Choosing the best sunscreen to protect your face while nourishing it can be an arduous task given the huge array of options available today. Skincare technology has evolved tremendously enabling us to shield our facial skin effectively not just from sun damage but also environmental stressors like pollution, blue light, infra-red radiation etc.
In this blog, I present a curated list of the 15 best sunscreen formulations for the face available in the Indian market. Ranging from trusted classics to innovative new launches, I analyze these facial sun protection products on aspects like SPF level, suitability for skin type, texture/finish, added skin benefits and pricing.
For each sunscreen, I summarize key features, expert opinions and genuine user reviews so you can assess rightly if a product aligns well with your needs and preferences. Further sections elaborate on how to choose the ideal sunscreen for your facial skin, explain the different types available today and provide a usage guide with sun protection best practices and maintenance tips.
Let’s explore the 15 best sun care innovations to nourish and shield your face optimally this sunny season!
The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua Ultra Light Gel provides broad spectrum SPF 50 protection against UVA, UVB, and blue light. It contains 1% hyaluronic acid for hydration and has a lightweight gel texture that gets easily absorbed into skin without leaving a white cast. The formula is also oil-free, non-comedogenic, and dermatologically tested.
This sunscreen lives up to its claims of being ultra light, getting absorbed quickly without any greasy feel. The addition of hyaluronic acid boosts hydration making it suitable for normal to dry skin. It layers well under makeup too. The gel-cream texture spreads evenly and works well for oily and acne-prone skin as well. For its affordable pricing, waterproof, and sweatproof claims, this is undoubtedly one of the best sunscreen gels in the market.
Description: The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua Ultra Light Gel provides broad spectrum SPF 50 protection against UVA, UVB, and blue light. Enriched with 1% hyaluronic acid, it hydrates skin while protecting from sun damage. The quick absorbing, lightweight formula has a non-greasy finish that layers well under makeup.
The Minimalist SPF 50 Sunscreen provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection with PA++++ rating. Enriched with Vitamin E, B3, C, & B5, the fast absorbing, lightweight formula protects skin without leaving a white cast. It has a matte finish suitable for all skin types. The sunscreen is also cruelty-free, vegan, and suitable for sensitive skin.
True to its claims, this Minimalist sunscreen has an incredibly lightweight gel-cream formula that gets absorbed into the skin quickly without any greasy feel. It provides adequate sun protection without white cast or breakouts even for acne-prone skin. The addition of Vitamins boosts skin health while protecting it from the sun’s harsh rays. Overall, it’s one of the best lightweight sunscreens suitable for oily and sensitive skin types.
Description: The Minimalist Sunscreen SPF 50 Lightweight provides broad spectrum sun protection with PA++++ rating. Enriched with Vitamins E, B3, C, and B5, it has a fast absorbing formula suitable for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It leaves a matte, non-greasy finish without white cast.
The Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen provides broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection along with blue light protection. The lightweight gel-cream formula contains skin nourishing oils and Vitamin E. It blends easily to provide a dewy glow that is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. This vegan and fragrance-free sunscreen is also reef-safe.
Aqualogica Glow+ lives up to its claims of providing a beautiful glow while protecting skin. The formula glides and blends in easily to provide a smooth base for makeup application. While the initial dewy look mellows down to a radiant matte finish, it keeps skin moisturized without extra shine or grease. It works well for both oily and dry skin and does not cause breakouts. Undoubtedly one of the best sunscreens in the market.
Description: The Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen provides SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection with added blue light defense. Formulated with skin nourishing oils and Vitamin E, this lightweight sunscreen gives a beautiful glow suitable for all skin types without clogging pores or irritating sensitive skin.
As the name suggests, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer is an ultra light sunscreen with SPF 50+ protection well-suited for oily skin. Powered by Helioplex Technology, it provides superior broad spectrum UVA/UVB defense in a fast absorbing formula that leaves a clean matte finish without any shine or white residue. It is water and sweat resistant making it ideal for outdoor use.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer remarkably lives up to claims of its light texture that seems to vanish into skin, providing invisible sun protection. A little goes a long way in blending easily without any greasy residue or white cast. It controls oil and shine really well, hence working great for acne-prone and oily skin types. Overall an affordable, fuss-free facial sunscreen with reliable UV protection.
Description: Powered by Helioplex Technology, the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50+ provides superior broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays in an ultra light, fast absorbing formula suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types. It leaves a clean matte finish without any oily residues, shine, or white cast.
