BeautifulhameshaBlog.com Fashion and Beauty Blog List of Best Sunscreens in India for All Skin Types – Even if you use makeup or not, I am sure you never ever skip sunscreen. Sunscreen is not really a makeup, its a necessity. Here in this article, we have put together the best sunscreens in India, for all skin types. Sunscreen is not only for summer, it is for every day of the year, including winter. The UVA and UVB rays of the sun does severe damage to the skin if there is no protective shield. Experts suggest that one must wear sunscreen not only while going out, but while staying indoor as well. Today, the market is flooded with hundreds and thousands of different sunscreens, which can be overwhelming for us as a consumer. To make your life little easier, here is a list of best sunscreens in India.
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Before informing you all about the best sunscreens in India, let us first check out few tips that would help you to choose the best sunscreen for you.
How to Choose Best Sunscreen
You must have seen that along with SPF, most of the sunscreen bottle’s label also has the mention of PA. In case you are confused what PA indicates, well, it indicates protection against UVA, while SPF indicates protection against UVB rays of the sun. There are two types of UV radiation – UVA and UVB. UVA is more dangerous than UVB, because it penetrates deeper into the skin and can cause extreme dryness of the skin, premature aging of skin and skin cancer as well. Always pick up a broad spectrum sunscreen, which means it offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Remember to go with higher SPF as well as PA (PA+++).
Sunscreens must be picked according to the skin type. Those with oily skin should go for water based or gel based, matte formula sunscreens. Cream based, moisturizing sunscreens are best for dry skin types, while lightweight lotion sunscreens do well on combination skin. For sensitive, acne prone skin, non comedogenic, fragrance free sunscreens are must. And if you have normal skin, then do not worry much and go with any lotion based sunscreen.
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List of Best Sunscreens in India for All Skin Types
Below we have curated a list of 16 best sunscreens available in India and which can be used on all skin types.
1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++
2. Lakme Sun Expert Ultra Matte Gel SPF 50 PA+++
3. Avene Very High Protection Sunscreen Emulsion SPF 50+
4. VLCC De-Tan Sun Screen Gel Creme SPF 50 PA+++
5. Clinique SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face
6. Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 PA+++
7. Kaya Youth Protect Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++
8. Suncros 50 Aqualotion SPF 50 for Sensitive Skin
9. Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
10. Nivea Moisturizing Sun Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++
11. Biotique Bio Sandalwood Ultra Soothing Face Lotion 50+ SPF UVA/UVB Sunscreen
12. Innisfree Perfect UV Protection Essence Water Base SPF 50+ PA+++
13. Happily Unmarried Sunscreen SPF 50++
14. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-in-1 Matte Look Daily Sunblock SPF 40 PA+++
15. WOW Skin Science Anti Pollution Sunscreen SPF 40
16. VLCC Matte Look Depigmentation Sun Screen Gel Creme SPF 30 PA+++
1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++
So we are starting our list of best sunscreens in India with one of the most popular ones, from the house of Neutrogena.
Price : Rs.186/- for 30 ml and Rs.514/- for 88 ml
What it claims
The Neutrogena sunscreen gets instantly absorbed into your skin leaving it soft and smooth. The oil free formula is great and also would not feel heavy on your skin. Infused with Neutrogena’s exclusive Helioplex technology, it is definitely one of the best sunscreens in India for all skin types.
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The cream formula provides broad spectrum protection from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Say goodbye to skin darkening, sun burns and age spots with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock. Besides effectively providing sun protection, the Neutrogena sunscreen is also good for your skin due to the presence of oat kernel extracts and other active ingredients. This sun block is very gentle on the skin. It is also non comedogenic, which means that it does not clog pores. Thirdly, the sun block is perfect for all seasons, be it summer, winter or the rains because this product is water-proof, sweat-proof and resistant to rubbing-off. Also the formula is free of PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid) and safe for the skin.
How to use
Apply your Neutrogena sunscreen liberally on all the exposed areas 15-20 minutes before stepping out in the sun.
Read the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50 Review here.
2. Lakme Sun Expert Ultra Matte Gel SPF 50 PA+++
The second pick among the best sunscreens in India comes from the house of Lakme. Being a matte gel formula it is perfect for oily skin people.
Price : Rs.550/- for 50 ml
What it claims
Say goodbye to sticky sunscreens! Get a guaranteed 97% protection from harmful UV rays in an exciting new gel format. This lightweight gel sunscreen is ideal for Indian weather which tends to get hot and humid. It spreads easily on skin and leaves your skin with an ultra matte feel. In addition, it also provides broad spectrum UV protection which means it guards your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. SPF 50 shields up to 97 percent of UVB rays which cause sunburns, PA+++ shields skin from UVA rays that cause dark spots, premature ageing and skin darkening.
