Protect Your Oily Skin from the Harmful Rays of the Sun: Discover the Best Gel Based Sunscreens for Oily Skin and Everything You Need to Know Before Buying One (2023)

A sunscreen is a skincare product that helps protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiations. It is available in the form of lotions, creams, gels, sprays and sticks, that are applied to the skin before exposure to the sun. A sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting the UV rays, which can cause damage to the skin, including sunburn, premature ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer. Choosing the right sunscreen for your face is important to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays and prevent sun damage, premature ageing and skin cancer.

A sunscreen's SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a measure of how well the sunscreen product protects you against UVB radiation, which is the type of radiation that causes sunburn and skin damage. The SPF number indicates the amount of time you can spend in the sun without burning while wearing the sunscreen, compared to the amount of time it would take to burn without any protection. For example, an SPF-30 sunscreen would allow you to spend 30 times longer in the sun without burning than you would be able to, without protection. However, it's important to note that SPF only measures protection against UVB radiation and doesn't provide information on protection against UVA radiation, which can also cause skin damage.

When it comes to choosing the "best" SPF, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF-30 or higher, as this can block up to 97% of UVB rays. However, the actual SPF that's best for you will depend on your skin type, the amount of time you'll be spending in the sun, and other factors such as altitude and weather conditions. It is also important to choose a sunscreen that's appropriate for your skin type, as well as one that you're comfortable using regularly. This can help ensure that you get adequate protection and reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Additionally, it's important to reapply the sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating, as well as using other sun protection measures such as wearing protective clothing and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

There are 2 main types of sunscreens viz. chemical sunscreen and physical sunscreen. The difference between the 2 types is as follows:

Some sunscreens may contain a combination of both chemical and physical filters, which are known as hybrid sunscreens. These sunscreens offer the benefits of both chemical and physical filters. It's important to choose a sunscreen that is labeled "broad-spectrum," meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of at least 30.

Here are some tips to help you choose the right sunscreen for your face:

Overall, choosing a sunscreen for your face requires considering factors such as skin type, daily activities and ingredients. It's important to take your time and choose a sunscreen that works well for your skin and your lifestyle.

Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Vitamin-C Matte Gel Daily Sunscreen is a sunscreen product that is designed to protect from the harmful effects of the sun. This sunscreen is formulated with ingredients such as comfrey, soothing horse chestnut, and sebum-regulating ingredients which help to protect the skin from sun damage while also controlling the oil in the skin. This sunscreen has a gel-like texture that is lightweight and non-greasy, making it ideal for those of you with oily or combination skin. It is also enriched with SPF-50 and PA+++ to provide maximum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Vitamin-C Matte Gel Daily Sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and can be used daily. It can be purchased for ₹ 380.00 from Lotus Herbals.

The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Tinted Sunscreen Gel is a sunscreen product that is designed to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. This sunscreen contains 1% hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance that helps to hydrate and plump up the skin. The sunscreen has a lightweight and non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast or a sticky residue. It also contains SPF-50 and PA+++ to provide maximum protection against UVA and UVB rays. The 1% hyaluronic acid in this sunscreen helps to provide hydration to the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. It also helps to minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making it a great choice for those of you looking for anti-ageing benefits. The tinted sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 699.00/- from The Derma Co.

Re’equil Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen Gel is a sunscreen product that is designed to protect from the harmful effects of the sun. This sunscreen is formulated with advanced sunscreen filters that provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen has a lightweight and non-greasy texture that quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving any white cast or greasiness. It has a matte finish that gives a velvety feel to the skin. The product is enriched with antioxidants such as vitamin E and allantoin that help in protecting the skin from oxidative damage, preventing premature ageing and restoring the natural moisture of the skin. It is suitable for all skin types, including oily, acne-prone and sensitive skin. It is available for ₹ 702.00 on Re'equil.

La Shield Pollution Protect Mineral Sunscreen Gel is a sunscreen product that is specifically designed to protect from the damaging effects of pollutants in Indian cities. This sunscreen contains biomimetic exopolysaccharide technology that acts as a protective shield against pollution-induced skin damage. The sunscreen offers superior protection from harmful free radicals and also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It has SPF-50 and PA+++ that provide enhanced broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen has a lightweight and non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving behind a comfortable, matte finish. The 50 gm variant can be purchased for ₹ 196.00 from Amazon.

