13 Best Dermatologist-Approved Non-Greasy Sunscreens Of 2024
Take that much-awaited beach trip with these non-greasy sunscreens in your bag!
Sunscreen is a must in every skin care regimen. But, makeup and sunscreen usually don’t go hand in hand as they may mess up your entire look. Does that mean you should skip sunscreen? No. You can choose from the best non-greasy sunscreens that give a matte yet radiant look. Bid goodbye to those greasy sunscreens that make you look greasy when coupled with makeup. With these sunscreens, you can happily step out without being worried about the makeup touch-ups you might have needed with the use of regular sunscreens. This sunscreen can be a perfect fit for your beach trip and give you a shine-free look.
However, with a wide range of non-greasy sunscreens available, you might be confused about which one to choose. Don’t worry. We have narrowed down and compiled a list of the 13 best sunscreens that are non-greasy and shine-free. Check them out!
Top Picks | Check Price |
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Best Fast-Absorbing:Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen - SPF 100+ | Price on Amazon |
Best For Workaholics:EltaMD UV Daily Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen - SPF 40 | Price on Amazon |
Best Vegan:Australian Gold Extreme Sport Sunscreen Lotion - SPF 30 | Price on Amazon |
Best Lightweight:CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen - SPF 50 | Price on Amazon |
Best Antioxidant-Rich:La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen - SPF 60 | Price on Amazon |
Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen - SPF 30 | Price on Amazon |
Best Travel-Friendly:Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen - SPF 50 | Price on Amazon |
Best For Wrinkles:Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery Anti-Aging Sunscreen - SPF 50 | Price on Amazon |
Best For Heat Resistant :Coppertone Sport Clear Sunscreen - SPF 50 | Price on Amazon |
Best For Dewy Finish:TULA Skin Care Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel - SPF 30 | Price on Amazon |
In This Article
13 Best Non-Greasy Sunscreens Of 2024 (Buying Guide)
1. Best Fast-Absorbing:Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen – SPF 100+
Keep the sun rays out and your skin protected with this clear non-greasy sunscreen infused with broad-spectrum SPF 100+. Lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreen, formulated with dry-touch technology, you can rule out feeling heavy or greasy with this dermatologist-recommended brand. Protecting the skin from sunburn, UV damage, skin cancer, and other deadly skin conditions, this non-greasy high SPF sunscreen is also formulated with Helioplex that ensures superior sun protection. Perform a patch test if you have sensitive skin before using the product to avoid any potential reactions.
Pros
- Protects against UVA/UVB rays
- Ensures a sheer and mattified finish
- Non-comedogenic and PABA-free
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes in the pool
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
2. Best For Workaholics:EltaMD UV Daily Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen – SPF 40
Not a fan of the white cast? (Nobody is!) Then try this tinted non-greasy facial sunscreen by EltaMD for a natural finish, with an optimal percentage of zinc oxide to block UV rays. Also, it has ultra-moisturizing benefits to fight aging signs too! Yep, a must-try for workaholics who can’t keep up with their skincare routine, this professional-grade sun lotion has hyaluronic acid to boost moisture levels and minimize fine lines as well. Besides this, the infused antioxidants protect from harmful UVA/UVB rays and sunburns too. And, are you a makeup lover? If yes, then you can skip the primer if you have this sunscreen in your kitty. According to the reviewers online, its lightweight texture and carefully crafted formula satisfy every sensitive skin’s requirements. Try it!
Pros
- Mineral-based formula
- Contains 9.0% zinc oxide
- Leaves skin smooth and soft
- Ensures a natural and sheer finish
- Paraben-free and fragrance-free
- Dermatologist-recommended and sensitivity-free
- Lightweight, quick-absorbing, and non-comedogenic
- Suitable for normal to combination skin types
Cons
- Not ideal for water activities
3. Best Vegan:Australian Gold Extreme Sport Sunscreen Lotion – SPF 30
For those with an active life, a regular sunscreen won’t cut the deal. Hence, you must try this vegan sunscreen that is water and sweat-resistant to protect your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays and sun damage. Infused with menthol to give your skin an instant cooling effect, it also contains tea tree oil, vitamin C, and Kakadu plum for nourishing benefits. This non-greasy sunscreen has a lightweight texture that gets easily absorbed into your skin.
Pros
- Fights odor
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Infused with a light coastal fragrance
- Non-greasy, lightweight, and long-lasting
- Cruelty-free, oxybenzone-free, gluten-free, PABA-free, and more
Cons
- Not suitable if you are sensitive to strong scent
"This sunscreen offers good sun protection along with a pleasant bronzing effect and a subtle glow. The formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly. It does not feel sticky or leave any greasy residue."
