Key Highlights:

1. Sunscreens are extremely important to protect the skin from sun damage, the strong sun rays can cause skin irritation and redness.
2. Sunscreens can be cream or gel-based, they have different SPF levels from 15 to 50.
3. One must use a higher SPF sunscreen for long-term sun exposure as it can lead to skin ageing, skin dryness and even skin cancer. 
4. Sunscreens penetrate deep into the skin to provide wide-spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays. 
5. They also help manage skin inflammation and control the appearance of dark spots. 
6. Sunscreens with a lightweight, sweat-proof and water-proof formula are good for you.
7. These can help tackle sun tan, hyperpigmentation and other skin problems.
8. Most of these sunscreens do not contain harmful chemicals and will leave skin hydrated.

Searching for the best sunscreen in India? Whether we are going to school/college/office or even heading out to the local grocery shop in the neighbourhood, we end up spending a lot of time in the sun. In a tropical country like India, exposure to strong sunlight makes your skin feel irritated, red and patchy once you return home. Long-term exposure can lead to skin ageing, skin dryness and even in worst cases skin cancer. 

To prevent your skin from undue sun damage and preserve its natural glow and health, it is essential to use a quality sunscreen with an SPF level between 15-30 to ensure good coverage from ultraviolet rays of the sun. If you are feeling confused about which product to buy, given your skin concern, needs and budget, here is a comprehensive list of some of the top sunscreens in India. 

The Best Sunscreens in India

1. LA Shield Lite Anti Sunscreen

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The LA Shield Lite Anti Sunscreen with SPF 30 is a perfect product for people who get tans and hyperpigmentations easily. It provides coverage from UV radiation and prevents inflammation or dark spots from appearing to a great extent. The gel contains Melanostatin 5 which prevents the production of melanin and keeps your skin even-toned.

Benefits:

• Lightweight formula does not make the skin feel heavy upon application.
• Reduces tans and spots. 
• It is a gel-based formula, so does not make the skin greasy. 
• Provides protection from both UVA and UVB radiation. 
• Does not come with an overpowering fragrance. 
• Perfect for people with sensitive skin. 
• A water-proof gel-based formula. 

2. Mamaearth Baby Sunscreen

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The Mamaearth Baby Sunscreen is specially formulated for babies and kids up to 10 years of age. This sunscreen is ideal for use when taking your baby out for a stroll in the park or when your kids want to play on the grounds or are going to school. The sunscreen is formulated with cocoa butter, calendula, zinc oxide and other non-harsh chemicals to keep your child’s delicate skin protected and well-moisturised throughout the day. The mineral-based baby sunscreen comes with SPF 20 and a Made Safe Certificate to provide maximum protection for your baby.

Benefits:

• It is dermatologically tested for kids.
• It is tested hypoallergenic to ensure that your child does not experience any adverse skin rash. 
• It is created with shea butter, cocoa butter and calendula extracts to keep the skin soft and supple. 
• It contains SPF 20 and prevents sunburn. 
• It has mild anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties due to the presence of calendula extracts. 

3. Glenmark La Shield Fisico Sunscreen

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The Glenmark LA shield Fisico Sunscreen is a gel-based sunscreen that comes with SPF 50. It provides you with the highest protection from harmful UVA as well as UVB radiation. It gives an overall matte effect and thus does not make your face look sweaty or chalky. The product is long-lasting, water-resistant and prevents skin ageing. 

Benefits:

• Provides wide-spectrum protection, UVA AND UVB sunray.
• Suitable for all skin types. 
• Perfect for men and women. 
• It is dermatologically tested. 
• Contains zinc oxide, which is eco-certified. 
• It is a gel-based, water-resistant sunscreen that provides a matte finish. 

4. La Shield Sunscreen

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LA Shield sunscreen comes with SPF 40 and is formulated to provide wide-spectrum coverage from UVA and UVB protection. The sunscreen is non-comedogenic, so it can be used by people of all skin types. The formula is gel-based, non-greasy and oil-free. The sunscreen does not contain any additives, harsh chemicals or preservatives as part of its ingredients. 

Benefits:

• Keeps you safeguarded from both UVA and UVB rays. 
• The sunscreen is hypoallergenic. 
• It is non-comedogenic, thus does not clog pores. 
• The water-proof formula is easy to apply on the skin and does not make the skin feel greasy. 
• Being SPF 40, it may block off about 97.5% of the ultra-violet radiation from the sun. 
• Keeps the skin hydrated, well -balanced and moisturised.
• Dermatologically tested. 

5. La Shield Ap Sunscreen

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LA Shield AP Sunscreen from Glenmark effectively shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and other pollutants with SPF 50. It is created with Biomimetic Exopolysaccharide Technology that reverses signs of ageing and other kinds of skin damage. The sunscreen is alcohol-free, paraben-free and non-comedogenic, perfect for people across skin types. 

