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A Guide To Best Sunscreen For Summer
All ready to step out of the house? Stunning outfit? Check. Wallet? Check. Geared up against UV radiations? No? We are talking about sunscreens here. Sunscreens are a crucial part of your daily skincare regime. You must wear it every day. Period.
The mere thought of applying a greasy substance on your skin that may leave a white cast is cringe-worthy, we understand that. On the brighter side; however, there are non-greasy sunscreens that might actually make you fall in love with them.
So, we have rounded up a list of some non-greasy best sunscreen brands in India in one place. Let's dive in.
Table of Contents
A Guide To Best Sunscreen For Summer
1. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
This sunscreen is ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin. This is one of the top sunscreen brands in India, ranks among dermatologists’ favorites. Rich in antioxidants, Elta MD has launched this slightly tinted physical sunscreen that aims to provide maximum protection from the sun. This sunscreen is a mineral-based product. It has zinc oxide as an active ingredient that sits on top of the skin and acts as a barrier between skin and UV rays. With water-resistant properties, it becomes suitable for people who regularly engage in water-based activities like swimming or those who sweat profusely. It also contains exfoliating and anti-inflammatory agents.
Key Ingredients:
Zinc Oxide 9%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Purified Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Niacinamide, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lactic Acid, Oleth-3 Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Butylene Glycol, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Pros:
- Oil-free
- Broad Spectrum
- Suitable for oily as well as extra sensitive skin
- Water-resistant
- Paraben-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Sensitivity-Free
- Fragrance-free
Cons:
- Relatively Expensive
2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50 plus
Equipped with Helioplex technology, this is one of the top sunscreen brands in India which has been clinically proven, time-tested sunscreens with an oil-free formulation. It is super effective and shows positive results for all skin types. It is gentle on the skin and stays for longer hours.
Key Ingredients:
Homosalate, Benzophenone-3, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Octocrylene, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Non-comedogenic
- Weightless
- Quick Absorption
- Blends easily
- Protects skin from damage
- Suited for all weathers
- Leaves no white residue
- Matte finish
Cons:
None
3. CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint
Made with mineral titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, CeraVe’s sunscreen is ideal for sensitive skin that smoothly blends into all skin tones. It contains ceramides and other agents that help lock in moisture. Being produced by one of the top ranking sunscreen brands in India, it leaves a glowing effect on the skin and restores the skin to its healthier self. Niacinamide soothes and calms skin.
Also, it is awarded the Skin Cancer Foundation Daily Use Seal of Approval
Key Ingredients:
Titanium Dioxide (5.5%), Zinc Oxide (10%), Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Water, Phytosphingosine, Tocopherol, Niacinamide, Phytosphingosine, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine
Pros:
- Oil-free
- Lightweight
- Paraben-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Quick absorption
- Fragrance-free
Cons:
- It might not suit all skin types
- It is not water-resistant.
4. Plum Green Tea Day-Light Sunscreen SPF 35 PA+++
Plum Goodness has launched this sunscreen under their Tea Tree range which has been a savior for all oily skin types. Being among the best brand sunscreens for face, it feels very light on the skin and you will definitely love wearing this all the time. With organic ingredients, it calms the irritated skin and prevents it from inflammation and redness. It is easy to use and carry around.
Key Ingredients:
Niacinamide, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Glycerin, Phospholipids, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice, Benzophenone-3, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Pros:
- Broad Spectrum
- Vegan
- Paraben-Free
- SLS-free
- Gel Based
- Ultra-light
- No white cast
- Non-comedogenic
- Pleasant Fragrance
Cons:
- If you are prone to regular breakouts, then it might not be the best choice for you.
5. Kaya Daily Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30
Kaya Daily Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30 is again one of the top sunscreen brands in india. It is suitable for normal to dry skin. This product keeps the skin nourished and hydrated besides protecting it from UVA and UVB rays. You can see the effects within a week. Besides formulation, the packaging is also consciously selected to provide optimal functionality and convenience to the users. It is easy to spread and blends smoothly into the skin.
