If you are asked the classic ‘stranded on an island with just three things to take’ question, you’ll know sunscreen should definitely make it to the list. Of all the things in the world, this sun shield should be your constant. After all, skipping on sunscreen paves the way for dehydrated and prematurely aging skin. ugh.
If you are battling flaky skin, you need some next-level sun protector that won’t just shield your skin from UV rays but also impart moisturizing benefits. Worried where you will find such dry-skin friendly sunscreens? Fret not, we’ve got you covered.
Best Sunscreen For Dry Skin
We’ve weeded through the formulas in the market to present our top picks from the best sunscreens for dry skin.
1. Sunscreen Cream For Dry Skin: Innisfree Blueberry Watery Sun Cream SPF 45 PA+++
If dry skin is your arch nemesis, invest in a sunscreen that moonlights as a hydrator like the Innisfree Blueberry Watery Sun Cream SPF 45 PA+++. This ingenious formula feels like moisture bursting on the skin, providing a cool hydrating sensation without feeling greasy. Its essence-like texture glides smoothly on skin and gets absorbed rapidly to protect skin from UV rays. The best part? It’s strong against sun yet gentle on skin.
2. Sunscreen Gel For Dry Skin: Mamaearth HydraGel Indian Sunscreen SPF 50, with Aloe Vera & Raspberry, for Sun Protection
If you want to dodge the harmful UV rays, there’s no better way to do it than to join force with Mamaearth HydraGel Indian Sunscreen SPF 50. Infused with Raspberry Oil that rejuvenates skin and Aloe Vera that lends hydration, this dermatologically tested formula keeps skin sun-safe and soft. Plus, this certified toxin-free sunscreen is free from artificial colors and parabens. We feel protected already.
3. Sunscreen Fluid For Dry Skin: Earth Rhythm Daily Defence Mineral Sun Fluid - SPF 30
Not up for slathering another layer of cream on your face? Enter: Earth Rhythm Daily Defence Mineral Sun Fluid - SPF 30. This potent fluid with its all-natural mineral ingredients, protects the skin from the harmful UV rays and reverses existing sun damage. Here’s some more good news: This lightweight physical sunscreen is formulated without parabens, sulphates, mineral, phthalates and other questionable elements. Plus, it comes in a biodegradable bottle so you can spare a thought for the environment.
4. Sunscreen Spray For Dry Skin: Dot & Key Transparent Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
All your excuses for skipping the sunscreen can take a backseat. Dot & Key Transparent Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 gives you the convenience to spray sunscreen on-the-go. Here’s the working team contained in this bottle: Mandarin Orange Oil prevents premature aging, Green Tea soothes and detoxifies skin, and Vitamin E hydrates dull complexion. Even better? This one won’t spill in your tote bag.
5. Brightening Sunscreen For Dry Skin: Dr. Sheth's Basic Brightening Daily Sunscreen SPF 30 PA+++
A double-duty sunscreen that even works at improving your complexion? Yes, please. Dr. Sheth's Basic Brightening Daily Sunscreen SPF 30 PA+++, specially formulated for Indian skin protects against UVA and UVB rays while also reducing pigmentation. The Sunflower extracts repair damaged skin to reveal a healthy glow over time. As far as the finish is concerned, you can expect a matte look; and no, it won’t leave a white cast.
6. Mild Sunscreen For Dry Sensitive Skin: Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF50+ (For Sensitive Skin)
If your skin doesn’t agree with most sunscreens, try the Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF50+. Here’s why you can count on this gentle formula: Suitable for sensitive skin, its hypoallergenic formula features naturally-sourced zinc oxide technology that offers broad-spectrum protection without stifling your skin. Oil-free and non-comedogenic, it will give your skin the calmness it has been long seeking.