As a lightweight gel-based sunscreen from the skincare experts Fixderma Shadow, this product is specially formulated for oily, acne-prone skin. It provides broad spectrum SPF 30 UVA/UVB sun protection. Enriched with Green Tea extracts and antioxidants, the fast absorbing non-comedogenic formula suits all skin types without clogging pores or causing breakouts. It is also water and sweat resistant.
Fixderma Shadow SPF 30 lives up to its lightweight gel texture that gets quickly absorbed into oily or combination skin. True to its claims, it does control oil and shine for hours while providing adequate sun protection. The addition of green tea is an added bonus for acne-prone skin. Affordable pricing and sweat resistance makes it ideal for everyday outdoor use. Can feel slightly drying for normal to dry skin types.
Description: The Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen Gel SPF 30+ provides broad spectrum sun protection specially formulated for oily, acne-prone skin types. Powered by Green Tea extracts and antioxidants, this lightweight non-comedogenic formula gets absorbed quickly without leaving a greasy residue or clogging pores. It is also water and sweat resistant.
Aqualogica Radiance+ Dewy Sunscreen provides broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection. Powered by skin nourishing ingredients like Watermelon Fruit Extract, Niacinamide and Olivem 1000, this formula provides deep moisturization while giving the skin a beautiful radiant glow. The fast absorbing lightweight texture is suitable for normal, dry and combination skin.
This Aqualogica sunscreen impressed us with its ability to provide a radiant glow while protecting dry skin from sun damage. It glides on smoothly and gives immense hydration making it appropriate for dry and dull skin. The initial dewy look settles to a radiant matte finish. While the Gel-cream texture seems fitting for oily skin as well, the deeply moisturizing effects make it more suitable for normal to dry skin types. Provides reliable sun protection too.
Description: Aqualogica Radiance+ Dewy Sunscreen SPF 50 provides reliable broad spectrum sun protection powered by skin nourishing ingredients like Watermelon Fruit Extract, Niacinamide and Olivem 1000. This lightweight gel-cream formula provides deep hydration while giving a beautiful radiant glow, making it suitable for dry, dull and combination skin.
This sunscreen from Dr. Sheth’s contains Ceramides and Vitamin C for nourishing and brightening the skin along with SPF 50 UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection. The lightweight gel-cream formula gets quickly absorbed without greasiness. It provides deep moisturization with zero white cast, making it suitable for all skin types. Cruelty-free and vegan product.
Dr. Sheth’s sunscreen impressively lives up to all its claims. True to its lightweight texture, it gets absorbed quickly without any oily residues while providing optimal sun protection. We also noticed brightening and smoothing effects on skin over time – thanks to the powerhouse of Ceramides, Vitamin C and other antioxidants. Its creamy nourishing effects make it suitable for normal, dry and mature skin as well. Undoubtedly one of the best sunscreens in the market.
Description: This Dr. Sheth’s Sunscreen contains Ceramides, Vitamin C along with SPF 50 broad spectrum protection to nourish, brighten and protect skin from UVA/UVB damage. The lightweight non-greasy gel-cream formula gets quickly absorbed without white cast, making it suitable for all skin types.
As a market leader in suncare, Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen provides superior broad spectrum SPF 50+ UV protection in a lightweight dry-touch formula. It contains Neutrogena’s unique Helioplex Technology that provides powerful sun protection from damaging UVA and UVB rays. The fast absorbing, non-comedogenic formula is ideal for the face and body with its non-greasy, shine-free finish.
Neutrogena impresses us yet again with this Sunscreen living up to its claims. A little amount goes a long way in providing unbeatable broad spectrum protection with its unique Helioplex technology. True to its name, it leaves a clean dry-touch matte finish making it ideal for outdoor activity while being gentle enough for facial skin. The lightweight fluid texture suits combination and slightly oily skin really well. Undoubtedly one of the best, reliable sunscreens in the market.
Description: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen uses Helioplex Technology to provide superior broad spectrum SPF 50+ UVA/UVB sun protection. The fast absorbing lightweight fluid texture leaves a clean, non-greasy matte finish making it ideal for oily, acne-prone skin and outdoor activity.
Enriched with Vitamin C and E, this Dot & Key sunscreen provides triple protection from UVA/UVB rays along with blue light defense for skin brightening benefits. The lightweight liquid serum texture blends easily without white cast, making it suitable for all skin types. It has SPF 50 PA+++ rating powered by a Pollution Protect Complex to shield from environmental aggressors. The formula is also vegan, cruelty-free and reef-safe.
The Dot & Key Suncare range presents an innovative sunscreen in a lightweight serum form that remarkably manages to provide sun protection along with anti-pollution benefits. True to its claims, the texture seems to vanish into skin providing a smooth glowing base for makeup. Works well for oily skin too without greasiness or breakouts. While the expensive pricing is justified for its skin brightening results, the lower quantity makes it more suitable for facial skin.
