Best Sunscreen for Winter in India

A lot of people think sunscreen is just for summer. This is not true. When it comes to winter, the best sunscreen does more than just protect your skin from UV rays. It also helps deal with dryness, wind irritation and a dull look that comes from harsh weather. It does not matter whether you are taking a walk, going to the office, or just hanging out by the window; sunscreen acts as your invisible protector from the damage you can not even see. 

In this post, we will learn why you need sunscreen in the winter, how to choose the best one, what to look for and not look for on the label, and some good choices for Indian skin and weather. 

Why do you need sunscreen in winter?

Do not skip the sunscreen, even when it is cold. Your skin still needs protection in winter. The sun's UV rays are always there, and winter weather can actually make them worse without you realising it. Even when it's cold outside, don't put your sunscreen away. Learn more about why you should always wear sunscreen:

• UV rays are always active: Even when it is cold, those invisible rays can damage your skin, causing a tan and early ageing. Therefore, it is important to apply sunscreen daily.
• Ice and snow reflect sunlight: Causing Ultraviolet radiation to be nearly twice as high. This reflection can cause dullness, future harm, and sunburn, mainly when you are doing outdoor winter activities like trekking, hiking, and skiing.  
• Cold air can damage your skin: Sunscreen helps if your skin is rough or sensitive. It forms a barrier that locks in moisture and protects you from UV rays.
• Fog does not stop UV rays: Even with sunscreen already used by 90% of people, applying it daily still guards against sun damage and skin issues all year.
• UVA rays pass through windows and glass, so even indoor or car exposure matters. Daily sunscreen use prevents uneven tanning, dark spots, and wrinkles caused by everyday light exposure.
• Indoor and window exposure matters: So you are still getting exposed even when you are inside or in your car. Using sunscreen every day helps keep your skin tone even and prevents dark spots and wrinkles from everyday light exposure.

Top Benefits Of Using Sunscreen In Winter

Applying sunscreen in winter protects your skin from harmful Ultraviolet radiation, keeps your skin from getting dry, rough, tanning and premature ageing and maintains an even skin tone. It helps your skin stay strong, keeping it hydrated, smooth and glowing despite the cold, harsh weather. These five points explain the benefits of using sunscreen in winter.

• Prevents Sun Damage and Premature Ageing: Even in winter, Ultraviolet radiation can penetrate through clouds and damage your skin. Regular sunscreen application helps keep your skin looking young and healthy by preventing sunburn, fine lines, wrinkles, and early ageing, even in winter.
• Blocks Tan and dark spots: Sunscreen protects skin against tanning and dark spots from UVA exposure. It helps maintain skin tone, reduce dullness and prevent dark spots, which can worsen during the dry winter season. 
• Keeps Skin Moist and Soft: Winter air dries out your skin of moisture. Sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides create a protective layer. This keeps your skin moisturised, soft, smooth and nourished all day. 
• Boosts skin protection: In winter weather, cold air outside and indoor heat from heaters can cause problems. So applying sunscreen daily gives you extra protection from ultraviolet radiation, pollution and roughness and helps your skin heal and protect itself.
• Protects skin all year long: Do not think sunscreen is only for hot summer days. It also applies during winter. It is a simple way to guard against Ultraviolet damage, dryness, sunspots, and rough skin as you get older. This will keep your skin good throughout the year.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Winter?

You can select the right sunscreen to keep your skin healthy, moist, soft and comfortable during dry conditions in winter. Know how to choose the best option for your skin here: 

• Wide-Spectrum Protection: Always select a wide-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both Ultraviolet A and Ultraviolet B radiation. Ultraviolet A rays cause wrinkles and dark spots. Whereas UVB rays can burn your skin even in winter.
• SPF 30 or Higher: Even when the sun does not feel strong, its ultraviolet rays are still powerful. For everyday use and SPF 30. If you are out for extended periods of time outdoors, especially in snowy places or hilly areas, you can choose SPF 50.
• Moisture-rich Products: The winter air can dry your skin, so pick sunscreens that are cream-based with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera and ceramides. These ingredients support your skin's moisture and softness.
• Skin Type: Dry skin (use rich, moisturising sunscreens), Oily skin (try a mild, gel or water-based sunscreen), Sensitive skin (use mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for gentle, irritation-free protection).
• Use Gentle Ingredients: Avoid sunscreens that contain alcohol, artificial fragrances, or have very non-glossy textures, as these can make dryness worse in the winter.

