Choosing the Right Sun Cream in Pakistan
In Pakistan’s harsh sun and rising temperatures, protecting your skin daily is not optional — it is essential. The right sunblock or sunscreen shields your skin from harmful UV rays that cause premature aging, dark spots, and uneven tone.
The key is to find a formula that suits your skin type, offers broad-spectrum SPF protection, and feels comfortable in your local weather conditions.
Skincare experts and dermatologists agree that the most important step in maintaining youthful, healthy skin is wearing sunscreen every day—regardless of the season, weather, or your skin color.
A study shows that around 80% of visible skin aging is caused by UV exposure.
The American Medical Association (AMA) highlights that 80% of UV rays penetrate through clouds, making sun protection vital even on cloudy days.
This daily defense not only helps prevent sunburns during hot, sunny days but also protects against wrinkles, fine lines, sun spots, acne scars, and even skin cancer, regardless of how bright it is outside.
No matter how simple your skincare routine is, sunblock should be an essential part of it.
Without sunblock, none of your other skincare products—like glycolic acid, vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, or brightening creams—will work effectively.
As the saying goes, the best thing you can do for your skin in your fifties is to invest in a good Sunscreen in your twenties.
In this article, we will explore some of the best sunblocks in Pakistan, their benefits, and why they should be part of your daily skincare routine.
(Check our skincare deals before buying your products.)
Our Top Sunscreen/Sunblock Picks at a Glance
- Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Spf50
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF 50+
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 45
- Conatural Sunscreen SPF60
- Jenpharm Spectra Block SPF60
- Cosrx – Aloe Soothing Sun Cream Spf50
- Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Spf50
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Cream Gel SPF 50+
1. Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Spf50
CeraVe’s mineral sunscreen is a gentle, non-irritating SPF option made with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which physically block UVA and UVB rays.
It has a smooth, hydrating texture that feels just like a moisturizer, thanks to ceramides and niacinamide that support the skin barrier.
Unlike many mineral sunscreens, this one leaves no white cast and layers easily under makeup or other skincare. It is a great daily sunscreen, especially for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
Pros:
- Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free mineral formula
- Includes ceramides and niacinamide for barrier repair
- No white cast and non-greasy
- Suitable for sensitive and post-treatment skin
Cons:
- May feel slightly thick for oily skin in summer
Price: 5,500 PKR
Best for: All skin types — especially normal, dry, or sensitive skin
Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
Quantity: 75ml
2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF 50+
This ultra-lightweight sunscreen is one of La Roche-Posay’s most advanced formulas. The Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF 50+ offers powerful broad-spectrum protection while remaining gentle on even the most sensitive skin.
It is powered by Mexoryl 400, La Roche’s newest UV filter that protects against ultra-long UVA rays. Despite being high-protection, the formula is non-greasy, invisible, and ultra-light, making it perfect for daily use under makeup or alone.
Thanks to Netlock technology, the fluid forms a long-lasting, water- and sweat-resistant layer — without leaving any white cast.
Pros:
- Ultra-light and invisible texture — absorbs fast without greasiness
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ with Mexoryl 400 UV filter
- Safe for sensitive skin and eyes (no stinging)
- Water, sweat, and sand-resistant
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and allergy-tested
Cons:
- Expensive, small bottle
Best for: All skin types, especially sensitive and reactive skin — ideal for hot climates and daily use
Price: 6000PKR
Key Ingredients: MEXORYL 400 – NETLOCK Technology
Quantity: 50ml
3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 45
One of the most popular sunscreens globally, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer offers broad-spectrum SPF 45 with a fast-absorbing, non-shiny finish. The Dry-Touch technology leaves the skin feeling clean and breathable, even in hot weather.
It uses HELIOPLEX® Technology, which provides long-lasting UV protection while remaining water- and sweat-resistant — great for outdoor activities or sports.
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight, quick-absorbing finish
- Water- and sweat-resistant
- Non-greasy and does not clog pores
- Affordable for 88ml
Cons:
- Slight alcohol scent
- Can sting near the eyes for some users
Price: 3,999 PKR
Best for: Oily, acne-prone, and normal skin
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%.
Quantity: 88ml
4. Conatural Sunscreen SPF 60
This hybrid sunscreen uses a mix of chemical and mineral filters to provide SPF 60 protection with a creamy yet non-greasy texture.
It is best for normal to dry skin in daily use, though it can feel a bit heavy in humid weather — especially for oily skin types.
Pros:
- Strong SPF 60 protection with clean finish
- No white cast or greasiness
- Affordable for daily wear
Cons:
- Slightly heavy for oily skin in summer
- Small quantity (30ml)
Price: 899 PKR
Best for: Normal and dry skin — great for winter
Key Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Alkyl Benzoate
Quantity: 30ml
5. Jenpharm SpectraBlock SPF 60
Jenpharm’s SpectraBlock is a broad-spectrum SPF that protects well against UV exposure while remaining lightweight and non-greasy. It uses Microfine Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide alongside Aloe Vera to soothe and calm the skin.
It is more hydrating than SpectraMatt and works well for normal and dry skin, especially as a budget daily option.
Pros:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 60
- No white cast
- Soothing ingredients (aloe)
- Affordable and easy to reapply
Cons:
- Slightly creamy for oily skin
- Not ideal under heavy makeup
Price: 998 PKR
Best for: Normal and dry skin
Key Ingredients: Microfine Zinc Oxide, Microfine Titanium Dioxide
Quantity: 40g
6. Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream Spf 50+
Cosrx’s sun cream is well-loved for its moisturizing texture and calming aloe content. With 5,500ppm of Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, it hydrates while shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays using a gentle chemical filter blend.