Benefits:

• A gel-based, water-resistant, non-comedogenic product. 
• Protects skin from free radicals, reduces wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots. 
• Provides wide-spectrum UV protection. 
• Can be used by all skin types. 
• Paraben, alcohol-free, no added chemicals or colours. 

6. Lakme Sun Expert

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Lakme Sun Expert gel is a revolutionary formula that provides up to 97% of UV radiation protection. The sunscreen is formulated with SPF 50, which may help in keeping your skin safe from sunburn. The product is fast-absorbing and gives the skin an overall natural finish.

Benefits:

• The SPF 50 gel provides wide-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. 
• Created with revolutionary Lakme Protection formula, it reduces skin ageing, dark spots and skin lightening.
• The sunscreen instantly gets absorbed into the skin post application without making the skin look chalky.
• The non-greasy formula makes the skin appear natural after every use. 
• The product is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, meaning that it does not cause irritation and does not clog pores.

7. Mamaearth Ultra Light Indian Sunscreen

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The Mamaearth sunscreen is created for Indian skin, keeping in mind the strong and humid Indian summer months. It comes with SPF 50, thereby protecting your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Unique for its ultra-light formula, this sunscreen  does not need to be reapplied every 4-5 hours. Once used, may protect your skin for up to 6 hours. The sunscreen is formulated with turmeric, a popular ingredient in the Indian skincare routine, noted for its anti-fungal, de-tanning and skin brightening properties and can be considered one of the best sunscreens for Indian skin. 

Benefits:

• Long-lasting formula may provide up to 6 hours of protection. 
• Gets quickly absorbed, not leaving any residual white patches.
• Keeps the skin hydrated throughout the day, without making it dry.
• The product is free from paraben oil, silicone, mineral oil, etc.
•  Contains carrot seed oil that deeply penetrates into the skin, moisturising from deep within.
• Infused with orange oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties. 
• Cananga oil and Titanium oxide, form a protective layer on the skin, protecting it from harmful ultraviolet radiation hitting.

8. Lakme Sun Expert Sunscreen Spf 24

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Lakme Sun Expert Sunscreen with SPF 24 is dermatologically tested to provide you protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. The sunscreen is delicate on your skin, giving you an instant brightening effect and is one of the best sunscreens for face in India.

Benefits:

• Composed of lemongrass, Vitamin B3 and cucumber extracts, all combined, the sunscreen protects your skin for long hours. 
• Provides a naturally smooth texture to your skin. 
• Effectively moisturises the skin, maintains hydration throughout the day. 
• It successfully blocks up to 97% UVA and UVB rays.

9. Pond’s Sun Protect Non-oily Sunscreen Spf 30

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Pond’s sun protect non-oily sunscreen is created with a revolutionary formula; it is creamy in texture but feels light on the skin, similar to gel or water-based sunscreens. It is uniquely created not only to block off harmful ultraviolet radiation but also to tackle other skin concerns such as wrinkles, dark spots, uneven skin tone, redness, sun-tan and patches. 

Benefits:

• Quick absorption, does not make the skin look chalky or white cast. 
• Formulated with a subtle floral fragrance. 
• Dermatologically tested. 
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, thus does not clog pores and cause skin irritation.
• Protects skin from sunburn, tan and redness. 
• Provide protection from UVA and UVB rays.

10. Lacto Calamine Daily Sunshield Matte Look Sunscreen Spf 50

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Lacto Calamile Matte Look Sunscreen as the name suggests is meant to provide you with a matte, clean finish. It is ideally formulated for humid, Indian weather and Indian skin. Created with SPF 50, it ensures that your skin is well-safeguarded from damaging rays of the sun such as sunburns, redness and tan. 

Benefits:

• Shields skin from UVA and UVB rays. 
• Enriched with the goodness of lemon extracts and kaolin clay to cater to skin pigmentation. 
• It is a non-greasy, lightweight formula that penetrates deep into the skin.
• It is dermatologically tested and free from harsh preservatives such as parabens.

11. Sebamed Multi Protect Sun Spray Spf30

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The Sebamed Multi Protect Sun Spray is a miracle sunscreen designed to give you umpteen benefits in one product. The spray comes with a UVA/UVB protection filter as well as Vitamin E extracts that keeps skin from damage. The sunscreen comes with SPF 50 and provitamin B5 that is known to rejuvenate unburnt and damaged skin. It has a 5.5 PH level which keeps the skin healthy.

Benefits:

• Maintains skin elasticity due to the presence of lecithin and natural inulin.
• The product is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.
• Formulated to provide you triple protection- from UVA/UVB rays and skin damage due to Vitamin E extracts.
• Has a PH balance of 5.5.
• The sunscreen is sweat-proof and water-resistant. 
• Provitamin B5 regenerates dull and damaged skin. 
• Lecithinin and inulin maintain skin elasticity.