Key Ingredients:
Hydroxyethyl Urea, Niacinamide, Titanium dioxide, Water, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Zinc Gluconate
Pros:
- Broad Spectrum Protection
- Lightweight
- Quick absorption
- Fruity fragrance
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Skin Conditioning
Cons:
None
6. POND'S Sun Protect Non-Oily Sunscreen SPF 50
This is one of the best sunscreen brands in India that provides protection against all 5 skin problems caused by excessive sun exposure (fine lines, dark circles, dark spots, uneven patches, and redness. Besides being non-greasy, it is lightweight and sits well on the skin. It is best suited for extra oily skin.
Key Ingredients:
Niacinamide, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycerin, Allantoin, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Octocrylene, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Titanium Dioxide
Pros:
- Broad-Spectrum
- Lightweight
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
Cons:
- Might induce sweating
7. ORGANIC HARVEST SUNSCREEN FOR OILY SKIN SPF 30
Enriched in natural ingredients, the sunscreen by Organic Harvest is free from harsh chemicals. Beating many known sunscreen brands in India, it ranks high among dermatologist recommendations. It keeps the skin hydrated without being sticky and giving a glue-like feel.
Key Ingredients:
Olive Oil, Clay Minerals, Soybean oil, Aloe Vera extracts, Rice extracts, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Certified Organic Zinc Oxide, Kaolin
Pros:
- Broad Spectrum
- Natural/Vegan
- Water resistant
- Matte Finish
- Quick absorption
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons:
None
8. HAWAIIAN Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30
Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, this sunscreen is enriched in antioxidants and sun-protecting vitamins keeping the skin healthy and glowing while protecting it against the sun. In addition, this best sunscreen brand in India does no harm to coral reefs in its manufacturing which makes it a perfect choice for all environment conscious people.
Key Ingredients:
Avobenzone, Water, Homosalate, Octocrylene, Fruits Extracts, Mica, Benzyl Alcohol, Acrylates, Diisopropyl Adipate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol
Pros:
- Broad Spectrum
- Weightless
- Clinically proven
- Water resistant
- Tropical fragrance
Cons:
- It is not suitable for sensitive skin.
9. NEOGENDERMALOGY Day-Light Protection Sunscreen
With SPF 50, NEOGENDERMALOGY Day-Light Protection Sunscreen not only protects the skin from harmful UV rays but also promotes healthy and hydrated skin. Being among the top sunscreen brands in India, it is rich in antioxidants and natural ingredients that rejuvenates the skin and hydrates it from within.
Key Ingredients:
Vitamin E, beta-glucan, blueberry extracts, rose extracts, and gentian extracts
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Absorbs quickly
- Matte finish
- Non-comedogenic
Cons:
- It is not water resistant.
10. Clinique Super City Block SPF 40
This is another amazing product by one of the most loved sunscreen brands in India. It is enriched in antioxidants that blend with all skin tones effortlessly. It leaves no residue and absorbs into the skin easily. You can even use it as a primer. This works great during winters as well.
Key Ingredients:
Octinoxate, Octisalate, Water, Butylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide
Pros:
- Broad Spectrum
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Fragrance-free
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Controls Oil
Cons:
- It is a little more expensive than other options.
Some Key Points To Remember To Protect Your Skin From The Sun Properly
Points to remember when using a sunscreen:
- Do not mix “water-resistant” and “waterproof” – No sunscreen brand in India is waterproof. However, many claim it to be water-resistant. This means that they are effective after contacting water for a limited time. A water-resistant sunscreen can be effective in water between 40-80 minutes.
- The time of year does not decide the application of sunscreen wear. Ensure that you apply it regardless of the season. Sun is emitting rays relentlessly. Guard your skin.
- If you engage in water-based activities or sweat profusely, carry the best brand sunscreen for your face with you at all times. Do not forget to reapply it after every two hours.
- Do not forget about your lips – Your lips also need protection from the sun. Find lip balms with SPF to guard them.
Other ways to save your skin from the sun
- Cover Up
Other than using the best sunscreen brands in India, when you step out of the house, wear clothes that cover your skin as much as possible. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will help you save hair and eyes.
- Get an Umbrella
If you walk out in the bright afternoons and during peak hours, carry an umbrella with you for added protection.
- Limit Direct Exposure: Stay in Shade
UV rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Be careful and avoid sun exposure if you can.
