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Let's get this straight – sunscreen is one skincare product you should never compromise on. 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 you can get under INR 1,000.
Fun fact: A broad-spectrum sunscreen offers protection against both UVB and UVA rays. So, when you pick a sunscreen, look for words like PA++++, broad-spectrum, and SPF (minimum 30). As per research, a liberal, uniform film of sunscreen should be applied, and the application should be 15 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen should also be reapplied every two hours and after sweating or swimming.
12 Best Budget-Friendly Sunscreens Under Rs 1000
1. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun UV Screen Matte Gel Pa+++ SPF - 50
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 have antioxidant properties, a potent ingredient for protection against the 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.
2. Neutrogena UltraSheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+
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.
3. MCaffeine SPF 50 PA+++ Coffee Powder Sunscreen - 100% Mineral, Matte Sunscreen with No White Cast
Powered with caffeine, this powdered sunscreen can protect 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 the 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 easy to blend into the skin. If you are looking for affordable sunscreens, you should surely check this one out.
4. Reequil Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 PA ++++ UVA
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 UVA is cruelty-free and tested by dermatologists. It provides the highest UVA protection level and is clinically proven to neutralise the harmful effects of infrared rays. A suitable sunscreen for oily skin, it removes excess oil and does not clog your pores.
5. The Derma Co. Ultra Matte Sunscreen Gel With SPF 60 PA+++
Going on a beach holiday? Take The 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.
6. Cetaphil SUN SPF 50+ Light Gel
One of the best gel-based sunscreens out there, the Cetaphil SUN SPF 50+ Light Gelis 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.
7. Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Sunscreen
This water-like fluid sunscreen promises zero pilling and won’t leave a white cast either. Delivering SPF 50 PA++++ to block blue light and UVA-UVB rays, the formulation is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, targeting dark spots while reducing tan and dullness. After recommended usage, 100% of consumers confirmed that the texture is lightweight and quick-absorbing, while 97% reported less tanning after the first use itself.
8. Plum Rice Water & 2% Niacinamide Hybrid Sunscreen
Meet this multitasking sunscreen that fades blemishes, brightens, and smoothens skin, all while offering sun protection. Plum’s formula is suitable for all skin types and genders, significantly reducing tan and brightening your complexion. Apply this sunscreen at least 15 minutes before stepping out, and reapply every couple of hours for optimal results.
9. Dr. Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen
Here’s another versatile offering by Dr. Sheth that goes beyond the call of duty to strengthen your skin barrier, maximise moisturisation, and prevent micro-pigmentation. The lightweight, gel-like texture doesn’t clog your pores and is free of fragrances, parabens, and sulphates. A medley of ceramide complex, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C complex, and mineral and organic filters, the formula doesn’t leave a white cast either.
10. Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen
Invite the Aqualogica Glow+ Sunscreen to your skincare kit for optimal sun protection. The non-sticky, hydrating solution tackles dull skin, pigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. Featuring a unique Water-Lock Technology and the science of aquaporins, the formula seals moisture in your epidermis, plumping the skin for a healthy glow. Reapply every six hours or as necessary for maximum coverage.
11. Nykaa SKINRX Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen
Oily skin? Pick this non-comedogenic variant that lends a matte finish, working as an excellent primer for a flawless makeup base, too. The SPF 50 PA+++ sunscreen is dermatologically tested and easily blendable, leaving no white cast. Delivering triple protection from oxidative stress, the mineral filters counteract sun damage, combat premature ageing, neutralise free radical damage, and protect against pollutants.
12. Minimalist Light Fluid SPF 50 Face Sunscreen
We found you a feather-light sunscreen that is in-vivo tested and perfect for sensitive skin. The oil-free formulation is sweat and water-resistant, staying put in the face of heat and humidity! If you’re worried about acne, fret not, for this photostable and acne-safe sunscreen doesn’t leave a white cast or leave you with breakouts. Welcome a natural, moisturised, non-shiny look with Minimalist’s Light Fluid.
Know The ABC Of Sunscreens
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 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 Makeup
Makeup with SPF is not always sufficient. A study has observed that the SPF values for cosmetic formulations were only between 13 and 16. 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 a 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Sunscreen The Same As Sunblock?
- How Much Sunscreen Should You Use On Your Face?
- Can Sunscreen Cause Acne?
- When To Apply Sunscreen?
No, sunscreen is a chemical shield that protects your skin against UVA rays, whereas sunblock falls under the physical form of protection against UVB rays. Broad-spectrum sunscreens provide all-round protection against UVA and UVB rays, and blue light damage, too.
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 exposed to direct sunlight. As per a study, sunscreens with SPF 70 and above add additional clinical benefits, while those with SPF 30 or 50 may not provide sufficient sun protection.
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.
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.
Parting Thoughts
There’s no skimping on sunscreen when you step out – and indoors, too. A non-negotiable in your skincare routine, application and reapplication of SPF are a must. Since prolonged sun exposure can cause sun spots, hyperpigmentation, dryness, premature ageing, and in more severe cases, skin cancer, it’s imperative to load up on sunscreen. Our affordable formulas will help you stay sun-safe on a budget!