12. Lakme Sun Expert Ultra Matte Lotion Spf 50

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Lakme Sun Expert Matte Lotion may give you coverage from harmful ultraviolet radiation for up to 97%. It has an effective sweat-proof formulation and so complies well with the rest of your makeup on a hot and humid Indian summer’s day.

Benefits:

• It is sweat-resistant and provides long-wear protection. 
• Protects skin from UVA and UVB sun rays.
• May reduce sunburn, tan, dark spots and fine lines. 
• A lightweight formula that quickly gets absorbed into the skin making it appear soft and smooth.
• The product is dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic. 

13. Pond’s Sandal Radiance Talcum Powder Natural Sunscreen

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Pond’s Sandal Radiance Sunscreen is a unique powder-based product that is designed keeping in mind Indians who love their powders. The product has a pleasant fragrance of sandalwood and keeps your skin dry and clean even on the most humid days. It is created with a sun protection formula that keeps your skin safeguarded from damaging ultraviolet rays.  

Benefits:

• Keeps skin dry and fresh all throughout the day. 
• Has a pleasant aroma of sandalwood that prevents a strong body odour.
• The powder-based sunscreen removes oil, making the skin appear even-toned. 
• Makes your skin appear glowing and healthy.

14. Elovera Sunscreen Spf 15

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Elovera Sunscreen is enriched with the goodness of aloe vera and Vitamin E. It protects your skin from UVA/UVB radiation and at the same time gives nourishment. It is formulated for harsh Indian summer months to provide a soothing effect post prolonged sun exposure. 

Benefits:

• The product comes with SPF 15.
• The presence of aloe vera calms and moisturises damaged and sunburnt skin. 
• Vitamin E slows down ageing due to its antioxidant properties. 
• Provides protection, hydration and moisturisation in equal measure. 

15. Lakme Sun Expert Spf 50

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Lakme Sun Expert with SPF 50 is the skin expert for sun protection. A gel-based product, it seeps slowly into the skin, giving an overall smooth and natural appearance. It effectively forms a barrier between the harmful rays of the sun and your skin’s natural beauty, making it one of the best sunscreens for summer.

Benefits:

• SPF 50 provides maximum protection from UVA rays. 
• Reduces premature ageing, dark spots and skin darkening. 
• Enriched with the goodness of cucumber and lemongrass extracts which hydrates skin, prohibits excess oil production and adds a natural glow. 
• After application provides an ultra-matte  and clean finish, making it ideal for daywear. 
• This non-greasy formula is perfect for everyday use. 

16. Fair & Lovely Sun Protect Sunscreen Spf 30

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The Fair & Lovely Sun Protect Sunscreen SPF 30 may form a strong protective layer from damaging UVA/UVB rays and your skin. After application, your skin will feel non-greasy and non-oily. The sunscreen is created with Vitamin B3 that protects the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage.  

Benefits:

• It is a dual product that provides sun protection and an instant brightening effect. 
• Prevents your skin from developing sunspots and sunburns. 
• Has a mattifying effect, making your skin appear clean and non-oily throughout the day.
• Comes with a quick absorbent formula. 

17. La Shield Fisico Sunscreen Spf 50 Matte

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This sunscreen is ideal for all those with extra sensitive skin. It is a lotion-based product with broad-spectrum protection. The SPF 50 successfully safeguards skin from both UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen is the numero choice for most women due to its makeup compliant characteristics.

Benefits:

• Safe for all skin types and especially sensitive skin. 
• Gets quickly absorbed into the skin, not leaving any white cast.
• It is water-prooff and non-comedogenic, meaning that it is perfect for people prone to acne and pimple breakouts. 
• Does not contain any harsh chemicals or preservatives. 
• Protects the skin from sun damage such as tan, dark spots, hyperpigmentation and premature ageing.

18. Lakme Sun Expert Tinted Sunscreen 50 Spf

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The Lakme Sun Expert Tinted Sunscreen is a breakthrough formula that seeps into the skin without leaving any noticeable white cast. It has SPF 50 which means you get protection from sun rays for up to 97%. Being a tinted sunscreen it is perfect for all skin types as it provides an even tone as well as expert sun protection. 

Benefits:

• Shields you from UVA rays, thus reducing skin darkening, ageing, sunspots and dark spots. 
• The product keeps the skin hydrated and bestows an immediate glow. 
• It is a tinted sunscreen, formulated to give you an even tone, extra-matte and non-sticky effect. 
• A lightweight formula, ideal for everyday use.
• Dermatologically tested for all skin types. 

19. Glenmark La Shield Sunscreen Spf 40+

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This is an advanced product, meant for broad-spectrum application. It provides expert sun protection from UVA/UVB rays and is dermatologically tested to be hypoallergenic, water-proof and non-comedogenic. It is created with a liquid crystal technology that makes the skin appear velvety soft. 

