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  • 10 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 3
  • 10 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 4
  • 10 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 5

10 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist

Sensitive skin is like the family's middle child, we acknowledge its existence, but it is often overshadowed by its siblings, dry skin and oily skin. Due to this, it is quite hard to find products such as sunscreens, which are extremely necessary for India but are rarely made to meet this skin type's needs.

That’s why we’re here to help people with this overlooked skin type to understand how they can choose the best sunscreen for themselves. We’ve also included our list of recommendations for the top 10 best sunscreens for sensitive skin that you can buy online in India, so all you need to do is choose! We have partnered with an expert from the medical field, and our research is verified by a professional, dermatologist, Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi. So, Keep reading our medically-reviewed article. 
Last updated 07/14/2023
Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi
Expert
Dermatologist
Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi

Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi is a dermatologist, he pursued MD in Dermatology from PGIMER, Chandigarh, India. Currently, Dr. Hitesh is working as a consultant in NR hospital Bilaspur, India.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin in India – Buying Guide

Sunscreen is usually the final step to morning skincare routines, and choosing the wrong one could end up clogging your pores, irritating your skin, and making you look ashy. Hence, you should keep the following points in mind to buy the best one for sensitive skin.
1

Different Textures for Different Types of Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is not just sensitive, it is also usually either dry or oily, which complicates matters even more, so you should choose the texture based on what type of sensitive skin you have.

Choose Between Gel Formulas and Creams

Choose Between Gel Formulas and Creams

A cream formula can be applied easily on the skin with massage and is absorbed by the skin accordingly. Compared to spray-type sunscreen, these are more effective and provides maximum coverage of the applied area. One of the downsides is, it takes a certain amount of time for a full application, and many times a residue is left in hands after applying.


Gel sunscreens after application provide a matte finish. They're oil-free and much more suitable for acne-prone skin. Gel sunscreen has a lighter and fluid-based structure than creams. Gel-based solutions have more irritants compared to cream lotions. However, cream or lotion sunscreens provide better protection than gel ones.

Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi
Dermatologist Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi

Gel formulations are colourless/lighter, and they are also absorbed fast. They are preferred in oily or acne-prone skin. But these gel-based formulations cause facial or eye-stinging, and they are easily removed by swimming or perspiration. The cream-based formulation is less greasy; they are easy to apply and better absorbed.

Spray Sunscreens Are Light and Easy to Apply

Spray Sunscreens Are Light and Easy to Apply

Spray sunscreen is easy to apply compared to lotion-based sunscreen. If you're looking for an easy and quick option, then spending time massaging the lotion completely, spray ones are an ideal choice. They are light and less sticky than cream ones.


One of the downsides to them is some spray solutions contain alcohol, which can irritate sensitive skin. As a precautionary measure, always spray the solution on hand first and then apply it to the skin. It's possible kids may accidentally inhale droplets, keeping safety a priority, spray it on hand first and then apply.

Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi
Dermatologist Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi

Sprays are convenient to apply, but they are alcohol-based preparation and might cause irritation to people with sensitive skin. They are also not yet FDA approved and are less effective, so they are not one of the best options out there.

2

SPF and PA Should be Based on the Amount of Sun Exposure

SPF and PA Should be Based on the Amount of Sun Exposure
Most regions in India receive plenty of sunshine all year round, and although we may enjoy it during the colder months, it’s not that great during the summertime. The level of UV rays can also be quite high, so you must make sure that the product you’re buying will be able to protect your skin from the harmful rays.

PA is a rating system provided by Japan for measuring how much UV protection the product provides. PA++ means moderate UVA protection. PA+++ means high UVA protection and  PA++++ equates to extremely high UVA protection.


If you’re only out in the sun early in the morning or after peak hours, then a sunscreen with SPF 30 with PA++ would be good enough for you, but if you’re often out during the peak hours like the afternoon, we would suggest getting sunscreen at least SPF 50 with PA+++ to ensure your skin’s protected.

Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi
Dermatologist Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi

The Sun Protection Factor(SPF) tells about how long you can stay outside during the daytime and be protected from the sunburn causing UVB rays. Japan developed a rating system for UVA rays. It represents how much UVA protection the products offer. Sunscreen with 30 SPF and PA ++ provide good protection, but if you are outdoors most of the time during the afternoon, use SPF 50 sunscreen for ideal protection.

3

Take Note of the Ingredients When Selecting

This is probably one of the most important steps, not only to check whether the ingredients suit your skin but also to make sure that the sunscreen does not make you look ashy.

Keep an Eye Out for Allergens and Check for Reef-Friendly Sunscreen

Keep an Eye Out for Allergens and Check for Reef-Friendly Sunscreen
While it’s hard to list all the ingredients your skin could react to as everybody’s skin is different, as a general rule, you should avoid products with oxybenzone and any ingredients that end with cinnamate, a chemical compound. The products without them are also called reef-safe or reef-friendly.

Oxybenzone and octinoxate are known as UV blocking elements but also known for causing coral bleaching; Coral bleaching means when the corals lose their natural colors and turn white.  Check the labels for the specific mention about reef-friendly or reef-safe on the sunscreen. Additionally, it would be best to stay away from heavily scented products as these tend to irritate sensitive skin types quite easily.

Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi
Dermatologist Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi

Few ingredients in sunscreen can lead to allergic reactions in sensitive skin. Products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate induce bleaching response in corals sunscreen without them known as reef-friendly sunscreen. 


PABA, cinamates can cause irritant and allergic dermatitis, whereas benzophenones cause photoallergic reactions. There are more chances of irritant reaction with fragrance-based sunscreen. So, avoid these ingredients for better skin health.

Select Between Physical Sunscreen and Chemical Sunscreen

Select Between Physical Sunscreen and Chemical Sunscreen
Physical or mineral sunscreens contain either titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or both, as active ingredients, which sit on your skin to form a physical barrier that protects you from the harmful rays of the sun. Although physical sunscreens are great at protecting your skin, they often result in a white cast on darker skin tones.

Chemical sunscreens are types that do not use these ingredients. When applied, they absorb into the skin, convert the UV rays into heat and release them from the body. But make sure you try those once before buying, as they can occasionally cause irritations as the skin absorbs it before working.

Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi
Dermatologist Dr. Hitesh Bhalavi

Physical sunscreen contains TiO2 and ZnO as the chief ingredient. It is opaque and causes whitening effects to make them cosmetically unsuitable. Physical sunscreen blocks both UVA and

UVB rays as soon as it is applied to the skin. They are unlikely to irritate the skin, great for sensitive skin types. 


Chemical sunscreen converts UV radiation to heat. They are thinner, easy to apply, and more resistant to sweat or water. Chemical sunscreen only starts to effective after 20 minutes, and they are more likely to irritate the skin.

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10 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in India

Here's our list of top 10 best sunscreens after selecting amongst thousands of brands available offering UV protection.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Cipla

