Sunscreen formulas have come a long way since the beauty industry realised that it’s an essential step in everyone’s skincare routine, regardless your skin type or where you live. If you’re not into the whitish cast that physical sunscreens leave behind, you can opt for a chemical sunscreen.
Things become a bit trickier when you have oily skin. Because sunscreens, which are generally made to be lasting and water- and sweat-resistant to actually protect you when you’re under the sun, can also feel like they’re leaving a greasy finish behind.
Here are ten with lightweight formulas that get absorbed so quickly, you won’t feel like they’re just adding to the sebum that your skin is already producing.
Dr. Dennis Gross All Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defence Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $64
Say Goodbye to Fine Lines: The Dr. Dennis Gross “Sun‑Shield”
Why It’s a Must‑Have for Your Skincare Routine
Everyone’s looking for a sunscreen that actually works—one that stops fine lines, keeps you matte, and still looks good on every skin tone.
Dr. Dennis Gross delivers just that, with a clear‑looking formula that feels light as air and doesn’t leave a greasy residue in the middle of a messy day.
Key Ingredients (Because We Love Science)
- Transparent Zinc Oxide – The frontline defense against UV rays.
- Bearberry & Sea Buckthorn – Antioxidants that feel like a berry‑tasting spa.
- Lingonberry – For that extra burst of protection (you can almost taste it).
- Ferulic Acid – Works with your skin’s natural defenses, unbeatable against pollution and blue light.
What Makes It Stand Out?
Not only does it shield UVA/UVB rays, it also guards against:
- Urban pollution that can age skin faster than a mid‑night snack.
- Blue light from screens—because we all need a little “skin‑caffeine” in our evenings.
All‑Skin‑Tone Approved
Whether you’re a fair‑skinned morning man or a bronzed night owl, the finish is invisible and non‑greasy, making it the perfect pre‑makeup base.
Where to Grab It?
Drop by Sephora, place an order, and have the anti‑age, all‑day shield straight in your bag. Your skin will thank you for the little extra layer of protection you’ve just added to the day.
The INKEY List SPF30 Sunscreen 100 per cent Mineral UV Filters, $27
It doesn’t matter if you’ve been spending most of your days cooped up at home, the
The INKEY List SPF30 Sunscreen 100 per cent Mineral UV Filters is one to add to your beauty arsenal all year round. Formulated with skin sensitivity in mind, this sunscreen is made with 22 per cent non-nano Zinc Oxide which is great for those who are prone to breakouts and sensitivity.
Boasting non-comedogenic and anti-irritation properties, it glides on your face seamlessly, absorbs quickly into the skin and is great for everyday use. Its super lightweight formula also allows you to layer on your makeup effortlessly without looking cakey.
Available at Lookfantastic.
ALSO READ: 9 lightweight sunscreens perfect for daily use in Singapore
Supergoop! Matte Screen 100 per cent Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40, $59
Sun–Shielding for Oily Skin: Go Matte, Go Vibes
Why Matte Is Your Skin’s Best Friend
Got oily skin? Say hello to a matte sunscreen that slaps UV protection on your skin while keeping that unwanted shine at bay. It’s like a sunscreen spa day – silky, lightweight, and ready to fight off the daily oil battles.
Meet the Super‑Star: Supergoop!’s Matte Marvel
This brand knows your skin through and through, crafting sunscreens for every skin type. Their matte formula?
- Blurs pores and masks uneven texture.
- Gently smooths out fine lines—no more “look, it’s already wrinkle time” drama.
- Full‑spectrum warrior against harsh UV rays.
- Feels like a breath of fresh air; no greasy residue.
Pack It Like a Pro
Before hitting the pool or the beach, tuck this gem into your bag for quick re‑application. Need to reapply after a splash? This sunscreen’s got you covered without stealing the show.
Where to Grab It
Find your new matte buddy at Sephora. Turn your sunscreen routine into a smooth, shine‑free masterpiece today!
Laneige Watery Sun Cream SPF 50+, $36
Say Goodbye to the Sticky Sunscreen Drama
Ever find yourself wrestling with a thick, gooey sunscreen that feels like you’re wearing a hot summer coat? Skip that mess! A watery, lightweight shade is your new best friend—especially if your skin publishes a daily oil billboard.
Why the Water-Based Wonder Rocks
- Lightweight Finish: A cool, almost invisible coating that works undercover in sizzling sun.
- Waterproof Vibes: It stays on, even when you’re turning up the sweat dial at the beach.
- Veggie Power: Packed with birch sap extract and other nutrient-rich botanicals to refill the moisture that the sun steals.
Just What Your Skin Needs on a Hot Day
Picture this: you’re out in the sun, temperatures soaring, and your skin is screaming for hydration. This sunscreen swoops in, instantly flushing your epidermis with vital moisture, and keeps you protected without the greasiness.
Grab It at Sephora and Let the Sunny Adventures Begin!
Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Mild Milk SPF 50+ PA++++, $13.90 for 20ml – $39.90 for 60ml
This milky sunscreen spreads easily and gives a smooth and non-sticky finish that’s perfect for those with normal or oily complexions. Besides being free of fragrance and parabens, this sunscreen also does not have octinoxate and oxybenzone – two coral-bleaching ingredients, so it’s reef-friendly too.
Available at selected Watsons and Watsons online, BHG and Don Don Donki.
ALSO READ: 8 skincare products that are made for our warm and humid weather
Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, $18.90 for 50g
This lightweight sunscreen utilises a technology where the UV protective particles are so small that they cover even the tiniest of gaps (not-so-enlarged pores, we’re looking at you) in skin to protect it from UV rays.
It also has unique water capsules that release moisture upon application so skin feels light and refreshed too.
Available at leading pharmacies, supermarkets, hypermarkets, Don Don Donki and Welcia BHG.
AHC Natural Perfection Moist Sun Cream
A moisturiser with SPF, this face cream also brightens and hydrates the skin with hyaluronic acid and a water-binding sugar.
Available at selected Watsons and Watsons online, Lazada, Zalora and Shopee.
Soleil Toujours 100 per cent Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, $38 – $58
This mineral sunscreen is packed with ingredients such as antioxidants and vitamins to keep skin hydrated while boosting protection against skin damage caused by free radicals. It also has aloe vera leaf juice to soothe and cool skin.
Available at Sephora.
ALSO READ: 5 easy skincare and make-up tricks to perfect that radiant, ‘your-skin-but-better’ look
Jurlique UV Defence Lotion SPF50 High Protection Lotion PA ++++, $67 for 50ml
Packed with an anti-pollution protection complex and ingredients such as chamomile, calendula and marshmallow root extracts, this helps protect against environmental aggressors to prevent premature skin ageing. It also has echinacea and paracress extracts to balance sebum production in skin.
Available at Jurlique.
Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Ultra Light Daily UV Defence Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++, $56 for 30ml
With an unscented, non-comedogenic and lightweight formula, this sunscreen is especially suited for humid climates such as that of Singapore’s and people with oily skin. It is absorbed into skin quickly to diminish the appearance of enlarged pores and doesn’t leave a shiny finish.
Available at Kiehl’s.
ALSO READ: These foundations come with skincare benefits
This article was first published in Her World Online.
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