Best sunscreen for dry skin: 8 top choices to prevent sunburn

The harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can make your skin look dull and lifeless. The best way to fight the damaging effects of UV rays is to use sunscreens. This skincare product can help prevent pigmentation, early signs of aging and reduce sunspots. When it comes to dry skin, it becomes vital to choose a sunscreen that is infused with hydrating ingredients as excessive exposure to UV rays can exaggerate the dryness because of the moisture loss. So, if you have dry skin, pick a sunscreen that can lock in moisture along with shielding your skin from sun damage. The creamy formula sunscreens tend to deeply moisturise your skin without clogging pores. We have curated a list of the best sunscreens for dry skin that you may use to create a protective barrier on your skin.

8 best sunscreens for dry skin

Dry skin lacks natural moisture and oil that gives the soft touch. The best sunscreens for dry skin in India may help protect your skin from UV rays along with nourishing it from within.

1. ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel

Try this sunscreen for dry skin from ISNTREE and give your skin an effective protection against UV rays. It is packed with the goodness of hyaluronic acid, green tea and soy that helps to block UV rays without leaving any white cast. This sunscreen promises to absorb quickly into your skin and gives a smooth texture. It may help soothe irritated, inflamed skin and improve dull skin. This dry skin care product also promises to improve the elasticity of your skin by penetrating deep into the skin. It may also hydrate your skin from within and maintain the moisture level to combat excessive dryness.

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2. ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water Oil Control

ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water Oil Control claims to be the first water-based sunscreen that protects your skin without leaving any white cast. It is enriched with the goodness of hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, which helps hydrate and nourish your skin from within. Providing a broad spectrum protection, this sunscreen gives a matte and silky finish. The brand claims that the product is non-comedogenic and alcohol-free, which makes it safe for your skin.

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3. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Sunscreen

Are you looking for sunscreen for protection and tanning? This one from Neutrogena might be a good option for you! Enriched with the goodness of active ingredients like zinc oxide, this sunscreen features dry-touch technology to ensure that it dries without leaving any greasy touch. It is a water-resistant sunscreen that promises to protect your skin without getting affected by water or sweat. This sunscreen offers broad spectrum SPF 5 protection against UV rays and prevents sunburns. The brand also claims that the product is free from fragrances, harmful chemicals, phthalates and parabens.

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4. Cos-IQ Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++

Cos-IQ Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ is packed with a lightweight formula that gives a flawless matte finish look to your skin. This serum-based sunscreen uses double-encapsulated technology to prevent molecules from flowing into your skin. Formulated with two types of filters, this sunscreen prevents photoaging.

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5. UV-VIS Block Sunscreen Gel

UV-VIS Block Sunscreen Gel is formulated using green tea extract, vitamin E, alpha glucosyl and biosaccharide. It promises to block harmful UV rays and prevent its damaging effects. The non-sticky gel based formula of this sunscreen may provide you long term hydration and protection from the sun. Made from double sphere nanotechnology, this sunscreen ensures sun protection. Regular use of this skin care product may also prevent acne causing germs and give your skin a smooth touch without leaving any greasy or chalky texture.

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6. Avene Sun Very High Protection Sun Cream

Avene Sun Very High Protection Sun Cream promises to provide optimal protection against UVB and UVA rays. This fragrance-free sunscreen comes with a velvety texture to give a comfortable feel to your skin. It features a broad spectrum and photostable UVB-UVA filtering system. The unique antioxidant complex and global cellu;ar protection of this cream may soothe inflamed and irritated skin. It also absorbs quickly into the skin and claims to not feel non-sticky.

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7. Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Sunscreen

Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Sunscreen can be a good addition to your skin care routine. It is packed with the goodness of triple vitamin C, sicilian blood orange, UV filters, and vitamin E. Regular use of this sunscreen for dry skin may help reduce dullness and pigmentation. It may also boost collagen and re-energises your skin. This sunscreen also contains UV filters that may help block UVA, UVB and blue light rays. It also promises to soothe skin irritation that may be caused by the sun. The brand states that the product is lightweight, quick absorbing and it may help reduce tanning. The product may also give a dewy finish without leaving any white cast.

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8. Undry Hydrating Sunscreen for Dry Skin

Undry Hydrating Sunscreen is especially formulated for dry skin to provide intense protection and deep hydration. Enriched with the goodness of hyaluronic acid, ceramide, polyglutamine acid complex and vitamin C, this sunscreen may help prevent dryness, lock in moisture and reduce dullness. The brand states that its product is lightweight, fast absorbing and contains photostable formula. It also promises to leave no white cast on your skin and protect it from reactions.

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How to pick the right sunscreen for dry skin?

Dry skin lacks moisture and may appear rough. Sun exposure can increase dryness and lead to discomfort. So, while selecting the sunscreens for dry skin, consider the following points to make a wise decision:

• Look for sunscreens that are packed with moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and shea butter. These agents will help replenish the lost moisture, create a protective barrier against dryness and leave your skin nourished.
• Opt for sunscreens that are labelled as non-comedogenic to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. These formulations will not cause excessive dryness or irritation.
• Choose the products that promise to offer broad-spectrum protection against UV rays. It will help prevent premature ageing, pigmentation and other damaging effects.
• Make sure to choose sunscreens that offer at least SPF 30 for protection against UVA and UVB rays.
• Look for ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile and other botanical extracts. This will help soothe your inflamed skin and calm irritation.
• Go for water-resistant formulas to get long-lasting protection against UV rays.

What are the benefits of sunscreens for dry skin?

Some important benefits of sunscreens for dry skin include:

• Sunscreens that are especially formulated for dry skin can help with hydration and moisture retention. These products contain moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin that helps lock in moisture and prevent flakiness.
• They create a protective barrier on your skin to protect it from environmental stressors, prevent premature ageing and fade away spots.
• The presence of soothing ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile in these sunscreens may help to reduce redness, soothe irritated and inflamed skin.
• These sunscreens help retain your skin’s natural moisture balance and combat dryness. Regular use of the products may help improve the texture and elasticity of your skin.
• Sunscreens improve the skin’s natural barrier function, strengthen its defence against environmental aggressors and maintain your skin health.
• UV exposure can impact the renewal process of your skin. By applying these sunscreens, you may enhance the repair and renewal activity and get smoother skin.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Which sunscreen is best for dry skin?

For dry skin, mineral or physical sunscreens are better in comparison to chemical ones. As per the American Academy of Dermatology Association, mineral sunscreens can absorb the sun’s rays and form a protective barrier against UV rays. Along with shielding your skin, they can even keep your skin moisturised.

• Which is the best time to apply sunscreens?

IJDVL suggests using sunscreens or at least applying sunscreen in a concentration of 2 mg/cm 2. Apply the sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before going out and don’t forget to reapply the product after 2 hours.

• What is the best SPF?

According to IJDVL, sunscreens with SPF 50 and above can provide the highest protection against harmful UV rays. While SPF 30 to 50 provide high protection, SPF 15 to 30 may give medium range protection against sun damage.

(Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)