Wearing sunscreen every day is as crucial as eating food. No, we are not exaggerating. Sunscreen is one of the most crucial skincare products that saves your skin from dark spots, pigmentation, and premature ageging caused by the sun’s rays. Now, your first step towards sun protection begins by picking the right sunscreen for your skin type. But this task gets tricker when you’ve got a combination skin type. 

But first things first, if you are wondering how to know what your skin type is, then here’s what you need to know. Typically, combination skin is a skin type that has a mix of different skin conditions in different areas of the face. People with combination skin experience both oily and dry areas. The most common pattern is an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) combined with drier cheeks and eye areas. If you can relate to this then here are the best sunscreens for combination skin that you can try ASAP!

1. All Skin SPF 30 Sunscreen

Organic Harvest All Skin SPF 30 Sunscreen needs to be in your daily skincare routine for combination skin right away. Loaded with the goodness of plum, acai berry & chia seeds, this sunscreen treats your skin and protects it from UV radiation, both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, it’s paraben-free, silicon-free, and sulphate-free too.

2. All Skin SPF 50 Sunscreen

Get the maximum benefit out of this organic sunscreen. Organic Harvest All Skin Sunscreen has SPF 50 which offers protection from both harmful rays of the sun as well as the radiation emitted from the screens. It is also designed to give your skin a healthy glow and protect it from breakouts. 

3. All Skin SPF 60 Sunscreen

People with combination skin, add this sunscreen to your morning skincare routine and witness how it transforms your skin. This SPF 60 sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays outdoors,  as well as from blue light emitted from electronics indoors. The sunscreen is also water-resistant and gives a matte finish after application. And if you are looking for sunscreens that don’t leave a white cast then this one is for you.

4. Natural Daily Sunscreen

best sunscreen for combination skin

Packed with chamomile and calendula extracts, The Moms Co. Natural Daily Sunscreen is the best sunblock for combination skin. It’s a mineral sunscreen that absorbs quickly, is non-comedogenic, non-sticky, lightweight, and leaves no white cast. The SPF 45+, PA++++ provides broad-spectrum protection, from both UBA and UVA radiation, and works as the best spf for combination skin

Price: 442 INR
Buy Link: Natural Daily Sunscreen

5. POPxo Glow Goals Illuminating Sunscreen

If you are looking for a product that acts as a foundation base and provides protection from the sun then here’s a product for you. POPxo Glow Goals Illuminating Sunscreen gives a radiant finish to your skin while protecting it from the harmful rays of the sun. It’s non-sticky and protects your skin even indoors. The best part? It’s a sunscreen, highlighter, and primer, all in one. 

6. Vitamin C SPF 75 Dry Touch Sunscreen

The St. Botanica Vitamin C SPF 75 Dry Touch Sunscreen provides the highest level of protection with SPF 75 & PA+++. It fights free radicals that can damage our skin, prevent dark spots, and premature ageing of the skin. The non-greasy, water-resistant, formula suits everyone. No doubt a perfect sunscreen for combination skin 

7. Vitamin C Sunscreen With SPF 30

St. Botanica Vitamin C Sunscreen With SPF 30 is a magical potent for combination skin. Enriched with Vitamin C, this sunscreen helps fight dark spots, pigmentation, and other skin damage caused by the sun’s rays. It is also infused with Vitamin E, B3, and other natural extracts, that provide ample hydration and nourishment to the skin. 

8. Aloe Vera, Green Tea & Cucumber Sunscreen SPF 50

best sunblock for combination skin

St. Botanica has unleashed the benefits of cucumber for the skin in its aloe vera, green tea, and cucumber sunscreen. This effective combination not only protects the skin against the harmful rays of the sun but also soothes and nourishes the skin. It penetrates deeply into the skin and helps preserve the elasticity of it. No doubt an effective sunscreen for combination skin. 

