Sunscreens for Combination (Normal-Oily) Skin
If your skin is anything like mine, which is a combination of normal to oily, then I’m sure finding the right type of products can be quite a challenge. Especially in the area of sunscreens. Many sunscreens are known for feeling heavy on the skin, leaving a white-cast behind and making us appear even oilier than we already are. Last year I put together a blog post on many of the popular sunscreens in my collection. I thought it would be great to expand on the post and focus more on sunscreens that are better tailored for my face.
All of the sunscreens that are mentioned are SPF 30 or above. I prefer not use anything below that number as I don’t see them being very beneficial to the skin.
Further Reading- Face & Body Sunscreen Routine
Mineral/Physical vs Chemical Sunscreen?
Source: Everyday Health
Is one type of sunscreen better than the other? The goal of both Mineral and Chemical sunscreens are to shield and protect the skin from the harmful rays from the sun.
Mineral sunscreens are often formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on the skin’s surface and prevent rays from penetrating the skin. This notion is why Mineral sunscreens are also referred to as “physical” sunscreens. It’s said that Mineral sunscreens start protecting the skin as soon as they’re applied.
Chemical sunscreens allow UV light into the skin. Once the light is absorbed, the chemicals in the sunscreen (oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate) creates a chemical reaction. The chemical reaction functions by changing the UV rays into heat and then releases heat from the skin. Chemical sunscreens are quick and easy to apply. With them you do not have to worry about a white cast/film on the skin. When using chemical sunscreens, they take about 20 minutes to start working.
Facial Sunscreen Reviews
stand-alone/Base sunscreens
The first category of sunscreens that I want to mention are stand-alone sunscreens. These are typically sunscreens that I use alone and over moisturizer. They are also sunscreens that I like to apply as my first application of sunscreen during my routine. Depending on how oily your skin is, you may like using these without a moisturizer underneath.
Krave: The Beet Shield
Price: $20
* This is the same formula as Krave Beauty Beet The Sun SPF 50+ PA++++ that's available in Korea, The Krave Beet Shield is a SPF 50+ PA+++, The PA grading system was established in Japan, and is meant to inform users of the level of protection from UVA rays.
The texture of the Krave Beet Shield is very similar to a light weight lotion. It absorbs into the skin very well and it doesn’t leave behind any type of cast. I really like the consistency of the Beet Shield. I find that it also sits under my makeup well.
My only qualm about it is the size of the bottle. I do wish they made this in a bigger size. I like the Krave makes their products in small batches. For me this ensures that products are made with higher standards.
Key Ingredients:
Beetroot extract- beets are high in vitamin C, some consider beets to be good for the skin, even suggesting that they can protect from signs of aging, such as wrinkles
Allantoin- used as a moisturizer to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations
Vitamin C, Resveratrol, EGCG- all are antioxidants is proven to shield skin against external stressors and neutralize free radicals.
Kinship Self Reflect SPF 32- Mineral Sunscreen
Price: $25 for 1.75 oz / 50 g
Kinship is a brand that is pretty new to me. The brand was created by scientists and their products are cruelty free and made with clean ingredients. I like that they’re products are very affordable and the product line seems to be very streamlined.
The Self Reflect Sunscreen is the first mineral sunscreen that has my approval. Having a deeper skin tone, I find it difficult to find a mineral sunscreen that doesn’t leave a cast or make me look ghostly. The Self Reflect is a sheer sunscreen that is reef safe and is formulated to work for those with blemish prone skin.
Upon applying The Self Reflect into my skin a do notice how white the formula looks on my face. After rubbing it into my skin for several minutes the cast goes away. I do like that I can actually see where the sunscreen is being applied and where the coverage is being placed. This is something that could be difficult to see on formulas that are clear.
Once applied to the skin there is a noticeable tacky feeling for a couple of minutes, but it quickly dissipates. If you wear make-up, I imagine this would also work a primer base for your makeup. Even though I don’t wear base make-up, I tend to swipe a bit of a finishing or translucent over my face every day before leaving my home.
This is my go to sunscreen if I know I’m going to be in the direct sun for a long period.
Key Ingredients:
Non-Nano Zinc Oxide 22.4% • Gentle-to-skin mineral sunscreen that provides UVA/UVB sun protection.
Turmeric • Superfood that soothes + helps protect, improving appearance of damaged skin.
Kinbiome™ • Plant-based probiotic supports clear skin + a strong skin barrier.
Supergoop Unseen SPF 40- Makeup Primer Sunscreen
Price: $34 for 1.7oz
The Supergoop Unseen sunscreen has been a favorite of mine for a little over a year. The formula is described as being invisible scentless and great for using right before you apply your make-up. The gel like texture can be a little unusual to get used to a first. I’ve had instances of “pilling” when I applied, but only a handful of times. I believe this was caused by the mixture of serums and moisturizers that were applied prior to the Unseen.
The Unseen is my favorite formula to use on days that I’m wearing make-up. The texture of it makes a great primer. I do notice that I have to work the Unseen into the skin for a few minutes before the tacky feeling goes away. The finish leaves my face feeling smooth and ready for make-up to be applied. After using the Unseen and applying my make-up, I finish up with one of the spf setting sprays that is listed below.
Key Ingredients:
-Complex Derived from Meadowfoam Seed: Increases hydration levels, resulting in a more even skin texture.
-Red Algae: Helps protect against blue light emitted by electronic devices.
-Frankincense: Provides a soothing effect.
