Why protect oily skin from the sun ?
Like all skin types, oily and combination skin, prone to excess sebum, needs sun protection. Although they seem naturally more resistant, they remain vulnerable to the effects of UV rays. UVA rays, which penetrate deep into the skin, can accelerate skin ageing and cause pigmentation spots, while UVB rays, on the surface, increase the risk of redness and skin reactions. By exposing the skin without protection, UV rays penetrate into the dermis, stimulating the sebaceous glands, which increases sebum production and makes the skin more prone to shine and imperfections.
Protecting your skin helps prevent the harmful effects of the sun and serious illnesses such as skin cancer. Mattifying sun protection for the face helps to regulate excess sebum and keep the skin balanced, while providing an effective barrier against UV rays.
What sun cream should you choose when you have oily skin ?
A high SPF: a must for effective protection
Oily skin needs high SPF protection to prevent premature ageing, pigmentation spots and the harmful effects of UVB rays. Even for short exposures, an SPF 50+ will protect the superficial layers of the skin. This level of protection, suitable for combination and oily skin, helps to maintain an even, healthy complexion without the skin suffering the long-term effects of the sun.
Excessive and prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to the appearance of spots on the skin. Our suncare products with very high protection against hyperpigmentation help to reduce these dark spots.
Non-comedogenic formula: avoid imperfections
Oily skin is more prone to imperfections, as its pores can easily become clogged under the effect of a sun cream that is too rich. Opting for a non-comedogenic formula for the face, specially designed to avoid clogged pores, is therefore essential. This reduces the risk of acne breakouts or blackheads, while providing effective sun protection. Non-comedogenic sun care products have a light, breathable texture that respects the balance of oily skin. Low-viscosity formulas limit the oily film and provide comfortable protection. An unsuitable formula can not only clog pores, but also accentuate the shiny effect.
The right ingredients: matte finish and antioxidant protection
For oily skin, choose ingredients that regulate sebum production and offer effective sun protection. Choose sun creams enriched with absorbing agents, which contribute to a matte finish by limiting the appearance of shine. Monolaurine, for example, is a sebo-reducing active ingredient found in certain Avène suncare products, helping to control excess sebum. Anti-oxidants strengthen the skin's natural defences by neutralising the free radicals created by exposure to the sun. These ingredients protect the skin while keeping it clear and shine-free. So choose sun creams that moisturise without making the skin oily, to maintain its balance.
Light, mattifying texture: for long-lasting comfort
Light textures, such as fluids or gels, are particularly suitable for oily skin. They penetrate quickly without leaving an oily film. They allow the skin to breathe and offer a dry, comfortable finish that remains pleasant all day long. Light textures help to maintain a matte, even complexion, while providing long-lasting UV protection. In summer, opt for water-resistant formulas.
The best sun creams for oily skin
Fluid fragrance-free SPF 50+
This suncare product for normal to combination sensitive skin offers very high sun protection in a light, fragrance-free texture. With a dry, flawless finish, it effectively protects the skin without adding shine, perfect for skin prone to shine or looking for a comfortable base under make-up. Its fluid formula makes it quick and easy to apply, perfect for everyday use.
Fluid SPF 50+
This sun protection, suitable for oily and combination skin, combines high SPF 50+ protection with a light texture that lets the skin breathe. The SPF 50+ Fluid offers a matt finish with no sticky or greasy effect, perfect for skin with an oily tendency that wants invisible protection. It is suitable for sunny days and is easy to apply, leaving any marks.
Tinted Fluid SPF 50+
For those looking for sun protection with a slight complexion correction, Tinted Fluid SPF 50+ offers high protection with a natural look. Tinted sun creams for the face even out the complexion while leaving a matte finish, without clogging pores or causing imperfections. Its light, non-greasy formula offers discreet, versatile sun protection for combination to oily skin.
Sun Cleanance SPF 50+
Specially formulated for oily skin, this anti-blemish sun cream for the face combines sun protection SPF 50+ with a sebo-regulating action thanks to Monolaurin. As well as protecting against UV rays and blue light thanks to the TriAsorB™ filter, it helps to reduce shine and prevent pimples caused by sun exposure. Its mattifying texture ensures all-day comfort without an oily effect, ideal for clear, protected skin.
How to use and care for oily skin
The sebaceous glands produce sebum, which is particularly stimulated in summer by the heat. Good sun protection therefore involves more than just the choice of product. For oily skin, there are several ways to maximise the effectiveness of sun care products while keeping the skin balanced and fresh.
How do I apply my sun cream correctly ?
To ensure optimal protection, you need to apply a sufficient amount of sun cream. For the face, this is generally the equivalent of a teaspoon. The cream should be applied evenly to all exposed areas, including the neck and ears.
Don't forget to reapply the protection every two hours, and after every swim or intense perspiration, even if the product is water-resistant
How can I avoid a shiny effect after applying my sun cream ?
Oily skin may be prone to shine after applying sun cream. For a matte finish, choose an appropriate sun care cream, such as Avène's Cleanance Sun Care SPF 50+, specifically formulated to reduce shine. Before application, you can also use a mattifying powder or absorbent paper to control excess sebum. These steps will keep your complexion fresh and even throughout the day.
Cleanse my oily skin after using sun cream
At the end of the day, a thorough cleansing is essential to remove sun cream residue and excess sebum. Choose gentle, non-aggressive cleansers that respect the balance of oily skin. Using micellar water or a gentle cleansing gel can help rid the skin of impurities without drying it out or stimulating sebum production.
Should I moisturise my oily skin?
Although oily skin naturally produces more sebum, it also needs moisture to stay balanced. Some Avene sun creams, such as Fragrance-Free Fluid SPF 50+, combine high protection with light hydration, ideal for combination to oily skin. This type of product avoids the need to layer skincare products on top of each other, reducing the risk of shine while providing the necessary level of hydration.
Avoid the rebound effect of imperfections
The rebound effect of imperfections can occur when skin is deprived of moisture or subjected to inappropriate skin care, leading to overproduction of sebum and the appearance of imperfections. To avoid this phenomenon, choose a sun cream specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, such as Cleanance SPF 50+ by Avène. Its non-comedogenic formulation and mattifying texture help to regulate sebum and prevent blemishes. Complete the routine with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser to maintain optimal balance and prevent the appearance of post-exposure pimples.
Caring for oily skin in summer
In summer, oily skin tends to shine more. In addition to sun protection, adopt an appropriate skincare routine: exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, and apply a light, non-comedogenic skincare product to keep skin fresh. Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week helps prevent clogged pores and maintain an even complexion.
