20 Best Sunscreens in India: When in Doubt, SPF it
It's time to beat the summer sun with the best sunscreen lotions for face and body in India. We found 20 hardworking formulations of sunscreen lotion that will give you quality broad spectrum protection – warding off both UVA rays (with PA), which age your skin, AND UVB rays (with SPF), that are responsible for causing pesky sunburns (in case this boggles your mind, we explain sunscreen lotion jargon below). Slather on generous amounts to save your skin from photo damage. In addition to sunscreen lotion, you may use hats, caps and full-sleeved shirts to shield your face and body further. Listed below, the 20 best sunscreen lotions in India (sunscreens for dry skin, sunscreens for oily, acne-prone skin, sunscreen lotion for face and body, the whole gamut) to protect youthful skin from its number one enemy – UV rays. You'll be thanking us a few years from now.
What is SPF?
SPF is short for Sun Protection Factor. It measures the level of protection against UVB rays, which are responsible for causing skin cancers and sunburns. So SPF 15 blocks 93% UVB rays, SPF 30 97% and SPF 50 98%. If you're going to be out in the sun long, dermatologists recommend you use sunscreen lotions with at least SPF 30+.
- SPF 15 – 93% UVB blockage
- SPF 30 – 97% UVB blockage
- SPF 50 – 98% UVB blockage
What is PA+++?
PA refers to the Protection Grade of UVA rays. The more the +'s after PA, the better the protection against UVA rays, responsible for sun spots, wrinkles and other forms of skin ageing. In other words, a sunscreen lotion labelled PA+++ will protect you from very strong radiation, while PA++ will protect you from moderate radiation.
- PA+ – some UVA protection
- PA++ – moderate UVA protection
- PA+++ – high UVA protection
How to Apply Sunscreen
You may think sunscreen is reserved only for uber-sunny days, or that anything with SPF in it is enough to protect your skin from UV rays; but that's simply incorrect information. Follow the pointers below to apply sunscreen the right way:
- Just because it's cloudy, or the dead of winter, doesn't mean you don't need sunscreen, as the sun's UV rays filter through every element you can think of. The golden rule is: never, ever step out without layering your face (and body) with a good sun lotion
- Dermatologists recommend a minimum of SPF 30 when you're leaving the house, especially if you're going to be in the outdoors long. At the same time, there's no need to go over SPF 50, after which the efficacy of sunscreen sort of plateaus.
- Many of you probably use BB creams which purportedly have SPF in them. However, often the SPF count isn't enough (<30), or the amount of product you apply on your face is unable to do the job (unless you slather it on generously and risk your makeup looking cakey). So here's a simple trick we recommend -- just mix your favourite BB cream with any of the sunscreens below to fortify its UV-warding power
- In giving attention to your face, you may miss other exposed parts of your body that are equally sensitive to UV rays-- we're talking about your arms, your neck, your legs and your feet. Give them a generous slathering, too!
20 Best Sunscreens in India for all Skin Types: When in Doubt, SPF it
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1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50, 88ml
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50, 88ml
Formulated with Helioplex® Technology, the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 goes on smoothly and absorbs quickly without leaving any residue. It gives you broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Because it's super lightweight, feel free to use it as a base under makeup.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Glides on smoothly, no residue
- Feels lightweight
- Perfect for all skin types
CONS:- The texture is slightly thick, but one can get used to it
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2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dry Touch Clear Skin Facial Sunscreen SPF 60, 1.7fl. oz
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dry Touch Clear Skin Facial Sunscreen SPF 60, 1.7fl. oz
La Roche-Posay has been pioneering skincare research for over 15 years, so it doesn't come as a surprise that it makes some of the best sunscreen lotions in India. This SPF 60 formula uses anti-oxidant infused Cell-OX Shield technology to give you broad spectrum protection. Fragrance and paraben free, it's perfect for sensitive skin. Also water-resistant for 80 minutes.
PROS:- Highest possible sun protection you can get at SPF 60
- Water-resistant for 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Ideal for sensitive skin
CONS:- Pricey
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3. WOW Anti Pollution SPF40 Water Resistant No Parabens & Mineral Oil Sunscreen Lotion, 100mL
WOW Anti Pollution SPF40 Water Resistant No Parabens & Mineral Oil Sunscreen Lotion, 100mL
The WOW Anti Pollution SPF40 Water Resistant Lotion is among the best sunscreens in India that not only shields you from UVA + UVB rays, but also protects you from PM2.5 pollutants. The formula contains Alteromonas Ferment Extract, Liquorice Extract and Vitamin B3. If you're using it while swimming, reapply every 30-40 minutes.
