Introduction
Dry skin requires special attention when it comes to sunscreens, as they can often make dry skin feel even drier and uncomfortable. Therefore, finding one that protects your skin from harmful UV rays and provides adequate hydration is important. In this article, we help you choose the best sunscreens for dry skin.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall- Undry Hydrating Sunscreen
Undry Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50 is a photostable, lightweight gel-based sunscreen that quickly absorbs into dry skin. With organic zinc, ceramide, and vitamin C, this sunscreen provides superior sun protection while also keeping your skin hydrated.
Best for Sensitive Skin- Dr. Sheth’s Sunscreen SPF 50
The inclusion of ceramides in this sunscreen helps to restore the skin’s weak barrier, while vitamin C prevents micro-pigmentation and repairs mature skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid for nourishment and a non-sticky texture, making it the perfect choice for those with dry or sensitive skin.
Best Organic Sunscreen- Biotique Morning Nectar Sun Protect Moisturizer
This brightening sunscreen lotion contains pure honey, neem leaves, and wild turmeric. Infused with natural oils, it replenishes lost moisture and leaves your skin soft and supple, while SPF 30 UVA / UVB sunscreen provides superior protection against harmful UV rays.
Best for Mature Skin- Re’ Equil Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen Gel
With the highest UVA protection rating of PA++++, it shields your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. This sunscreen is the ultimate anti-ageing solution, perfectly tailored for active performance and wearable comfort.
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Detailed Overview
1. UNDRY- Undry Hydrating Sunscreen
Undry Hydrating Sunscreen is among the best sunscreens for dry skin SPF 50. It is, and is the ultimate solution for anyone with dry skin looking for a quick-absorbing sunscreen that will keep their skin hydrated and protected all day long.
Price
- 299 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.9 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed by users to be an excellent product with high absorption, no white cast and ultimate protection
Key ingredients
- Internationally sourced UV filters- Suncat MTA & mineral sunscreen cream actives- Titanium Dioxide & Zinc Oxide sunscreen
Best for
- Daily-use sun protection
- Wearing under makeup
- People with dry skin
| PROS | CONS |
| Highly absorbent | None |
| No white cast | |
| Unmatched, long-lasting hydration |
2. DR. SHETH’S- Dr. Sheth’s Sunscreen SPF 50
Protect and nourish your skin with Dr. Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen, specially formulated to meet the needs of sensitive Indian skin. It provides broad-spectrum protection against UV rays, pollution, and blue light.
Price
- 424 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.2 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be a go-to choice for people with sensitive and dry skin and is considered to be a value-for-money purchase by the users.
Key ingredients
- Mineral & organic filters, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin C and ceramide complex.
Best for
- People with sensitive, dry skin
- Indian skin
- Acne-prone skin
- People living in sunny and temperate regions
| PROS | CONS |
| Gentle on sensitive skin | Not suitable for combination skin |
| No white cast | |
| Fast absorption with great texture |
3. BIOTIQUE- Biotique Morning Nectar Sun Protect Moisturizer
Indulge in the nourishing goodness of morning nectar, wild turmeric, and neem leaves with this sunscreen. It replenishes lost moisture and replaces natural oils. With SPF 30+ UVA/UVB protection, it shields skin from harmful sun rays and prevents uneven skin tone.
Price
- 159 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.1 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be among the best organic sunscreens by the users for its lightweight texture
Key ingredients
- Wild Turmeric, Aloe Vera, Neem Leaves, SPF 30
Best for
- Ones who prefer organic products
- Those looking for a good sunscreen in budget
- People with dry skin
| PROS | CONS |
| Made with organic natural ingredients | Not suitable for combination skin |
| Reasonable price | Strong fragrance |
| Dewy texture |
4. RE’ EQUIL- Re’ Equil Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen Gel
Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin, this sunscreen’s non-sticky formula keeps oiliness in check, while its paraben-free formulation ensures no harmful chemicals are used. It also provides broad-spectrum protection with the highest-rated PA++++ and is among the best sunscreens for dry skin SPF 50.
Price
- 702 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.3 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be among the most lightweight sunscreens with quick absorption and added skin benefits
Key ingredients
- Caprylic capric triglyceride, sunscreen filters titanium dioxide (tio2) and zinc oxide, physalis angulata extract
Best for
- Outdoorsy people who enjoy sports and other athletic activities
- People looking for a sunscreen with anti-ageing benefits
| PROS | CONS |
| Waterproof gel formula that’s easily absorbed | Slightly expensive |
| Can be used as a primer | |
| No white-cast |
5. THE DERMA CO- The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen
A fragrance-free formula that won’t clog your pores, and the 1% concentration of Hyaluronic Acid ensures quick absorption and intense hydration for your skin. Its lightweight, water-like consistency makes it easy to apply and gives it the name “Aqua Gel”.
Price
- 453 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.3 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be an extremely versatile sunscreen with multiple benefits and economical pricing
Key ingredients
- 1% hyaluronic acid, titanium dioxide and Vitamin E
Best for
- People with combination and dry skin
- People with sensitive skin
- Those looking to smoothen their fine lines and wrinkles
| PROS | CONS |
| Among the best options for combination skin | None |
| Protects from blue-light | |
| Fast-action and non-greasy |
6. MAMAEARTH- Mamaearth Ultra Light Indian Sunscreen
With this sunscreen’s SPF 50+++ and effective protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays for up to 6 hours, you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about sun damage. Perfect for all skin types, our non-sticky and moisturising formula is gentle on your skin
Price
- 434 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.1 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be an effective sunscreen with adequate hydration for people with normal to dry skin
Key ingredients
- Carrot seed oil, orange oil, turmeric and titanium dioxide for UV protection
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin
- People who prefer a blend of natural ingredients for their skin
| PROS | CONS |
| Natural ingredients | Not good for combination skin |
| Fast absorption | May leave a white cast on certain skin tones |
| Lightweight |
7. AQUALOGICA- Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen
With SPF 50 and PA+++ protection, this sunscreen shields your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA, UVB rays and blue light. Not only does it prevent tanning, but it also gives your skin a radiant glow. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it provides intense hydration.
