Tfind sunscreens suitable for combination or oily skin it is not a “mission impossible”: too rich textures, shiny effect and sensation of “sweating” skin remain among the most common problems, today they exist ultra-light, water-based formulas and enriched with thoughtful mattifying and hydrating active ingredients for the needs of oily or acne-prone skin. But which ingredients to choose? And how to apply SPF without heaviness or “pilling” effect?
Sun creams for combination and oily skin: yes to light and mattifying textures
“There ideal photoprotection for those with combination and oily skin it must be not only effective in terms of protection from radiation, but also pleasant, light and with a texture that integrates perfectly into daily skincare” begins to explain Elena Bergami, Medical Marketing Specialist of ISDIN.
«For this reason, it is ideal for Frredeliver products that are first of all light, which keep sebum and skin oiliness under control and that they have undergone specific tests, such as the comedogenicity test. The most popular formulas are ultra-fluid or water-basedbecause they are easily applied, remaining thin and breathable, avoiding the shiny effect typical of overly rich textures.”
The assets to prefer, together with SPF
«In the case of combination or oily skin, it is important to pay particular attention to the formulations» specifies the expert.
«In parallel, some ingredients can actually best support the needs of this type of skin, such as Silica, which offers an immediate matte effectremaining silky throughout the day. However, we must not forget that even oily skin needs water: the presence of hyaluronic acid is precious for maintaining deep hydration and preserving the balance of the skin barrier.”
On the contrary, «Products with a high concentration of oils or substances that can be occlusive should be avoidedwhich could favor the onset of imperfections in predisposed subjects”.
Why do some SPF creams make you “sweat”?
«It’s a very common feeling, but often It’s not real sweat. Some sunscreens, especially those richer in oily components, they create on the skin a hydrophobic film that tends to retain heat, sebum and moisture, amplifying the perception of lucidity and heaviness. It happens because many formulas use thicker bases to stabilize the UV filters.”
In recent years, however, cosmetic research has developed increasingly advanced formulation technologies, capable of guaranteeing thin, light and breathable textures, often enriched with specific active ingredients designed to improve comfort, hold and performance even on combination or oily skin.
Combination or oily skin: how to apply sunscreen correctly
“The pilling, i.e. the presence of small “residues” of product after application on the skinoften depends not on the product itself, but on its interactions with other cosmetics layered on the skin. To avoid this, the advice is to keep skincare simple and essential, remembering to apply products in order from lightest to richest and always let each step be absorbed well before applying the next” continues Bergami, Medical Marketing Specialist of ISDIN..
«Another piece of advice, if your skin is particularly oily and feels weighed down by the use of many products on your face, in the warmer months you may be advised to apply a serum or light cream and then move directly to photoprotection, ideally with hydrating active ingredients or anti-photoaging to support the routine.”
One last piece of advice on how to apply the product: «Apply the photoprotection delicately, without rubbing too much and distributing it evenly. The quantity remains fundamental: for the face you need about two fingers of product to obtain the recommended protection” continues the expert.
The new sunscreens for acne-prone skin
«Finally, yesand in the past, sun protection for those who suffered from acne was seen as a “necessary” coexistence with greasy and heavy textures, today we are able to offer products that are also pleasant for those who present these events.”
“There research in the cosmetic field has led to the development of advanced formulas that allow for fewer oils and more aqueous phase in the product. The result is a better sensoriality, a light and breathable effect and formulas enriched with active ingredients designed specifically for the needs of combination and oily skin. True allies of daily skincare.”

