Sunscreens are essential skin care products that act as a barrier to protect our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Up to 80% of ultraviolet (UV) rays reach your skin even on cloudy days, and UVA can penetrate through windows and clouds alike, contributing to aging and pigmentation, as reported by Oxford academics in the Journal of Skin Health and Disease. Sunscreens work to block the sun’s harmful UV rays by reflecting or absorbing them; Therefore, these must be included in the daily skin care routine.
Many people believe that only expensive sunscreens provide complete protection. Still, a budget-friendly sunscreen ₹500, with appropriate SPF and PA ratings, can reduce harmful UV effects just as effectively when used correctly. Sunscreen should be applied not only at the beach or on sunny days but also on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate the clouds.
Try these 8 sunscreens below ₹500 for daily use and UV protection.
Derma Company 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua Gel 50 g is a mild UV defense that also hydrates the skin. Clinical in vivo testing (ISO 24444:2019, CTRI/2025/02/080287) shows that its SPF 50 and PA++++ formula blocks broad spectrum UVA/UVB rays and protects against blue light exposure. Its gel texture absorbs quickly without leaving greasy residue, with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E helping to maintain hydration. This makes it useful for daily sun protection, especially for normal to oily skin.
reason to buy
Effectively blocks UVA, UVB and blue light
Dermatologically and clinically in-vivo tested
Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E and Niacinamide
Suitable for normal, combination and oily skin
reason to avoid
Not ideal for very dry skin
Limited water resistance, so requires re-application
customer feedback
Customers love its light, non-greasy feel and no white cast, although some find it less ideal for very oily skin.
Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ is meant for daily sun damage by providing high UV protection backed by in-vivo SPF 50+ testing under ISO 24444:2019 standards (SPF 50.083) and broad-spectrum PA++++ protection, blocking both UVB and high levels of UVA rays. This sunscreen also contains Vitamin C and papaya extract for mild antioxidants and skin tone support. Its gel-based texture absorbs easily without leaving white stains, making it suitable for frequent daily use.
reason to buy
Super light gel-like texture
An anti-pollution factor (APF) that blocks harmful particles
Formulated with Vitamin C, Papaya Extract and Hyaluronic Acid
fragrance free
reason to avoid
Dewy finish may appear greasy on very oily skin
Pump mechanism may not work properly
customer feedback:
Customers generally find this sunscreen lightweight, with a dewy finish and no white cast, and note effective daily protection and a pleasant experience.
Dr. Sheth’s Saffron and Kojic Acid Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ addresses daily sun damage and pigmentation concerns with broad spectrum SPF 50+ and PA++++ protection. The Journal of Clinical Medicine reports that kojic acid at ~1% can target uneven tone and pigmentation, while antioxidants support skin texture. It’s a lightweight, non-greasy gel that helps with daily use without causing vitiligo, and the niacinamide can help even out skin tone. Making it suitable for those who want daily sun protection with extra care for pigmentation concerns.
reason to buy
Kojic acid makes it suitable for people concerned about pigmentation.
Oil free and water resistant formula
Formulated with saffron extract, kojic acid and hyaluronic acid
Clinically tested in vivo and has a quick-absorbing formula
reason to avoid
Humidity levels may decrease in winter.
customer feedback:
Customers say it feels lightweight, has no white cast, and blends well, but some find it heavy, and their skin feels dry in the winter.
Daily sun exposure leads to tanning and uneven complexion, but consistent high-SPF use helps limit this damage. Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow Sunscreen provides SPF 50 PA++++, which when applied correctly can block UVB rays and leave skin glowing. It has been in-vivo tested and is formulated with Vitamin C and turmeric for antioxidant support. The lightweight texture does not leave any white stains, making it suitable for everyday use on all skin types.
reason to buy
tested in vivo
Prepared with turmeric and vitamin C
Made without any harmful chemicals
reason to avoid
The formula feels oily or sticky on skin, especially in hot or humid weather.
The strong scent may bother some users.
customer feedback:
Customers like its light feel and no white cast, while some find oiliness and fragrance a concern.
Minimalist SPF 50 PA++++ sunscreen provides everyday UV protection with broad-spectrum SPF 50 and PA++++ protection. Its formula contains Niacinamide and multi-vitamins (A, B3, B5, E, F) to help soothe and hydrate the skin after sun exposure. The light cream spreads easily without a heavy feeling or white cast, making daily use more comfortable. Photostable UV filters protect against UVA/UVB damage, and the non-comedogenic formula aims to suit a variety of skin types.
reason to buy
Photostable filters that maintain sun protection
Added Multi-Vitamin (A, B3, B5, E, F)
Light weight, no white cast
reason to avoid
Feeling of heaviness for oily skin
limited water resistance
customer feedback:
Customers find it lightweight, with no white cast and UV protection, although some find it oily and heavy.
Excessive sun exposure can cause oiliness, acne, and skin damage; Constant UV protection is essential. Deconstruct Gel Sunscreen provides SPF 50+ and PA+++, verified through in-vivo testing, and effectively blocks UVA and UVB. It is a matte, lightweight gel that absorbs quickly without leaving greasiness or white spots, making it suitable for oily, combination and normal skin. Dermatologically designed for daily use by men and women.
reason to buy
Water resistant and fragrance free
Lasting up to 8 hours, as claimed by the brand
Matte, light and non-greasy
Tested in Vivo SPF 50+ PA+++
reason to avoid
Not suitable for very dry skin
customer feedback:
Customers appreciate its light weight, matte texture and effective UV protection, although some note slight dryness or the need for reapplication.
Daily UV exposure can cause pigmentation, premature aging, and increased skin sensitivity; Constant protection is essential. Foxtail Glow Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, in-vivo tested, leaves no white cast with lightweight, non-greasy formula. Enriched with Vitamin C and Niacinamide, it supports antioxidant protection and skin barrier health, while 100% new generation EU-approved filters ensure effective daily use for sensitive skin.
reason to buy
Clinically tested in vivo and has a lightweight formula
Formulated with Niacinamide and Vitamin C
Fights dullness and prevents pigmentation
reason to avoid
limited water resistance
customer feedback:
Customers find it lightweight, non-greasy and doesn’t leave any white residue, though some say preferences for scent or texture vary.
comparison table:
| product | SPF/PA | tested in vivo | major active | texture | suitable for |
| Derma Company 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen | SPF 50+ / PA++++ | Yes | Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E | light gel | normal to oily skin |
| Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen Gel | SPF 50+ / PA++++ | Yes | Vitamin C, Papaya Extract and Hyaluronic Acid | dew gel | all skin types |
| Dr. Sheth’s Saffron and Kojic Acid Sunscreen | SPF 50+ / PA++++ | Yes | Saffron Extract, Kojic Acid and Niacinamide | light cream | pigmentation concerns |
| Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow Sunscreen | SPF 50 / PA++++ | Yes | Turmeric and Vitamin C | light gel | all skin types |
| Minimalist SPF 50 PA++++ Sunscreen | SPF 50 / PA++++ | No | Multi-Vitamin (A, B3, B5, E, F) | light cream | daily use |
| Deconstruct Gel Sunscreen | SPF 50+ / PA+++ | Yes | Phospholipids and Glycerine | matte gel | oily and combination |
| Foxtail Glow Sunscreen | SPF 50 / PA++++ | Yes | Vitamin C and Niacinamide | light cream | Sensitive and daily use |
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay updated with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a share of the revenue when you make a purchase. We will not be liable for any claims under applicable laws including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, relating to the Products. The first four products listed in this article are sponsored, and the others are in no particular order of priority.