PROS:- SPF 40 gives high sun protection
- Protects from PM2.5 pollutants
- Formula fortified with Alteromonas Ferment Extract, Liquorice Extract and Vitamin B3
- Water-resistant, can be used while swimming (in which case don't forget to reapply)
CONS:- None
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4. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-In-1 Matte Look Daily Sunblock SPF-40, 50g
Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-In-1 Matte Look Daily Sunblock SPF-40, 50g
The Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-In-1 Matte Look Daily Sunblock SPF-40 gives you sun protection with a super-matte finish, so it's perfect for oily skin types. The formula also contains skin-brightening particles which give you a sheer, glowing tint; mallow extract that soothes irritation; and hops extract that operates as an astringent.
PROS:- SPF 40 gives high sun protection
- Gives a super-matte finish, ideal for oily skin
- Adds a sheer tinted glow
CONS:- Can be over-drying for dry skin types
- Contains talc that may irritate blemish-prone skin types
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5. Biotique Bio Sandalwood Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion, SPF 50+, 120ml
Biotique Bio Sandalwood Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion, SPF 50+, 120ml
Here's a nutrient-rich ayurvedic sunscreen from Biotique that combines pure sandalwood, saffron, wheat germ, honey and bark of the Arjun tree to give you topline broad spectrum UVA / UVB sun protection. The formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, that means frequent reapplication is necessary if you're swimming / sweating.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Blend of sandalwood, saffron, wheat germ, honey and bark of the Arjun tree to give you topline broad spectrum UVA / UVB sun protection
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
CONS:- The consistency is thinner than average
Biotique Sun Shield Sandalwood 50+SPF UVB Sunscreen Ultra Protective Lotion For All Skin Types, 120ml
Buy on₹ 217₹ 410 (47% off)
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6. VLCC 3D Youth Boost Sunscreen Gel Creme, SPF40 PA +++, 100g
VLCC 3D Youth Boost Sunscreen Gel Creme, SPF40 PA +++, 100g
The VLCC 3D Youth Boost Sunscreen Gel Creme, SPF40 PA +++ is a paraben-free formulation that in addition to shielding your face from UV rays, improves skin elasticity and fades dark spots. Contains vitamin B3, saxifraga extracts and morus bombycis extracts. Use it on its own or as a hydrating base under your BB creams and foundations.
PROS:- SPF 40 gives high sun protection
- Paraben-free formula
- Contains vitamin B3, saxifraga extracts and morus bombycis extracts
CONS:- None
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7. The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Essence SPF50
The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Essence SPF50
The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Essence SPF50 is so much more than just a sunscreen. It brightens your skin with red algae extracts and Vitamin C, while giving you UVA and UVB protection to keep your skin young and supple. With a feather-light finish, it's among the best sunscreens in India, albeit a bit pricey.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Red algae extracts + vitamin C brighten your skin tone
- Feather-light finish
CONS:- Price point
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8. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun UV Screen Matte Gel, SPF 50, 100g
Lotus Herbals Safe Sun UV Screen Matte Gel, SPF 50, 100g
The Lotus Herbals Safe Sun UV Screen Matte Gel, SPF 50 is one of the best sunscreens in India for oily skin. It glides on smoothly, regulating sebum secretion and giving you an ultra-matte look. Enriched with Comfrey, Soothing Horse Chestnut and Sebum Control Vanilla, it also helps prevent tanning. Reapply frequently for best results.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Gel formula glides on smoothly, giving you a matte finish
- Enriched with Comfrey, Soothing Horse Chestnut and Sebum Control Vanilla
CONS:- None
Lotus Safe Sun Invisible Matte Gel Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ , For Men & Women, Non-Greasy, Suitable for Oily Skin, 100g
Buy on₹ 324₹ 485 (33% off)
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9. Mom & World Mineral Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50 PA+++, 120ml - UVA/UVB Protection, Water Resistance
Mom & World Mineral Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50 PA+++, 120ml - UVA/UVB Protection, Water Resistance
If you have very sensitive skin, we recommend the mineral-based Mom & World Baby Sunscreen, SPF 50+. Originally intended for babies, it can be (and is) used by adults. The paraben and sulfate free formula contains Vitamin C for brightening + tightening, Vitamin B3 that decreases discoloration and redness, and Vitamin E that prevents ageing.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Paraben and sulfate-free formula
- Contains Vitamin C for brightening + tightening, Vitamin B3 that decreases discoloration and redness, and Vitamin E that prevents ageing
CONS:- None
Mom & World Mineral Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion, Spf 50 Pa+++, Uva/Uvb Protection, Water Resistance, 120 ml
Buy on₹ 349₹ 399 (13% off)
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10. Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA+++ Ultra Matte Lotion, 50 ml
Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA+++ Ultra Matte Lotion, 50 ml
The Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA+++ Ultra Matte Lotion is among the best sunscreens in India that absorbs quickly and wards of both UVA and UVB rays. The gel is light and non-sticky, giving you a shine-free finish. It's recommended that you reapply the formula every 3-4 hours for best results. Use it on its own or as a makeup base.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Gel is light, non-sticky
- Absorbs quickly
CONS:- None
Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA+++ Ultra Matte Lotion Sunscreen, Lightweight, Non Sticky, Non Greasy, Blocks Upto 97% Harmful Sunrays, 50 ml
Buy on₹ 200₹ 325 (38% off)
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11. Aroma Magic Cucumber Sun Screen Lotion, SPF 30, 50ml
Aroma Magic Cucumber Sun Screen Lotion, SPF 30, 50ml
Here's one of the most pocket-friendly sunscreens out there. A powerful blend of vitamins B5, C, E and UV-warding agents, the Aroma Magic Cucumber Sun Screen Lotion, SPF 30 gives you broad spectrum protection with skin-cooling effects. Contains a range of natural extracts like aloe vera, beeswax, wheatgerm oil and of course, cucumber, that combine to pamper your skin.