Rivela Tint Sunscreen Lotion

Cipla Rivela Tint Sunscreen Lotion 1枚目

An Effective Sunscreen for the Sensitive Skin

2

Blue Lizard

Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Spf 30+

Blue Lizard  Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Spf 30+ 1枚目

A Gentle Gel Sunscreen With Great Protection

3

Elta

MD Uv Physical Broad Spectrum

Elta  MD Uv Physical Broad Spectrum 1枚目

Ideal for Oily and Sensitive Skin Type

4

Dermalogica

Protection 50 Sport

Dermalogica  Protection 50 Sport 1枚目

Lightweight Sunscreen for Oily-Sensitive Skin

5

Bioderma

Photoderm MAX Aquafluid

Bioderma  Photoderm MAX Aquafluid 1枚目

Paraben Free Sunscreen for Dry and Sensitive Skin

6

Cosrx

Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

 Cosrx  Aloe Soothing Sun Cream 1枚目

Ideal Sunscreen for Both Oily-Sensitive and Dry-Sensitive Skin

7

Blossom Kochhar

Aroma Magic Sunblock Lotion

Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic Sunblock Lotion 1枚目

A Good Option for Oily-Sensitive Skin With SPF 30

8

Vanicream

Sunscreen Sport

Vanicream  Sunscreen Sport 1枚目

Moisturising Sunscreen for Dry and Sensitive Skin

9

Eau Thermale Avene

Day Protector UV EX

 Eau Thermale Avene  Day Protector UV EX 1枚目

Moisturising Sunscreen for Oily-Sensitive and Dry-Sensitive Skin

10

Banana Boat

SunComfort Ultra Mist Broad Spectrum Sun Care SunScreen Spray

Banana Boat SunComfort Ultra Mist Broad Spectrum Sun Care SunScreen Spray 1枚目

One of the Best Sunscreen Spray for Sensitive Skin

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

CiplaRivela Tint Sunscreen Lotion

Rivela Tint Sunscreen Lotion Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹435.00
Reference price
₹435.00

An Effective Sunscreen for the Sensitive Skin

Rivela Tint sunscreen is a great sunscreen solution for sensitive skin. The cream-based sunscreen has a thick watery structure, and with SPF 50 it offers good protection for people who stay a lot outdoors during the sunny time. It has a non-sticky feel to it.


The product is not recommended for oily skin much, especially during summertime. As many users convey, the product improves skin texture and skin tone with regular usage over time. Overall it is a considerable sunscreen and one of our top recommendations.

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No.2

Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Spf 30+

Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Spf 30+ Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹2,549.00
Reference price
₹2,549.00

A Gentle Gel Sunscreen With Great Protection

Blue lizard's sunscreen is a great option if you're looking for a gel-based sunscreen. It is safe for kids to apply, as well.  It has minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients for protection against harmful UV rays.


One of the unique features of this sunscreen is the bottle turns blue he exposed to UV rays. Many users have reviewed the product as great for their family, including their small kids. There's no fragrance from sunscreen, and it is fairly easy to apply.

No.3

Elta MD Uv Physical Broad Spectrum

MD Uv Physical Broad Spectrum Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹5,225.00
Reference price
₹5,225.00

Ideal for Oily and Sensitive Skin Type

This sunscreen by Elta is one of the recommended products for Oily skin and sensitive skin type. The SPF 41 sunscreen offers great protection from UV rays with an oil-free application and a matte finish on the skin.


As reviewed by many users, the sunscreen is light textured and provides an even tone after applying. This chemical-free mineral sunscreen has antioxidants for enriching the skin. It is Water-resistant and ideal for wearing for beach time or in hot temperatures, and it stands well against perspiration and high humidity.

No.4

Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport

 Protection 50 Sport Image 1
Source:nykaa.com
Reference price
₹3,000.00
Reference price
₹3,000.00

Lightweight Sunscreen for Oily-Sensitive Skin

One of our top recommendations is that this sunscreen is particularly recommended for sensitive and oily skin, as the formula for this product is really lightweight and doesn’t clog pores. Since it doesn’t have any zinc or titanium, even those with darker skin tones can apply it without worrying about looking like ashy.

This sunscreen does have a light citrus smell. It also has a high SPF level, so it would be great for those who spend long hours in the sun. Although it seems expensive initially, you get a lot of product, and a little goes a long way with this, so it’ll last you for quite a while.
No.5

Bioderma Photoderm MAX Aquafluid

 Photoderm MAX Aquafluid Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹1,520.00
Reference price
₹1,520.00

Paraben Free Sunscreen for Dry and Sensitive Skin

Those looking for sunscreens for somewhat dry and sensitive skin will love this product. Although it has a runny consistency, which makes it really easy to blend, it provides enough hydration to prevent dry skin from looking flaky. It has a high SPF level, fragrance and paraben-free solution.

However, despite its lightweight texture, if you’ve got oily-sensitive skin, you will probably not like this product as much as it could make your skin appear quite greasy. Additionally, while the runny consistency makes it easy to blend, it also makes it hard to pump out the right amount, and you may end up using too much.
No.6

Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

 Aloe Soothing Sun Cream Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹1,800.00
Reference price
₹1,800.00

Ideal Sunscreen for Both Oily-Sensitive and Dry-Sensitive Skin

Although this sunscreen contains titanium dioxide, it is highly recommended for those with darker skin tones. It has a lightweight formula with aloe extract, which sinks into the skin really quickly, works well for those with dry -sensitive skin, and those with oily-sensitive skin.

