Anthelios 60 Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60
Credit: BluemercuryPros
- Water-resistant
Somehow, this oil-free sunscreen from La Roche-Posay actually helps soak up any extra oil on your face throughout the day while still offering SPF 60. Perlite and silica control shine, and antioxidants send free radicals packing.
| Key ingredients: | Senna alata (tropical leaf extract), perlite, silica |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "Due to my sensitive and acne prone skin, I have never successfully been able to use sunscreen on my face without causing major breakouts. This stuff is absolutely amazing. It goes on light and smooth, turning into almost a powdery feel. Makes my skin beautifully smooth and matte for make up application as a bonus." —Victoria |
Origins
A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer with White Tea
Origins
A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer with White Tea
Credit: UltaPros
- Anti-aging
Nearly 2,000 Ulta customers are raving about this hydrating sunscreen from Origins. It features an antioxidant-packed silver tip white tea-infused formula that helps minimize fine lines while protecting skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays.
One satisfied customer writes: "I live in Alaska where it is very dry, so we are very picky about our moisturizers. A Perfect World moisturizer keeps my skin soft and moist. I love it, and love having the SPF in there as I work under harsh lights during the day. I have sensitive skin and have no problems with it." —Sherina
Black Girl Sunscreen
Make It Matte Sunscreen
Black Girl Sunscreen
Make It Matte Sunscreen
Credit: UltaPros
- Paraben-free
While not exactly oil-free (contains ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil), this SPF 45 sunscreen gel does have a matte formula that helps keep T-zone shine at a minimum. And, it not only happens to be vegan, but also reef-friendly, which is perfect for long days at the beach.
One satisfied customer writes: "I love that it’s a gel. It’s doesn’t feel heavy or tacky. And a little goes a long way. So glad I bought this. Definitely a go to for me." —ADee
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Meet the Experts
- Angela J. Lamb is a board-certified dermatologist, and the associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City.
Why trust Harper's Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Madge Maril is a writer, editor, and creative covering beauty at Harper's Bazaar and The Zoe Report. She received a BFA in Electronic Media and a Certificate in Creative Writing through University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music. You can find her on Instagram at @madgemaril, or in real life somewhere in a thrift store.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qa3RqZyrq5KWx6Kt0WeaqKVfl7KiwdOyZqBrZmaBdnyPb2abnaOperTBzayaq52Vo3qnu9FmmJymlWQ%3D