- Hypoallergenic tested against allergies and non comedogenic
- This has been tested by dermatologists
- Suitable for all skin types
How to use
Take a coin sized amount of the product on the palm. Using fingers, dot the sunscreen on the forehead, cheeks, chin and neck. Use fingertips to spread the gel evenly across the face. Reapply after every 2-3 hours for effective results.
3. Avene Very High Protection Sunscreen Emulsion SPF 50+
Price : Rs.1447/- for 50 ml
What it claims
One of the best sunscreens in India, it offers very high protection for sensitive skin.
- Effective against all sun radiation (short and long UVB-UVA).
- Lightweight and non greasy texture.
- Texture adapted to Indian skin and weather.
- Paraben-free, Certified UVA-compliant
- Very water-resistant.
- 100% photostable.
- A complementary and synergistic photoprotective active complex, guaranteeing minimum chemical filters in our formulas.
- Pre-tocopheryl, a photostable Vitamin E precursor, also gives additional cell protection.
- Contains Avene Thermal Spring Water with natural soothing and anti-irritating properties.
- Uses a combination of exclusive active ingredients: SunSitive protection® from Pierre Fabre Research.
- Its photoprotective complex is optimised, stable and effective for extended periods
- The new active ingredient, Glyceryl Laurate help to regulate excess oil and gives the skin an instant matte finish, thanks to the presence of mattifying powders.
- No-white residue.
- Keeps the skin non-greasy and free of acne and blemishes.
Read Avene Very High Protection SPF 50 Emulsion Review here.
4. VLCC De-Tan Sun Screen Gel Creme SPF 50 PA+++
Price : Rs.395/- for 100 gm
What it claims
Enriched with carrot and cucumber extracts, VLCC De-Tan Sun Screen Gel Creme delivers a powerful de-tanning action while protecting your skin from sun’s harmful UVA & UVB rays. It effectively fades tan, revealing brighter skin tone, helps fade dark patches leaving skin looking even, radiant and moisturised.
- Broad spectrum protection from sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Rating system indicating UVA protection
- Paraben free formulation.
- Suitable for all skin types.
How to use
Apply liberally and evenly on face and neck before 15-20 minutes of sun exposure. Reapply frequently for long duration sun exposure.
5. Clinique SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face
Price : Rs.2200/- for 30 ml
What it claims
What It Is
Ultra-lightweight, virtually invisible 100% mineral sunscreen is incredibly comfortable, even for sensitive skins.
What It Does
Ultra-lightweight, 100% mineral sunscreen is incredibly comfortable, even for sensitive skins. One of the best sunscreens in India, it is gentle enough to use around the eye area, too. Invisible Shield Technology forms a protective veil that’s virtually invisible on all skin tones. Oil-free.
- 100% Fragrance Free.
- Allergy Tested.
- Safe to use on children ages 6 months and up.
How to use
- Shake well. Smooth liberally over face 15 minutes before sun exposure and as needed.
- Apply after your daily skin care routine.
- Reapply at least every 2 hours or after towel drying, swimming or perspiring.
- Children under 6 months of age – ask a doctor.
6. Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 PA+++
This one, from the house of Banana Boat, comes next on our list of best sunscreens in India.
Price : Rs.999/- for 90 ml
What it claims
Specifically designed for sport enthusiasts and active sun lovers who don’t want to be slowed down when playing outside!
A heavy-duty protection that stays on in 7 conditions and locks active ingredients in place, boosting the staying power of the sunscreen! Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion provides powerful protection that absorbs quickly and won’t run into eyes.
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- Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Oil-free and non greasy
- No added fragrance
- Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
Banana Boat sunscreen comes with AvoTriplex Protection, its latest unique and patented technology, protects you in three ways : Now – against sunburn with UVB protection; Later – against aging and long-term skin damage with UVA protection; and Longer – than ordinary sunscreens as it doesn’t break down.
7. Kaya Youth Protect Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++
Price : Rs. 580/- for 50 ml
What it claims
One of the best sunscreens in India, this Kaya Sunscreen is suited for all skin types.
- A broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- Ensures highest UVA protection against premature skin ageing.
- Contains Geranium, an anti-oxidant that improves skin elasticity and prevents photo-ageing.
- It is light-weight, has a non-greasy formula and is PABA free.
- Formula researched and developed by dermatologists.
The sunscreen also comes with multi mineral active : Magnesium aspartate and zinc gluconate and copper gluconate that boosts oxygenation of the skin cells and helps in cell regeneration.
How to use
Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Repeat in every 5 hours.
