Water resistant sunscreen for oily skin

What should you look for on the label?

Treat sun protection and suitability for oily skin as separate checks. Broad spectrum covers both UVA and UVB, the ultraviolet rays involved in skin aging and sunburn. SPF mainly describes protection against UVB. Water resistance adds a tested period of protection on wet skin. None of those terms replaces checking whether the formula is suited to oily skin.13

Check for the actual 40 or 80 minute water resistance statement rather than choosing by the product name. No sunscreen is waterproof: even water resistant sunscreen washes off.15

How do you choose a formula for oily skin?

Oily skin produces excess sebum, the oil that lubricates skin, and is more prone to oil clogging pores. Start with the noncomedogenic label. For facial creams, avoid heavy formulas containing oils, waxes or petrolatum if you have oily skin, particularly if you also get acne. These can plug pores and make acne worse.26

For daytime facial creams, familiar brands can be just as good as more expensive options. Fancy packaging and a higher price do not automatically make a daytime cream better, although the box can make a very confident case. Put the protection claims and suitability for your skin ahead of the presentation.6

How should you apply and reapply it?

1. 1Apply sunscreen generously 15 minutes before sun exposure. Cover all skin exposed to the sun, not just your face.
2. 2Reapply every two hours while outdoors, even if your skin stays dry.
3. 3During swimming or sweating, reapply at the stated water resistance limit: 40 or 80 minutes.
4. 4Reapply after toweling off rather than waiting for the next scheduled application.

Do not reduce the amount just to make sunscreen feel lighter. SPF testing uses a coverage of 2 milligrams per square centimetre, and applying less can leave you with less protection than the stated SPF. Sunscreen also belongs alongside shade and protective clothing, rather than replacing them.13

What if your oily skin is also sensitive?

Sensitive skin can also be oily: sensitivity is not determined by how much oil your skin produces. Choose fragrance free products and avoid dyes or harsh ingredients that trigger irritation. Mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both is an option dermatologists recommend for sensitive skin. Still check the SPF, broad spectrum and water resistance claims.12

Would a tinted sunscreen be useful?

For darker skin tones, choose a tinted sunscreen that also meets the broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher and water resistance checks. Visible sunlight can cause hyperpigmentation, meaning areas darker than your natural skin tone. Tinted sunscreens containing iron oxide help protect against visible light and can reduce the white cast left by some sunscreens.17

When should you stop using it?

Stop using the sunscreen and ask a doctor if a rash occurs. Do not apply sunscreen to damaged or broken skin. Keep sunscreen out of your eyes, and rinse with water if it gets into them.4