Did you know?
- Over 80% of skin aging in India is directly attributed to unprotected UV radiations from the sun exposure. Yet less than 30% of Indians use sunscreen regularly.
- Most people apply insufficient sunscreen, leaving the skin exposed to sun damage.
- Because the UVB radiation damage the deepest layers of the skin, that is the dermis, the visible signs of damage can take years before they start showing on the face.
- Sunscreens today provide hydrating, moisturizing and other skin benefits as an addon.
The Problem with New Brands & Influencer Hype
Every year, dozens of sunscreens launch with glossy campaigns and influencer fanfare. But here’s the truth: most are untested by them. Influencers recite scripts about ‘silky textures’ and ‘clean ingredients’ without ever using the product in Delhi’s 40°C heat or Rajasthan’s dry winds. And often, paid promotions dominate YouTube, where bots flood comment sections with “Best sunscreen ever!”, from accounts created an hour ago. Therefore, we recommend considering real-world testing and research to find the sunscreen that works best for your skin and your climatic conditions.
Why this is the most authentic and detailed report in India?
This report on best sunscreen analyses insights from over 2,000 customer reviews and surveys from credible sources across Reddit Discussions, Flipkart Reviews, Qualitative Research, Amazon Reviews and YouTube dermatologist videos, focusing exclusively on real results and real reviews instead of marketing claims, ads, or brand sponsored content. Unlike typical Youtube videos or sunscreen guides that reproduce product specifications and brand information, this report is unbiased, trusted and not sponsored by any brand.
Why you can trust this guide?
- Our work is built on trust, transparency, research and genuine customer feedback.
- We spend weeks and months doing research and testing before recommending.
- We don’t create brand sponsored recommendations. We don’t run ads. We don’t work for the brands; we work for our readers.
- We are a one-stop destination for the most In-depth and trusted reviews based on research.
– Consistently rated above 4 (4.2/5 by amazon 24,900+ reviews, 4.5/5 by myntra with 77,000+ reviews, 4.5/5 in our survey)
– This sunscreen is rated best for oily skin and dry skin.
– It provides complete protection, both from UVA and UVB rays, under various climatic conditions.
– It also hydrates your skin and can be used daily.
*The prices can vary due to limited offers
Brands Reviewed in this report
Aqualogica, Bello Photostable, Biore UV, Conscious Chemist, Deconstruct, Derma Co, Dot and Key, Dr. Alies, Dr. Sheths, Earth Rhythm, Eucerin, Fixderma, Heliocare, Minimalist, Neutrogena, Nivea, Qurez, Requil, TruDerma, UV Doux and Wishcare.
What to know before buying?
What are SPF and PA Ratings?
- PA (Protection Guard of UVA) indicates protection against UVA sun rays.
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures protection against UVB sun rays.
Why are they important?
- UVA rays cause skin ageing, wrinkles and long-term and deeper damage.
- UVB rays causes sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer.
How can you identify the difference between damage from UVA rays and UVB rays?
- UVA rays, also known as silent killers, causes skin to turn brown, a process known as persistent pigment darkening. Sometimes even though the skin color didn’t change, UVA rays have already caused deeper damage.
- Prolonged exposure to UVB rays leads to skin burn.
How does the rating system work?
- PA system uses plus signs to measure UVA protection:
- PA+: Low protection
- PA++: Moderate protection
- PA+++: High protection
- PA++++: Very high protection
- The SPF is a measure of how many UVB rays are blocked from entering your skin. SPF 15 blocks 93% UVB rays and SPF 30 blocks 97%. SPF 50 blocks 98%, and SPF 100 stops 99% of UVB rays from entering your skin.
Does higher SPF mean better protection?
Dermatologists explains that high SPF can give people a false sense of safety. SPF 100 does not mean you can be out in the sun longer.
Why SPF 100 does not mean the best protection?
Sunscreens above SPF 30 have marginal benefit in blocking sun radiations. While SPF 30 blocks 97% radiations, any increase in SPF from 30 to 100 provide only 2% additional benefit. Also, SPF 100 does not mean you can be out in the sun longer. Sunscreen must be reapplied every 2 hours, irrespective of SPF rating.
Which SPF and PA rating is recommended for India?
SPF 50 along with PA++++ is recommended
How much sunscreen to apply for adequate sun protection?
Source: Raj Shamani Youtube
To avoid leaving the skin exposed, Dermatologists like Dr. Jaishree, who have treated celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, recommend 2-3 finger lengths for your face and neck. And you must allow at least 10 minutes for absorption before sun exposure.
Do I need to reapply?
No sunscreen, regardless of their marketing claims can provide protection for the entire day. Reapplication every 2 hours is non-negotiable, especially during outdoor activities or excessive sweating.
What is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens reflect UV rays, while chemical absorbs rays to protect the skin.
Why we are the most trusted source for recommendation?
- Products are getting increasingly complex. Therefore, we do In-depth research and testing for weeks or months, unlike few hours of research by most websites.
- Some Influencers have great content, but they are not experts. They lack rigorous research and testing to account for climatic and weather conditions in desserts of west India, to costal and humid regions of south to high temperature regions of north india.
- Salesmen at retail outlets often push the products which give them the highest margin.
- Online research is time-consuming. So, leave it to us.