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen - SPF 100+ | EltaMD UV Daily Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen - SPF 40 | Australian Gold Extreme Sport Sunscreen Lotion - SPF 30 | |
---|---|---|---|
Weight | 3 Ounces | 48 Grams | 8 Ounces |
Dimensions | 5.9 x 2.3 x 1.35 inches | - | - |
Number of Items | - | 1 | - |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 30,575 | 2,826 | 7,520 |
Price | $8.97 | $38 | $8.32 |
4. Best Lightweight:CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen – SPF 50
Are you planning a beach trip? Let this results-driven lightweight sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF 50 be your shield under the blazing sun! Go on, protect your skin from the harmful UVA/UVB rays, boost hydration, and repair the skin’s barrier with the infused ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) and niacinamide. Moreover, this dermatologist-recommended non-greasy sunscreen for sensitive skin has zinc oxide and titanium oxide, making it a 100% mineral-based sunscreen for broad-spectrum protection. Yep, you enjoy sunbathing with this one.
Pros
- Locks in extra moisture
- Gentle and suitable for kids too
- Non-comedogenic and allergy-tested
- Free from oxybenzone, paraben, oil, chemical-filters, and fragrances
- Dermatologically-tested
Cons
- May leave a white cast
- Not suitable for darker skin tones
5. Best Antioxidant-Rich:La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen – SPF 60
Step out in the sun confidently with this clinically-proven non-oily sunscreen this season! Oily skin users, where y’all at? This sunscreen with silica and perlite (an oil-absorbing complex) will keep your skin from turning greasy or shiny because of the sunscreen. And as far as sun protection is concerned, the Cell-OX shield technology forms a sturdy layer to keep the UVA/UVB rays from penetrating the skin with proven efficacy. Yep, a combo worth trying if you love the outdoors. Do not skip this premium broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 60, sun lovers as this brand is validated by leading dermatologists!
Pros
- Dry-touch formula
- Blocks out the humidity
- Ensures a mattified finish
- Protects the skin from skin-damaging radicals
- Water-resistant up to 60 minutes
- Dermatologist-tested and suitable for sensitive skin
- Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and allergy-tested
- Paraben-free, octinoxate-free, and oxybenzone-free
Cons
- May leave a white cast
6. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen – SPF 30
Say aloha to summers and beach trips with this reef-safe sunscreen by Hawaiian Tropic. Adding a tropical touch to your skin, all thanks to the ingredients it contains, such as shea butter, vitamin E, and mango fruit extract, it offers broad-spectrum UVB protection with SPF 30. Moreover, the infused tropical fragrance may make you want to trip away to Hawaii ASAP; it’s that’s tempting! Beach lovers, grab this dermatologist-tested non-greasy everyday sunscreen today. However, we recommend patch testing if you have oily or acne-prone skin for optimum safety.
Pros
- Oil-free formula
- Ultra-nourishing sunscreen
- Ensures a soft, smooth, and radiant glow
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Free from octinoxate and oxybenzone
Cons
- May not absorb instantly
7. Best Travel-Friendly:Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen – SPF 50
Protect your skin on-the-go with this travel-friendly sunblock that is also water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Ideal for travelers, water-sport enthusiasts, and beach lovers, this non-greasy natural sunscreen contains ultra-nourishing oats and 100% naturally-sourced zinc oxide. Dermatologist-recommended as it protects from the skin-damaging UVA/UVB rays, the hypoallergenic sunscreen is also non-irritating, gentle, and absorbs quickly into the skin, according to the tester’s experience online. This is a perfect sensitive skin sunscreen.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Ensures a matte finish on the skin
- Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free
- Free from phthalates, parabens, and dyes
- Ideal for applying on the face and body
Cons
- Thick consistency
- May leave a white cast
8. Best For Wrinkles:Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery Anti-Aging Sunscreen – SPF 50
Did you know sun damage can accelerate aging signs like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots? However not, if you have this professional-grade sunscreen that claims to protect from harmful rays and slows down the aging signs. Packed with dual powers, this SPF 50 sunscreen validated by leading dermatologists is clinically proven to intensely moisturize the skin, while forming a strong shield for broad-spectrum protection. An ideal combo for those looking for a broad spectrum SPF protection with moisturizing benefits, Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery will not disappoint.
Pros
- Blends easily
- Ensures a smooth finish
- Medium-weight, long-lasting, and non-greasy
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Free from gluten, paraben, artificial colors, and fragrances
Cons
- Expensive
9. Best For Heat Resistant :Coppertone Sport Clear Sunscreen – SPF 50
Don’t let the blazing sun keep you from enjoying some vitamin sea! Hit the waters like a pro if you have Coppertone Sport Clear Sunscreen in your kitty. Being sweat, water, and heat resistant for up to 80 minutes, this superlight sunscreen cools, hydrates, and refreshes your skin with every use. Also, are you worried about the white cast? Then don’t be! This sunscreen has a clear texture and guarantees to leave no white residue on the skin. Yep, flaunt your beach body confidently with this one!