Description: Powered by Vitamin C, E and Pollution Protect Complex, this innovative Dot & Key sunscreen provides SPF50 PA+++ broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB along with blue light and pollution defense. The lightweight serum texture gets easily absorbed without greasiness, white cast or breakouts making it suitable for all skin types.
This Brinton Healthcare sunscreen has an innovative gel-based formula that provides SPF 50 PA+++ broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection in a greaseless matte texture. Enriched with Raspberry and Mulberry extracts, it shields skin from sun damage and environmental aggressors. The lightweight oil-free formula gets quickly absorbed without white residue making it ideal for the face and body. It is also water and sweat resistant.
As sun protection experts, Brinton impresses with this lightweight sunscreen living up to its claims. The gel formula truly does provide an invisible matte shield against sun damage that stays put through sweat and water exposure. It controls oil and shine remarkably well, hence working great for acne-prone oily skin. While the initial powdery matte texture seems fitting for dry skin as well, it can feel slightly drying upon reapplication. Overall, delivers reliable sun protection at affordable pricing.
Description: This innovative oil-free sunscreen gel by Brinton Healthcare provides reliable SPF 50 PA+++ broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection in a non-greasy quick absorbing formula suitable for face and body. Enriched with berry extracts, it is also water and sweat resistant.
Aqualogica Detan+ Sunscreen provides SPF 50+ PA++++ broad spectrum protection powered by Mulberry Extract that fades tan while shielding from UVA/UVB damage. The mineral based, lightweight creamy formula enriched with skin conditioners leaves a radiant matte finish with no white cast. Suitable for normal to dry skin, it is also hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested.
As experts in skincare, Aqualogica delivers yet again with this mineral sunscreen that protects dry skin while fading tan and providing a beautiful glow. True to claims, the creamy texture applies smoothly and offers intense hydration making it ideal for dry, dull, and sensitive skin. It provides reliable broad spectrum protection with some visible tan removal effects over time. Expensive compared to chemical sunscreens but suitable for those looking for mineral options.
Description: Aqualogica Detan+ Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a mineral-based formula containing Mulberry Extract that protects from UVA/UVB damage while gradually fading tan. The creamy lightweight texture enriched with skin conditioners provides a beautiful matte glow ideal for dry, sensitive skin without irritation or white cast.
As sun protection experts for over 20 years, Lotus Herbals brings an innovative Matte Gel formula that provides SPF 50 PA+++ broad spectrum protection in an invisible matte finish apt for oily acne-prone skin types. Powered by VEDOXI Technology, the lightweight gel gets easily absorbed without an oily residue or white cast. Enriched with Natural Antioxidants, it is suitable for everyday use.
As market leaders in herbal skincare, Lotus Herbals has clearly perfected the art of sun protection over the years. This Matte Gel sunscreen delivers exceptionally well on all accounts to control oil and acne while shielding from sun damage. Powered by innovative VEDOXI Technology for advanced protection from UVA/UVB rays, it vanishes completely into oily skin leaving a clean, shine-free matte finish. Definitely one of the best sun gels for oily, acne-prone skin in terms of affordability and sweat resistance.
Description: Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Invisible Matte Gel Sunscreen pa+++ provides SPF 50 broad spectrum protection powered by VEDOXI Technology to specifically suit oily acne-prone skin types. Enriched with natural antioxidants, the lightweight non-greasy formula gets quickly absorbed without white cast.
Lakme, as a leading budget-friendly cosmetics brand known for its range of nourishing skincare products, brings the Peach Milk Face Moisturizer. Formulated with goodness of Vitamin C and E, this lightweight, soap-free lotion is designed to give skin an illuminating glow with 12 hour hydration that spreads evenly and feels non oily. Suitable for daily use by women with normal, dry or combination skin.
While not being a sunscreen, the Lakme Peach Milk Face Moisturizer is an affordable lightweight lotion that gives hydration for upto 12 hours when used as a moisturizer under sunscreen. It contains nourishing ingredients like Vitamin C, E, and Peach that provide some brightening effects and antioxidation. The lotion texture absorbs well without oiliness, hence layering nicely under makeup or sun protection products. Overall a decent daily use moisturizing lotion for women with normal to dry skin, but not a substitute for sunscreen.
Description: The Lakme Peach Milk Face Moisturizer is a daily use lightweight, nourishing facial lotion containing Peach, Vitamin C and E. It provides 12 hour hydration for soft, glowing skin when used as a moisturizer underneath sunscreens. Suitable for normal, dry and combination skin tones. Not a sunscreen.