It is a mildly scented product and smooth while applying on the skin. The SPF 50 offers great protection for people staying outdoors for longer periods of time. Overall, it is a well-balanced product for different sensitive skin types
No.7

Blossom KochharAroma Magic Sunblock Lotion

Aroma Magic Sunblock Lotion Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
₹375.00
Reference price
₹375.00

A Good Option for Oily-Sensitive Skin With SPF 30

This sunscreen is particularly recommended for oily and sensitive skin, who want a sunscreen with a watery texture that easily absorbs the skin, feels lightweight, and does not cause breakouts. However, if you have dry skin, this wouldn’t be the best option for you as it would not be hydrating enough for your skin.

Despite the watery texture, it still leaves you looking a bit chalky, and it is not a waterproof formula, so if you live somewhere with high levels of humidity, you’d have to reapply this sunscreen every 2 to 4 hours.
No.8

Vanicream Sunscreen Sport

Sunscreen Sport Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹3,600.00
Reference price
₹3,600.00

Moisturising Sunscreen for Dry and Sensitive Skin

If you’ve got really dry and sensitive skin and need a moisturising sunscreen, this is the one for you. It has a very thick formula which is great for dry skin, as it adds another layer of protection. It doesn’t have any fragrances and is waterproof as well, so even if you live in a humid area, this sunscreen won’t fail you.

It does have a low SPF though, which won’t be enough if you’re out in the sun for long hours. It requires effort to use properly because of the solution's thickness; it takes a while to spread it completely, and if you don’t spread it properly, it leaves behind a white cast.
No.9

Eau Thermale Avene Day Protector UV EX

Day Protector UV EX Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
₹1,305.00
Reference price
₹1,305.00

Moisturising Sunscreen for Oily-Sensitive and Dry-Sensitive Skin

This unique sunscreen suits both dry-sensitive skin, as well as oily-sensitive skin, and is recommended for those who want to skip the extra step by using a product that works as a moisturiser and a sunscreen. It blends easily, and since it is a chemical sunscreen with no titanium or zinc, it does not leave you looking ashy after application.

Although, the SPF levels are quite low, so if you’re going to be spending a lot of time outside during the peak hours, then this would not be able to give your skin enough protection. It also contains methoxycinnamate which can irritate those with extremely sensitive skin, so it is crucial that you do a patch with this sunscreen.
No.10

Banana BoatSunComfort Ultra Mist Broad Spectrum Sun Care SunScreen Spray

SunComfort Ultra Mist Broad Spectrum Sun Care SunScreen Spray Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹2,120.00
Reference price
₹2,120.00

One of the Best Sunscreen Spray for Sensitive Skin

This sunscreen spray is one of the great spray sunscreen available. It is ideal for sensitive skin, and the easy to apply and spray is light on the skin and nongreasy, unlike lotion or creams.


The SPF 50 provides great protection against harmful UV rays. The product is safe for kids to use as well. The sunscreen has a great scent to it and is quite light on the skin. This reef-friendly spray is a considerable choice for quick and safe application for UV protection.  

More Self Care Related Guides for You

More Self Care Related Guides for You

There's more to show you and inform you about apart from sunscreen. Check out our buying guide about best hair conditioner for men and women individually. If looking for something more unique, check our buying guide for a face wash for dry skin.

Summary

It can seem really hard trying to find cosmetics, especially things like sunscreens, which tend to contain many difficult to understand ingredients, and are usually geared towards oily or dry skin. However, all chemicals are not bad, and several products are available, as we’ve listed above, that is suitable for sensitive skin.

Top 5 Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

No. 1: CiplaRivela Tint Sunscreen Lotion

No. 2: Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Spf 30+

No. 3: Elta MD Uv Physical Broad Spectrum

No. 4: Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport

No. 5: Bioderma Photoderm MAX Aquafluid

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