My dermatologist never lets me leave her office without reminding me to apply sunscreen every day. It’s a ritual now. I cannot go one day without her words ringing in my head. But while I invest in sunscreens based on her recommendations, I’ve never asked her what she sun-proofs her skin with — or any dermat for that matter. Do they have their own favourites?
That’s why I decided to ask 5 experts what their top 4 or 5 go-to sunscreens are and why they like them so much. You can thank me later. Lo and behold: the best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens.
Dr. Sravya C Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist at Manipal Hospitals in Bangalore
La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50+
This sunscreen is highly effective in protecting the skin against UVA as well as UVB rays. It’s non-greasy and absorbs quickly; making it an excellent option for those with oily or combination skin types. This is one of the best sunscreens recommended by dermatologists.
- Pro: Perfect for sensitive skin
- Con: On the costlier side
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+
This sunscreen is formulated with Helioplex, which provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. It is lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly, leaving no residue on the skin.
- Pro: Hydrating for dry skin
- Con: Mattifying for those who like the dewy, glazed look
Also Read: Best Sunscreen For Dry Skin
Bioderma Photoderm Max Aquafluide SPF 50+
The Bioderma Photoderm Max Aquafluide SPF 50+ is specially designed for sensitive, reactive skin, and provides high-level protection against UVA and UVB rays. It’s water-resistant, non-greasy, and easily absorbed by the skin. This is one of the best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens.
- Pro: Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
- Con: Tints the skin slightly; not suitable for those who don’t like tinted products
Avene Very High Protection Cream SPF 50
The Avene Very High Protection Cream SPF 50 is ideal for dry and sensitive skin types. This dermatologist suggested sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays while moisturizing and soothing the skin.
- Pro: Fragrance-free to prevent irritation
- Con: In cream form for those who prefer gels
Also Read: Sunscreen For Acne Prone Skin
Minimalist Sunscreen SPF 50
The Minimalist Sunscreen SPF 50 sunscreen is oil-free and non-greasy, making it an excellent option for those with oily skin. It provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays while also controlling oil production on the skin.
- Pro: Good for oil-prone skin as it controls oil production
- Con: Contains 4 very effective UV filters for maximum protection
Dr. Sneha Ghunawat, Consultant Dermatologist & Cosmetologist, Director, and Co-Founder of Meraki Skin Clinic, Gurugram
Glenmark La Shield Sunscreen Gel
Another dermatologist-approved sunscreen is the La Shield Sunscreen Gel by Glenmark. It’s equipped with an SPF 40 and has a matte-ish finish. It is lightweight and non-greasy; making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
- Pro: Reduces tanning
- Con: Can leave a cast behind
DERMATICA RAY: Protect Barelyon Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50
The Dermatica Ray Protect Barelyon Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50 is ideal for dry, dull skin. It moisturizes skin along with sun-protecting it.
- Pro: SPF 50 for high protection
- Con: Cream texture for those who prefer lighter formulations
Suncros Soft Gel Sunscreen
For those looking for a dermatologist-recommended face sunscreen for children, the Suncros Soft Gel is the finest. It’s non-comedogenic and oil-free.
- Pro: Safest for children
- Con: White cast
Photon 360 Tint Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 PA+++
The broad-spectrum Photon 360 Tint Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 PA+++ sunscreen protects you against blue-light radiation as well as infrared rays. It’s ideal for those with melasma and pigmentation.
- Pro: Has blue light protection
- Con: Can feel greasy
Dr. Manjot Marwah, Award-Winning Celebrity Dermatologist & Hair Transplant Surgeon, Consultant & Director at Dr. Manjot’s Clinic
La Shield Fisico SPF 50+ & PA+++ Mineral-Based Sunscreen Gel
The La Shield Fisico SPF 50+ & PA+++ Mineral Based Sunscreen Gel is a tried and tested sunscreen that’s easily available in all parts of India. The gel-based product boasts a light, weightless texture. It’s perfect for combination skin.
- Pro: Feels weightless on skin
- Con: No blue light protection
Suncros 50 Aqualotion SPF 50
The Suncros 50 Aqualotion SPF 50 is the best in-budget sunscreen for sensitive, reactive skin.
- Pro: Won’t irritate sensitive skin
- Con: Need to use more than usual to cover the skin
Bioderma Photoderm Aquafluide Sunscreen SPF 50+
The Bioderma Photoderm Aquafluide Sunscreen SPF 50 + is the finest moisturising, tinted sunscreen. It’s most prescribed by me in my practice because of its coverage and texture. It’s typically more suited for a lighter skin tone.
- Pro: Moisturises effectively
- Con: Better for lighter skin tones
Also Read: Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin
Heliocare Sunscreen Spray
The Heliocare Sunscreen Spray has a patented Fernblok technology in all its sunscreens and is excellent as a spray for body application.
- Pro: Convenient application
- Con: Not for people who like more texture in sunscreen
FCL Light Weight SPF 80 Sunscreen Lotion
For high protection post procedures in all skin types with an extremely light consistency. This one has an SPF of 80 and protects you against infrared light, blue light, and UV light.
- Pro: High SPF
- Con: Can feel greasy
Dr. Sushma Yadav, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Hair Transplant Surgeon, Founder of Skinology Centre in Bangalore
Truderma SPF 50 Sunscreen Gel
The Truderma SPF 50 Sunscreen Gel is a broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen that’s non-comedogenic and smooth and light on the skin. This is especially recommended for combination and oily skin and is pocket and travel-friendly.
- Pro: Portable
- Con: Takes time to blend in
iS Clinical PerfecTint Powder SPF 40
For easy reapplications on makeup and good coverage, the iS Clinical PerfecTint Powder SPF 40 is the way to go.
- Pro: Good under makeup
- Con: Can feel heavy
Dr Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen
The Dr. Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen is super hydrating, quick absorbing, and leaves no white build-up cast behind. It has a brightening effect thanks to Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C.
- Pro: No white cast
- Con: Not pregnancy safe
Supergoop Resetting Powder Sunscreen
The Supergoop Resetting Powder Sunscreen is easy to apply especially when you are outdoors or want something to sit perfectly over/under your makeup.
- Pro: Good under makeup
- Con: Double duty product
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water Sunscreen
The ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water Sunscreen provides instant hydration to the skin. It’s a bit of a splurge but if you’re looking to invest, this sunscreen suggested by a dermatologist is the product for you.
- Pro: Paraben free
- Con: Costly
Dermatica Ray: Protect Tint Mineral Sunscreen
It’s a tinted mineral sunscreen. It’s a light-reflecting, quick-absorbing sunscreen with a tint of foundation; so it works as a great base for your makeup.
- Pro: Quick absorbing
- Con: Can tint the skin
There we have it. The best sunscreens according to dermatologists. I know I’m adding some of these to my cart!
Featured Image: Instagram