Sunscreen

Sunscreen Selection Criteria

How we decide which UV protection products deserve a place here

Sun protection is a medical necessity, not just a cosmetic one. However, many mass-market sunscreens use "chemical filters" that penetrate the bloodstream and have been detected in breast milk and urine. Our role is to filter out the hormone-disruptors and prioritize photostable, reef-safe, and skin-compatible formulas.

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1. Our Non-Negotiable Exclusions (The "Endocrine-Gate")

Any product containing these is automatically disqualified:

❌ Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)

A known endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and is heavily linked to coral reef bleaching.

❌ Octinoxate

Highly unstable when exposed to sunlight (the very thing it's meant to protect against) and another potent hormone disruptor.

❌ Homosalate

Found to accumulate in the body faster than it can be eliminated; linked to cellular toxicity.

❌ Benzene-Contaminated Aerosols

We avoid spray sunscreens unless they are certified benzene-free, as this carcinogen is a common contaminant in aerosol propellants.

❌ Synthetic Fragrance/Parfums

The #1 cause of contact dermatitis in sunscreens, especially when skin is heated by the sun.

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2. Approved UV Filters (What We Look For)

We prioritize "Physical" (Mineral) filters and "New-Age" Photostable filters that sit on top of the skin or stay in the upper layers.

✅ Zinc Oxide (Non-Nano)

The gold standard. It provides true broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB) and is anti-inflammatory, making it safe for babies and sensitive skin.

✅ Titanium Dioxide

Excellent UVB protection; best when paired with Zinc Oxide.

✅ Tinosorb S & M

Modern, "organic" filters common in European and high-end Indian sunscreens. They are highly photostable, do not have the hormone-disrupting profiles of older chemicals, and don't leave a heavy white cast.

✅ Iron Oxides

Crucial for those with melasma or hyperpigmentation, as they protect against Visible Blue Light (from screens and the sun), which mineral/chemical filters alone cannot block.

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3. The "Protection Truth" Standards

We look past the "SPF" number to ensure actual protection:

• Broad Spectrum: Must protect against both UVB (burning) and UVA (aging/cancer)
• PA Rating: In India, we only recommend products with PA+++ or PA++++
• Photostability: The formula must not break down within 30 minutes of sun exposure
• Water Resistance: Mandatory for products marketed for sports or humidity

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4. Skin Health & Transparency

Non-Comedogenic

Sunscreens are notorious for clogging pores. We prioritize "Oil-free" or "Dry-touch" formulations that use safe silica or rice starch rather than heavy silicones.

Antioxidant Support

We look for the addition of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, or Ferulic Acid, which help neutralize the free radicals that "leak" through even the best UV filters.

Full INCI Disclosure

No "Base Q.S." or "Sunscreens Base." We demand to see every preservative and stabilizer used.

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5. Scoring Logic (0–100)

Every sunscreen is scored based on:

• Filter Safety: Ratio of mineral/new-age filters vs. old-school chemicals
• White Cast Index: How well it blends into Indian skin tones without looking ashy
• Ocular Safety: Does it sting the eyes when you sweat?
• Finish & Texture: Is it wearable under makeup or in 90% humidity?

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What This Means For You

If a sunscreen appears here, it means you are protected from DNA damage without sacrificing your hormonal health. It won't sting your eyes, it won't cause "sun-acne," and it won't harm the environment when you wash it off.

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Our Promise

We prioritize skin-type specificity. We recommend different formulas for someone with "Monsoon Oily" skin versus "Mountain Dry" skin, ensuring the sunscreen is a product you want to wear every day.