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Sunscreens help block harmful sun rays from penetrating the skin and keep your skin healthy. Most sunscreens also lighten the skin, moisturize it, and keep the skin nourished and free of blemishes, dark spots, sunburns, and redness. Sunscreens are ideal for prolonged, regular sun exposure or before a swim in a pool or ocean. In this post, we have listed India’s best sunscreens for the face to suit every skin type and requirement.
Top Picks
11 Best Sunscreens For Face In India
1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ Sunscreen
The ultra-sheer sunscreen is dermatologist-tested and is formulated using oat-kernel extract. It is formulated with Helioplex technology to give the ultimate UV protection and prevent skin-aging. The sunscreen has a non-shiny finish and is light and gentle on the skin. For application, generously massage it for 15 minutes before sun exposure. The net quantity of the sunscreen is 30ml.
Pros
- Suitable for every skin type
- Light fresh scent
- Unisex
- Oil-free formula
- Lightweight and absorbs easily
Cons
- May be greasy
2. Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Sunscreen
The Biotique SPF 30+ sunscreen is a soothing lotion made from natural ingredients such as pure honey, seaweed, and wheat germ. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays and also replenishes it with moisture. It also brightens and softens the skin. For application, spread evenly on the face and neck before sun exposure. The net quantity of the sunscreen is 120ml.
Pros
- 100% natural formula
- Lightweight
- Ideal for men and women
- Non-perfumed
- Gives moisturizing effect
Cons
- May be greasy
- May not be suitable for every skin type
3. Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA Fairness UV Sunscreen Lotion
The Lakme Sunscreen Lotion is one of the best sunscreens in the market for its light texture and sunblock property. It helps prevent tanning, dark spots, and premature aging. The ultra-matte texture glides through your skin smoothly and blends into your skin quickly. This sunscreen is dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic, and gives a hydrating glow upon application. For application, use your fingertips to spread the cream evenly over the face and neck except around the eyes. The net quantity of the sunscreen is 100ml.
Pros
- Suitable for every skin type
- Lightweight
- Pleasant scent
- Anti-sweat
- Increases skin fairness
- Non-greasy formula
Cons
- May leave a whitish tint on the face upon application
- Slightly thick consistency may not be easy to apply
4. Mamaearth’s Natural Sunscreen Lotion
The SPF 50 PA+++ ultra-light sunscreen is a dermatologically tested natural product and is ideal for Indian skin tones. It contains turmeric and carrot seed, which help protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays while also nourishing it. The net quantity of the product is 80ml.
Pros
- Lasts longer on the skin
- Free of mineral oils, parabens, and sulfates
- Hypoallergenic
- Quick-absorbing
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
- May be greasy
5. VLCC De Tan Sunscreen Gel Crème
The SPF 50 VLCC Sunscreen is formulated with rich extracts of carrot and cucumber, giving a de-tanning action and protection from harmful UV rays. It helps remove dark patches from the skin after prolonged use, giving you a uniform and moisturized skin texture. Apply it with your fingertips all over your face, neck, and other sun-exposed body parts 15 minutes before sun exposure. The net quantity of the sunscreen is 100g.
Pros
- Suitable for every skin type
- Paraben-free
- Unisex
- Absorbs easily
- Non-sticky
Cons
- Consistency may be runny
- May have a strong fragrance
6. Pond’s Sun Protect Non-Oily Sunscreen
The SPF 30 and dermatologically tested sunscreen is a non-oily formulation that gives you ultimate protection against UVA and UVB sun rays. It is a lightweight cream that helps remove dark spots, skin patches, and suntan. For application, spread it evenly across the face and re-apply after three hours. The net quantity of the product is 80g.
Pros
- Unisex
- Non-greasy
- Light fragrance
- Easy to carry around in your handbag
- Ideal consistency
Cons
- May not be ideal for dark-skinned people
- May not spread evenly
7. Himalaya Herbals Protective Sunscreen Lotion
Himalaya’s Herbal Sunscreen contains a US-patented ingredient, Cinnabloc extracted from spike ginger lily, and greater galangal, which have natural UV shielding properties. This SPF 15 sunscreen protects your skin from sun rays effectively while also moisturizing your skin due to the formula’s aloe vera content. The net quantity of the sunscreen lotion is 100ml.
Pros
- Unisex
- Lightweight
- Easy to carry around
- Suitable for every skin type
- Non-sticky
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- May have a runny consistency
- SPF may not be sufficient for every skin type
8. Brinton Healthcare UvDoux Face & Body Sunscreen
The SPF 50 Gel Sunscreen is a complete matte and oil-free formula, giving your skin a smooth texture upon application. This dermatologically tested and clinically proven sunscreen protects your skin from the harmful sun rays and hydrates it with a lustrous texture. The net quantity of the sunscreen is 50g.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Long-lasting
- Easy to apply
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not leave you oil-free as it claims
- May have a strong scent
9. Khadi Natural Herbal UV Sunscreen Lotion
The Khadi Natural Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 30 not only protects your skin from UV rays but also nourishes and hydrates it. It contains aloe vera, almond oil, turmeric, neem oil, and other natural ingredients that provide sun protection and give a radiant look upon application. It is ideal for normal to oily skin. The net quantity of the product is 200ml.
Pros
- Unisex
- Pleasant fragrance
- Effective
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight
Cons
- May be greasy
- Slightly thick consistency may not be easy to apply
10. Lacto Calamine Sunshield Matte Look Sunscreen
The SPF 50 Lacto Calamine Sunscreen is a broad-spectrum sunscreen specially formulated for oily skin. It provides sun protection and helps reduce premature skin aging. Formulated with kaolin clay and lemon extract, it gives your skin a matte look upon application. The net quantity of the sunscreen pack is 50g.
Pros
- Paraben- and sulfate-free
- Lightweight
- Quick-absorbing
- Non-oily and non-sticky formula
- Mild fragrance
- Good texture
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
11. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-In-1 Matte Look Daily Sunblock
The SPF 40 Lotus Herbals Sunscreen is one of the best sunscreens for men. Its unique sun protection formulation protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays and lightens your skin. Its matte finish allows the uniform shine-free application. The net quantity of the product is 50g.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for every skin type
- Sweat-resistant
- Provides a cooling effect
Cons
- May not blend with skin and may forms a visible layer
How To Choose The Right Sunscreen For Face?
Here are some factors to consider before buying sunscreen for the face.
- SPF: Pick a sunscreen of SPF 30 or above that can prevent you from UV rays and sun damage.
- Ingredients: Check the label and pick a sunscreen that has natural ingredients and is free of parabens, mineral oil, and oxybenzone. Opt for mineral sunscreens that shield you from UVA and UVB sun rays. Simone De Vlaming, a beauty blogger, says, “If you are going to swim in the sea, look for reef-safe sunscreens. These sunscreens come with the labels ‘reef-safe’ or ‘reef-friendly’. To avoid doubts, consider mineral-based lotions or creams instead of sprays or mists for effective protection.”
- Consistency: Sunscreens are available in lotion-, gel-, and cream-based forms, and are of varied consistencies. Choose the right one based on ease of application, spreadability, and absorption time.
Sunscreens offer your skin an essential layer of protection every time you step out during the day. An effective sunscreen helps keep your skin well-protected from UV rays. And to get the maximum benefit from it, you must use it consistently and ensure it has an SPF of at least 30. Further, before purchasing one, check the ingredients used and learn what would suit your skin type the best. Besides, it should be sweat-resistant, non-greasy, lightweight, and quick absorbing.
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