8. Suncros 50 Aqualotion SPF 50 for Sensitive Skin
Price : Rs.402/- for 60 ml
What it claims
The Suncros Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 50 is a medicinal sunscreen to protect the skin against the harmful UV rays from the sun. The UVA and UVB Rays from the sun make the skin unhealthy, looking lifeless and dull. In fact, this thick textured cream provides this lifeless skin with moisturisation to have a rejuvenating effect, at the same time protecting the skin against sun damage.
It gives the right amount of nourishment, not causing any oily or greasy look. With its rich texture, it stays on the skin for longer. It also has a pleasant fragrance to give an all day nice experience. Along with providing protection against tanning, it also removes existing tan, brightens the complexion and evens the skin tone.
This medicated sunscreen is tested for safety and mildness. The strong Sun Protect Formula of 50 leaves absolutely no scope of tanning.
- Enriched with antioxidants and Vitamin E
- Broad spectrum protection – physical and chemical protection against sun rays
- Hypoallergenic
- Water and Sweat Resistant
Read the Ranbaxy Suncros Gel SPF 26 Review here.
9. Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
Our next pick is this Kiehl’s Sunscreen in the list of best sunscreens in India.
Price : Rs.3250/- for 50 ml
What it claims
This is a lightweight sunscreen lotion, best suited for sensitive and acne prone skin. Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen is formulated with a 100% mineral based filter in a lightweight, gentle lotion base. It is a sheer sunscreen, which is lightly tinted to enhance the natural skin tone. The formula delivers powerful UVA and UVB broad-spectrum protection that helps prevent sunburn and also decreases the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging caused by the sun (wrinkles, sagging, dark spots). Furthermore, it has titanium dioxide in it which is a naturally occurring mineral with a high refractive index to physically block UV rays. Most appropriate for sensitive and acne-prone skin because it is more gentle than other UV absorbing chemical sunscreens.
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Infused with antioxidant-powered Vitamin E, this formula also helps fight the effects of damaging free radicals.
- Fragrance Free
- Paraben Free
- Chemical Filter Free
- Sensitive Skin Tested
- Universal Tint
10. Nivea Moisturizing Sun Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++
Nivea is a well known skin care brand across the globe. Their sunscreen lotions are quite effective and we have picked this one in our top recommendations for best sunscreens in India.
Price : Rs.360/- for 75 ml and Rs.499/- for 125 ml
What it claims
Nivea Sun Moisturizing Sun Lotion combines Nivea Sun’s advanced protection expertise with all the care of Nivea for soft, protected skin.
- Immediate protection from UV rays, you don’t have to wait for 20 minutes.
- Enhanced UVA/UVB filter system.
- Deep and long lasting moisturization.
- Easily applied.
- Light and non sticky formula which is quckly absorbed.
- Water resistant.
- Vitamin E to help combat free radicals and also premature skin ageing.
- Dermatologically proven.
- Nivea Sun lotion has PA++++ and Advanced Collagen Protect. It protects skin’s collagen to help prevent wrinkles caused by frequent sun exposure.
How to use
- Always apply before sun exposure and then reapply frequently, especially after swimming and toweling to maintain the original protection.
- Avoid intensive mid-day sun and extensive sun exposure.
- Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight.
- Wear protection clothing and use sufficient sunscreen for unprotected areas.
- Avoid direct contact with textiles and hard surfaces to prevent staining.
11. Biotique Bio Sandalwood Ultra Soothing Face Lotion 50+ SPF UVA/UVB Sunscreen
Our next pick for the list of best sunscreens in India comes from the house of Biotique. Biotique is known for their organic products which are extremely effective for our skin and hair as well as safe to use.
Price : Rs.550/- for 190 ml
What it claims
One of the best sunscreens in India, this nutrient-rich lotion is blended with pure sandalwood, saffron, wheat germ, honey and bark of the arjun tree to keep skin soft, fair and moisturized. Protects skin with broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB sunscreen. Very water resistant, retains SPF after 80 minutes in the water.
- Protects skin with broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB sunscreen
- Water resistant formula, retains SPF after 80 minutes in the water
- Suitable for all skin types
- Organically Pure and preservative free
- Dermatologist tested for safety, no animal testing.
As the name indicates, it has sandalwood as its main ingredient. Sandalwood comes from the sandal tree, native to India, and used through the ages for its soothing, pampering, protecting properties. It provides a significant natural defense against UV radiation.
12. Innisfree Perfect UV Protection Essence Water Base SPF 50+ PA+++
Our list of best sunscreens in India is incomplete without a K-beauty product. And so, here goes this one from well known Korean brand Innisfree.
Price : Rs.1050/- for 50 ml
What it claims
A moisture-enriched UV protection gel lotion without white cast that is strong against water and perspiration. The Innisfree Perfect UV protection Essence water base with SPF50+ PA+++, offers a refreshing texture without white cast and a strong waterproofing effect against water and sweat during your diverse outdoor activities. One of the best sunscreens in India, this lightweight gel lotion is also enriched with sunflower oil which keeps the skin healthy and also safe from UV rays.
