Here’s How to Wear Sunblock Without Looking Greasy

Here’s the thing: in order to protect yourself from sun damage, you need to wear sunblock ALL the time. And while moisturizers and tinted foundation with built in SPF are convenient and good alternatives for short periods of times with sun exposure, research has shown that they are not as effective as lathering on layers of sunscreen. If you’re walking or sunbathing at the beach, lounging by the pool, or going for a long walk, hike or run, you need to lather up with a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen. The problem is, sunblock can make your skin look oily. Here’s how to avoid the grease and shine:

1. Wash your face.  Before applying sunscreen, take steps to remove oil that may have already built up on your skin. Cleanse your skin and then add a toner. Toner is also great for controlling oil on the skin. Additionally, blot the oil from your face, especially around your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) if needed. When out of the sun, make sure to wash your face again with a good cleanser that will lift dirt, oil and left over sunscreen from your skin and not leave you dry.

2. Apply sunscreen. Apply a small droplet to your cheeks and forehead and begin to massage into your skin. Make sure you take the time to really work it into your face. If it’s still oily, use a blotting sheet or cotton ball to lightly remove residue. Look for sunscreens that contain ingredients such as zinc-oxide, and state that they are oil-free, non-comedogenic and provide broad-spectrum protection.

3. Apply foundation. If you're not sunbathing, but are planning to be outdoors at an event, for example, you may want to look a little more put together. Cover your sunblock up with a non-oily foundation or tinted powder. Make sure to apply a thin layer. If you overdo it, it’s more likely to look cakey on the skin.

In sunny hot weather, sunblock is a must, but just because your skin is protected doesn’t mean your sun protection has to look shiny and greasy!

Originally written by Sara N, contributing writer (2017)