Our Fave Sunscreens For Oily Skin, Dry Skin, and Body Skin

We all know by now — sunscreen is not one-size-fits-all. So what sunscreen is best for your skin type? We asked our resident sunscreen tester  contributing editor Sheryll to break down her fave sunscreens for every skin type.

Hi everyone! Let’s talk about sunscreen.

We all know my feelings on sunscreen (spoiler alert — your routine is trash without it). But there are about 1,003,095,345 different types to choose from. There are sunscreen sticks, sprays, cushions, creams, gels, powders — you name it, it probably comes in a sunscreen form. But which one is right for you? Let’s talk about it!

Oily skin sunscreens

If you have oily skin, finding the right sunscreen for you might feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. But have no fear, for I am your fellow oily-skinned person, and I have tried a LOT.

Look for anything that says “watery, aqua, milk, milky, or gel” in the name. These products, like the Etude House Sunprise Mild Watery Light, are typically very lightweight and are hydrating without the heavy feeling that a lot of sunscreens have. They embrace the whole “water/aqua” thing wholeheartedly. Typically, these types of sunscreens can be quite runny or liquid-y and absorb into the skin very quickly.

In my thorough studies, I’ve also found that sunscreens with a watery gel texture tend to not leave the dreaded white cast most sunscreens are known for, meaning they are perfect for those with darker skin tones. The one negative? In order to make these sunscreens so light, some might have a lot of alcohol. If you’re sensitive, make sure you check the ingredients!

My oily skin favorites

Earth’s Recipe Waterful Sun Gel

Pros: Extremely lightweight, hydrates without a sticky, heavy, or greasy feeling

Cons: Can start to separate if you don’t use within six months

Labiotte Blue Safety Sun Stick

Pros: Easy-to-use stick, can carry in a bag without worrying about it getting everywhere, no white cast, extremely hydrating, also protects against blue light

Cons: Is scented somewhat heavily, if that’s not your jam.

 

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Dry skin sunscreens

If you have dry skin, you’re sunscreen journey might be a tad more straightforward. You’re gonna want to look for sunscreen with the words “cream, creamy, moisturizing, moist, balm.” These types of sunscreens will have a texture and finish more similar to your regular moisturizer.

Some of these sunscreens will have the dreaded white cast, so it’s a bit more trial and error to find the one that will work for you. Quick tip: Sunscreens from brands that are marketed towards “more mature” people (like Sulwhasoo, The History of Whoo) have some excellent albeit slightly expensive options.

My dry skin picks

Blanc & Eclare Serein Essential Sun Cream

Pros: Rich, moisturizing texture, contains niacinamide for an extra brightening boost

Cons: On the pricey side, but worth it!

Eclado Natural Perfect Sun Cream

Pros: Super rich and creamy texture, is a chemical and physical sunscreen hybrid

Cons: Has silicone, can be a potential trigger for some

Body sunscreens

Now since we’re all planning to live our best lives outdoors this summer, we need to talk about body sunscreen. Please don’t end up like me with five different types of tan lines — bikini lines, tank top lines, tan lines from my shorts, flip flop lines … a mess. Sunscreen will help prevent all of those things, plus, ya know, protect your skin from the sun. I read a lot by the pool, so body sunscreens have been getting a lot of use from me.

My favorite types of body sunscreens are those that are waterproof. Even if I’m not in the water, I will 10/10 be sweaty, so I want to make sure I’m protected. My only other concern with body sunscreens is that they need to be completely white cast-free. I can’t look ashy out here!

My fave body sunscreens

Missha All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk

Pros: Super soft, silky finish, comes in two sizes (the bigger one is perfect for the body), is sweat and waterproof

Cons: Contains alcohol

Etude House Sunprise Leports Waterproof

Pros: Specifically designed for sports and water activities, is waterproof and sweatproof

Cons: Small size, but thankfully is inexpensive so can buy multiple at a time

What are your fave sunscreens for your skin type and body? Let me know in the comments!