Sunscreen also known as sunblock, is a photoprotective topical product for the skin. It protects the skin against sunburn and skin cancer. Sunscreen comes in many forms like lotions, sprays, gels, sticks, powder. They protect our skin against harmful UV radiations like UltraViolet-A and UltraViolet-B rays. Sunscreen contains active ingredients of mineral or chemical origin –
- Mineral sunscreen contains active ingredients that are minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They mainly work by absorbing UV rays.
- Organic sunscreen also known as petrochemical sunscreen, use active ingredients that are derived from petroleum eg. oxybenzone and octinoxate. They work by absorbing the UV rays.
According to medical organizations the routine use of sunscreen reduces the risk of melanoma. The use of broad-spectrum sunscreens are recommended as they offer protection from potential damage caused by the UVA and UVB radiations.
Nowadays some sun-protection products also offer moisturisation to the skin acting as moisturizer and sun shield at the same time. Here are some factors that should be kept in mind while selecting one –
- Skin type : for oily and acne-prone skin prefer water-based sunscreen.
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF) : the SPF number indicates the level of sun protection against UV rays. The higher the SPF the higher protection it offers. Any sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is perfect.
- Broad spectrum: sunscreen with the label “broad spectrum” protects the skin from UVA and UVB radiations.
- Water resistant : it indicates that sunscreen will even stay on wet or sweaty skin.
- Presence of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide : they provide additional protection against harmful rays.
Here are some best sunscreens that are useful to protect against the harmful rays of the sun.
Biotique Bio Sandalwood 50+ SPF UVA/UVB Sunscreen
Biotique sunscreen is loaded with goodness of natural ingredients like pure sandalwood, saffron, honey, wheat germ and the bark of arjun tree. It keeps the skin soft, fresh and moisturized. This is water resistant therefore can be worn while swimming or to the beach. It has a pretty good texture and does not leave any whitish residue.
- 100% Ayurvedic
- Paraben-free and cruelty-free
- Water-resistant (retains SPF even after 80 minutes in the water)
- Broad spectrum sun protection with a high SPF of 50
Cons
- It has a rather strong fragrance
Dot & Key Vitamin C+E Super Bright Sunscreen
Dot & key sunscreen not only protects against the harmful sun rays but also imparts a luminous glow to your skin. It is clinically certified with SPF 50+++. It has a watery-like texture, and gets absorbed quickly in the skin without leaving any white cast. It is incorporated with the goodness of vitamin C and E, Sicilian blood oranges and UV filters that shield the skin from UVA, UVB and blue light rays. This sunscreen also lightens the pigmented patches, covers the dark spots and reduces the dullness on the skin. Its non-comedogenic formula activates the vitamin d receptors present in the skin, prevents the free radical damage and provides anti aging benefits.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight
- Quick-absorbing
- Non-sticky
- No white cast
- Suitable for all skin types
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Color-free
- Essential oil-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
- Sweat and water resistance not very long-lasting
Aqualogica Radiance+ Dewy Sunscreen
Aqualogica Radiance+ Dewy sunscreen with SPF 50 and PA+++ offers protection against harmful sun rays and blue light. This non-sticky, lightweight sunscreen is enriched with radiance-boosting niacinamide that reduces the dark spots and blemishes and provides an even skin tone.Hyaluronic acid and watermelon extracts moisturize and hydrate the skin, making it soft and youthful. Titanium dioxide prevents the absorption of harmful sun rays.
Aqualogica Radiance+ Dewy Sunscreen (Image source – Amazon)
Pros
- Has SPF 50+ and PA+++
- Offers UVA, UVB, and blue light protection
- No white cast
- Hydrating
- Lightweight
- Non-sticky
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for all skin types
- Dermatologically tested
- Color-free
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Lakme Sun Expert Fairness + UV Lotion SPF 50 PA+++
From India’s most beloved brand Lakme presents a sunscreen with one of the best formulas. It is a quality product with reasonable price. Lakme Sun Expert is available in SPF 24 and SPF 50 variants. It offers broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is enriched with a goddess of zinc oxide, lemongrass, and cucumber extracts that help prevent premature aging, dark spots and skin darkening. With easy application and pleasant fragrance it leaves the skin with a nice and subtle glow.