PROS:- SPF 30 gives high sun protection
- A powerful blend of vitamins B5, C, E and UV-warding agents
- Contains natural extracts like aloe vera, beeswax, wheatgerm oil and of course, cucumber
CONS:- None
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12. Glenmark La Shield Sunscreen Gel Spf 40 (White,60g)
Glenmark La Shield Sunscreen Gel Spf 40 (White,60g)
Engineered specially for Indian skin, the Glenmark La Shield Sunscreen Gel, SPF 40 is the best sunscreen in India for all skin types. Its oil-free, gel-based formula gives you a lightweight, airy finish that you can barely feel. Enjoy hydrated skin and broad spectrum sun protection from both UVA and UVB rays, and use it as a sunscreen or a primer under makeup.
PROS:- SPF 40 gives high sun protection
- Gel-based formula gives lightweight, airy finish
- Enjoy hydrated skin + broad-spectrum protection
CONS:- None
Glenmark La Shield Sunscreen Gel Spf 40 (White,60g)
Buy on₹ 492₹ 673 (27% off)
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13. Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion, SPF 30+, 120ml
Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion, SPF 30+, 120ml
If you love all-natural formulas, the Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion, SPF 30+ contains a wonderful blend of herbal ingredients like methi seeds, moongphali oil, ghrit kumari pulp, madhu, ankurit gegun oil, kusumbhi oil and chinai ghas gel. Its ayurvedic recipe provdides broad spectrum protection.
PROS:- SPF 30 gives high sun protection
- Contains a wonderful blend of herbal ingredients like methi seeds, moongphali oil, ghrit kumari pulp, madhu, ankurit gegun oil, kusumbhi oil and chinai ghas gel
CONS:- None
Biotique Morning Nectar Sun Protect Moisturizer Lotion For Visibly Flawless Skin All Skin Types, 120 ml
Buy on₹ 172₹ 245 (30% off)
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14. StBotanica Vitamin C SPF 30 PA+++ Sunscreen Mineral Based & Water Resistant,120ml - UVA & UVB Protection
StBotanica Vitamin C SPF 30 PA+++ Sunscreen Mineral Based & Water Resistant,120ml - UVA & UVB Protection
It's a close tie between the StBotanica Vitamin C SPF 30 PA+++ Sunscreen and the Body Shop Multi Defence Essence. Like the latter, this gives you broad spectrum protection while brightening your skin with vitamin C. Meanwhile, vitamins E and B3 protect against dullness. Free from silicons, parabens, sulfates and mineral oils.
PROS:- SPF 30 gives high sun protection
- Vitamins C, E, B3 brighten skin tone at the same time
CONS:- None
St.Botanica Vitamin C SPF 30 Pa+++ Sunscreen, 120ml with Stable & Effective Vitamin C & Broad Spectrum Sun Protection from UVA/UVB rays to give Bright Skin| No Parabens & Sulphates | Vegan
Buy on₹ 422₹ 649 (35% off)
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15. Aroma Magic Aloe Vera Sun Screen Gel, SPF 20, 50m
Aroma Magic Aloe Vera Sun Screen Gel, SPF 20, 50ml
The Aroma Magic Aloe Vera Sun Screen Gel, SPF 20 contains less SPF than most of its competitors in this list, but then it's also very pocket-friendly, making the SPF tradeoff worth it (unless you're in an environment with very high sun exposure). Contains vitamins B5, C, E and is 100% free of parabens, alcohols and artificial fragrance. Just don't forget to slather this on frequently.
