Why Sunscreen Still Matters in Winter, Plus Three SPF 50 Picks From Indian Brands

As temperatures drop, sunscreen is often the first step to fall out of a routine. The sun feels gentler, the days are shorter, and it is easy to assume protection is a summer-only job. Dermatologists and global health agencies disagree.

Here is what the guidance actually says about winter sun, followed by three widely available SPF 50 sunscreens from Indian brands, compared using their own product information. No sponsorships and no affiliate links.

What the experts say about winter sun

UV is there every time skin is outside

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays every time it is outdoors, even on cloudy days and in winter. That makes sunscreen a daily habit rather than a beach accessory.

Snow and altitude increase exposure

This matters for anyone heading to the hills this season. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), UV levels rise by around 10% with every 1,000 metres of altitude. Fresh snow can reflect as much as 80% of UV radiation, nearly doubling exposure, while dry beach sand reflects about 15% and sea foam about 25%. Grass, soil and water reflect less than 10%.

A ski weekend in Gulmarg or a trek in Himachal can, in other words, mean more UV than a sunny day at sea level.

How to apply it properly

The AAD’s advice applies year-round:

• Pick the right type. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Apply before heading out. Put it on about 15 minutes before going outdoors.
• Use enough. Most adults need about one ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass, for the whole body. For the face, the AAD suggests at least one teaspoon, roughly enough to cover the length of the index and middle fingers.
• Reapply. Every two hours, and after swimming or sweating.
• Do not skip the extras. The neck, ears and tops of the feet are easy to miss, and lips need a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.

The AAD also notes that tinted sunscreens containing iron oxides can offer better protection against developing dark spots.

Decoding the label: SPF and PA

SPF measures protection against UVB, the rays mainly linked to sunburn. The PA rating, common on Asian sunscreens, refers to protection against UVA, which is linked to tanning and skin ageing. More plus signs mean higher UVA protection, and Re’equil describes PA++++ as the highest level of UVA protection.

All three picks below are labelled SPF 50 PA++++.

1. Minimalist SPF 50 Multi-Vitamin Sunscreen

What it is

A lightweight chemical sunscreen from Minimalist, one of India’s best-known ingredient-led skincare brands.

Key details from the brand

• SPF 50 PA++++, with filters including Uvinul T 150, avobenzone, octocrylene and titanium dioxide.
• Added vitamins B3, B5, E and F.
• Minimalist says its SPF has been tested by an independent lab and that the formula leaves no white cast.
• Available in 30g, 50g and 100g. The listed MRP for 50g is ₹399.

Good for

People who want an affordable daily sunscreen with clearly disclosed filters.

2. Re’equil Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen Gel

What it is

A matte gel sunscreen from Re’equil, built around a hybrid of chemical and mineral filters.

Key details from the brand

• SPF 50 PA++++, with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide among its filters.
• Oxybenzone-free.
• The brand describes it as sweat- and water-resistant and non-comedogenic, with no white residue.
• It contains a mild fragrance, which is worth noting for sensitive skin.

Good for

Oily and combination skin, especially in humid cities where heavier creams can feel greasy.

3. UNHYPE Breakout Free Sunscreen

What it is

The sunscreen in the Acne Safe Routine from UNHYPE, the brand co-founded by actor Vijay Deverakonda, which launched in September 2026.

Key details from the brand

• SPF 50 PA++++.
• UNHYPE says the SPF was tested in-vivo and in-vitro by a third-party lab.
• Free of oxybenzone and zinc oxide, according to the product page.
• At the time of writing, it is sold as part of a three-product routine with a face wash and moisturiser.

Good for

Acne-prone skin, and anyone who wants a full matched routine rather than a single product.

How to choose between them

• Budget and simplicity: Minimalist.
• Matte finish for oily skin: Re’equil.
• Starting a full acne-focused routine: UNHYPE.
• Fragrance-sensitive skin: check each ingredient list, since Re’equil lists a mild fragrance.

Whichever option makes the cut, the best sunscreen is the one that feels comfortable enough to wear every single day. A patch test before full use is always a good idea, and anyone with a skin condition should check with a dermatologist.

Sources

• American Academy of Dermatology: How to apply sunscreen
• World Health Organization: Radiation, ultraviolet (UV) Q&A
• Minimalist: SPF 50 Multi-Vitamin Sunscreen product page
• Re’equil: Ultra Matte Dry Touch Sunscreen Gel product page
• UNHYPE: Acne Safe Routine product page

Photo: Mike Murray on Pexels