Let's get this straight! Sunscreen is that one skincare product that you should never compromise on in your routine. Trust us, sunscreen is like a holy grail for your skin. It acts as a protective shield that blocks harmful rays of the sun and prevents pigmentation and dark spots. Result? Your skin feels healthy and youthful. But how does one decide which is the best sunscreen for the face, one that suits our skin and doesn’t burn a hole in our pockets either? Allow us to help you out. We’ve shortlisted some of the best budget-friendly sunscreens that you can get under Rs 1000.
Fun fact: Sunscreens are also called SPF, but interestingly, SPF can only block the UVB rays. A broad-spectrum sunscreen can give you protection against both UVB and UVA rays. So, when you pick a sunscreen, look for words like PA++++, broad-spectrum and SPF (minimum 30).
Looking for a paraben-free sunscreen with natural actives? Try Lotus Herbals Safe Sun UV Screen Matte Gel Pa+++ SPF - 50. It is enriched with chestnuts, which has antioxidant properties, a potent ingredient for protection against harmful effects of the sun. It also has vanilla extracts and comfrey, which help moisturise the skin and give it a smooth and soft finish. This gel-based sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays without leaving any white cast. One of the best sunscreens for the face, it is lightweight and has a non-sticky formula and a matte invisible finish.
Picking a sunscreen for oily skin can be tricky, but we’re here to help you. Neutrogena UltraSheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ is powered with a unique Helioplex technology that protects your skin against sun damage. It has a non-greasy matte finish that is PABA free and non-comedogenic. Its dry touch formula absorbs into the skin quickly and provides an invisible weightless feel. For best results, use this body sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before stepping out in the sun and reapply every 2 hours.
MCaffeine SPF 50 PA+++ Coffee Powder Sunscreen - 100% Mineral, Matte Sunscreen with No White Cast
Powered with caffeine, this powdered sunscreen can provide protection against UVA and UVB rays for up to 8 hours. It contains kaolin clay that controls oil and mattifies the skin. It is also enriched with almond oil and vitamin E, which protects skin against UV rays and reverses skin damage. MCaffeine SPF 50 PA+++ Coffee Powder Sunscreen - 100% Mineral, Matte Sunscreen with No White Cast has a sheer texture, which is mattifying and is easy to blend into the skin. If you are looking for affordable sunscreens, you should surely check this one out.
This body sunscreen is the perfect bet if you are looking for a matte and dry finish. Reequil Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 PA ++++ UVA is cruelty free and tested by dermatologists. It provides the highest UVA protection level and is clinically proven to neutralise harmful effects of infrared rays. A suitable sunscreen for oily skin, it removes excess oil and does not clog your pores.
Going on a beach holiday? Take The Derma Co. Ultra Matte Sunscreen Gel With SPF 60 PA+++ along. Formulated by dermatologists, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection of SPF 60 PA +++ and is non-comedogenic and lightweight. An ideal sunscreen for oily skin, it is enriched with titanium dioxide, which protects against sun sensitivity and prevents pigmentation and sun damage.
One of the best gel-based sunscreens out there, the Cetaphil SUN SPF 50+ Light Gel is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. Enriched with the nourishing properties of vitamin E, It provides protection against UVA, UVB and infrared radiation, whether you are outdoors or indoors. Made with chemical and physical filters, this gel-based sunscreen blends easily into the skin and prevents sunburns, redness, ageing and darkening of the skin.
Understand The Basics
Sunscreens come in two varieties- mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens rest on the skin’s surface as a protective barrier against UV rays and contain zinc oxide or titanium oxide. Chemical sunscreens penetrate into the skin, absorb the UV rays, convert it into heat and are released by the skin. It is quick and easy to apply and contains ingredients like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.
Wear Sunscreen ALL The Time
You must apply sunscreen every single day. Period. It doesn’t matter if it's cloudy or raining. Just like the CTM routine, sunscreen too is the secret to healthy skin. Your skin requires sunscreen, even when you are holed up in your home watching Netflix, to protect you from the blue light emitting from the computer or TV screen. Also, glass windows block UVB rays but not the UVA rays that can accelerate skin ageing and cause dark spots and wrinkles.
Wear Sunscreen Under The Makeup
Makeup with SPF is not always sufficient. It depends on how much product you are using and your exposure to the sun. If you are stepping out for an outdoor event, it is recommended to apply a layer of SPF 30 or more under your makeup. However, if you are staying indoors and use a sufficient amount (preferably coin-sized dollop) covering the entire face, it should be enough.
Pick The Right SPF
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. So, the percentage you see on the labels is its competency to protect your skin from sun damage. Ideally, your sunscreen must have an SPF of at least 30 or more. Experts believe that using sunscreen with SPF 15 blocks only 93% of the UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, SPF 50 against 98% and so on.
1. Is Sunscreen The Same As Sunblock?
No, sunscreen is a chemical shield that protects your skin against UVA rays. Whereas sunblock falls under physical form of protection against UVB rays.
2. How Much Sunscreen Should You Use On Your Face?
Using the two-finger method, squeeze enough sunscreen to cover the entire length of your pointer and middle finger. This amount is sufficient to protect your skin. You must also apply sunscreen on your legs and arms if being exposed to direct sunlight.
3. Can Sunscreen Cause Acne?
If you use heavy, oily sunscreen, it can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Moreover, if you are allergic to any ingredients in the sunscreen, it can also cause irritation, rashes or bumps. The best sunscreens for the face are those which do not make your skin sweat or leave a white cast behind. So, before you buy sunscreen, check its ingredients.
4. When To Apply Sunscreen?
Wear sunscreen over your moisturiser daily. Apply it 15 to 20 minutes before stepping out to allow it to absorb into your skin. Moreover, for maximum effectiveness, make sure to reapply every two hours as sunscreens break down when they come in contact with sweat and body fluids. Opting for powder or spray sunscreens can be convenient for re-application when you are on the go.