- Say no to Tanning Beds and Sunlamps
It is all about UV radiation. Exposure to it from artificial resources like sunlamps is equally dangerous. As per National Cancer Institute (NCI), long-term exposure can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Some Common Questions About Sunscreens
These are some common questions regarding sunscreen brands in India you hear regularly.
Why do you need to apply sunscreen?
Sun is the major contributor to skin aging and cancer. The signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation are likely to appear sooner if you expose your skin to the sun for a long time.
The depletion of the ozone layer has further increased our direct exposure to harmful UV radiation. Best sunscreen brand in India block these rays from contacting our skin and guard it against damage. Research has found that wearing sunscreen can reduce the risk of developing cancer by half!
Should I wear sunscreen every day?
Yes. As said earlier, you must guard your skin every day. If you are exposed to the sun for more than 10 minutes, you need sunscreen.
It is advised to reapply the best brand sunscreen for face every two hours to get the best results leaving no space for any risk.
Are you slathering it properly?
If you’re heading outdoors, you apply sunscreen. But, what about when you stay indoors? You have to apply it even then. UVA rays penetrate through glass. So, you’re exposed to harmful radiation even indoors.
Apply sunscreen to your face and body. Cover every part of the skin that is exposed to the sun. Some dermatologists recommend that you need a shot glass’s worth of the best sunscreen brand in India for the entire body and face.
Which is the best type of sunscreen- lotion, gel, spray, powder, or stick?
The one you prefer.
Find Out which suits you the best. Some like the best sunscreen for the summer in gel form while others prefer powders. As long as you apply it right, these variations do not matter. However, if you have oily skin, we suggest you choose gels and powders over creams or lotions because they are innately lighter.
Is there any difference between physical sunscreen or chemical sunscreen?
The difference lies in their active ingredients list of the top sunscreen brands in India. Chemical sunscreens get absorbed into the skin whereas physical sunscreens sit on the top deflecting sun rays.
Thus, physical sunscreens are a better choice for daily use.
How to choose the right sunscreen?
Sunscreen brands in India have flooded the market. On top of that, there are so many fancy terms on the packaging that might jumble up your mind. Which one to select? What numbers are the best? Is SPF enough while selecting the sunscreen? What else are you supposed to check while selecting the sunscreen?
Don’t worry, we will answer everything. These are the few basic things you got to see to find the right protector for you:
“Broad Spectrum” Protection
The sun emits two types of ultraviolet radiation that reach the earth’s surface damaging the skin- UVA and UVB. UVA (Ultraviolet radiation A) can cause skin aging and UVB (Ultraviolet radiation B) can cause sunburns and skin cancer. Broad Spectrum protection guards the skin against both.
Consider SPF
We hear SPF all the time from the best sunscreen brands in India. But what does SPF actually mean?
SPF refers to the Sun Protection Factor. It tells you how long your skin is protected against UV radiation after applying sunscreen. Usually, our skin starts to burn after 10-20 minutes of sun exposure.
It also indicates the percentage of skin protection against the sun. SPF 15 blocks 93 percent of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97 percent while SPF 50 prevents 98 percent.
The magic number is, though, SPF 30. When applied properly, it can make all the difference. This is also a clinically proven amount of protection that skin needs.
Check the Active Ingredients
If you have a skin condition or are allergic, check the list of active ingredients to ensure no harm is done to your skin. Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic sunscreens are best suited for people who are allergic to fragrances.
Refer to your Skin Type
Pay attention to your skin to find the sunscreen that helps your skin rather than harm it. For oily and acne-prone skin, it is advised to go for non-comedogenic products. They prevent clogging the pores and future breakouts. For dry skin, sunscreens with hydrating agents would work the best.
Pay Attention to Your Level of Sun Exposure
If you stay outdoors most of the time, buying the top sunscreen brand in India with SPF 30 or more makes sense. For people who regularly engage in swimming activities or deal with excessive sweating, water-resistant and sweat-proof sunscreens are a perfect choice.
No sunscreen brand in India is 100% effective but all sunscreens can increase your time to stay outside protected. And remember, “The best sunscreen is the one you choose.”
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