Sunscreen protects your skin from the sun's UV rays — split into UVA, which causes premature ageing by penetrating deep into skin, and UVB, which causes sunburn and raises skin cancer risk. It's genuinely the best anti-ageing product you can buy.
What to Look for in a Sunscreen
Sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays (chemical filters) or reflecting them (physical/mineral filters). Whichever you choose, check the SPF — the higher the number, the better the UVB protection, and SPF 30+ is the general recommendation (adjust for how much sun exposure you actually get). Always pick one labelled "broad-spectrum," meaning it covers both UVA and UVB, and ideally water-resistant too.
How & When to Apply It
Apply about 30 minutes before sun exposure so it has time to absorb. The step everyone forgets: reapplication. If you're outdoors for a while, reapply every two hours.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen sits on top of skin; chemical sunscreen absorbs into it. Mineral formulas tend to suit sensitive and acne-prone skin best, and are usually thicker, while chemical sunscreens run lighter. I've tried a genuinely wide range at this point — here's what's actually earned a repurchase.
1. Minimalist Sunscreen SPF 50
My current favourite, and has been for months. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, SPF 50 with PA++++, spreads smoothly and leaves zero white cast. Formulated with niacinamide, vitamin B5 and vitamin F for a light moisturising effect — no breakouts, no tanning, just a dewy finish. Suitable for all skin types, and pregnancy-safe.
Price
₹389 for 50g — usually 5–10% off on Nykaa2. Earth Rhythm Ultra Defence Hybrid Sunscreen SPF 50
My go-to before I discovered the Minimalist one. Slightly thicker formula, no white cast, dermatologically tested, and leaves a dewy finish — great for dry skin, though oilier skin types may want a lighter moisturiser underneath. SPF 50, PA++++, fragrance-free with a faint medicated smell.
Price: ₹449 for 50ml (Earth Rhythm runs frequent offers — often available for half price).
3. Dr Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen
Loved by enough friends and family that I had to try it myself. SPF 50, PA+++, non-greasy, non-sticky, no white cast, and claims blue-light protection too. Paraben and sulphate-free, with mineral and organic filters plus a ceramide complex, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.
Price: ₹499 for 50g.
4. Plum 2% Niacinamide & Rice Water Sunscreen SPF 50
SPF 50, PA+++, protects against tanning, burning and photo-ageing. The 2% niacinamide helps clear blemishes while fermented rice water keeps skin supple — together they genuinely improve texture and hydration. Gel-like, lightweight, no white cast or greasiness, and suits all skin types. Extra points for the packaging.
Price: ₹399 for 50g.
5. Aqualogica Glowy + Dewy Sunscreen
SPF 50, PA++++, with papaya and vitamin C for a genuine glow and solid protection against UVA/B and blue light. Watery texture that blends easily and works for all skin types, though the light finish means you'll want to reapply more often. Fragrance-free, no white cast, and layers fine under or over makeup.
Price: ₹399 for 50g.
These are my current top 5, tried and genuinely enjoyed. New launches happen constantly in this category, so don't be surprised if this list gets a refresh by the end of the year — for now, any one of these is a safe, worthwhile investment.
Written by Ritu Singh
Makeup artist and founder of The Beauty Thesaurus. Every review here is written after real, first-hand use — no PR spin, ever.
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