Hybrid Moisturizer-Sunscreens
Hybrid Moisturizer-Sunscreens are a mash-up of moisturizers that are formulated with sunscreen ingredients. These are my go-to formulas if I’m in a rush, going to the gym or if it’s really hot/humid out and I don’t want multiple products on my face.
Paula’s Choice – Youth Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF50
Price: $33 for 2oz
The Paula’s Choice Youth Extend sunscreen is a hybrid moisturizer sunscreen formula. It’s described as a light consistency that is formulated with antioxidants to provide broad-spectrum protection against the sun’s rays. The finished is described as semi-matte and is specifically formulated for those with normal-oily combination skin types.
The consistency of the hybrid formula is very thin and almost runny. I’ve found this texture to be great for those that have oily skin textures like myself. When wearing this sunscreen, I typically apply two layers to ensure adequate coverage of sunscreen. Even while applying such a liberal amount, there is no type of cast left on my skin. After applying two layers to my skin, my skin does not appear oily or matte.
I would highly recommend this to those that are looking for a simplistic or streamlined routine. This is my go to if I’m in a rush or heading off to the gym. I love that semi glow that it provides!
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.0%, Octinoxate 7.50%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 2.0%
Supergoop City Serum SPF 30
Price: $42 for 2oz.
I came across the Supergoop City Serum one day during a browse at Marshall’s. The first thing that stood out to me is that it contains Vitamin E and B5. These key ingredients helps to protect the skin against photo-aging. When I initially purchased and started using it I thought it was just a regular sunscreen that was to be worn over moisturizer.
I’ve worn this sunscreen over moisturizers in the winter along with using it alone during the warmer months. I equally enjoyed using it both way. I really enjoy using the City Serum and would definitely recommend this for all skin types. The price tag of $42 is a bit pricey, but I find that I only need to use 2 pumps at a time. I can’t attest to seeing any drastic results from the Vitamin E and B5 that is in the ingredient list of the sunscreen.
If your skin is more on the mature side and looking to spend a little more on sunscreen, I would definitely recommend this particular sunscreen. I do think this sunscreen is a great hybrid.
Key Ingredients:
-Homosalate 8%, Octisalate 4%, Avobenzone 3%, and Octocrylene 2%: Deliver broad-spectrum sun protection.
Reapplying and Reapplications
Being that I wear make-up and other face base products, I find it easier for me to re-apply my sunscreen in the form of a mist. I know others prefer to reapply with a cream type of formula, but I find a mist makes it so much easier. With all of the formulas mentioned below, I find that they apply over my make-up well, they do not leave a cast and I can easily apply this as I’m walking (no need for a mirror or stopping).
Supergoop Defense Refresh Mist SPF 40
Price: $30 for 3.4 oz
The Defense Mist has been one of my go to sunscreens for years. The spray formula makes it ideal for me to use. This is also the sunscreen and formulation that I recommend to people who say that they do not like using sunscreens. I find the spray formula and the packaging great for those that are new to sunscreens.
Being that I typically wear face makeup like highlighter and bronzer, I find reapplying with a spray form of spf as the best way to not disturb my makeup. I also keep a mini size on my work desk and an extra that I carry with me on the weekends. The handy size makes it ideal to fit in whatever handbag that I have and to reapply while being out.
I’ve seen many people complain about the scent of this, but I’m not bothered by it. The spray nozzle on the mist used to be troublesome, but it appears Supergoop has addressed and fixed this issue. When recommending this spray, I always try to reiterate to shake well, do not spray on the face with close proximity to the face and after you spray on to the face lightly pat it into your skin.
Coola Makeup Setting Spray Organic SPF 30
Price: $36 for 1.5 oz
The Coola Setting Mist was included in my Fab Fit Fun box several months ago. I really didn’t think much about it prior to using it. The Mist is described a hydrating and weightless SPF 30 mist that offers UV protection, reduces shine and keeps making looking fresh. It’s recommended for those who has skin types that are normal, combination and oily.
This mist is intended to be used as the last step after wearing makeup. I love that wearing this over my makeup doesn’t alter my makeup or make my skin appear oilier. The spray nozzle mist distributes the product evenly and is not aggressive at all. For me this spray is perfect to reapply with during the day. It’s not necessary a sunscreen that I feel that would be sufficient on its own, but I do think this would be great for reapplication – especially for when wearing make-up and on the go.
My only issue with the Coola Setting Mist is the price being $36 for only 1.5 oz of product. Being that sunscreen is supposed to be reapplied multiple times throughout the day, I think a bottle of this size will not last a very long time. The bottle is made out of glass. I like the concept, but as something as marketed for on the go I see potentials of it dropping and shattering.
Key Ingredients:
-Hyaluronic Acid: Known to bind moisture to the skin and helps promote soft, supple skin.
-Juniper, Date Palm, and Peony Plant Cell Extracts: Offer powerful antioxidant protection while nurturing the skin barrier and maintaining hydration.
-Organic Aloe Vera: Helps hydrate and helps to soothe skin.
Sunscreens Tips:
1- Wear your sunscreen – even if your indoors. If you have you blinds/curtains opened during the day, you should be wearing sunscreen
2- Don’t forget to reapply every two hours- make sure to apply at least 15 -20 minutes of going out doors
3- Multiple levels of sun protection- hats, sunglasses, protective clothing
4- It’s recommend about 1/3 to 1/2 teaspoon of sunscreen for your whole face and neck to ensure coverage