Lakme Sun Expert Fairness + UV Lotion SPF 50 PA+++ (Image source – Walmart Images)
Pros
- Lightweight and absorbs easily into the skin
- Contains cucumber and lemon grass extracts
- Paraben-free
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Leaves a whitish cast initially, but this settles down after a while of application
Kaya Youth Protect Sunscreen SPF 50
The Kaya Youth sunscreen is filled with the goodness of botanical extracts like Geranium and potent antioxidants. Apart from protecting the skin from harmful sun rays it also improves the elasticity of the skin by preventing photoaging. It works wonders in boosting the oxygenation of the skin cells and regenerating them again. This sunscreen is a good choice for winters as it provides radiant glow to the skin.
Kaya Youth Protect Sunscreen SPF 50 (Image source – Shopify)
Pros
- Lightweight and non-greasy formula
- High UVA/UVB protection against premature skin aging
- PABA-free
- Moisturizing formula
Cons
- Tends to leave a white cast if you apply too much of it
Plum Green Tea Day-Light Sunscreen SPF 35 PA+++
This sunscreen has SPF 35 which protects against both UVA and UVB. It provides the right hydration balance to the skin. The ultra-light gel formula gets easily absorbed into the skin without leaving any white cast. This sunscreen is enriched with acne-fighting green tea and blemish-fighting natural extracts. It is vegan and made with non-comedogenic ingredients.
Plum Green Tea Day-Light Sunscreen SPF 35 PA+++ (Image source – Amazon Aws)
Pros
- Ultra-light gel texture
- Vegan
- No white cast
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- May be greasy
Lacto Calamine Daily Sunshield Matte Look Sunscreen
Lacto calamine sunscreen comes with SPF 50 and PA+++ and is especially made for oily skin. It also provides complete protection against the harmful UV radiations of the sun. This sunscreen is enriched with lemon extract and kaolin that prevents tanning, reduces hyperpigmentation and clears dark spots to radiate glowing skin. It absorbs quickly and spreads evenly on the skin.
Lacto Calamine Daily Sunshield Matte Look Sunscreen (Image source – Pharm Easy)
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Non-oily
- Lightweight
- Quick absorbing
- Water-based
- Paraben-free
- Dermatologically-tested
Cons
- Not sweat-resistant
O3+ Mattifying Gel Cream SPF 50
This professional sunscreen controls excess shine and helps brighten the skin. It is a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 to protect the skin from harmful radiations. It does not leave any oily or greasy residue emitting a matte finish making the skin appear more smooth and fresh, also it has a lightweight formula.
O3+ Mattifying Gel Cream SPF 50 (Image source –Amazon)
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
- Absorbed quickly
- Dermatologist approved
- Prevents acne
- Reduces excess shine
- Suitable for normal to
VLCC Anti Tan Sunscreen Lotion SPF 25
The VLCC anti tan sunscreen is a sweat-free formula that provides adequate protection against UV radiations. Its non-greasy formula leaves skin with a glowing finish. It is packed with extracts of lemon, jojoba oil, aloe vera and sandalwood, zinc oxide and wheatgerm oil. This works wonders for combination skin type.
VLCC Anti Tan Sunscreen Lotion SPF 25 (Image source – Ppl Media)
Pros
- Nourishes skin
- Easy to use
- Enriched with lemon and other natural ingredients
- Affordable
Cons
- Offers SPF of only 25
Jovees Argan Sun Guard Lotion SPF 60 PA++++
Jovees sunscreen is a water-resistant, herbal formula, scientifically created using ingredients like argan oil, green tea, calendula and chamomile. It is enriched with antioxidants and anti-inflammatories that maintains the healthy appearance of the skin. It is incredibly light and gentle on the skin not leaving any white residue.
Jovees Argan Sun Guard Lotion SPF 60 PA++++ (Image source – Ebay Img)
Pros
- Offers an SPF of 60 PA++++
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Strong fragrance
FAQs About Top 10 Sunscreen in India
Ques: How long does the sunscreen idly last?
When you are continuously exposed to the sun, the sunscreen might not last for very long therefore it is advised to re-apply the sunscreen after every 2-3 hours.
Ques: Are there any side effects of using sunscreen?
Many people do not experience side effects, but some people get skin irritation, allergic reactions, acne breakouts etc.
Ques: What should be kept in mind while purchasing sunscreen?
Things to be kept in mind are your skin type – oily or dry or combination, SPF, PA+ factor etc.
Conclusion
Find your preferred sunscreen according to the correct SPF range. Remember to carry your sunscreen with you if you are exposed to sun for too long and apply it after every 2-3 hours.