Plum Green Tea Day-Light Sunscreen Gel is a sunscreen product that is designed to protect from the harmful effects of the sun while also offering skin benefits. This sunscreen is enriched with green tea extracts that have antioxidant properties, which help to protect the skin from environmental damage. The sunscreen has a lightweight and non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast or sticky residue. It contains SPF-35 and PA+++, which protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Plum Green Tea Day-Light Sunscreen Gel is also enriched with glycolic acid that helps to exfoliate the skin and improve the texture of the skin. It also contains argan oil and aloe vera that help to hydrate the skin and soothe any irritation. The sunscreen from Plum can be purchased for ₹ 575.00 from Plum.

This sunscreen contains natural, non-toxic ingredients and provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays. The presence of non-nano zinc oxide suggests that it is a mineral sunscreen, which is a type of sunscreen that forms a physical barrier on the skin to reflect and scatter the sun's rays. The addition of wheatgerm, avocado and grapeseed oils suggests that this sunscreen may be nourishing and beneficial for the skin, while vitamin B5, C and E help to prevent visible signs of ageing. The presence of calendula, peppermint, and Roman chamomile essential oils also provide additional skin benefits such as hydration, soothing and reducing acne. The aloe vera sunscreen gel can be purchased for ₹ 325.00 from Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic.

This is a lightweight sunscreen gel that provides effective protection against harmful UV rays. The high SPF-50 provides up to 97% protection against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburns. Additionally, the PA+++ rating indicates that it also protects against UVA rays, which can cause dark spots, premature ageing and skin darkening. The gel formula of the sunscreen makes it easy to apply and absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue, making it suitable for use in hot and humid weather. The product is also hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, making it a safe and effective choice for those of you with sensitive skin. The sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 319.00 from Amazon.

Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen SPF-30+ Gel provides spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The product contains octinoxate, benzophenone-4, zinc oxide and avobenzone, which work together to provide effective protection against the harmful effects of the sun. This sunscreen is specially formulated for oily and mixed skin types and is designed to be non-oily and non-greasy. The lightweight gel formula spreads easily on the skin without leaving any white cast. It is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or cause acne. Additionally, the product is hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for those of you with sensitive skin. Overall, the Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen SPF-30+ Gel is a versatile sunscreen that is suitable for all skin types. It can be purchased for ₹ 450/- from Fixderma.

Brinton UV Doux Gold Silicone Sunscreen Gel is an advanced formula that has been specially developed to provide effective UVA/UVB protection. It is fortified with a blend of ingredients that are designed to not only protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun but also to nourish and care for your skin. The product contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, along with powerful antioxidants in the form of vitamin C and E. These ingredients work together to provide a powerful layer of protection against free radicals that can cause skin damage and ageing. One of the key benefits of this sunscreen is its high-performance formula. The product is sweat and water-resistant, making it suitable for use during water-based activities or outdoor sports. Its lightweight and non-greasy texture make it easy to apply and wear daily. It provides broad-spectrum coverage with a matte finish and is suitable for all skin types. It can be purchased for ₹ 972.00 from Nykaa.

SkinKraft Ultra Matte Sheer Crème Sunscreen Gel is a sunscreen product that is designed to provide effective protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. The product is formulated with a unique combination of physical and chemical filters that work together to create a powerful barrier between the skin and the sun. One of the key features of SkinKraft Ultra Matte Sheer Crème Sunscreen Gel is its ultra-matte finish, which helps to control excess oil and shine on the skin. This makes it an ideal choice for those of you with oily or combination skin types who are looking for a sunscreen that won't leave your skin feeling greasy or shiny. The product also contains several nourishing ingredients, such as niacinamide, allantoin and panthenol, which help to soothe and moisturise the skin while providing protection against the sun. It can be purchased for ₹ 499.00 from SkinKraft.

IPCA Acne-UV Sunscreen Gel SPF-50 PA+++ is a highly effective sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It creates a physical and chemical barrier against the sun, preventing damage to the skin. This sunscreen is non-comedogenic and is suitable for normal skin as well as oily, acne-prone skin. In addition to its powerful sun protection, this sunscreen also helps to moisturise the skin, leaving it soft and smooth. Its oil-free formula ensures that it does not leave a greasy feeling on the skin, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for daily use. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, this sunscreen is highly suited for your needs. It helps to protect your skin from sun damage and related problems while also keeping it moisturised and healthy. This sunscreen gel can be purchased for ₹ 709.00 from Clinikally.