Benefits:

• It is an oil-free, non-greasy formula.
• The sunscreen spreads evenly and penetrates deeply to provide you wide spectrum of protection from UVA/UVB rays. 
• The gel-based sunscreen is perfect for oily-acne-prone and normal skin. 
• It is non-comedogenic and does not contain preservatives, additives, colours and artificial fragrance. 

20. La Shield Ir Sunscreen Spf 30

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The LA Shield IR Sunscreen is a revolutionary formula that not only safeguards skin from damaging UVA and UVB radiation but also rays emitted from laptop/computer screens, television screens, halogen lamps and more. It keeps your skin well-protected both indoors and outdoors. 

Benefits:

• The product is non-comedogenic, does not clog pores and lead to sudden breakouts.
• The active ingredient, Thermos Thermophilus Ferment moisturises skin and prevents damage to collagen, the skin protein, essential for youthfulness and elasticity.
• It is free from preservatives such as parabens. 
• Free from alcohol and dye, thus it is perfect for people with sensitive skin.

21. Good Skyn Clinic Uv Protect Sunscreen Aqua Gel Spf-30+ With Multivitamins

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Sunscreen is an essential skin care product that must be used by all. Whether you’re planning to stay indoors or outdoors, whether it is cloudy or sunny outside, the UV rays of the sun will reach you. So, applying a layer of sunscreen can protect you from harmful sun exposure and also keep you safe from the possibility of skin cancer. 

Good Skyn Clinic brings you UV Protect Sunscreen Aqua Gel SPF 30+ enriched with multivitamins. The product is dermatologist-recommended. It is clinically researched to block harmful UVA and UVB sun rays. It helps to minimise harmful effects and aids in restoring moisture to the skin. The final look after application is moisturised, healthy and non-greasy. 

Benefits 

• The sunscreen has multivitamins which help to rejuvenate and hydrate the skin 
• Presence of niacinamide assists in minimising hyperpigmentation and can also add elasticity to the skin over prolonged use
• Gives a non-greasy, glowing and moisturised look 
• The sunscreen is free from paraben, alcohol, fragrance, harmful dyes and any kind of colour additives. The product will not cause skin damage. 
• Citric acid, a powerful antioxidant present in sunscreen may be able to help reverse photodamage signs or signs of early ageing. 
• Enriched with sodium hyaluronate which helps hydrate the skin
• The effect of the sunscreen is long-lasting

Benefits of Sunscreen

Some of the key highlights of an effective sunscreen are:

• Shields your delicate skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. 
• May Safeguard your skin from the effects of premature ageing. 
• May Reduce the chance of skin cancer.
• Reduces blotchiness and the sudden eruption of red veins.
• Takes care of tanning issues. 
• Promotes healthy skin by protecting proteins such as keratin, collagen and elastin.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing Sunscreen 

Ingredient List 

When purchasing sunscreen, check the ingredient list at the back and look for ingredients that give protection from both UVA ( long wave ultraviolet A) and UVB (short wave ultraviolet B) radiation.

Opt for mineral sunscreens made with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Refrain from purchasing sunscreens that contain oxybenzone which causes hormonal skin darkening. 

SPF is Key

Always buy sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30. SPF which stands for Sun Protection Factor is a measure of how well the sunscreen can give you protection from tan and sunburn. Sunscreens with SPF 30 are said to keep you safe from 97% sun damage. 

Consistency/Form

Sunscreens come in an array of forms or consistencies. Some are available in cream, some gel-like formula, some in spray form. Cream-based formulations can get a little sticky, especially in humid weather conditions while gel sunscreens are most loved for their quick absorption ability. Spray sunscreens are a new concept and are being embraced by travellers for on the go sun protection. 

Quantity for quality

Sunscreen is a long-term if not a lifetime investment. You need it for everyday

use. So, sufficient quantity is a key factor for the price paid. Do not end up paying a lot of money for a high-end product that won’t even last you a month. Go for a mid-range sunscreen that meets quantity as well as quality. 

How to Use 

To get the best results out of your newly purchased sunscreen here is what you should do:

• Apply the sunscreen to all exposed parts of your body 15-30 minutes prior to stepping out in the sun. 
• Aside from applying on your face, neck and arms, be sure to use the sunscreen for a few other neglected parts of the day such as the back of your ears, shoulders and the backside of your knees and legs. 
• Apply the sunscreen generously.
• If you have oily skin, try to use a sunscreen that is water-based.
• If you have a tendency to sweat a lot, pick a waterproof sunscreen or one that gives you a mattifying effect.
• If you are outdoors for long hours, ensure to reapply your sunscreen after intervals.
• Try to go for a sunscreen that gives protection from both UVA as well as UVB rays. 

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