7. Sweatproof Sunscreen For Dry Skin: Kaya Sweat Proof Sunscreen SPF 30+
If you are miss-sweat-a-lot, let Kaya Sweat Proof Sunscreen SPF 30+ come to your rescue. Think of it as a sunscreen that refuses to be intimidated by overactive sweat glands. Non-greasy and lightweight, the formula delivers up to 8-hour broad spectrum protection against harmful UV-A and UV-B rays. Not only that, this potent shield researched by dermatologists leaves your skin soft and supple after use. Bonus points for the overzealous anti-oxidants in the tube that help brighten skin tone.
8. Waterproof Sunscreen For Dry Skin: Sunnycare 40 Face and Body Water Resistant Sunscreen Lotion SPF-40 UVA/UVB Sunscreen
Don’t let an ordinary sunscreen come between you and your love for the beach. Jump into the waters with the Sunnycare 40 Face and Body Water Resistant Sunscreen Lotion SPF-40 UVA/UVB Sunscreen and be rest assured the sun shield won’t disappear with the waves. Formulated with broad spectrum SPF 40, it protects skin from UV rays and photo aging without leaving any greasy residue.
9. Anti-Pollution Sunscreen For Dry Skin: Innisfree Intensive Anti Pollution Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
What’s better than a regular sunscreen? A sunscreen that also saves your skin from pollution. Innisfree Intensive Anti Pollution Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ blocks out the finest of dust particles to keep your skin clear. Apart from blocking the UV rays, this formula also keeps premature aging (RE: wrinkles) at bay. Brownie points for zero white cast. Oh and did we tell you it’s water resistant?
10. Sunscreen Lotion For Dry Skin: Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Anti-Tan Body Lotion Silky Smooth Care SPF 25 PA+++
If you’re looking for an ultimate skin protector that promises to be mild on your skin, we’ve found the one: Lotus Herbals Safe Sun Anti-Tan Body Lotion Silky Smooth Care SPF 25 PA+++. Featuring a balanced formulation of Thyme, Licorice, and Soy Protein, it imparts a glow to your complexion whilst preventing tan, wrinkles, sunburns and pre-mature aging. Oh and you know how you feel all sweaty after slathering some sunscreen? Well, not anymore.
FAQs On Sunscreen For Dry Skin
1. How much SPF is good for dry skin?
First of all, if you have dry skin, ensure you are choosing sunscreen formulas which are hydrating. Try looking for an SPF of minimum 30 for better sun protection.
2. Can I skip moisturizer and use sunscreen?
Sunscreen and moisturizers are both irreplaceable and equally important. It’s necessary to apply a layer of moisturizer to keep skin supple and hydrated and follow it up with a sunscreen that does the job of protecting the skin from harmful UV rays which can cause premature aging.
3. Is it okay to leave sunscreen on overnight?
There are specially formulated night creams which work at targeting skin concerns and improving your complexion as you rest. Sunscreens are ideally meant to protect you from sun, pollution and other external aggressors during daytime. Hence, it is recommended to cleanse your skin completely and get rid of sunscreen when hitting the bed at night.
4. What is the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50?
The difference lies in the percentage of sun protection. SPF 30 offers protection from around 96.7% of UVB rays whereas SPF 50 offers protection from around 98% of UVB rays. Basically, higher the SPF value, the lesser the chances of UVB rays damaging your skin. Irrespective of how much a product claims, no sunscreen can provide 100% protection from UVB rays.
5. What’s the best kind of sunscreen?
There are various formulations available such as gel, lotion cream, fluid, spray, etc. More than the formulation, it’s the level of SPF, the amount of sunscreen and how often you use that matters. Reapplying every two hours, especially after you have engaged in an activity of profuse sweating is key to ensuring all day protection from the sun.
Here’s a lowdown on the best face sunscreens for dry skin:
- La Shield Fisico Matte Sunscreen Gel SPF 50+ PA++
- L'Oreal Paris UV Perfect Super Aqua Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ Long UVA
- Biotique Bio Sandalwood 50+ SPF UVA/UVB Sunscreen Ultra Soothing Face Lotion
- Avene Very High Protection Spray SPF 50+
- Re'equil Sheer Zinc Tinted Sunscreen Spf 50 Pa+++ 100% Mineral Sunscreen
