Can Sunscreen Control Shine? The Truth About Matte-Finish SPFs Because oily skin deserves a break.

Let’s just say blotting paper shouldn’t be a personality trait.

We get it — you want to wear sunscreen (because skin health, ageing, dark spots... we know the drill). But if every SPF you’ve tried leaves you looking like a glazed donut by 11am, it’s easy to start skipping the step entirely.

Here’s the truth: sunscreen can work for oily skin. And yes, there are formulas that actually control shine instead of creating it.

Let’s get into what’s real, what’s hype, and which SPF will keep you fresh and protected.

Why Sunscreen Can Make You Look Greasy

Not all sunscreens are created equal — and oily skin feels that more than most.

Many traditional SPFs:

• Use rich emollients designed for dry skin

• Leave behind a heavy layer that traps oil and sweat

• Don’t absorb properly, creating a visible film

• Contain occlusive ingredients that clog pores and add to the shine

In other words: they’re built for moisture, not oil control.

Enter the Matte-Finish SPF

Think of a matte-finish sunscreen as the skincare version of a real friend: supportive, reliable, and doesn’t make you look worse in photos.

What makes a matte sunscreen different?

✅ Absorbs quickly
✅ Controls excess oil production
✅ Feels lightweight on the skin
✅ Leaves no greasy residue
✅ Can double as a makeup base
✅ Gives a smoother, non-reflective finish

Sounds dreamy, right? Now here’s the catch — not all “matte” SPFs are made for oily or acne-prone skin.

Some Matte SPFs Still Miss the Mark

Here’s where some matte SPFs go wrong:

❌ Too drying – they strip the skin, causing rebound oiliness
❌ Thick textures – still feel heavy, despite the matte label
❌ White cast – matte doesn’t mean invisible
❌ Comedogenic ingredients – clog pores and lead to breakouts

That’s why choosing the right formula matters just as much as the finish.

The Routine SPF 40: Matte Without the Mayhem

We created The Routine because we were done compromising. We wanted a daily SPF that:

• Didn’t clog our pores

• Didn’t make us look shiny

• Didn’t ghost us with a white cast

• And didn’t slide off the second we stepped outside

Here’s what makes it shine (without actually shining):

• Gel texture – feather-light and absorbs fast

• Matte finish – keeps oil in check without over-drying

• Non-comedogenic – breakout-prone skin approved

• SPF 40 broad spectrum – enough protection for daily life

• Water-resistant – works in humidity, heat, and real-life chaos

It gives you that smooth, fresh-faced look without the midday meltdown.

Pro Tips to Maximise Your Matte SPF

1. Apply to clean, dry skin – no moisture overload underneath

2. Let it absorb for 30–60 seconds before layering makeup

3. Use a setting powder only where needed (T-zone is enough)

4. Reapply with a light hand if you’re prone to getting greasy

5. Skip moisturiser if your skin’s already hydrated — The Routine can do both

Let Your Sunscreen Do More Than Just Protect

SPF doesn’t have to mean shine. With the right formula, it can be the step that makes everything else look and feel better.

👉 Shop The Routine SPF 40 – matte finish, gel texture, oily skin’s new best friend.