Key Ingredients to Look for in Winter Sunscreens

Cold can have an even worse effect on your skin. Cold air, wind and low humidity make it dry and sensitive. Select a sunscreen with the right ingredients to helps protect, hydrate and nourish your skin all season long.

• Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide: These mineral UV filters work by reflecting UVA and UVB rays. Ideal for sensitive or dry winter skin, they are gentle, non-irritating, and provide wide-spectrum protection without blocking pores.
• Hyaluronic Acid: This hydrating ingredient is great at retaining moisture in your skin. In winter, it really helps prevent dryness and keeps your skin soft, smooth and comfortable even in low humidity conditions.
• Ceramides: Ceramides can help heal and strengthen the skin layer, which is often weak in winter. They work to keep moisture loss and support the natural protection of your skin, keeping it soft.
• Glycerin and Aloe Vera: They both naturally bring water into the skin, which calms irritation, fixes dry spots, and keeps skin soft. They're just what you need on cold, windy days when your skin feels tight or rough.
• Vitamin E and Niacinamide: These antioxidants are great at protecting you from damage caused by the sun and pollution. They also help reduce dark spots, even out your skin tone, and keep your skin looking bright, even when it's gloomy outside.

List of Best Sunscreens in Winter

Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30+

Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30+

SPF 30+ Sunscreen Lotion is made to keep your skin safe from sun damage. It protects against UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to sunburn, early ageing, and skin issues. The lotion feels light, isn't oily, and soaks into your skin easily, making it easy to use every day, no matter your skin type. 

• Price: ₹ 90
• Composition: Sunscreen Lotion - SPF 30+
• What it does: Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30+ keeps your skin safe from UVA and UVB rays that can cause tanning, sunburn, and early ageing. It also helps keep your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and looking healthy.
• How to use: Apply Sunscreen Lotion to your face, neck, and any skin that will be exposed to the sun 15–20 minutes beforehand. Put it on again every 3 hours, especially if you've been sweating or have dried off with a towel.

VinSun Sun Screen Lotion SPF 50+

VinSun Sun Screen Lotion SPF 50+

 VinSun Sun Screen Lotion SPF 50+ protects against UVA and UVB rays. The light, non-greasy mix goes on easily, absorbs fast, and doesn't leave a white film. It also has moisturisers to keep your skin hydrated and soft.

• Price:  ₹ 277.5
• Composition: SPF 50+ with Solar Smart UVA/UVB Advanced Protection
• What it does: VinSun Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ keeps your skin safe from sun damage. It blocks UVA and UVB rays to prevent tanning, sunburn, and dark spots. It will also keep your skin soft, hydrated, and glowing all day long.
• How to use: Apply VinSun Sunscreen Lotion to your face and any skin that will be exposed to the sun 15 minutes before going outside. Put it on again every 2–3 hours to stay protected.

Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+

Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+

SPF 50+ Sunscreen Lotion offers wide-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. It contains avocado, aloe vera, plus vitamins E and B5 to protect your skin from sunburn and early ageing. This sunscreen also feeds, hydrates, and repairs skin.

• Price: ₹ 140
• Composition: Avacado + Aloevera + Vitamin E
• What it does: Keeps your skin safe from sun damage, prevents tanning and sunburn, and helps keep it smooth, hydrated, and glowing every day.
• How to use: Apply to your face and any exposed skin 15 minutes before going out in the sun. Put it on again every few hours.

Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60

Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60

SPF 60 Sunscreen Lotion gives you great protection from the sun's UVA and UVB rays. It's got a high SPF, so it works great if you're outdoors a lot or your skin burns easily. This lotion feels light, isn't oily, and soaks in fast, so it feels nice on your skin.

• Price: ₹ 140
• Composition: Sunscreen SPF 60+, Homosalate, Oxybenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Avobenzone, Titanium Dioxide, Aloe Vera, Almond Oil, Vitamin E, Glycerine, Glyceryl Stearate, Bees Wax, Dimethicone, Purified Water & Fragrance
• What it does: This product safeguards skin against harsh UVA and UVB rays, preventing tans and sunburns, and helps keep skin hydrated, soft, and healthy.
• How to use: Apply evenly on face and exposed skin 15 minutes before exposure to sunlight. Reapply every 2-3 hours for safety.

 Zeelab Pharmacy products have WHO-GMP, ISO, and FDA certifications. This guarantees excellent quality, safety, and protection in healthcare and skincare across the globe.