- Sunflower oil and Jeju green tea extract protect your skin against UV rays.
- This gel lotion offers a refreshing texture without white cast and a strong waterproofing effect against water and sweat during your diverse outdoor activities.
- The water-base type product with Aloe extract gives abundant moisture to keep your skin moisturized and refreshed.
- A refreshing and moisturizing UV protection essence with Hyaluronic acid for added moisture.
- Water-Proof formula.
- 4-Free system : Free of animal ingredients, synthetic fragrances, talc and imidazolidinyl urea.
13. Happily Unmarried Sunscreen SPF 50++
Recently this brand with a catchy name has become quite popular. Their products have quite funky names as well.
Price : Rs.499/- for 50 gm
What it claims
A simple SPF sunscreen would not be enough, especially in today’s times and pollution levels. This Happily Unmarried Sunscreen SPF 50++ is very much deserving for a place in our list of best sunscreens in India, because it not only protects you from UVA and UVB but also shields you from HEVL (High Energy Visible Light, which is the 3rd band of sun), Infrared, Heavy Metals (present in the atmosphere) and pollution (dirt, dust, smoke etc). Moreover, it has a Leafy & Mildly Floral fragrance which adds to its appeal and give you a nice feeling throughout the day.
How to use
Take small quantity on palm and then apply liberally on face and neck. It should be applied 30 mins before exposure to sun.
14. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-in-1 Matte Look Daily Sunblock SPF 40 PA+++
Lotus Herbals have a number of sunscreens in their range and we picked up this daily sunblock for our list of best sunscreens in India.
Price : Rs.275/- for 50 gm, Rs.385/- for 100 gm
What it claims
Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-in-1 Matte Look Daily Sun Block PA+++ SPF-40 is no ordinary sunblock! It’s a tinted moisturiser, sun block and skin lightner, all in one. Furthermore, this 3-in-1 daily sun block is a revolutionary sun protection formulation which combines broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection with skin lightening ingredients to give a uniform matte finish to your skin. Its fast absorption and non-greasy formula ensures a shine-free, light and clean feel.
- Contains the goodness of Birch, Mallow and Hops extracts.
- Non-greasy formula, reduces oiliness and refines pores.
- Gives a smooth and matte feel to the skin.
- Enriched with astringent properties, gives a soothing effect.
- Suitable for all skin types.
How to use
- Apply liberally and evenly on face and exposed parts of the body (neck, arms, legs, etc.) before exposure to sun
- Re-apply frequently.
Check Lotus Herbals Matte Look Daily Sunscreen Review
15. WOW Skin Science Anti Pollution Sunscreen SPF 40
Price : Rs.599/- for 100 ml
What it claims
Wow Skin Science Anti Pollution Sunscreen SPF 40 is an advanced all-in-one skin protection against pollution, smog and damage. Protect your skin from ravages of pollutants, smog, smoke, fuel exhaust and sun’s rays with WOW Skin Science Anti Pollution Sunscreen SPF 40. It spreads smoothly and evenly to form a shield on your skin that stops pollution particles and sun rays from irritating, aging, pigmentation and darkening it. The highly effective formulation of WOW Skin Science Anti Pollution Sunscreen has been powered with ‘Alter monas Ferment Extract’ from French Polynesian Sea Waters that contains natural polysaccharides clinically proven to dispel pollutant particles coming in contact with your skin. It also boosts skin’s inner healing power to nullify free radicals and rejuvenate skin. The high SPF 40 count adds broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB sun rays.
How to use
Apply Wow Skin Science Anti Pollution Sunscreen SPF 40 liberally at least 15-20 minutes before stepping out in the sun and/or polluted environs. Do not apply around the eyes or over broken skin. Reapply every two hours if you are outdoors. Repeat application every 30-40 minutes if swimming, perspiring or towel drying exposed skin.
16. VLCC Matte Look Depigmentation Sun Screen Gel Creme SPF 30 PA+++
We are going to end this list of best sunscreens in India with this one from VLCC.
Price : Rs.195/- for 50 gm Rs.295/- for 100 gm
What it claims
A non-greasy, tinted formulation that blends easily with the skin tone. It protects the skin against premature ageing and tanning with a broad spectrum protection against sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Enriched with Ceramide III, Saxifraga and Carrot Extracts, it works to reduce skin pigmentation and tanning leaving skin looking fresh and even toned. Its a paraben free formulation and suited for all skin types.
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How to use
Apply liberally on the face & neck, 15-20 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply frequently for long duration sun exposure.
So, here we have listed more than a dozen best sunscreens in India. Let us know your favorite sunscreen below in the comments 🙂