PROS:- Contains vitamins B5, C, E
- 100% free of parabens, alcohols and artificial fragrance
CONS:- SPF 20 is not enough for high, long-duration sun exposure
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16. Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
Here's one of the best sunscreens in India from the world's best skincare brand, Kiehl's. Powered by antioxidants and rich in Vitamin E, the sunscreen is perfect for sensitive skin prone to breakouts and blemishes. Bonus: also lightly tinted, so you can go makeup-free while radiating a beautiful glow. Paraben and fragrance free.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Contains vitamin E and antioxidants
- Lightly tinted, like a sheer BB cream
- Paraben, fragrance-free
CONS:- None
Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ 50ml Cream
Buy on₹ 4,960₹ 7,500 (34% off)
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17. Clinique SPF 40 Face Cream
Clinique SPF 40 Face Cream
The Clinique SPF 40 Face Cream uses SolarSmart technology to give you high-level protection against ageing and skin-burning UVA / UVB rays. It's a very gentle formula that won't clog your pores, so blemish-prone skin types can use it freely. Reapply every two hours if you're swimming or perspiring. Safe for use by kids and adults.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Ideal for acne-prone skin
- Water-resistant
CONS:- None
Clinique SPF 40 Face Cream
Buy on₹ 3,499
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18. Avene Very High Protection SPF 50+ Emulsion, 50 ml
Avene Very High Protection SPF 50+ Emulsion, 50 ml
Light and non-greasy, the Avene Very High Protection SPF 50+ Emulsion is one of the best sunscreens in India. The hardworking formula gives you topline broad spectrum protection, but you can barely feel it on your skin. Active ingredient Glyceryl Laurate has anti-microbial properties that kill acne-causing bacteria and regulate sebum.
PROS:- SPF 50 gives high sun protection
- Ideal for acne-prone skin (Glyceryl Laurate kills p.acnes bacteria and regulates sebum)
CONS:- None
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19. Innisfree Daily UV protection cream no sebum SPF35 PA+++ 50ml Korean Cosmetics
Innisfree Daily UV protection cream no sebum SPF35 PA+++ 50ml Korean Cosmetics
You already know that Koreans take skincare very, very, seriously, so you can be sure that this Daily UV Protection Cream from Korean skincare brand Innisfree is among the best sunscreens in India. Contains sunflower oil and jeju green tea extracts that boost the formula's UV-warding properties. Use it on its own or under makeup.
PROS:- SPF 35 gives high sun protection
- Contains sunflower oil and jeju green tea extracts
CONS:- None
Innisfree Daily UV protection cream no sebum SPF35 PA+++ 50ml Korean Cosmetics
Buy on₹ 1,639₹ 2,400 (32% off)
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20. Forest Essentials Light Day Madurai Jasmine and Mogra SPF25 Lotion, 40ml
Forest Essentials Light Day Madurai Jasmine and Mogra SPF25 Lotion, 40ml
The Forest Essentials Light Day Madurai Jasmine and Mogra SPF25 Lotion softens and nourishes your skin with its blend of the best herbal ingredients (like sweet almond oil, jojoba seed oil, rice bran oil and jasmine flower oil). Its lightweight formula feels like air on your skin and will safeguard you from low-to-medium sun exposure.
PROS:- Blend of the best herbal ingredients (like sweet almond oil, jojoba seed oil, rice bran oil and jasmine flower oil)
- Lightweight formula, airy finish
CONS:- SPF 25 is fine for low-to-medium sun exposure, but not recommended for high, long-duration sun exposure
Forest Essentials Light Day Lotion Madurai Jasmine and Mogra|Hydrates Normal Skin|Unisex Light Moisturiser With SPF 25|40 ml
Buy on₹ 2,475
Which according to you are the best sunscreens in India? We'd love to hear from you, so Tweet to us @HotDeals360.
Also Read:
Best De-Tan Treatment Regimen
Best Anti-Acne and Pimple Creams
Best Night Creams
Best Ayurvedic Face Creams
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Best Sunscreens in India
| Product | Price in India |
|---|---|
| Neutrogena Ultra sheer Sunscreen, SPF 50+, Ultra light, for oily and dry skin, 88 ml | ₹ 778 |
| La Roche-Posay SPF 60 - 0.15 Pounds Sunscreen Cream | ₹ 2,199 |
| WOW Skin Science Sunscreen SPF 40 - 141 Grams Lotion | ₹ 319 |
| Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Matte Look Daily Sunblock Cream | ₹ 218 |
| Biotique Sun Shield Sandalwood 50+SPF UVB Sunscreen Ultra Protective Lotion For All Skin Types, 120ml | ₹ 217 |
| VLCC 3D Boost Sun Screen Gel Cream SPF 40 | ₹ 255 |
| The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Essence Spf50 | ₹ 4,199 |
| Lotus Safe Sun Invisible Matte Gel Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ , For Men & Women, Non-Greasy, Suitable for Oily Skin, 100g | ₹ 324 |
| Mom & World Mineral Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion, Spf 50 Pa+++, Uva/Uvb Protection, Water Resistance, 120 ml | ₹ 349 |
| Lakme Sun Expert Ultra Matte Gel LotionSPF 50 | ₹ 200 |