How to Apply Sunscreen Properly in Winter

Sunscreen is essential for healthy, protected skin even in cold weather. Applying it correctly ensures maximum coverage and long-lasting protection from harmful UV rays.

• Apply Every Morning: UV rays can penetrate clouds and glass, so whether it's sunny, cloudy or foggy outside, apply sunscreen daily.
• Use the Right Amount: Follow the two-finger rule. Squeeze sunscreen along two fingers to cover your face and neck completely. Use more for other exposed areas like hands and ears.
• Apply After Moisturiser: In winter, always moisturise first to avoid dryness, then apply sunscreen as the last step in your skin care routine before makeup.
• Cover All Exposed Areas: Remember those spots you might skip, ears, lips, neck, and the backs of your hands? They get a lot of sun, so don't forget them.
• Remove It Properly at Night: Cleanse your face thoroughly at night to remove sunscreen, dirt and pollutants. After this, apply nourishing night cream or moisturiser.

Side Effects of Sunscreen in Winter

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays — even in winter. However, using the wrong type or applying it incorrectly can sometimes cause side effects. Here are the most common ones:

• Skin Dryness or Flakiness: Some sunscreens, especially those containing alcohol or mattifying agents, can make skin dry and flaky in the cold air of winter. Choose hydrating, cream-based formulas to avoid this.
• Breakouts or Clogged Pores: Heavy or oily sunscreen can clog pores and cause acne, especially on oily or combination skin. Always look for non-comedogenic and lightweight products.
• Allergic Reactions: Some chemical filters, fragrances or preservatives can irritate sensitive skin, causing redness or itching. Choose a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if your skin is reactive.
• White Cast: Some sunscreens can leave a white layer on the skin, especially in cold weather. Choose tinted or transparent sunscreen for a better finish.
• Eye or Skin Irritation: Sunscreen can cause burning if applied too close to the eyes or lips. Apply with caution and avoid rubbing sensitive areas.

Conclusion

Even when it is cold, your skin still needs protection from UV sunscreens. These rays can cause tans, dryness, and early ageing. Choose the right sunscreen that keeps your skin hydrated and healthy, which will keep your skin looking great all winter long. 

Be sure to apply sunscreen every day. Apply it properly and also use a good moisturiser. Be it winter or summer, always protect your skin from the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is sunscreen necessary in winter?
A. Yes, sunscreen is a must in winter as harmful UV rays can still damage your skin, leading to tanning, dryness and premature ageing.

Q. Is SPF 50 too much for winter?
A. No, SPF 50 is not too much for winters. It provides strong protection against UVA and UVB rays, especially if you spend time outside or in snowy, high-altitude areas.

Q. Which type of sunscreen is best?
A. The best sunscreen is a wide-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher formula that suits your skin type, hydrating cream-based for dry skin and mild, pore-friendly for oily or sensitive skin. 

Q. Which type of sunscreen is best for daily use?
A. The best sunscreen for daily use is broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, lightweight, non-greasy and suitable for your skin type, cream-based for dry skin and gel-based for oily skin. 

Q. Is sunscreen necessary if I stay indoors all day?
A. Yes, sunscreen is still necessary indoors as UVA rays can pass through windows and glass, causing premature ageing, dark spots and skin damage even without direct sunlight exposure. 

Q. Should I use a different sunscreen for winter vs summer?
A. Yes, that's a good idea. Pick hydrating, cream sunscreens in the winter to fight dryness. In the summer, go with light, matte, or gel sunscreens to handle oil and sweat.

Q. Which sunscreen is best for all seasons?
A. The best sunscreen for all seasons is a broad-spectrum SPF 50, non-comedogenic, and lightweight formula that provides UVA/UVB protection while keeping your skin hydrated, smooth, and comfortable all year long. 

Q. How often should I reapply sunscreen in winter?
A. You should reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours in the winter. Reapply more often if you're sweating or wiping your face. Doing this helps keep your skin safe from UV rays.

Q. Can sunscreen cause dryness in winter?
A. Some kinds of sunscreen can dry your skin out in the winter, like the ones in gel form or with alcohol in them. To stop this from happening, try a creamy sunscreen with ingredients that hydrate, like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.

Q. Should I apply sunscreen before or after moisturiser?
A. Apply sunscreen after your moisturiser. Moisturiser softens your skin, getting it ready for sunscreen. The sunscreen then acts as a shield against the sun's UVA and UVB rays.