Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin in the Philippines (2025 Guide)

Looking for the best sunscreen for oily skin can feel like an endless scroll through product reviews, ingredient lists, and mixed opinions. And in a hot, humid country like the Philippines, choosing the wrong formula can leave you looking shinier than you’d like by noon.

If you’re overwhelmed by the number of options out there, don’t worry. We rounded up some of the best sunscreens for oily skin in the Philippines for 2025, based on finish, oil control, texture, and real user feedback.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Sunscreen for Oily Skin

What ingredients are safe for oily skin?

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for non-comedogenic ingredients as these are less likely to clog pores or trigger breakouts. Safe and commonly recommended sunscreen ingredients for oily skin include:

• Hyaluronic Acid – hydrates without adding oil or heaviness
• Niacinamide – helps regulate sebum and calm inflammation
• Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide – often found in mineral sunscreens; gentle and soothing, but may leave a white cast
• Silica or Silicone Derivatives (e.g., dimethicone) – help create a smooth, matte finish without greasiness
• Chemical UV filters like Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S, and Avobenzone – newer generation chemical filters that offer strong protection and are lightweight

Avoid heavy oils, high-alcohol formulas (especially if you’re sensitive), and comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil, which can clog pores and worsen shine. To build a routine that works with (not against) your skin, it helps to know the best skincare ingredients for your skin type. Your skin will thank you later.

Are chemical sunscreens better than mineral sunscreens for oily skin?

Not necessarily. It depends on your skin’s sensitivity and personal preference. That said, chemical sunscreens are generally more popular among people with oily skin in the Philippines because:

• They tend to be lighter and less likely to leave a white cast
• They blend easily and don’t interfere with makeup
• Many modern chemical formulas (like Korean or Japanese sunscreens) include hydrating and oil-controlling ingredients

However, if you have very sensitive or reactive skin, mineral sunscreens like those with zinc oxide may be better tolerated, even if they feel thicker or more visible.

Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin (Our Top Picks)

1. SUNPLAY Skin Aqua UV Watery Gel SPF50+ PA++++

Type: Chemical

A long-time favorite among Filipinos, this Japanese sunscreen is known for its water-light texture and non-greasy finish. It uses hyaluronic acid to hydrate while still feeling breathable on oily skin. It’s ideal for everyday use, especially in humid conditions.

Why we like it:

• Lightweight, watery texture that absorbs fast
• Doesn’t clog pores or feel heavy
• Affordable and easily found on Shopee/Watsons
  

Why we don’t like it:

• Slight alcohol scent may irritate sensitive skin
• Reapplication needed more often during outdoor exposure

2. TOCOBO Cotton Soft Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++

Type: Chemical

This Korean sun stick went viral for a reason. It’s one of the best matte sunscreen sticks around. It’s infused with cotton extract to help control sebum, making it perfect for mid-day touchups without messing up your makeup.

Why we like it:

• Super matte finish that oily-skinned users love
• No white cast, no sticky residue
• Compact and great for reapplication
  

Why we don’t like it:

• May tug on skin if not applied gently
• A bit pricey for the size

3. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+

Type: Chemical

This dermatologist-recommended sunscreen is well-known for its ultra-light fluid texture. Despite being high-protection, it doesn’t feel greasy and has a soft matte finish. The updated UVMune 400 version offers protection against long UVA rays, which is great for those who are outdoors a lot.

Why we like it:

• Excellent for sensitive, acne-prone skin
• High UVA and UVB protection (perfect for a beach day and definitely worth adding to your beach essentials list)
• No white cast, wears well under makeup 

Why we don’t like it:

• Slightly pricier than local brands
• Some users say it feels a bit slick before setting

4. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++

Type: Chemical

This one is often recommended by beauty editors and Reddit users alike. It has a clear gel-like texture that applies like a primer, making it ideal for oily skin and makeup wearers. It’s also fragrance-free and reef-safe.

Why we like it:

• Truly invisible, no white cast at all
• Feels like a primer, great under makeup
• Doesn’t cause breakouts or excess oil

Why we don’t like it:

• Expensive compared to Korean/Japanese options
• SPF 40 may not be enough for long sun exposure

5. [Dr.G] Green Mild Up Sun+ SPF50+ PA++++

Type: Mineral (Physical)

While most people with oily skin gravitate toward chemical sunscreens because they tend to feel lighter and leave no white cast, some still prefer mineral sunscreens, especially those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. This one from Dr.G is a standout for being non-comedogenic, calming, and surprisingly matte for a physical formula. It features zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection, along with centella asiatica to help soothe irritation.

Why we like it:

• Great for sensitive, acne-prone skin
• Matte finish without silicones
• Physical filter for those avoiding chemical sunscreens
  

Why we don’t like it:

• Can leave a visible white cast, especially on deeper skin tones
• Needs extra blending effort

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin?

There’s no universal “best” sunscreen for oily skin. What matters is how it fits your daily routine, skin concerns, and reapplication habits. If you want a matte finish, TOCOBO’s Cotton Sun Stick or Dr.G’s mineral sunscreen are worth a try. For invisible wear under makeup, Supergoop or La Roche-Posay are crowd favorites.

In the end, don’t be afraid to test and try. What works wonders for someone else might not feel great on you. Check reviews, watch out for how your skin reacts, and go for the one you’ll actually wear every day (Check out also our article on best sunscreens for face!)