How To Choose The Right Sunscreen For Men

Men Don’t Need Sunscreen. Right?

Wrong!

That one line has been holding back millions of men from healthy, youthful skin. If you’ve ever thought sunscreen is optional, or worse—just for women—you’ve already fallen for the myth.

Here’s the truth: your skin ages just like anyone else's. It burns. It tans. And it gets damaged when exposed to the sun without protection. 

And let’s get this out of the way: the right sunscreen doesn’t make your skin greasy, chalky, or smell like coconut heaven. If it does, you're using the wrong one. The right sunscreen protects your skin against UV radiation without feeling, looking, or smelling off. The cherry on top - modern sunscreens are enriched with ingredients like Niacinamide and Vitamin C and have a moisturizing texture, making them a one-and-done solution for skincare.

So if you care about how your skin looks now—and 10 years from now—stick around. We’ll help you figure out exactly what you need.

Why Sunscreen Is Essential for Men

1. UV Rays Are Merciless
Your skin doesn’t care if you're indoors or outdoors. UVA rays go through windows and bands of clouds. UVB rays cause visible burns. Both speed up wrinkles, sunspots, and aging.
2. Your Skin’s First Line of Defense
A good sunscreen for men helps prevent premature aging, sunburn, and hyperpigmentation. If you’ve ever noticed uneven tone or patchy skin, UV rays are likely to blame.
3. You Need It Daily
Cloudy skies? Office job? Doesn’t matter. Everyday sunscreen for men is key. Sun damage builds up quietly every single day.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Sunscreen for Men 

.1. Check the SPF Levels
Your sunscreen’s SPF levels reveal how well it protects you from UV rays. For example, SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays while SPF 50 blocks 98%. Similarly, a PA++++ rating denotes a very high UVA protection. An SPF of 30 or higher with PA++++ is recommended for Indian skin types, as they are more prone to hyperpigmentation and are exposed to harsher sunlight for several hours. So, for daily use, go with SPF 30 or 50. Spending time outdoors? SPF 50+ or even SPF 70 sunscreen for men gives you extended protection. The higher the SPF, the better you are shielded.

2. Know Your Skin Type

1. Oily Skin? You need a lightweight, non-greasy formula. The best sunscreen for men with oily skin cuts the shine without clogging pores.

2. Dry Skin? Choose a moisturizing sunscreen for men for dry skin that hydrates while it protects.

3. Sensitive Skin? Use a gentle, chemical-based sunscreen that doesn’t sting or cause breakouts.

.3. Formulation Matters

1. Cream vs. Lotion: Creams are rich, good for dry skin or long outdoor hours. Lotions feel lighter, great for everyday use for oily skin or humid climates.

2. Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens: Chemical sunscreens absorb quickly and leave no white cast, unlike most mineral sunscreens with physical filters. They are ideal for men who want zero fuss.

3. Water-Resistant vs. Non-Water-Resistant: If you sweat or swim, a water-resistant sunscreen is the one for you. Otherwise, a standard sunscreen is fine and probably a bit more comfortable too.

4. Check the Ingredients

A good sunscreen for men doesn’t just protect against the sun but also offers skincare benefits. Besides SPF, look for the following ingredients for an all-rounder sunscreen:

1. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This multi-tasker soothes the skin, improves texture, and reduces redness. It’s great for men whose skin is sensitive to sun exposure.

2. Vitamin C: Helps fade dark spots and protects your skin from environmental stress. If you have hyperpigmentation or spots from past sun exposure, Vitamin C in your sunscreen will work wonders.

3. Other Antioxidants: They fight free radicals and reduce the damage you don’t even see yet.

How To Apply Sunscreen Properly

Remember these golden rules -

1. Use the right amount:  Let’s Always stick to 2 fingers’ worth of sunscreen for the face for optimal protection.

2. Give it time: Apply your sunscreen 15-20 minutes before stepping out. This allows the sunscreen to meld into the skin for infallible sun protection.

3. Reapply often: Reapply every two hours for round-the-clock protection.

Reapplication Tips: How Often Should You Reapply Sunscreen?

