Almost every day, whether you like it or not, someone or the other reminds you to wear sunscreen, and then some more. You could be scrolling through Instagram or flipping through a magazine (this one included!), or even sitting with your friends at a restaurant, and you can be certain that somehow, you’ll hear about SPF and why it’s paramount you use it.
But while you go about using sunscreen on a daily basis – you are using it, right? – do you find yourself wondering if know what you’re doing?
Does your sunscreen work? Are you using it correctly? What about those new developments around sunscreen you read on social media? The misconceptions you’ve heard about? The confusion between the various kinds of sunscreens available in the market? It’s like the world is conspiring to ensure that sunscreen ends up becoming the bane of one’s existent.
Which is why, we sat down with Sapna Singh, Head of R&D, Lakmē to get chatting on all things sunscreen, and the confusion that surrounds it. In a bid to answer all the questions you might’ve ever had around sunscreen, and even the ones you didn’t know you needed answers for.
Excerpts:
What are the biggest misconceptions about how sunscreen actually works?
Many people think sunscreen is just a “shield” that blocks the sun completely, but that’s not how it works. Sunscreens use active ingredients that absorb, reflect, or scatter UV rays before they can damage your skin. SPF protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. PA rating protects against UVA rays, which lead to tanning, aging, and long-term skin damage.
One of the biggest myths? That sunscreen is only needed on sunny days or for lighter skin tones. In reality, UV damage happens every day, to every skin type, even indoors because UVA rays can penetrate windows. And no, sunscreen doesn’t stop your body from making vitamin D. It simply helps your skin stay healthy while doing so.
What’s the difference between chemical and mineral UV filters?
Both types of sunscreens protect your skin, they just work in different ways.
Chemical UV filters (like avobenzone or octyl salicylate) absorb UV rays and convert them into harmless heat before they can damage your skin. Mineral UV filters (like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) reflect and scatter UV rays away from the skin’s surface, acting like tiny mirrors. Both are safe and effective when used correctly.
Is SPF 30 enough for daily use in India?
SPF 30 is generally considered the minimum level of protection for everyday use, as it blocks about 97% of UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn. However, India’s high UV index and year-round sun exposure make it important to go a step further. For optimal protection against both burning (UVB), tanning (UVA rays) and long-term skin damage, dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 and PA+++ or higher.
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What’s the biggest myth about sunscreen you wish people stopped believing?
The most persistent myth? That people with Indian skin don’t need sunscreen. In reality, while melanin does offer some natural protection, it’s not enough to prevent tanning, pigmentation and long-term UV damage. India’s high UV index means that everyone regardless of skin tone or gender should have daily sun protection.
Does darker skin naturally have enough melanin protection?
Melanin does offer some natural defense against UV radiation, but it’s not enough to fully protect the skin. It may reduce the risk of sunburn, but it doesn’t prevent tanning, pigmentation, premature aging, or long-term UV damage. That’s why everyone, regardless of skin tone, should have daily broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Is sunscreen necessary indoors or on cloudy days?
Yes, sunscreen is necessary even indoors and on cloudy days. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, meaning your skin is still exposed even when the sun isn’t visible. UVA rays, which cause tanning, pigmentation, and premature aging can penetrate windows and clouds, exposing your skin to damage even when the sun isn’t visible.
Do natural or organic sunscreens work as well?
Natural or organic sunscreens can work, but their effectiveness depends on proper formulation and SPF/PA levels. Broad-spectrum protection and correct application are key. Brands like Lakmē ensure scientifically tested sunscreens, giving reliable UV defense, whether mineral or chemical, for safe sun protection in Indian conditions.
Is a sunscreen automatically not good if it leaves a white cast?
The white cast debate centres on sunscreen formulations especially mineral ones, that leave a visible residue on deeper skin tones, making sun protection feel exclusionary or uncomfortable for many users. Lakmē has used advanced technologies like micro-dispersion mineral filters that blends effortlessly on all Indian skin tones, offering broad-spectrum efficacy without compromising on appearance or comfort.
Do Indian men need different formulations than women?
Yes, Indian men often benefit from sunscreen formulations tailored to their specific skin physiology, lifestyle, and grooming habits. While the core UV protection needs are the same, texture, finish, and wearability requirements can differ significantly.
How should men with acne-prone or sensitive skin choose a sunscreen?
For acne-prone or sensitive skin, sunscreen should be lightweight, non-comedogenic, and free from harsh irritants.
How does Indian skin react to long-term UV exposure compared to other skin types?
Indian skin is prone to pigmentation, tanning, and premature aging from long-term UV exposure. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect against UVA and UVB rays, reducing risks of sunburns, dark spots, uneven skin tone, and long-term sun damage.
What new research or innovations in sunscreen formulation are you most excited about right now?
Our latest innovations in sun protection are built on cutting-edge research and a deep understanding of Indian skin and climate. We focus on photo-stable UV filters that remain effective under intense sunlight. Our products undergo in-vivo testing to ensure real-world efficacy. Every formula is crafted to be lightweight and non-greasy with textures that feel imperceptible on the skin —perfect for daily wear. Lakmē is proud to be at the forefront of India’s first-ever standardized SPF testing framework, helping set new benchmarks for transparency and trust. From high-performance SPF 50 & PA++++ protection to sensorially elegant formulations, we continue to lead with integrity, efficacy, and innovation.
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How do you test sunscreen efficiency in real-world Indian conditions – heat, humidity and pollution?
At Lakmē, we understand that India’s high UV index, diverse climates, and varied skin tones demand more rigorous testing. That’s why we’ve invested in in-vivo (on-skin) testing to measure real-world SPF and PA performance; ensuring our sunscreens deliver the protection they promise under Indian conditions. For over eight years, Lakmē has worked with experts and regulators to help establish India’s first standardised SPF testing framework, putting science, transparency, and consumer safety at the heart of sun protection.
Are there unique challenges in formulating sunscreens for Indian men—like sweat, oiliness, pigmentation, or facial hair?
Indian men often prefer lightweight, non-greasy, fast-absorbing textures that don’t leave a white cast or feel heavy in the hot and humid climate. Additionally, formulations must account for higher sun exposure due to outdoor work or sports, ensuring broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB) without compromising comfort. Skin tone compatibility, minimal shine, and resistance to sweat and water are critical.
What are the biggest formulation challenges a sunscreen brand faces?
Creating sunscreens that deliver high SPF and broad-spectrum protection while remaining lightweight and non-greasy is one of the most complex formulation challenges. Ensuring photostability and minimizing white cast especially for the diverse range of Indian skin tones adds further nuance to the process. Lakmē addresses these challenges through years of dedicated research and innovation, crafting sun care solutions that are both highly effective and comfortable for daily wear.
How is the R&D team at Lakmē incorporating new global sunscreen research into local products?
Lakmē integrates global sunscreen research with insights from Indian skin needs, climate, and lifestyle. This ensures products are scientifically tested, photostable, and effective, providing broad-spectrum protection while catering to local preferences for texture, finish, and comfort.
Lastly, what’s next in sunscreen science?
The future of sunscreen science focuses on smarter, more personalized protection- formulations that are photostable, lightweight, and suited to diverse skin tones and conditions. Innovations like Lakmē’s micro-dispersion technology, advanced UV filters, and rigorous in-vivo testing are setting new standards in efficacy, safety, and everyday wearability for Indian consumers.