This sunscreen offers a unique blend of broad spectrum SPF-50 with a PA++++ rating and a lightweight moisturiser to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while also nourishing it. It contains 4 powerful UV filters, uvinul T 150, avobenzone, octocrylene and titanium dioxide, which provide effective protection against both UVA and UVB rays. In addition, it is enriched with vitamin A, B3, B5, E and F, which help repair skin and reduce damage caused by sun exposure, while also soothing and hydrating it. This sunscreen has been thoroughly tested by an independent lab and confirmed to have an SPF-50 rating. It is photostable, acne-safe, and does not leave any white cast upon application. The primary filters are sourced from leading manufacturers BASF in Germany and Royal DSM in the Netherlands. The lightweight formula spreads easily and is quickly absorbed, leaving your skin with a natural, moisturised, non-shiny look without any residue or heavy feeling. The sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 389.00 from Minimalist.

SunScoop Invisible Sunscreen has an SPF-40 rating and is suitable for all skin types, without leaving any white residue on the skin. It contains vitamin E which shields the skin from harmful UV rays and is also infused with argan oil to provide hydration and to soothe skin inflammation. This is a chemical sunscreen with a lightweight texture that offers a natural-looking finish. The package includes a 40 gm tube of SunScoop Invisible Sunscreen which can be purchased for ₹ 675.00 from Sublime Life.

Experience the power of nature with Biotique Sun Shield Bio Sunflower Matte Gel Sunscreen, a 100% Ayurvedic recipe that protects your skin from harmful sun rays and pigmentation. This ultra-soothing sunscreen is made with healing extracts of sunflower, ashwagandha and sesame, which keep your skin soft and moisturised. With a unique gel formula, it offers broad spectrum SPF-50 UVA/UVB protection, mattifying benefits and a flawless matte finish. This preservative-free and organically pure sunscreen is dermatologist tested for safety and is ideal for normal to oily skin. Plus, it's never tested on animals, making it a great ethical choice. A pack of two sunscreen gels can be purchased for ₹ 836.00 from Flipkart.

Curatio Suncote Sunscreen Gel is a specially designed sunscreen that offers a range of benefits to the skin. One of its key benefits is that it provides both physical and chemical protection from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. This means that the product contains a combination of filters that work together to create a barrier between the skin and the sun. The product is also formulated with anti-pollution ingredients that help to protect the skin from the harmful effects of environmental pollutants such as smoke and dust. This is important because exposure to these pollutants can cause a range of skin problems, including premature ageing and pigmentation. Curatio Suncote Suncreen Gel has SPF-30, which blocks harmful UVB rays that cause sunburn and damage to the skin. The product is also non-comedogenic, which means that it does not clog pores or cause acne. It is oil-free and non-sticky, which makes it easy to apply and comfortable to wear. Another key benefit of Curatio Suncote Sunscreen Gel is that it helps to prevent signs of ageing caused by sun damage. Overexposure to the sun can cause premature ageing of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Using a product like Curatio Suncote Sunscreen Gel can help to protect the skin from these effects and keep it looking healthy and youthful. It can be purchased for ₹ 419.00 from Clinikally.

In this next option, we have picked a product which is a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF-35+ PA++++. It is lightweight, non-sticky and allows your skin to breathe while protecting it from the sun. This sunscreen does not leave any white cast and is suitable for oily and combination skin types. Formulated with natural ingredients like jojoba oil, which repairs sun-damaged skin and reduce the effects of photo-ageing, wheatgerm oil, which combats fine lines and wrinkles and retains skin moisture, and aloe vera, which moisturises, hydrates and soothes the skin for a natural glow. Additionally, this sunscreen is free from nano-particles and protects against sun damage. The moisturising sunscreen gel can be purchased for ₹ 495.00 from Just Herbs.