Tell-Tale Signs That You Need to Reapply Sunscreen 

We know that reapplying sunscreen during the day seems like a hassle, but trust us, it is non-negotiable for healthy skin! You must reapply when you notice the following signs:

1. Redness or Sunburn: If your skin begins to feel hot or you notice redness or sunburn. That’s a red flag. It's a sign that your sunscreen has worn off and needs a top-up.

2. Dry or Tight Skin: If your skin starts feeling dry or tight after being outdoors or in the field of direct sunlight, it’s a good idea to apply a fresh layer of sunscreen to restore hydration and protection. 

When to Reapply Sunscreen (Even If You Think You Don’t Need To)

1. Every Two Hours: As a rule of thumb, you should reapply sunscreen every two hours, even if you’re indoors or in the shade. UV rays can penetrate windows - (yes, even glass), and you’re still exposed to harmful radiation

2. If You Just Got Out of the Pool or Gym: If you're swimming, exercising, or engaging in any activity that makes you sweat, reapply sunscreen right after towel-drying your skin. Believe it or not, even water-resistant sunscreens lose their magic after prolonged water exposure.

3. If You’re Out in Direct Sunlight: If you're exposed to the sun for several hours, be it during a hike, beach day, or outdoor sports, make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours. No matter how high the SPF, reapplication is a must.

Pro Tips for Easy Sunscreen Reapplication 

1. Carry a Travel-Friendly Sunscreen: Carry a mini sunscreen stick or spray that fits easily in your pocket. Quick and easy reapplication = no excuses!

2. Use SPF Powders or Sunscreen Makeup: These products let you top up your protection without messing up your look. Great for men who are always on the move, especially when you need to reapply on your face.

3. Don’t skip your ears, neck, or hands: These often-neglected areas show signs of aging faster than you think. So apply sunscreen on all exposed body parts to prevent uneven tanning and sun damage.

Best Sunscreens for Men in 2025

1. Foxtale Glow Sunscreen (SPF 50)
Gives your skin that healthy glow without burning a hole in your wallet, at just ₹349. 

It is packed with Vitamin C and Niacinamide to brighten, protect, and make you look like you slept 8 hours (even if you didn’t). Ideal sunscreen for men and women who love a light, radiant finish. The hydrating yet lightweight formula makes it suitable for all skin types.

2. Foxtale Matte Finish Sunscreen (SPF 70)
No shine. No breakouts. No drama. 

This one keeps oil in check and your skin protected at ₹495. The ultimate SPF 70 sunscreen for men with oily skin has Niacinamide, Provitamin B5 and Peptides to brighten, nourish and protect. The bonus?  An oil-free matte finish without any chalkiness or white cast!.

3. Foxtale Dewy Finish Sunscreen (SPF 70)
Hydration meets high SPF. At ₹495, it gives your dry skin that soft, fresh finish without the grease. A dewy finish meets the skincare benefits of Niacinamide, Provitamin B5 and Peptides to keep your skin bright and bouncy! The perfect sunscreen for men with dry skin types - one they swear by.

Conclusion: Here’s What Most Men Get Wrong About Sunscreen

They either don’t use sunscreen at all or slap on any random one they find.

That’s why your skin gets damaged, irritated, or worse—you stop using sunscreen altogether.

But if you start using the right one, with skin-loving ingredients like Niacinamide and Vitamin C - it feels right. It works. You actually like using it.

And that’s the difference.

So... which one are you going to be?

Make the switch. Make it a habit.

Explore Foxtale's bestsellers. Protect your skin like it matters—because it does.

FAQs

Can men use the same sunscreen as women?
Yes. Sunscreen is about skin type, not gender. But Foxtale’s textures are made to suit men’s thicker skin, with different variants for dry and oily skin types. These sunscreens for men and women work just as well when chosen based on skin needs.

How much SPF is enough for men?
SPF 30 to 50 is good for daily use. Go for SPF 50+ if you're out in the sun longer. Products like Foxtale’s SPF 50 sunscreen for men are a great place to start.

Does sunscreen stop working after 2 hours?
Yes! That’s why reapplication is key. Every two hours, like clockwork, especially when exposed to direct sunlight.