Price: 599 INR
Buy Link: Aloe Vera, Green Tea & Cucumber Sunscreen SPF 50

How To Choose The Right Sunscreen For Combination Skin Type

Choosing the best sunscreen for combination skin type is not at all difficult. First, start by identifying your skin type. If your T-zone like your forehead, nose, and chin are oily, and your cheeks and eye areas are dry then you have a combination skin type. Then follow the steps mentioned below to choose the best Sunscreen for your face – 

1. Broad Spectrum Protection

Ensure the sunscreen that you are picking for your combination skin offers broad-spectrum protection, protecting from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age the skin and cause sunburn. Whereas, UVB rays are more intense during the day, can cause sunburn, and contribute to skin cancer. 

2.  SPF Level

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates the level of protection against UVB rays. SPF 30 filters about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 filters around 98%. Hence, choose an SPF level sunscreen 30 vs 50  based on your daily sun exposure and skin sensitivity for ample protection.

3. Non-comedogenic

Opt for a non-comedogenic formula to prevent clogging pores, especially in areas prone to oiliness. Non-comedogenic sunscreens don’t clog pores which makes them suitable for combination skin prone to both dryness and oiliness. This reduces the risk of acne and breakouts on the skin.

4. Oil-Free Formulation

As the T-zones in combination skin tends to be oiler than other parts, look for oil-free or oil-control formulations to manage shine in the T-zone while still moisturising drier areas. Go for a sunscreen that has a gel-based or water-based consistency. These types of sunscreens feel lightweight and non-sticky on the skin and leave a non-greasy feel. Moreover, they are suitable for both oily and dry parts of combination skin.

5. Matte Finish

Sunscreens with a matte finish help control excess oil in the T-zone without drying out other areas. It leaves a non-greasy residue and combats shine without stripping the natural moisture present in the skin. 

6. Hypoallergenic

If you have sensitive skin, opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free sunscreen to minimise the risk of irritation. Hypoallergenic sunscreens are formulated to minimise the risk of allergic reactions, making them suitable for those with combination skin as well. Fragrance-free sunscreens are generally gentler on the skin and reduce the chances of irritation. 

7.  Long-lasting & Water-Resistant 

Choose a sunscreen with long-lasting effectiveness to minimise the need for frequent reapplication, especially during busy days. A water-resistant formulation in sunscreen also helps maintain effectiveness, if you engage in water activities or sweat frequently. Top pick for your summer skincare routine.

8. Patch Test

No matter which brand of sunscreen for combination skin or type you go for, always remember to do a patch test before you apply it fully. This can help you determine if the sunscreen is suitable or not and avoid any potential allergic reactions. 

FAQs

Is SPF good for combination skin?

Yes, SPF (sun protection factor) is beneficial for all skin types, including combination skin. It helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sun damage and premature aging. Look for a non-comedogenic sunscreen to avoid clogging pores, especially if you have combination skin with both oily and dry areas. 

Is water-based sunscreen good for combination skin?

Yes, water-based sunscreens can be a good choice for combination skin. They are often lightweight and less likely to feel greasy, making them suitable for both oily and dry areas. Look for non-comedogenic or oil-free labels to ensure that the sunscreen won’t clog pores, particularly in areas prone to oiliness. 

How much SPF is needed for combination skin?

For combination skin, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is generally recommended. However, you may opt for a higher SPF, or a 50 SPF,  especially if you spend extended periods in the sun or have specific sun sensitivity. But remember to utilise the benefits of sunscreen fully, apply it generously to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours. 

Is physical or chemical sunscreen better for combination skin?

Both physical and chemical sunscreens can work well for combination skin, and the choice often depends on personal preference and skin sensitivities. Physical sunscreens create a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting and scattering UV rays. They are generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin and may be less likely to irritate. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. They tend to be lighter and may be preferred for daily use due to their texture.

Conclusion

Before choosing the best sunscreen for combination skin, remember to understand your skin type. You can have a dedicated CTM routine for combination skin and add a good sunscreen to your ritual to reap the skin-loving benefits of it. 

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