September 28, 2026

Sunscreen is an essential part of daily sun protection. This guide explains how to choose sunscreen , how to use sunscreen on face , how much sunscreen to apply on face , when to apply and reapply it, and what SPF and PA++++ mean. It also covers sunscreen for different skin types and practical considerations for Indian weather, including heat, humidity, sweating, tanning, and pigmentation. Reviewed by: Dr. Ramesh Surianarayanan, Head- R&D (Foxtale) What Is Sunscreen? What is sunscreen ? Sunscreen is a skincare product that protects your skin from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Its UV filters either absorb UV rays (chemical filters) or scatter and reflect them (mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide). The main uses of sunscreen are preventing sunburn, tanning, pigmentation and early ageing, and lowering skin cancer risk. It comes as gels, creams, fluids, lotions, sticks and sprays. What Is SPF? What is SPF in sunscreen? SPF means Sun Protection Factor. It tells you how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. SPF 15 filters about 93% of UVB, SPF 30 about 97%, and SPF 50 about 98%. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays. Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30 for daily use, and SPF 50 for longer periods outdoors. A higher SPF doesn't mean all-day protection, which is why you still need to reapply. UV is strongest around midday, so that's when reapplication matters most. Read More: For the difference between SPF and UVA protection, read ou…

September 28, 2026

For sensitive skin, the best SPF 50 sunscreen for sensitive skin is a gentle, fragrance-light formula built on photostable, skin-friendly UV filters and calming actives like niacinamide, protecting against UV rays without triggering redness, stinging, or breakouts. What Ingredients to Look For Photostable, new-generation UV filters: modern filters (like DHHB and Ethylhexyl Triazone) offer broad-spectrum protection with less irritation risk than older chemical filters Niacinamide: soothes skin and supports the barrier while it's protected Antioxidants: Vitamin C and Vitamin E help offset UV-related oxidative stress Minimal, allergen-conscious formulation: fewer harsh additives means fewer chances of a reaction What to Avoid Older-generation chemical filters known to irritate reactive skin Heavy alcohol-based or gel textures that dry out compromised skin Strong synthetic fragrance and unnecessary actives layered on top of SPF If you're concerned about congestion or acne, choosing a suitable formula matters. Read more about sunscreen that doesn’t cause breakouts and what can contribute to sunscreen-related breakouts. Recommendations The right non-irritating sunscreen for sensitive and acne-prone skin can also depend on your skin type. If your skin tends to feel tight or flaky, explore sunscreen for dry skin options. Glow Vitamin C Sunscreen SPF 50 is a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula with Vitamin C and Niacinamide, photostable UV filters, and a no-white-cast finish for dail…