It feels like a light moisturizer and wears comfortably under makeup — no white cast, no stickiness, and great for everyday use.
Pros:
- Aloe-infused hydration + SPF 50
- Lightweight and absorbs well
- No irritation, stinging, or white residue
- Works beautifully under makeup
Cons:
- Contains fragrance (very mild)
- May not hold up well with sweat or extreme heat
Price: 4,575 PKR
Best for: All skin types, including sensitive or dehydrated skin
Key Ingredients: Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycerin, Titanium Dioxide, Aloe Vera
Quantity: 50ml
7. Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (Spf50+ Pa++++)
This viral Korean sunscreen has become a cult favorite — and for good reason. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is a lightweight, creamy sunscreen that glides on like a moisturizer and leaves a fresh, dewy glow.
It is enriched with 30% rice extract and fermented grain ingredients, which help hydrate, nourish, and calm the skin without causing breakouts.
The formula absorbs easily, does not pill or sting, and has no white cast, making it ideal for daily reapplication — even under makeup.
Pros:
- Moisturizing formula with probiotics and rice extract
- Lightweight and non-greasy
- No white cast and gives a healthy glow
- Great for reapplication throughout the day
Cons:
- Slightly dewy finish may not suit very oily skin
- Not ideal for very humid or sweaty outdoor use
Price: 3,999 PKR
Best for: All skin types — especially normal, dry, and dull skin
Sunscreen Ingredients: Ethylhexyl Triazone, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone
Quantity: 50ml
8. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Cream Gel SPF 50+
If you struggle with oily skin or constant shine, this sunscreen from La Roche-Posay is one of the most mattifying options available.
The Anthelios Anti-Shine Cream Gel SPF 50+ provides high UVA/UVB protection with a non-greasy, dry-touch finish.
It is designed especially for acne-prone or oily skin types that need strong sun protection without feeling heavy.
Although it is on the premium side, this formula is sweat-resistant, fragrance-free, and tested under dermatological control.
Pros:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ with strong UVA/UVB filters
- Matte, non-greasy finish — ideal for oily and acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Water and sweat-resistant
Cons:
- Expensive, small size
- May feel slightly dry on already dehydrated skin
Price: 5,500PKR
Best for: Oily, acne-prone, and combination skin
Editor’s Picks
After reviewing a wide range of sunscreens, these two stood out as the most reliable and skin-friendly options available in Pakistan:
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50:
A gentle, non-irritating formula that combines mineral SPF protection with skin-repairing ceramides and niacinamide. Perfect for daily use on dry or sensitive skin — no irritation.
La Roche-Posay UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF 50+:
Lightweight, invisible, and powerful — this sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection with Mexoryl 400 and is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive. A premium pick for serious sun defense.
Benefits of Sunblock for Your Skin
Sunblock is a remarkable product with numerous benefits for your skin that extend beyond mere protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
When applied to your face, it creates a protective barrier, guarding your sensitive skin from UV rays. Let’s explore some of its advantages:
1. Prevents Premature Aging: It serves as a reliable defense, slowing the process of premature aging by reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
2. Protects Skin Elasticity: With consistent application, sunblock shields the skin, offering protection against sagging and loss of skin elasticity.
3. Preserves Youthful Complexion: By creating a shield against harmful UV rays, sunblock contributes to preserving a youthful and radiant complexion.
4. Prevents Sunspots and Discoloration: Sunblock plays a pivotal role in preventing the formation of sunspots and discoloration, ensuring an even skin tone.
5. Maintains Skin Hydration: Regular use of sunblock helps in maintaining the skin’s natural hydration, retaining moisture for a supple and healthy appearance.
6. Protects Collagen and Elastin: Sunblock is a safeguard against collagen and elastin breakdown, promoting the skin’s firmness and elasticity.
7. Reduces Dark Circles and Under-Eye Bags: By providing a protective layer, sunscreen minimizes the appearance of dark circles and under-eye bags, contributing to a refreshed look.
How to Use Sunblock On Your Skin
Ensuring the optimal effectiveness of sunblock involves following these key steps:
1. Apply Generously: Cleanse your face with a suitable face wash. Afterward, generously apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your skin, ensuring comprehensive coverage on commonly overlooked areas such as the ears, neck, hands, and feet.
2. Frequent Application: Reapply every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating excessively.
3. Complete Coverage: Ensure every part of your body exposed to the sun is covered. Apply enough sunblock to create a visible layer on your skin.
4. Don’t Forget Lips and Eyes: Safeguard your lips with an SPF lip balm and protect your eyes with sunglasses featuring UV protection.
5. Year-Round Use: Sunblock is not just for sunny days. UV rays can penetrate through clouds and windows, so it is crucial to use sunblock every day, regardless of the weather.
Conclusion
In Pakistan’s scorching heat, wearing sunblock is crucial, especially during the summer. Dermatologists advise using sunscreen year-round to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Without protection, you risk premature aging, dark spots, uneven skin tone, and even skin cancer.
Pakistan offers a wide range of sunblocks. When selecting one, ensure it has an SPF of at least 30 and matches your skin’s needs. Apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days, and cover any exposed skin to keep it protected from sun damage.
Related:
Best Vitamin C Serums In Pakistan
Your Guide to the 10 Most Effective Anti-Aging Ingredients
Education: University of Peshawar
Abrar Ahmad holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry and has been writing about skincare for over five years. With a deep understanding of ingredients and their impact on the skin, he enjoys sharing practical, science-based skincare advice. When not writing, he loves playing with his kids.
