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Choosing the perfect sunscreen for Indian skin during the summer season isn’t just about avoiding sunburn; it’s about protecting your skin from intense UV radiation, tanning, premature ageing, and long-term pigmentation. With India’s diverse climate and high levels of sun exposure, especially during summer, sunscreen becomes an essential part of your daily skincare routine. However, not all sunscreens are created equal. Factors like skin tone, type, humidity, pollution, and even the level of outdoor activity play a major role in determining which sunscreen will offer the best protection and comfort for your skin.

Indian skin tends to have more melanin, which offers some natural sun protection, but it’s not nearly enough to guard against UVA and UVB rays that penetrate deeply and cause lasting damage. Moreover, common concerns like oily skin, acne or hyperpigmentation require sunscreens that offer a balanced formulation, non-comedogenic, sweat-resistant, lightweight, and ideally free from white cast. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Aashna Kanchwala, Celebrity Cosmetologist & Aesthetic Physician, shares things to consider before choosing a sunscreen that suits Indian skin tones and types, ensuring your skin stays healthy, glowing, and protected all summer long.

Indian summers can be brutal. The sun feels hotter, the humidity sticks to your skin, and stepping outside feels like walking into an oven. While we all remember to grab a bottle of water or wear cotton clothes, sunscreen is often left behind and honestly, that’s the one thing our skin needs the most.

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Start with SPF; But Don’t Overthink It

SPF protects your skin from UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburn). If you're mostly indoors, SPF 30 will do the job. If you’re outdoors a lot, SPF 50 is better. But don’t get caught up in SPF 100—higher numbers don’t mean you can stay in the sun longer without damage.
Also, check for the PA rating (look for PA+++ or PA++++). That protects you from UVA rays, which cause tanning, pigmentation, and ageing.

Choose Based on Your Skin Type: This really matters.

Oily or acne-prone skin? Go for a gel-based or matte-finish sunscreen. It feels light, absorbs quickly, and won’t make your face greasy.

Dry skin? Look for a cream-based sunscreen that moisturises while protecting you. Your skin will thank you for the hydration.

Combination skin? Try something in the middle; a hydrating gel-cream texture works best.

Say No To The White Cast

One of the most annoying things about sunscreen, especially for medium to deep skin tones, is the greyish-white layer some formulas leave behind. It’s not cute and definitely not camera-friendly. Choose sunscreens that say “no white cast”, “invisible finish”, or even better, try tinted sunscreens—they melt into Indian skin beautifully.

Sunscreen For Indian Skin (1)

Sunscreen For Indian Skin (Image Credits: Canva)

Look For Skin-Friendly Extras

These days, sunscreens come with added ingredients like niacinamide (great for oily skin and dark spots), vitamin C (for brightness), and aloe vera (soothing for sensitive skin). If you can get both sun protection and skincare in one product, why not?

Reapplication Is Key

Here’s where many people go wrong. Sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done deal. If you're out in the sun for hours or sweating a lot, you need to reapply every 2–3 hours. Keep a small bottle or stick version in your bag; easy to use and your skin stays protected all day.

ALSO READ: Why Sunscreen Is A Summer Must-Have? Tips To Pick The Right Sunscreen For Your Skin

Sunscreen isn’t just a summer product; it’s a daily shield your skin needs. Don’t wait for sunburn or dark patches to show up. Pick a sunscreen that feels good on your skin, blends in without a fuss, and makes you want to wear it every day. It’s a small habit with big rewards.