Water-resistant sunscreens that work even on monsoon days

Usually, when you think of water-resistant sunscreens, you’d picture a leisurely swim at the beach or a dip in the pool—but who’d have thought this type of sunscreen would come in handy while getting drenched in the famed Indian monsoon!

And yes, sunscreens are still a must in the rain! Dr Nidhi Singh Tandon, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Art Clinic, says, “Sunscreen is necessary during the monsoons. Even when skies are cloudy or it’s raining, up to 80 per cent of ultraviolet (UV) rays—especially UVA—can still penetrate through clouds and reach the skin. UVA rays are responsible for photoaging and pigmentation and are present year-round, making consistent sun protection essential regardless of weather.” She asserts that even during monsoons, sunscreen should be reapplied every two to three hours if you’re outdoors.

Talking about water-resistant sunscreens, Dr Tandon suggests that these are more reliable than regular sunscreens in humid, rainy conditions. “They’re specifically formulated to adhere better to the skin even when it gets damp, whether from sweat, rain, or high humidity.”

According to FDA regulations, a “water-resistant” label means the sunscreen maintains its SPF for either 40 or 80 minutes of exposure to water or sweat. “Forty minutes is effective for light exposure to rain or sweat, but if you’re outdoors for long periods or very active, it’s better to choose one labelled 80 minutes and reapply every two hours or after towel-drying or getting significantly wet.” She shares that forty minutes is the minimum benchmark; however, this does not mean the sunscreen is waterproof or long-lasting indefinitely. Reapplication is key for continued protection.

In humid and rainy conditions, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is recommended. “Gel-based or matte-finish fluid sunscreens are ideal, as they feel lightweight, absorb quickly, and are less likely to clog pores in a damp, sweaty environment. Besides water-resistant ones, it is also important to look for non-comedogenic formulas suited for Indian skin types,” says Dr Tandon.

With a gazillion sunscreen options now available, we wonder which kind works best for the rains – lotions, sprays, or sticks? Dr Tandon reveals, “In rainy weather, gel-based lotions and fluid sunscreens are the most effective for broad and even application. Sunsticks are excellent for targeted touch-ups, particularly around areas like the nose, lips, and ears. Sprays may seem convenient, but often deliver uneven coverage unless used meticulously. Overall, gels and sticks are more practical and weather-adapted for the monsoon.”

Here are some water-resistant sunscreen recommendations for you…

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++

Say goodbye to white casts, as this invisible, weightless, sunscreen offers sun protection with a gel formula that gives a natural finish. It even doubles as a makeup-gripping primer! The sunscreen is water- and sweat-resistant for up to 40 minutes, making it suitable for daily wear and light activities.

Caudalie Vinosun Protect Invisible High Protection Stick SPF50

If you’re a ‘toss everything in your bag’ girlie, be assured a handy sun stick like this one won’t cause a leaky mess. Enriched with grape seed and buriti oils, it is a fragrance-free, very water-resistant stick that retains its SPF protection through up to 80 minutes of exposure to water, sweat, or humidity.

La Roche Posay Anthelios UVmune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+

This viral sunscreen has an ultra-light texture and an invisible finish. It is water- and sweat- resistant, ensuring effective sun protection in the rain. It is also ideal for sensitive skin and humid conditions.

Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++

Another much-loved sunscreen, this J-beauty sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, giving effective protection in damp, rainy, or humid conditions, too. It is a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen that absorbs quickly and gives a smooth, non-greasy finish.

Shiseido Future Solution LX Universal Defense SPF 50+

This luxurious, water-resistant sunscreen delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Formulated with Shiseido’s exclusive Skingenecell 1P and LonGenevity Complex, it also helps boost skin’s resilience, improve radiance, and defend against visible signs of ageing.

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