Price
- 359 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.2 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be a lightweight sunscreen that gives a dewy finish to the skin and absorbs quickly.
Key ingredients
- Papaya, Vitamin C, Zinc Dioxide, Titanium Dioxide
Best for
- People who prefer skincare
- Ones with dry and breakout-prone skin
| PROS | CONS |
| Dewy finish making it a good choice for using under makeup | Product bottle is not designed ergonomically. |
| Good for combination skin | |
| Lightweight |
8. DOT & KEY –Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Sunscreen
A sunscreen formula with SPF 50 is specially designed to protect your skin against UVA, UVB, and Blue Light rays while activating Vitamin D receptors on your skin. It enhances the skin’s natural glow and radiance, fights against free radicals, and prevents early age signs.
Price
- 421 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.6 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be a very lightweight sunscreen with the perfect texture that eases absorption in the skin, leaving no space for white-cast
Key ingredients
- Triple Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Sicilian blood orange, UV filters
Best for
- Ones with dry and combination skins
- Those looking to make their blemishes and uneven skin tone disappear
| PROS | CONS |
| Cleanest ingredients used | Quantity of product could be increased |
| No white cast and no heaviness on the skin after application | |
| Targets multiple skin issues |
9. MINIMALIST- Minimalist Sunscreen SPF 50 Lightweight
A broad spectrum SPF 50 with a PA++++ rating, with a feather-light texture. Infused with a powerful blend of Vitamins A, B, E & F, it goes beyond just protecting your skin by nourishing and repairing it from within, minimizing any damage caused by sun exposure.
Price
- 379 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.2 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be a fragrance-free, dry skin-friendly product with adequate moisturising abilities
Key ingredients
- Niacinamide, Vitamin B5, Vitamin F, Effective UV filters
Best for
- People with dry or combination acne-prone skin
- Ones with sensitive skin
- Ones looking to target and remove sun-tan \
| PROS | CONS |
| Feather-light texture for quick absorption | Not the best choice for oily skin |
| Multivitamin induced for enhanced care | |
| No white-cast |
10.NEUTROGENA- Neutrogena Ultra sheer Sunscreen
Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ is powered by Helioplex technology. It provides superior balanced broad-spectrum protection against skin-ageing UVA and burning UVB rays, and leaves behind a non-shiny, ultra-light finish thanks to its Dry Touch Technology.
Price
- 234 INR
Reviews and ratings
- Rated 4.2 out of 5 by users
- Reviewed to be a great product for those with combination skin and works well in summer months as well
Key ingredients
- Kernel Extracts, UV filters
Best for
- Ones with normal, dry and combination skin
- Those looking to reduce fine lines
| PROS | CONS |
| Matte effect of sunscreen prevents piling | Can clog pores for oily skin |
| Water-proof and sweat-proof | Light-scent may cause irritation to sensitive skins |
| Offers skin nourishment |
What are the benefits of using sunscreens?
- Protection from sunburn: Sunscreen helps prevent sunburn by blocking or absorbing the UV radiation that can damage skin cells.
- Lower risk of skin cancer: Consistent use of sunscreen can help lower the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
- Prevention of premature aging: Exposure to UV radiation can cause premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Sunscreen can help slow down the ageing process.
- Even skin tone: Sun damage can cause uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen can help prevent this by protecting skin from UV radiation.
- Protection for all skin types: Everyone can benefit from using sunscreen, regardless of skin type or skin colour.
What ingredients or specifications to look for while choosing sunscreens for dry skin?
- Moisturising ingredients: Best sunscreens for dry skin contain moisturising ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides.
- Cream or lotion formula: Creams and lotions are more moisturising and can help to prevent dryness.
- Broad-spectrum protection: Look for a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF 30 or higher: Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This provides adequate protection against UV radiation without being too heavy or greasy on your skin.
- Fragrance-free: Look for gentle, fragrance-free options that won’t cause further dryness or irritation.
- Non-comedogenic: Find the best sunscreens for dry skin that are non-comedogenic, which means they won’t clog your pores or cause acne.
FAQ:
How to make the sunscreen stay long?
- Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside to allow it to absorb fully into your skin.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or more frequently if you are sweating or swimming.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a hat and long sleeves, to protect your skin from UV radiation.
- Avoid being in the sun during peak hours (10 am-4 pm) when the UV radiation is strongest.
How much SPF is good for dry skin?
- It is generally recommended to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, regardless of skin type. This provides adequate protection against UV radiation without being too heavy or greasy on your skin.
Does zinc oxide sunscreen cause dry skin?
- Zinc oxide is generally considered safe and unlikely to cause dry skin unless you are sensitive to the ingredient. However, it is important to note that some zinc oxide sunscreens may be heavier and more difficult to absorb into the skin. If you have concerns about dry skin, look for a sunscreen that contains moisturising ingredients to help keep your skin hydrated.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sunscreen for dry skin is essential in protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. By purchasing the best sunscreen for dry skin, you can protect your skin from sun damage without causing further dryness or irritation and enjoy outdoor activities while keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.
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