Sticks, serums, sprays—your guide to sunscreens in the 21st century

Years ago, sunscreen was reserved for beach holidays and poolside lounging. It wasn’t seen as a daily essential—cue the gasp. Believe it or not, the thick, greasy, white-cast-inducing formulas of the past scared people to the point where they’d rather risk their skin’s health than slather on that pasty concoction. Thankfully, sunscreens have come a long way, and we’re truly grateful. Why? Because they’ve now become the Holy Grail of skincare.

Lightweight, convenient, and leaving absolutely no greasy residue (a godsend in hot, humid climates), 21st-century sunscreens don’t just protect the skin—they moisturise and nourish it too. From sticks to serums, not all sunscreens are created equal. So, we asked the experts what works best—and here’s what they had to say.

The sunscreen makeover

“Over the past decade, sunscreen formulations have evolved,” explains Dr Manasi Shirolikar, consultant dermatologist and founder of DrManasiSkin.com. “In the past, sunscreens were thick, greasy, and often left a noticeable white cast—especially those with physical filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.” Today, we’re blessed with cosmetically elegant formulas that are lightweight, blend seamlessly into all skin tones, and come in a variety of formats, including gels, fluids, serums, sticks, and sprays.

Public awareness around sun protection has grown dramatically, and the prevalence of daily sunscreen use is far greater than it used to be. “Early-generation sunscreens primarily targeted UVB rays responsible for sunburn, using ingredients like para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and simple cinnamates,” says cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Skinfinitii Aesthetic Skin and Laser Clinic, Dr Jaishree Sharad.

“Many of them offered limited or no UVA protection, which we now know is crucial in preventing deeper skin damage and photoageing.” Today’s formulations combine multiple organic filters to ensure broad-spectrum protection, and stabilising ingredients—such as avobenzone, which is prone to degradation—are now supported by photostabilisers. Add to that nanoparticle delivery systems, improved water resistance, better skin adherence, and added skincare benefits, and you have a product that makes daily sun protection effortless.

To help you navigate the world of modern sunscreens, we’ve put together a guide to the different formulations available today. From lightweight serums to protective oils, find the perfect option for your skin type and lifestyle.

Tint

This multitasking product combines sunscreen and makeup, offering both protection and coverage. It uses mineral filters and iron oxides to even out skin tone while preventing a white cast, making it ideal for all skin types, especially oily, acne-prone, pigmented, or sensitive skin. Perfect for skin of colour, it reduces melasma and hyperpigmentation. Apply ¼ to ½ teaspoon for the face and neck, and reapply every 2-3 hours, or use an SPF powder or mist for touch-ups over makeup.

Serum

This lightweight sunscreen blends active skincare ingredients to hydrate and nourish while providing full coverage protection. With chemical or hybrid filters and nano-minerals for a sheer finish, it suits oily, combination, acne-prone, sensitive, and dry skin. The non-comedogenic formula absorbs quickly, layers seamlessly under makeup, and delivers skincare benefits. Apply 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon for the face and neck, and reapply by gently patting or smoothing on another layer as needed.

Spray

Often available in mist or aerosol form, spray sunscreens are perfect for on-the-go protection and easy reapplication. They provide quick, convenient coverage, especially for the body. Typically made with chemical filters (mineral sprays require rubbing), these alcohol-based or aqueous sprays are great for normal to oily skin, leaving no white cast or greasy residue. Spray liberally for 7-10 seconds over the face and neck, and for body areas, spray for 6 seconds per limb, holding the can 4-6 inches away, then rub in gently.

Oil

Perfect for drier climates, SPF oils provide a bronzed glow while protecting your skin. Mainly for body use, they’re perfect for beach or pool days. With chemical filters in an oil base, they often contain ingredients like avobenzone, octocrylene, and nourishing oils such as coconut, jojoba, or argan. Best for dry to normal skin, they hydrate and offer a dewy finish. Apply 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon for the face or 1 ounce for full-body coverage, ensuring your skin looks shiny for adequate protection.

Stick

Sunscreen sticks are a traveller’s favourite, offering both initial protection and easy reapplication. They’re great for targeted coverage on smaller areas of the face and come in mineral, chemical, or hybrid formulations. Perfect for all skin types, especially sensitive skin or areas prone to irritation, these sticks are also ideal for oily skin and active individuals. With a portable, mess-free design, they provide precise, water-resistant coverage. Apply at least four swipes per area for even protection.

Lead image credit: Pexels 

Also read: The best SPF lip oils for a soft, sun-kissed pout this summer

Also read: These water-based sunscreens are your answer to the humid weather