We can all agree that wearing sunscreen on a daily basis is a non-negotiable. But how do you go about finding the right formula when you can’t understand its contents? If you find the details on sunscreen labels confusing due to the use of scientific jargon, you’re not alone, and we've identified three elements you should keep an eye out for—SPF, coverage, and texture. Start by studying its SPF measure—dermatologists suggest going for SPF 30 or higher. Next, find out if the formula offers broad-spectrum coverage, which means it will protect you against both UVA and UVB rays. So far so good? There’s one more thing you need to address before you can add your choice of product to the shopping cart. Is your sunscreen matte or creamy? Your skin type, whether dry, oily, or sensitive, will help you determine the texture you should be looking for. To assist you in making the right choice, here’s a curation of the 10 best sunscreens of this season.
If your dry skin needs some extra care, consider this hydrating sun cream. Packed with powerful ingredients such as African walnut oil, aloe extract, hollyhock roots, sunflower seeds, and bamboo water, it provides the dual benefits of moisturising as well as protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
INR 2,159
Perfect for those with an oily skin type who might find plastering on a thick, greasy layer of sunscreen to be an annoyance in the summer. Tested in humid environments, this water-light, weightless formula by Kiehl’s keeps you feeling light and fresh. With vitamin E as its key ingredient, this non-comedogenic sunscreen helps in neutralising harmful free radicals, offers antioxidant protection, and adds moisture to your skin.
INR 3,000
What’s not to love about this 100 percent mineral sunscreen? Its Environmental Protection Technology utilises the power of protective ingredients like lutein and iron oxides to shield you against ageing accelerators like UVA and UVB rays, infrared radiation, and pollution.
INR 5,800
This daily sunscreen offers multi-protection against various skin aggressors in the environment, defending you from indoor as well as outdoor pollution. The fluid essence is quick to absorb, non-greasy, and invisible—and the best news is that you don’t have to worry about an annoying white cast after application.
INR 2,995
Here’s a great option for lovers of clean beauty. Clinique brings you an ultra-lightweight, 100 percent mineral sunscreen that’s oil-free, non-irritant, and safe to use for all skin types. Its Invisible Shield Technology creates a transparent layer to offer protection against UVA and UVB rays.
INR 2,850
Another great eco-friendly option, this liquid sunscreen by Forest Essentials relies on all-natural ingredients such as tender coconut water, basil, and Yashada Bhasma, which is a safe SPF source prescribed in the ancient science of Ayurveda.
INR 1,175
Prone to breakouts? This mattifying sunscreen and moisturiser has oil absorbers that make it perfect for managing oily skin. Consider this product to help combat signs of ageing, UV damage, and excess oils in one masterstroke.
INR 4,200
This water-resistant sunscreen by Innisfree has a natural toning effect that leaves your skin feeling fresh and light. In addition, the 100 percent natural formula also has an effective mineral filter to prevent sun damage, while steering clear of any greasiness after application.
INR 1,250
It is impossible to avoid daily pollutants when you live in a city. This gel cream by Clarins acts as a pollution screen, offering protection against the five types of pollutants we encounter regularly on the go—pollen, atmospheric, indoor, blue light, and photo-pollution.
INR 3,050
If you’re planning to head out on a trek, spend an afternoon at an outdoor picnic, or soak in the sun by the ocean, we recommend leaving your skin protection in the hands of this expert brand. Their tinted face sunscreen is water-resistant, ultra-lightweight, and provides sheer coverage to keep your skin feeling weightless. It also fuses the strength of inorganic compounds like micronised zinc oxide with pure vitamin E for a unique blend that is rich in antioxidants.
INR 10,000