How to choose
Pick SPF 30 to 50 with a PA+++ or PA++++ rating, which shows UVA protection, or the words broad spectrum. For dry skin, choose a lotion or cream rather than a gel or matte fluid, and look for moisturising ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid or squalane. Avoid formulas high in alcohol (listed early as alcohol denat.), which dry the skin further. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to sting sensitive or eczema-prone skin, though they can leave a white cast; tinted versions hide it. Use enough: two finger-lengths for face and neck. Reapply every two to three hours outdoors and after sweating or swimming. If your skin is very dry, apply moisturiser first, wait a few minutes, then sunscreen.
Who really needs this
Anyone with dry, tight or flaky skin, people who sit in air-conditioning all day, people over 40 whose skin gets drier, and anyone on acne treatments or retinoids that dry the skin. Children over six months can use a children's sunscreen; keep babies under six months in the shade and covered with clothing instead. If every sunscreen stings, or you have red, scaly or itchy patches, see a skin doctor; it may be eczema or a reaction to an ingredient.
Our picks
Editorial recommendations, not paid placements.
Face, every morning
CeraVe SPF 50 Facial Moisturising Lotion
A moisturiser and sunscreen in one, with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for dry skin.
For sensitive skin
A mineral (zinc oxide) sunscreen
Less likely to sting dry or eczema-prone skin. Choose a tinted one if the white cast bothers you.
Find it in the storeFor children
Cetaphil Sun Kids SPF 50 Lotion
A lotion made for children over six months. Reapply after play and swimming.
Mistakes to avoid
Don't use a pea-sized amount; most people apply a third of what the SPF was tested at. Don't rely on the SPF in your foundation or moisturiser alone. Don't pick a matte gel just because it is popular; it is made for oily skin. Don't skip the ears, neck and backs of the hands. Don't use last summer's opened tube if it has separated or smells different. And don't forget to reapply when you are out in the sun for long.
Skin doctor, online
Ask the skin doctor before you buy
Dark patches on the cheeks, marks left by pimples, tan that will not go, or darker skin on the neck. Send photos and the doctor tells you what kind of pigmentation it is, because each kind fades differently. Dr. Rohini K replies within 30 minutes, day or night. ₹299 for the first chat, on Chamak.