Pros
- Non-sticky sunscreen
- Quick-absorbing and light formula
- Provides broad-spectrum protection from harmful UV rays
- Free from PABA, synthetic preservatives, and dyes
Cons
- Not suitable to apply around the eyes
- It’s not fragrance-free.
"This clear SPF 50 sunscreen is easy to apply and does not feel greasy at all. It does not stain my clothes or leave a white residue. It absorbs quickly into the skin."
10. Best For Dewy Finish:TULA Skin Care Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel – SPF 30
Not like your regular sun lotion, the TULA Sunscreen Gel is a natural non-greasy sunscreen that protects the skin from UV rays as well as blue light and pollution with proven efficacy. Yep, taking broad-spectrum protection to a whole new level, this premium sunscreen, leaves a dewy finish and guarantees no white cast. Like a BFF for your skin, as it nourishes, strengthens, and protects with every use, its gel-based formula contains probiotics, wild butterfly ginger roots, papaya, and pineapple. It is suitable for every skin type including oily, combination, and dry skin. Go on, beat the harmful yellow rays with this doctor-recommended yellow gem!
Pros
- Improves skin tone
- Ensures a stunning glow on the skin
- Non-greasy and non-comedogenic
- Ideal to use daily and under makeup as well
- Vegan, reef-safe, and free from synthetic fragrances
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Expensive
11. Best Chemical-Free:Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer – SPF 47
Moisturizer but with sunscreen benefits! This argan oil-infused blend is ideal for those who are looking for a chemical-free or vegan option. Moreover, this sunscreen-moisturizer claims to take a traditional method to protect and nourish your skin as the infused argan oil is harvested and sourced from Morocco. Adding a stunning radiance to the skin while protecting from sun damage and UV rays, it also contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide from natural sources for broad-spectrum protection. Try it!
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Cruelty-free product
- Non-greasy and fragrance-free
- Suitable for mature skin as well
- Free from sulfates, gluten, paraben, phthalate, mineral oil, and more
Cons
- Pricey
"I love using this tinted moisturizer infused with argan oil. It provides ample moisture and sun protection with SPF 47. It is perfect for outdoor activities and gives the skin a smooth, sun-kissed finish."
12. Best Ultra-Hydrating Formula:Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen – SPF 50
Oily skin users, let the only shine on your skin be your natural glow! Banish the greasiness with the clinically-tested Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen – SPF 50. The formula comes with a creamy texture that claims to protect from harmful rays and leave a radiant matte effect. Plus, it is water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can enjoy your water activities without worrying about sun damage or oil control. But what makes this non-greasy sunscreen a must-try is its oil-absorbing, soothing, and ultra-hydrating formula that contains vitamins A, C, E, aloe vera, and kaolin. Yep, bask in the sun carefree with this ultra-protective shield!
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Ensures a youthful glow
- Protects the skin from environmental damages
- Cruelty-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free
- Ideal for applying on the face and body
Cons
- Not ideal if you need a thick consistency
13. Best Organic Ingredients:G Green Mild Up Sun Plus – SPF 50+
Is your skin weak or very, very sensitive? Then trust Dr. G Green Mild Up Sun Plus to be your skin’s ultimate sun-blocker! Mild and gentle on the skin, it forms an ultra-strong shield that protects from UV rays, pollution (smoke, fine dust), and blue light. Powered by zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum protection, this fragrance-free sunscreen also contains other organic ingredients that ensure moisturizing and soothing benefits. Yep, so while the shield protects, it also nourishes the skin underneath. Worth a try, isn’t it?
Pros
- Non-sticky sunscreen
- Ensures no white cast
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Gentle and suitable for kids as well
Cons
- It may flake after a few hours.
Go on, glow with the sun this 2024! Those are the 13 best non-greasy sunscreens to enjoy a mattified effect on your skin all day. Do you need more assistance with choosing the right sunscreen to keep away from enhanced sun exposure? Check out our buying guide below for some exclusive tips.
Buying Guide
How To Choose the Right Non-Greasy Sunscreen?
Look out for the following features in the product before buying:
Matte effect: No matter your skin type, if a sunscreen turns greasy, it’s a lost cause. Hence, first, you must choose a product that suits your skin type and also guarantees an all-day matte sunscreen effect with every use.
