In Indian climatic conditions, sun exposure is way too high compared to other countries. The harmful UVA and UVB rays will penetrate into the skin on a daily basis. Even when the climate is cloudy or you are indoors, the penetration happens. In such cases, dermatologists recommend sunscreen to be used every day by all skin type people. A necessary product in skincare routine, yet people skip them due to greasiness, white cast, and even heaviness on the skin.
Get your hands on the right sunscreen, and they help in preventing signs of aging, reduce spots on the skin, protect skin from tan, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and the list goes on. In this blog, you will get to know the best dermat recommended sunscreens and how they helps in your skincare routine, along with do’s and dont’s.
Best Sunscreen Recommended by Dermatologists in India
|
No |
Product Name |
SPF & PA Rating |
Type |
Best For |
Key Benefits |
|
1 |
Deyga SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen |
SPF 50 / PA++++ |
Mineral (Zinc Oxide) |
Dry, Sensitive, Normal |
Non-toxic, no white cast, reef safe, broad-spectrum protection |
|
2 |
La Shield SPF 40 Gel Sunscreen |
SPF 40 / PA+++ |
Chemical (Gel) |
Oily, Acne-prone |
Matte finish, non-comedogenic, sweat resistant |
|
3 |
Minimalist SPF 50 Sunscreen |
SPF 50 / PA++++ |
Hybrid |
All skin types |
Lightweight, fragrance-free, modern UV filters |
|
4 |
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer |
SPF 50+ |
Chemical |
Normal to Oily |
Ultra-light, water resistant, fast absorbing |
|
5 |
Aqualogica Glow+ Sunscreen |
SPF 50 / PA+++ |
Chemical |
Dry & Dull |
Hyaluronic acid + Vit C, hydrating glow |
|
6 |
Re’equil Ultra Matte |
SPF 50 / PA+++ |
Chemical |
Oily skin |
Sweat & water resistant, matte finish |
|
7 |
Cetaphil Sun Light Gel |
SPF 50+ |
Hybrid |
Sensitive skin |
Non-irritating, gentle, dermatologically tested |
|
8 |
Sun Scoop Invisible Gel |
SPF 50 / PA+++ |
Chemical |
Combination |
Transparent, makeup-friendly |
|
9 |
Lotus Herbals Safe Sun |
SPF 50 |
Herbal + Chemical |
Budget option |
Matte finish, easily available |
|
10 |
Bioderma Photoderm Max |
SPF 50+ / PA++++ |
Chemical |
Pigmented skin |
Strong UVA protection, prevents tanning |
Why Sunscreen is Important in Skincare
Sunscreen is one of the essential products in skincare considering its anti-ageing properties. Even though moisturizers and serum works as an anti-ageing product, everything goes under water when you apply sunscreen, especially in the AM routine.
Some of the benefits of sunscreen in AM routine includes:
-
Incorporating SPF 30 sunscreen helps in preventing the UVA rays effect on collagen, which is a key reason for preventing skin wrinkles and fine likes.
-
Using SPF helps in decreasing melanin production, which controls pigmentation and melasma.
-
Reduces dark spots and marks in the skin, while also preventing skin tan naturally.
-
Even when using active ingredients like Vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, etc using them with sunscreen helps in giving better results.
-
Helps in maintaining skin tone and texture.
Best SPF for Your Skin Type
|
Skin Type |
Best Type of Sunscreen |
Why It Works |
|
Oily Skin |
Gel-based, Matte finish, Oil-free sunscreen |
Controls excess oil, prevents breakouts, feels lightweight |
|
Dry Skin |
Cream-based, Hydrating sunscreen |
Locks in moisture and prevents flakiness |
|
Combination Skin |
Lightweight lotion or water-based sunscreen |
Balances dry & oily areas without heaviness |
|
Sensitive Skin |
Mineral sunscreen (Zinc Oxide/Titanium Dioxide) |
Gentle, non-irritating, reduces reactions |
|
Acne-Prone Skin |
Non-comedogenic, Gel sunscreen |
Won’t clog pores or trigger new acne |
|
Pigmented Skin |
Broad-spectrum SPF 50 (PA++++) |
Prevents dark spots & further pigmentation |
|
Normal Skin |
Lotion or gel sunscreen |
Maintains skin protection without altering balance |
|
Mature / Aging Skin |
Sunscreen with antioxidants |
Protects against fine lines & sun damage |
|
Outdoor / Sweaty Skin |
Water & sweat-resistant sunscreen |
Longer-lasting protection during activities |
Do’s and Don’ts While Using Sunscreen
|
Do’s |
Don’ts |
|
Use SPF 30 or SPF 50 everyday |
Don’t use sunscreen only on sunny days |
|
Apply sunscreen 15–20 minutes before going out |
Don’t skip sunscreen on cloudy or rainy days |
|
Use a broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB) sunscreen |
Don’t rely only on makeup/SPF in foundation |
|
Apply 2 finger-length amount for face & neck |
Don’t apply only a small dot of sunscreen |
|
Reapply every 2–3 hours outdoors |
Don’t assume one application lasts all day |
|
Cover ears, neck, hands, and feet |
Don’t forget high-exposure areas |
|
Choose water-resistant sunscreen for swimming |
Don’t use regular sunscreen while swimming |
|
Use mineral sunscreen for sensitive skin |
Don’t use harsh chemical sunscreens if allergic |
|
Store in a cool, dry place |
Don’t keep sunscreen in direct heat |
|
Use daily – even indoors if near windows/screens |
Don’t skip sunscreen when staying near glass windows |
Unique Tips about Sunscreen - Opening Locked Secrets
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Everyone talks about the number post SPF, like 30, 50, 70, etc. But another factor to consider is PA rating. Opting PA+++ or PA++++ protects your skin from the signs of aging.
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When your SPF is higher, it does not mean you have double the protection. The main factor lies in reapplication. Even though SPF 50 blocks 80% of the rays, if you don’t reapply after 4 hrs of application, it is just the number.
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SPF is not for people who work or round under the sun. They are also needed for people who sit under mobiles and laptops for the whole day. Choosing sunscreen with iron and anti-oxidant helps more.
-
Mineral sunscreens like Deyga SPF 30 sunscreen are better for sensitive, pregnant & acne-prone users.
-
It’s a myth that people under water(swimming) swipes the SPF; But the fact is people who sweat more make the sunscreen get wiped off!
-
Chemical sunscreens need 15–20 minutes to activate. Mineral sunscreens work instantly because they sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays.
Conclusion
Dermatologists generally recommend sunscreen not just considering the beauty perspective; But they work more than that. Sunscreen helps in protecting skin from harsh rays and even from skin cancer. So, ensure to choose one based on your skin type. Also go with products which are pure, clean and are skin-friendly.
FAQs
Which SPF is best for daily use in India?
SPF 50 PA++++ is ideal for Indian climates as it offers maximum UVA & UVB protection. If you are indoors, go with SPF 30 PA+++.
Can I skip sunscreen if I stay indoors?
No, UVA rays pass through windows and still damage your skin indoors. Also if you are working under a laptop for hours, do not miss sunscreen.
Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical sunscreen?
Yes, mineral sunscreens are safer for sensitive skin as they sit on top and reflect UV rays. You can choose one based on your skin type and skin concern. If you are a new mom, breastfeeding mom, going with mineral sunscreen is a safer choice.
Should oily skin people avoid sunscreen?
No. Oily skin can pick light weight, which is like gel-based, non-comedogenic sunscreens for avoiding the greasiness in the skin.
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Every 2-3 hours when outdoors and once again if you sweat or wash your face. This helps in making your protection last longer.