Episoft AC moisturizer is a daily use lightweight formula from Glenmark containing natural ingredients like Fuller’s earth, lemon, and wheat germ. Enriched with SPF 30 UVA/UVB sunscreen, Aloe Vera, and Vitamin E; it provides hydration while mildly exfoliating dead skin & preventing acne. The oil-free formulation is specially designed for oily, acne-prone skin of men and women.
While this Glenmark product primarily markets itself as an anti-acne moisturizer containing SPF 30 sunscreen, we noticed the effects to be quite mild in clearing or preventing breakouts. It does feel lightweight on application with no greasy residue. The lemon fragrance is slightly strong. As far as sun protection goes, SPF 30 is decent for incidental everyday exposure but insufficient for extended outdoor activity. Works well for mildly oily skin as a basic day moisturizer with some sun defense. But we’ve come across better lightweight sunscreens for truly oily, acne-prone skin.
Description: Episoft AC is a daily moisturizer from Glenmark enriched with SPF 30, Fuller’s earth, lemon, Aloe Vera & wheat germ. It provides oil control with mild exfoliation & anti-acne properties. Best suited for mildly oily to combination skin as a day moisturizer with some sun protection.
Fixderma Shadow presents a Sunscreen Cream with SPF 50+ PA+++ specifically formulated for dry skin. Powered by wholesome natural ingredients like Sweet Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Green Tea and natural SPF boosters; it nourishes dry skin while providing the highest grade broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. The creamy texture enriched with Vitamin E moisturizes without greasiness. It is also water and sweat resistant.
While being a relatively new launch, Fixderma’s cream sunscreen formulation for dry skin manages to impress us with its nourishing properties and reliably high sun protection. As sun care experts, they have effectively formulated an SPF50 cream that feels soothing and hydrating upon application while shielding skin with broad spectrum coverage and free radical defense. The affordability adds to its utility as a daily use sunscreen for face and body. It does leave a mild white cast and take a while to blend in completely so not suitable for darker skin tones. But overall one of the best hydrating sunscreens in the market for dry, sensitive skin types.
Description: The Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen Cream provides SPF 50+ PA+++ broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection speically formulated for dry skin types. Powered by natural oils and butters, the nourishing non-greasy formula moisturizes while shielding from sun damage. It is also water and sweat resistant.
Product | SPF Level | Skin Type |
---|---|---|
The Derma Co Hyaluronic Sunscreen | 50+ | Oily, Acne-prone |
Minimalist Sunscreen | 50+ | Oily, Sensitive |
Aqualogica Glow+ Sunscreen | 50+ | All Skin Types |
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen | 50+ | Oily, Acne-prone |
Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen Gel | 30+ | Oily, Acne-prone |
Aqualogica Radiance+ Sunscreen | 50+ | Dry, Dull Skin |
Dr. Sheth’s Ceramide Sunscreen | 50+ | Dry, Mature Skin |
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen | 50+ | Oily, Combination |
Dot & Key Vitamin C Sunscreen | 50+++ | All Skin Types |
Brinton Healthcare Sunscreen | 50+++ | Oily, Acne-prone |
Aqualogica Detan+ Sunscreen | 50+ | Dry, Sensitive Skin |
Lotus Herbals Invisible Matte Sunscreen | 50+++ | Oily, Acne-prone |
Lakme Peach Milk Moisturizer | No SPF | Normal, Dry Skin |
Glenmark Episoft Moisturizer | 30+ | Combination Skin |
Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen Cream | 50+++ | Dry Skin |
With so many options available, choosing the right sunscreen for your facial skin can seem challenging. Here are some tips to choose the best sunscreen for your face:
Check the SPF level – Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, but SPF 50 offers maximum sun protection especially for prolonged outdoor exposure. Ensure the label also mentions broad spectrum protection.
Consider your skin type – Gel-based matte sunscreens are ideal for oily, acne-prone skin while creamy formulas with antioxidants can nourish dry or mature skin types better. Read reviews to gauge suitability.
Analyze the texture – Lightweight gel-cream formulas get absorbed more easily without white casts or breakouts. Verify claims of non-comedogenic and hydrating properties for the best face sunscreens.
See Protection Against Pollution – Many innovative sunscreens also provide protection against HEV visible light and environmental aggressors which is great for skin health.
Check Added Benefits – Nourishing ingredients like Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid or Ceramides provide extra benefits for your facial skin when coupled with optimal sun protection.
Compare Prices – While affordable sunscreens have improved massively with advanced tech, premium ones tend to use more skin-friendly natural formulas. Pick one suiting budget and needs.