Oil control: Since oily skin is prone to sebum build-up, pick a non-greasy, quick-drying sunscreen for oily skin that’ll cut down greasiness to give you a fresh and radiant look. You can opt for a powder sunscreen instead of a cream or gel sunscreen if your skin is excessively oily.
Percentage of zinc oxide: Though zinc oxide (also known as mineral-based or physical sunscreen) has earned the reputation for leaving a white cast on the skin, it is recommended by most dermatologists. The reason being, zinc oxide sits on top of the skin to form a protective shield and prevent the harmful UVA/UVB rays from penetrating the skin. Also, it is a non-comedogenic sunscreen! And for those who despise the white cast, there are sunblocks with transparent zinc oxide as well.
Sun protection factor (SPF): It is dermatologist-recommended to apply sunscreen with SPF 30 at least before stepping out. Also, the higher the SPF, the better it will be at shielding the UV rays and safeguarding your skin from negative sun exposure. However, no sunscreen can provide 100% protection from harmful rays.
Water & sweat resistant: Whether you are into water activities or not, it is ideal to choose a water-resistant sunscreen so your skin can stay protected even if you sweat or it rains. You can also choose a sunscreen that offers antioxidant benefits to keep your skin healthy and well-nourished.
Reef-safe product: Though this is optional, for the love of nature, pick a product that guarantees to be reef-safe, so you can enjoy your water activities without harming the environment.
Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “Everyone, every day, men, women, and children over the age of six months should apply sunscreen. This covers both those who tan readily and those who don’t remember, whether you burn or not, tanning damages your skin over your lifetime.The only exceptions are babies under the age of six months, whose skin is extremely sensitive. Keep newborns out of the sun, shade structures and sun-protective clothes are the best ways to protect them.”
Infographic: A Brief Guide To Sunscreens For Oily Skin
As sunscreens are an important part of skin care, it is better to know which sunscreen goes best for your skin type. As for oily skin sunscreens, the rule of thumb is to avoid SPF products that might add to the excess sebum in your face.
Check out the infographic below to understand which sunscreen to opt for and the ingredients that work wonders on oily skin.
The Bottom Line
An oily sunscreen can be overwhelming and mess up your makeup, but that doesn’t mean you skip your sunscreen. Instead, choose non-greasy sunscreens that give you a matte look so that you can step out in the sun with grace. They are suitable to use under any makeup. For prolonged outdoor activities, the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 100+ offers the best protection against UV radiation. The CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50 offers both hydration and is suitable for daily use. The Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen SPF 50 is sweat-resistant and provides trustworthy sun protection while being gentle on delicate skin. The products on our list are quick-absorbing, lightweight, non-comedogenic, and cruelty-free sunscreens. However, some may have a thick consistency and leave a white cast that may not suit sensitive skin. Look for residue-free sunscreens or breathable sunscreens instead. It is also recommended to avoid sunscreens with chemical formulas, especially if you have a sensitive skin type. So be careful to pick a formula that meets all your skin’s requirements.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Krati Darak loves keeping up with the latest skin care trends. Her extensive knowledge of products and ingredients enabled her to write this well-researched article on the finest non-greasy sunscreens that will give your skin a radiant look. She has also included sage advice on finding the perfect sunscreen for your skin type and other preferences to assist you in picking only the best from the list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mineral sunscreen less greasy?
Yes. Mineral sunscreens contain lightweight ingredients like zinc oxide that seep into the skin without leaving it feeling sticky and greasy.
Is oil-free sunscreen good for oily skin?
Yes. People with oily skin type can opt for oil-free sunscreens that dry out quickly. They control oil production and let your pores breathe.
Can I skip moisturizer and use non-greasy sunscreen for oily skin?
Yes. You can skip moisturizer and just use a non-greasy sunscreen with moisturizing benefits. But if you are using a drying formula, apply a thin coat of moisturizer before using it.
Which sunscreen is the best for oily and sweaty skin?
The Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen is the best for oily and sweaty skin. This non-greasy product prevents sweat from developing for about 80 minutes and soothes your skin.
Is there an affordable, non-greasy sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white cast?
The Coppertone Sport Clear Sunscreen is an affordable sunscreen that is non-greasy and does not leave a white cast on your skin post-application.
Is there a dry sunscreen?
Yes. Sunscreens like the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch and the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch absorb into your skin without leaving any oily residue.
Is lower SPF less greasy?
No. The range of SPF does not impact the greasiness of your skin. However, sunscreens with more oil concentration or comedogenic ingredients leave your skin feeling oily.
How do you keep sunscreen from getting greasy?
Pat translucent powder on your skin after applying sunscreen to keep your skin dry and non-greasy.
Read full bio of Dr. Anna H. Chacon
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