Most men still skip sunscreen. Some find it too greasy, some feel it makes the skin look shiny, and a lot just don’t think they need it. But if you’re spending time outdoors in India’s harsh sun, skipping sunscreen is one of the worst things you can do for your skin. UV rays don’t care about skin type or gender. They cause tanning, pigmentation, premature ageing, and long-term damage regardless. The good news is there are now some genuinely solid options when it comes to sunscreen for men, formulated specifically keeping male skin concerns in mind.
Here’s a look at some of the best picks available right now.
1. Cocky The One Sunscreen and Moisturiser – SPF 50 PA++++
If you want a sunscreen for men that does more than just block UV rays, this one is worth checking out. Cocky’s The One Sunscreen doubles as a moisturiser, so you get sun protection and hydration in a single step. It comes with SPF 50 and a PA++++ rating, offering broad-spectrum defense against both UVA and UVB rays.
What makes it stand out is the ingredient list. Tea Tree oil handles antimicrobial and oil-control duties, Pentavitin locks in moisture for all-day hydration, Vitamin E and B5 protect against free radical damage, and Suncat DE works as an added antioxidant and UV-shielding agent. The finish is completely matte, the formula is sweat-resistant, and it doesn’t leave a white cast. For anyone looking for a good sunscreen for men’s oily skin, this one manages shine without stripping moisture from the skin.
The formula is sulphate-, paraben-, and microplastic-free, and dermatologically tested. One jar lasts about a month with standard daily use. Priced at Rs. 451 for 50g, it’s a genuinely practical pick. Check it out here.
2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 50+
Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer is one of the most consistently recommended sunscreens for men, and it’s easy to understand why. The dry-touch finish absorbs quickly into the skin and doesn’t leave behind any sticky or oily residue, unlike many drugstore sunscreens. It’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores or trigger breakouts, and the lightweight texture makes it comfortable enough for daily wear even during warmer months. The SPF 50+ rating gives solid protection for outdoor activities. One thing to note is that it works purely as a sun protectant with no additional moisturising or skin-treating ingredients, so if your skin tends to be dry, you’ll want to layer a moisturiser underneath. That said, for a straightforward, no-fuss sunscreen for men, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer is a dependable option.
3. Minimalist Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++
Minimalist has quickly become one of the more trusted skincare brands in India, and their SPF 50 sunscreen lives up to the brand’s clean-label reputation. The formula is transparent about every ingredient and is built around effective UV filters with minimal irritants. It performs well for men with sensitive or reactive skin because it’s fragrance-free and free of unnecessary additives that can cause redness or breakouts. The texture is smooth and blends easily without pilling or leaving a film on the face. It layers well under other skincare products if you follow a multi-step routine. For those who prefer a science-backed, ingredient-led approach to skincare, Minimalist is one of the best sunscreens for men in India right now.
4. Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 PA+++
Lakme Sun Expert is one of the most accessible options in the Indian market, available in almost every pharmacy, supermarket, and online platform. The SPF 50 and PA+++ rating covers you reasonably well against both UV rays, and the formula absorbs without feeling too heavy on the skin. It’s a budget-friendly pick that makes consistent daily sunscreen use easy to maintain without worrying about running out. It works as a decent everyday sunscreen for men who are just getting started with sun protection and don’t want to invest heavily up front. One thing to keep in mind is that it can leave a mild white cast on medium- to dark-skinned tones, which some people find slightly noticeable outdoors. Reapplication is also recommended if you’re spending extended time in direct sunlight.
5. Biotique Bio Sandalwood SPF 50 Sunscreen
Biotique’s Bio Sandalwood Sunscreen takes a more herbal approach to sun protection. It combines traditional ingredients like sandalwood and almond oil with modern UV filters to deliver both protection and nourishment for the skin. The sandalwood helps soothe the skin and provides a mild cooling effect, which is pleasant during the hot summer months in India. Almond oil adds a layer of hydration, making this a better choice for men with normal to dry skin. It applies smoothly and has a light, pleasant scent without being overwhelming. It’s widely available and reasonably priced, making it a comfortable pick for daily use. Those with very oily skin might find the texture slightly rich, but for most skin types, it works well as a regular sunscreen for men.
6. The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen SPF 60 PA++++
The Derma Co has positioned itself firmly in the dermatologist-recommended skincare space in India, and this sunscreen reflects that approach. The SPF 60 rating makes it one of the stronger options on this list in terms of raw sun protection, and the PA++++ shields against UVA-related damage, such as tanning and pigmentation, quite effectively. The addition of 1% Hyaluronic Acid is what sets it apart from many basic sunscreens. Hyaluronic Acid draws moisture into the skin and holds it there, which helps the skin feel plump and comfortable even after hours of wear. The texture is gel-based and light, making it a genuinely practical sunscreen for men with oily skin, as it sits on the face without adding grease or shine. It doesn’t pill under other products either, which is a bonus if you use serums or eye creams before applying SPF.
FAQs
Yes, absolutely. UVA rays can penetrate through glass windows and cause skin damage even when you’re sitting indoors near a window or driving. Daily sunscreen use is recommended, whether you’re spending the day outside or inside. It’s one of the simplest habits you can build for long-term skin health.
For everyday use, SPF 30 is the minimum recommended level. However, in Indian weather conditions where sun exposure tends to be intense, SPF 50 or above is a smarter choice. Higher SPF ratings offer more consistent protection, especially if you’re outdoors for long stretches or tend to forget reapplying.
Yes, provided you pick the right formula. Look for sunscreens labelled non-comedogenic, which means they won’t block pores. Ingredients like Tea Tree oil, as found in Cocky The One, also actively help control oil and prevent breakouts while offering UV protection. Gel-based and matte-finish sunscreens are generally the safest bet for acne-prone skin.
Yes, it’s actually a very practical approach, especially for men who prefer a short skincare routine. Products like Cocky The One Sunscreen and Moisturiser are specifically formulated to handle both functions together, saving time without compromising on either sun protection or skin hydration.