Budget Sunscreens Under ₹500: Ingredients That Actually Work in Indian Summers.
Every summer, conversations turn to the same problem, sweaty, sticky sunscreens that promise protection but fail once you step outside. Price tags can also make SPF seem like a luxury instead of essential skincare. The good news? Science-backed ingredients such as niacinamide, ceramides, and vitamins now feature in sunscreens that cost less than a pizza night out. From matte finishes to oil-balancing fluids, budget sunscreens have finally caught up with what skin truly needs.
Here we present the 5 best budget sunscreens under ₹500 for summer, featuring effective picks from brands like Lakme Deconstruct and more.
Protect your skin with these affordable sunscreens from Myntra
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A higher price doesn't always mean higher protection. SPF numbers and PA ratings matter more than fancy packaging. The real winners combine broad-spectrum coverage with ingredients that improve skin health. Whether it's niacinamide for brightening, vitamin E for repairing, or ceramides for strengthening, the right blend keeps skin safe and nourished. Plus, these formulas feel lighter, making them wearable even in sweltering afternoons.
Also Read: Waterproof Sunscreen Vs Water-Resistant: What Works During the Monsoon?
This matte sunscreen blends SPF 50 PA+++ protection with niacinamide, making it more than just a sunblock. The lightweight lotion guards against UVA and UVB damage while tackling dullness. Its shine-free finish is a relief for those who hate greasy textures. For ₹275 (100ml), it's one of the most pocket-friendly options available.
Minimalist's SPF 50 PA++++ sunscreen is a crowd favourite for a reason. Packed with niacinamide, vitamin E, vitamin A, and vitamin B5, it not only protects but also nourishes. The formulation feels like a moisturiser, making it perfect for daily wear. At ₹359 for 50ml, it's still budget-friendly while offering premium-level performance.
Designed specifically for oily and combination skin, this SPF 50 PA++++ sunscreen keeps shine at bay. The presence of niacinamide and soothing CICA makes it calming for breakout-prone skin. Despite being fluid-like, it stays matte without drying. At ₹389 for 50ml, it's a great pick for those who dread heavy creams.
This sunscreen goes beyond basic protection by combining niacinamide with ceramides, kojic acid, and kakadu plum. The result? Brightened skin tone and stronger barrier defence. With a non-greasy finish, it works well for daily commutes and humid days. At ₹422 for 50ml, it's slightly pricier but the formula justifies it.
A clear winner in the gel category, Deconstruct's sunscreen offers a whopping SPF 55+ with PA+++, giving stronger protection than many high-end formulas. The inclusion of Vitamin C makes it more than just a shield – it doubles up as a brightening booster. The gel consistency is a blessing for combination skin that often flips between oily and dry patches in the same day. It absorbs within seconds, leaving no white cast, no stickiness, and no unwanted glow. The 50g tube fits easily into smaller handbags, making it a reliable companion for work commutes or quick coffee runs. With over 33,000 ratings, this sunscreen proves that budget options can still feel premium on the skin.
Budget sunscreens today aren't just about SPF numbers; they're packed with actives that multitask, making them skincare plus sun care in one.
Skipping sunscreen is never an option, no matter the season. What's encouraging is that quality protection doesn't have to cost more than ₹500. With smarter, ingredient-focused formulations, these sunscreens keep skin safe, balanced, and bright without feeling heavy on the pocket, or the face. Choosing one that suits skin type is the smartest way to stay sun-safe this year. Shop now on Myntra.