- AI can be misleading with inaccurate results. Don’t trust it blindly.
Which youtube videos we included during this In-depth review?
Discussion with Experts
- Raj Shamani with Dr. Jaishree Sharad, an internationally renowned cosmetic dermatologist who has treated Bollywood celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Ranbir Kapoor and authored books such as Skin Talks.
Customer stories on forums
- r/IndianSkincareAddicts channel with 254,000 members was reviewed for direct feedback on skincare.
Live testing
Youtuber live tested 7+ sunscreens in 40 degree heat to recommend minimalist sunscreen.
Myth vs. Reality
Myth: Dark skin people don’t need sunscreen
Fact: All skin types require sun protection. While darker skin has some protection against sun burns, it is vulnerable to UVA rays which causes long term damage to the skin.
Myth: Waterproof sunscreens don’t need reapplication
Fact: Swimming or sweating reduces the shield against sun rays. Therefore, reapplication is strongly recommended every 2 hours.
Myth: Higher SPF means significantly better protection
Fact: While SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, any additional increase in SPF blocks only 1% – 2% UVB rays.
Myth: Sunscreen does not block Vit D absorption.
Fact: Yes, they do according to a harvard study. They block UVB rays, which help generate vitamin D in the skin. Spending 10-15 mins in the sun before applying sunscreen can aid Vitamin D absorption.
Buying Guide for the right sunscreen for you
1. What is my skin type?
- Oily Skin: Go for gel-based, matte-finish, oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreens.
- Dry Skin: Select moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerine or shea butter.
- Sensitive Skin: Choose mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
2. What SPF and PA rating do I need?
– 50 SPF with PA++++ is recommended for Indian climate.
3. Do I need water resistant sunscreen?
– Yes, it is recommended for high sweat activity or swimming.
4. What is broad spectrum protection?
– Protection against both UVA and UVB rays means broad spectrum protection. Yes, we all need protection against both.
5. Which are the ingredients to avoid?
– Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Avobenzone, Retinyl Palmitate, Parabens and Fragrances.
6. Which ingredients are beneficial?
– Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Antioxidants (Vitamin C, E, Green Tea Extract).
Top 3 Sunscreens
1. The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua Gel
Best for Oily Skin and Dry Skin
Overall Feedback
This is a gel-based sunscreen which contains 1% hyaluronic acid and provides protection against UVA, UVB, and blue light. People like its light-weight gel like texture.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| SPF | SPF 50 |
| PA | PA ++++ |
| UV Filter | Broad Spectrum sunscreen (Protection against UVA & UVB) |
| Best For | Oily and Dry Skin |
– Consistently rated above 4 (4.2/5 by amazon 24,900+ reviews, 4.5/5 by myntra with 77,000+ reviews, 4.5/5 in our survey)
– This sunscreen is rated best for oily skin and dry skin.
– It provides complete protection, both from UVA and UVB rays, under various climatic conditions.
– It also hydrates your skin and can be used daily.
*The prices can vary basis offer period
2. Minimalist Multi-Vitamins Sunscreen
We don’t recommend minimalist multi-vitamins sunscreen because some customers reported that it’s hard to blend and can become greasy during hot and humid climate.
Overall Feedback
Minimalist multi-vitamin sunscreen provides protection against UVA and UVB rays. But it has mixed reviews from Indian customers. Although it’s rated safe for the skin, it’s performance vary on different skin type and in various weather conditions.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| SPF | SPF 50 |
| PA | PA ++++ |
| UV Filter | Broad Spectrum sunscreen (Protection against UVA & UVB) |
| Best For | Normal Skin |
– Boosted with Vitamin A, B3, B5, E and F that not only repairs skin after sun exposure, but also soothes, nourishes and hydrates skin.
– Tested by Independent lab for SPF 50 rating.
3. RE’ EQUIL Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen
We don’t recommended re’equil sunscreen due to mixed feedback from customers about it effectiveness.
Overall Feedback
This sunscreen is known for its excellent Matt finish texture. It’s good for UVA and UVB protection.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| SPF | SPF 50 |
| PA | PA ++++ |
| UV Filter | Broad Spectrum sunscreen (Protection against UVA & UVB) |
| Best For | Oily Skin |
| Water Resistant | Yes |
– Water and Sweat Resistant, which makes it a perfect sunscreen for outdoor activities.
– Oil Free Formulation: Being Oil free and water free formulation, this gel sunscreen last long.
– Perfect for under makeup application: This sunscreen glides effortlessly onto skin and works as a perfect primer.
Buying Checklist
- Go for SPF 50 or higher, which is recommended for UVB protection.
- Select PA++++ or higher, which is recommended for UVA protection.
- You must avoid sunscreens with harmful chemicals which are mentioned above in the buying guide to protect your skin from adverse effects.
- Go for water-resistance sunscreens if you indulge in outdoor sports activity or swimming.
- Select a sunscreen with a texture that you can use regularly.
Usage Checklist
- Apply sunscreen atleast 15 mins before sun exposure for adequate absorption.
- Use at least 2 finger lengths for face and neck.
- You must reapply every 2 hours.
Summary
In this entire study we found that proper application and reapplication is more important than choosing a specific brand. Even the highest-rated sunscreen fails to protect if applied incorrectly or insufficiently.