This oil-free sunscreen gel is made with natural antioxidants that protect the skin cells from UVA and UVB rays while promoting cell regeneration and reducing skin redness, irritation and premature ageing. Carrot seed extract acts as a natural UV barrier and lightens hyperpigmentation and scars, while sandalwood extract cools and revitalises the skin cells, leaving you with a youthful, glowing complexion. To use, gently apply to cleansed face, neck and other exposed areas about 10 minutes before going out in the sun. Key ingredients include carrot seed extracts, shweta chandana extracts, aloe vera extracts and glycerine. The Ayurvedic sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 190.00 from IndiaMART.

This sunscreen is designed to provide effective protection against the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun while also reducing tanning and dark patches on the skin. The formula is enriched with natural extracts of carrot and cucumber, which work together to deliver a powerful de-tanning action, resulting in a brighter, more even-toned and moisturised skin. Unlike some other sunscreens, this product is free of parabens, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is available for purchase on Amazon for a price of ₹ 214.00. So, if you're looking for a sunscreen that not only protects your skin from the sun but also helps to reduce tanning and dark patches, the VLCC Radiance Pro Sunscreen Gel with natural carrot and cucumber extracts could be the perfect choice for you.

Mamaearth HydraGel Indian Sunscreen is a broad-spectrum SPF-50 gel sunscreen that protects the skin against UVA and UVB rays. Enriched with natural raspberry, it is high in antioxidants that fight against signs of ageing and sun damage, leaving the skin healthy and rejuvenated. The lightweight and non-sticky formula is further enhanced with aloe vera, which provides long-term hydration and soothes dry skin. Additionally, glycerin provides immediate hydration and prevents dryness. This gel-based sunscreen is suitable for all skin types, making it an effective and convenient way to protect your skin from sun damage for ₹ 399.00 from Mamearth.

Aegte Glass Skin Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Gel is a unique gel-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection with SPF-50 PA++ against harmful UVA/UVB rays and blue light emitted from electronic devices and room lights that can cause skin dullness and tanning. It contains red algae extract, which has antioxidant properties and is effective in fighting sun damage and acne. It also provides hydration to the skin and brightens the skin tone. The lepidium setivum sprout is another key ingredient that helps to reduce the effects of daytime stressors and prevents the formation of melanin for a brighter and more luminous complexion. Swiss garden cress sprouts are clinically proven to reduce melanin production in the skin, making them effective in treating dark spots, age spots and hyperpigmentation. Finally, hyaluronic acid is included in the formula to provide hydration to the skin and its antioxidant properties make it suitable for all skin types. It also has powerful anti-ageing properties and can even treat skin infections like eczema. This sunscreen gel is available in a 100 ml pack size for ₹ 699.00 on Aegte.

The gel includes aloe vera extract, which has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties and is a natural remedy for sunburn or burnt skin. It moisturises the skin, fights against skin ageing, reduces infection and acne and lightens blemishes. Cucumber extract, another ingredient, is a superfood for the skin, containing proteins, lipids, vitamin C and minerals. It provides moisturising and emollient properties. The gel also features carrot extract, which is rich in vitamin C and beta carotene, two antioxidants that can protect your skin from damage and improve its appearance. Chamomile, with its anti-inflammatory properties, helps to soothe and calm dry or rough skin. It protects against various forms of sun damage, including tanning, sun spots and premature ageing. Additionally, it regulates skin pigmentation to lighten the skin tone and can be purchased for ₹ 185.00 from Amazon.

Bioderma Photoderm Crème Sun Active Defense sunscreen gel is a sunscreen gel that provides very high UVA/UVB protection against harmful sun rays. It has a fluid, non-greasy texture that makes it suitable for all skin types. The gel is formulated with cellular bioprotection technology that activates the skin's natural defenses, protects the skin from premature ageing and helps reduce the risk of cellular damage. It also contains an exclusive combination of UVA/UVB dermatological filters, along with vitamin E and a powerful antioxidant that help fight against harmful environmental aggressors. The sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 999.00 from Nykaa.

Innisfree Tone Up No Sebum Sunscreen is a sunscreen that protects from harmful UVA and UVB rays. It has a lightweight, non-sticky texture and is suitable for everyday use. This sunscreen is specially formulated to control excess sebum production, which helps to prevent the skin from looking oily and greasy. The key ingredients in this sunscreen cream are sunflower oil and green tea extract, which provide moisture to the skin while protecting it from the sun. It is free from parabens, animal ingredients, mineral oil and synthetic fragrance, making it suitable for sensitive skin. The daily protection sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 935.00 from Foxy.

