Do you use sunscreen? When I asked this question on Instagram, 31% of people said they use sunscreen daily, 45% said no, and 24% said they use it occasionally. Is using sunscreen really necessary? Which is the best sunscreen in the Indian market?
Well, not just one or two—in this article, I’m going to share five sunscreens that are not only safe for the skin but also effectively protect you from the harsh sun rays, including a natural DIY sunscreen that you can easily make at home in just 5 minutes using only two ingredients. Let's keep this helpful and practical. Without any further delay, let's get started!
Are Sunrays Bad for You?
There is no doubt that vitamin D—the most important vitamin for our bones—is best obtained from sunlight. Those who suffer from arthritis, cervical or back pain, or joint pain should definitely expose the affected area to sunlight for some time every day, as this helps strengthen the joints.
And why just body pains? Science says that when sun rays hit our body, feel-good hormones are released in the brain. In fact, in countries where the sun is out for only a short time, cases of depression are most common.
So, there is no need to be afraid of the sun. What is needed is to understand that the sun rays are best for our body within 1 hour after sunrise and 1 hour before sunset.
As the sun rises higher, these rays become stronger. In India, especially in summer, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the sun rays are very harsh.
During this time, it's best to stay indoors, but if you have to go outside, you should protect your skin from the sun's rays. Otherwise, not only will you get tanned, but if your skin is sensitive, you might also get sunburns or rashes.
Two Ways to Protect Your Skin from the Sun
There are mainly two ways to protect your skin:
- Cover your face and head: Use any piece of cloth, wear a hat or cap, use an umbrella while walking, or wear a helmet while riding a bike. Women often wear scarves that cover their face, leaving only their eyes visible, on which they wear sunglasses. This is a very good way to protect yourself from the sun because it not only keeps your face safe but also covers your head.
- Use sunscreen: This is the main topic of this article and a very effective way to protect your skin from harsh sunlight.
Covering your head is important because if we go out in the sun with an exposed head, it increases body heat, leading to headaches, premature graying of hair, acidity, pimples, and pigmentation on the face.
Mineral Sunscreens vs Chemical Sunscreens: Which One Should You Use?
There are basically two types of sunscreens:
- Chemical Sunscreens: Contain chemicals that absorb UV radiation like a sponge.
- Mineral Sunscreens: Contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that create a layer on the skin and reflect UV rays back.
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like benzene-based filters, silicones, and other compounds that can disrupt hormonal functions when they enter the bloodstream.
Studies have shown these chemicals have been found in the skin, blood, and even breast milk after a few weeks. This means chemical filters can enter your body through the skin's pores.
On the other hand, mineral sunscreens, also called physical sunscreens, form a protective layer on the skin like a cloth, so the chemicals don't enter the body. This is why dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens for pregnant women and small children.
Anyone who cares about their health should avoid chemical sunscreens and use mineral sunscreen when needed.
Do Mineral Sunscreens Actually Work?
Yes, they do! In fact, they provide better protection than chemical sunscreens.
You can do the banana peel test to check this: apply chemical sunscreen on one side of a banana peel and mineral sunscreen on the other side, then leave it out in the sun for a few hours.
You will notice that the banana peel with chemical sunscreen becomes much darker compared to the one with mineral sunscreen. This clearly shows that the protective action of mineral sunscreen is better.
Banana peels are used because researchers have found they produce the same enzymes that human skin does when exposed to UV rays.
Also Read: 5 Early Warning Signs of Liver Damage
Top 5 Mineral Sunscreens in India in 2025
Now that it's clear mineral sunscreens are safer and more effective, here are the top five mineral sunscreens in India in 2025. These sunscreens are unsponsored and selected based on research and consumer reviews.
1. Gabbit SPF 50 100% Mineral Sunscreen
Gabbit is a 100% mineral sunscreen because its second ingredient is zinc oxide, and it has no chemical filters. Many popular sunscreens marketed as mineral are actually hybrids containing chemical filters like octocrylene.
Gabbit contains no fragrance or harsh chemicals. It includes ashwagandha to prevent skin allergies, probiotics to increase collagen production, oats to reduce inflammation, and vitamin E to keep the skin soft.
Reviews are very positive, and unlike many mineral sunscreens, Gabbit does not leave a white cast on the face. The white cast appears initially but vanishes within 5 to 10 minutes after application.
It is also water and sweat resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Price: ₹440 for 50 ml
Suitable for: All skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin.