With constant innovation by skincare experts globally, sunscreens in India have evolved tremendously from being thick sticky creams to advanced lightweight protective serums. Based on their sun protection formula, here are the main types of sunscreens available today:
1. Chemical Sunscreens – Contain organic/synthetic filters like Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate etc. Absorbed into skin to convert UV rays into heat then release it. Affordable but may irritate sensitive skin.
2. Mineral Sunscreens – Contain natural mineral filters like Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide that sit on top of skin, reflecting & scattering UV radiation. Expensive but suitable for sensitive skin. Can leave white casts.
3. Hybrid Sunscreens – Contain a synergistic blend of chemical + mineral filters for maximum broad spectrum protection. Most advanced protection with minimal side effects.
4. Gel Sunscreens – Lightweight water/silicone-based gel that gets rapidly absorbed. Ideal for oily skin and summer months. Can feel drying when reapplied.
5. Lotion/Cream Sunscreens – Emulsified formulas provide hydration while protecting skin. Better for dry skin. Various textures from light serum to dense buttery creams available.
6. Tinted Sunscreens – Provide subtle skin tint for even tone while protecting from sun damage. Help camouflage blemishes and minimize white cast from mineral filters.
7. Powder Sunscreens – Innovative dry powder formulas provide invisible sun protection without any oily residues. Convenient for reapplication over makeup. Need to reapply frequently.
So choose the best sunscreen for your facial skin needs from the variety of excellent options available today for maximum sun protection along with nourishment!
There is no single best sunscreen for the face that fits all skin types. The ideal facial sunscreen is the one that provides optimum broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection while suiting your specific skin’s needs – hydration for dry skin, oil control for acne-prone skin etc. From the list above, Neutrogena, Aqualogica, Fixderma and Dr Sheth’s sunscreens are highly recommended for the face as per skin type. Check aspects like SPF level, finish, skin benefits before picking the best sunscreen for your face.
Apply adequate amount of sunscreen (usually about 1/4 teaspoon for face) about 20 mins before sun exposure so UV filters can be absorbed properly for optimal effects. Apply evenly avoiding eye area. Reapply every 2 hrs especially after heavy sweating. Layer makeup and skincare over sunscreen, not under it.
While thicker body sunscreens tend to provide greater water-resistance for outdoors, most facial skin types do better with lighter cream-gel formulas made specifically for sensitive facial skin. However, some recent body sunscreen innovations with quick absorbing, non-comedogenic properties can suit the face too unless your skin is very acne-prone or dry-sensitive.
Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours regardless of label claims for greater effectiveness. Also reapply immediately after heavy sweating, swimming, rubbing or wiping face vigorously with towels/tissue even if within the 2 hour window. This maintains adequate protection against incidental as well as prolonged sun exposure.
Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide/titanium dioxide tend to suit acne-prone and sensitive facial skin since they don’t penetrate deeply to block pores or trigger reactions. However, modern chemical sunscreens with lightweight gel formulas also work remarkably well for the face without irritation in most people.
Apply adequate amount of sunscreen (usually about 1/4 teaspoon for face) about 20 mins before sun exposure so UV filters can be absorbed properly for optimal effects. Apply evenly avoiding eye area. Reapply every 2 hrs especially after heavy sweating. Layer makeup and skincare over sunscreen, not under it.
While thicker body sunscreens tend to provide greater water-resistance for outdoors, most facial skin types do better with lighter cream-gel formulas made specifically for sensitive facial skin. However, some recent body sunscreen innovations with quick absorbing, non-comedogenic properties can suit the face too unless your skin is very acne-prone or dry-sensitive.
Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours regardless of label claims for greater effectiveness. Also reapply immediately after heavy sweating, swimming, rubbing or wiping face vigorously with towels/tissue even if within the 2 hour window. This maintains adequate protection against incidental as well as prolonged sun exposure.
Yes, you must apply sunscreen any time skin will be exposed to sunlight even briefly during daily commute or sitting by windows since significant UV damage occurs within minutes. Modern screens also emit High Energy Visible (HEV) blue light that generates free radicals causing premature skin aging. So wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen daily is highly recommended even for a mostly indoor lifestyle nowadays.
Product prices and availability are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on merchant's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of these products. HappyCredit is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. As part of this program, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases made through the affiliate links provided on this website. We only promote products on Amazon that we genuinely believe are of high quality and value to our audience. The inclusion of affiliate links does not influence our editorial content or product recommendations. Our primary goal is to provide useful information and help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Certain portions of the text in this article might have been created using AI tools and subsequently edited by the author to improve the overall quality and clarity of the content for readers.