Aqualogica Hydrate Dewy Sunscreen is a high SPF-50 sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Its hydrating formula helps to moisturise and protect the skin, leaving it soft and smooth. This sunscreen is lightweight and non-greasy, making it ideal for daily use. It also contains antioxidants that help to protect the skin from environmental damage. The non-comedogenic formula makes it suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. The hydrating sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 339.00 from Amazon.

L'Oréal Paris UV Perfect Super Aqua Essence is a sunscreen product from the L'Oréal Paris brand. It is designed to protect from the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays, which can cause skin damage, premature ageing and even skin cancer. The product is formulated as a lightweight, non-sticky gel that is easily absorbed by the skin, and it provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. In addition to its sun protection benefits, L'Oréal Paris UV Perfect Super Aqua Essence is also enriched with antioxidants like vitamin E and vitamin C, which help to protect the skin against environmental pollutants and free radicals. The product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and it is oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or cause acne. This sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 515.00 from Amazon.

Arata Sunscreen Gel provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection using natural plant extracts such as pomegranate and red raspberry to prevent sun damage and inflammation. It is PA+++ certified and has SPF-50+, using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as safe and effective active ingredients. Cooling aloe vera also helps prevent redness caused by sunlight. This lightweight, moisturising sunscreen gel is designed to blend seamlessly with any skin tone, leaving a refreshed finish without any white cast. It is suitable for all skin types and is packaged in 100% recycled plastic, collected from oceans and land wastes, with labels printed using biodegradable food-grade ink. The sunscreen gel is available for ₹ 249.00 on Amazon.

This is a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that is designed to provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause skin damage, premature ageing and even skin cancer. The formula of Cetaphil Light Gel SPF-30 is designed to be gentle on the skin and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is free from fragrances, parabens and other harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation. The product contains a unique blend of sun filters that provides long-lasting protection from the sun, and it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Cetaphil Light Gel SPF-30 is also enriched with vitamin E and glycerin, which help to moisturise and nourish the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. The gel formula is easily absorbed by the skin, without leaving a greasy or sticky residue, and it is designed to be used daily, as part of your skincare routine. It is available for ₹ 1,200.00 on Chosen.

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel Sunscreen is a Japanese sunscreen product that has gained popularity worldwide for its lightweight, non-greasy formula. It is a water-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The unique watery gel texture of Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel Sunscreen is designed to be quickly absorbed by the skin, leaving a refreshing, weightless finish. It contains hyaluronic acid and other moisturising ingredients that help to keep the skin hydrated and plump, even in hot and humid weather. The product is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a great option for outdoor activities and sports. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel Sunscreen is SPF-50+ and PA++++, which means it offers high protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It is also free from mineral oil, fragrance and colourants, making it suitable for those of you with sensitive skin. The product is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or cause acne. The water-based sunscreen gel is available for ₹ 1,680.00 from Nykaa.

Derma Essentia SPF-50 Advanced Gel Based Sunscreen is a gel-based sunscreen that is designed to provide high-level protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that is quickly absorbed by the skin, leaving a matte finish. The product contains a unique blend of active ingredients, including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection against the sun's harmful rays. It also contains antioxidants such as vitamin E and green tea, which help to protect the skin from environmental damage and prevent premature ageing. Derma Essentia SPF-50 Advanced Gel Based Sunscreen is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulfates and mineral oils. The gel formula is also water-resistant, making it a great option for outdoor activities and sports. It is available for ₹ 358.00 on 1mg.

This sunscreen's active ingredients include benzophenone-3, which absorbs and scatters the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays in combination with other UV filters, providing broad-spectrum protection. Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is a potent sunscreen agent that protects against photoaging and tanning, while ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate boosts the sun protection factor by protecting against UVB rays. Phospholipids and glycerin help enhance the penetration of actives into the skin and maintain hydration levels and elasticity. It provides broad-spectrum protection against the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays with its high SPF-55+ and PA+++ rating. The product also contains hydration agents such as phospholipids and glycerin to keep the skin hydrated and elastic. The gel-based sunscreen can be purchased for ₹ 331.00 from Deconstruct.