2. Mother Sparsh Unscented Mineral Baby Sunscreen SPF 50
This sunscreen is marketed for babies but can be used by anyone. Baby products are formulated to be gentle, and this sunscreen is no exception. Its ingredients are superior to other baby sunscreens like AO's Baby and Kid Sunscreen.
It contains shea butter, coconut oil, almond oil, vitamin E, calendula extract, and even oats, which protect and nourish the skin.
It claims to have no silicones, but it contains a silicone called dimethicone, which is acceptable.
The sunscreen blends easily without leaving a white cast and is best suited for normal, dry, and sensitive skin. It might not suit oily skin but is safe to try.
Price: ₹400 for 50 ml
3. Aroma Magic Mineral Sunscreens
Aroma Magic offers mineral sunscreens tailored for different skin types:
- Yellow - All skin types
- Red - Dry skin
- Blue - Oily, acne-prone skin
- Green - Sensitive skin
All these sunscreens are 100% mineral based and free from harsh chemicals. Reviews highlight that they do not leave a white cast, are sweat resistant, and provide effective protection.
Aroma Magic sunscreens are economical compared to many commercial brands and are easily available in local supermarkets.
DIY Sunscreen You Can Make at Home
You can make a natural sunscreen at home using just two ingredients:
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Wheat Germ Oil
Wheat germ oil naturally has an SPF of around 20 and contains zinc, which oxidizes to form a protective layer of zinc oxide on the skin. It also has the highest quantity of vitamin E among oils, which is beneficial for the skin. Despite being an oil, it is lightweight and suitable even for oily skin.
How to Make:
- Take aloe vera gel and wheat germ oil in a 3:1 ratio in a bowl.
- Mix well to get a gel-like creamy consistency.
- If you want to thicken it, add beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil (especially in winter).
- Store in a small container; it will last for 3 months.
Aloe vera gel hydrates and cools the skin, protecting against sunburns and acne.
How to use: Apply just like any other sunscreen, about two fingers worth, and blend well on your face and body.
Foods That Help in Sun Protection
Besides using sunscreen, certain foods can help protect your skin from the sun:
- Watermelon: Contains lycopene, which absorbs UV radiation.
- Tomatoes: Also contain lycopene.
- Carrots: Contain beta-carotene and carrot seed oil is used in sunscreen formulations.
- Leafy Green Vegetables: Contain antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin that protect against wrinkles, sun damage, and even skin cancer.
- Other Fruits: Grapes, bell peppers, lemons, oranges, and pomegranates help boost natural sun protection.
Don't forget to drink plenty of water. Hydrated skin resists sun damage better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Should I wear sunscreen indoors?
UV rays are present indoors but at much lower intensity. These weaker rays are not harmful. However, if you sit right in front of a window all day, applying sunscreen is advisable. Generally, avoid sunscreen indoors to prevent skin problems caused by over-application.
Q2: Do mineral sunscreens leave a white cast?
Properly formulated mineral sunscreens like Gabbit or Aroma Magic do not leave a white cast or it disappears within minutes after application.
Q3: Are chemical sunscreens harmful?
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that can enter the bloodstream and disrupt hormonal functions. They are not recommended for pregnant women, children, or anyone concerned about health.
Q4: How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Reapply every 2-3 hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming.
Summary of Recommended Sunscreens
| Sunscreen | Type | SPF | Skin Suitability | Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gabbit | 100% Mineral | 50 | All skin types | 440 (50 ml) |
| Mother Sparsh Unscented Baby Sunscreen | Mineral | 50 | Normal, dry, sensitive | 400 (50 ml) |
| Aroma Magic | 100% Mineral | 15 to 30 (varies by product) | Varies by skin type | Economical |
| DIY Aloe Vera + Wheat Germ Oil | Natural Mineral | ~20 (approx.) | All skin types | Very affordable |
Conclusion
Protecting your skin from harmful sun rays is essential, especially during peak hours in Indian summers. Mineral sunscreens are the safest and most effective choice for everyone, including pregnant women and children.
Gabbit, Mother Sparsh, and Aroma Magic offer excellent mineral sunscreen options suited for different skin types and budgets. For those who prefer natural remedies, a simple DIY sunscreen made from aloe vera gel and wheat germ oil provides affordable and effective protection.
Remember to also nourish your skin from within by eating sun-protective foods like watermelon, carrots, and leafy greens. Stay hydrated and cover your face and head when outdoors to minimize sun damage. With these tips and products, you can enjoy the sun safely and keep your skin healthy.
Wishing you good health and safe sun exposure!
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