Try these 7 top-rated sunscreens with vitamin C that pair UV protection with antioxidant skin defence


Daily sun exposure not only causes UV damage but also generates free radicals, leading to premature ageing, pigmentation, and oxidative stress. Traditional sunscreens block UV rays, but cannot fully neutralise these free radicals. Vitamin C-enriched sunscreens offer a dual defence: they provide broad-spectrum UV protection while combating oxidative stress and supporting collagen synthesis, as reported by The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. This combination is suitable for all skin types, whether used for oily skin, hydration, or a tinted, even-toned finish.

Sunscreen with vitamin C for glowing sun protected skin (Shutterstock)

From mineral sunblock to gel-based sunscreen, choosing a vitamin C-enriched sunscreen enhances brightness, reduces dark spots, and delivers superior anti-ageing defence for both men and women, as reported in Harvard Health Publishing.

If you’re looking for serious sun protection, Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ can help. Clinically in vivo tested (ISO 24444:2019 Certified, CTRI/2025/05/087276) and ISO certified, this sunscreen reliably shields skin from harmful UV rays and prevents tanning. Packed with vitamin C, it protects and brightens your complexion, leaving a natural glow. Lightweight and non-greasy, it’s a daily solution for healthy, radiant, and tan-free skin.

Reasons to buy

Lightweight and no white cast

Vitamin C and turmeric help brighten your skin

With SPF 50 PA++++ defence against UVA/UVB and less tanning

Reason to avoid

May feel oily/greasy on some skin types 

Some find the smell off or don’t like it.

The Derma Co C-Cinamide Radiance Sunscreen Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++ is a lightweight daily sun defence suitable for all skin types. Enriched with vitamin C and niacinamide, it helps reduce dark spots, evens skin tone, and enhances radiance while protecting from harmful UV rays. Its aqua gel texture absorbs quickly without greasiness, making it ideal for everyday use.

Reasons to buy

Suitable for all skin types

Non‑greasy feel with no white cast

Dual benefits of protection and glow with niacinamide and vitamin C

Reason to avoid

Some face problems with the pump or dispenser not working properly

Less product for the price

WishCare Vitamin C Pure Glow Milk Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ combines broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with vitamin C to help maintain an even, radiant complexion. Milky, lightweight, and oil-free, this formula glides on smoothly without leaving a white cast, making it easy to layer under makeup or wear alone. Designed for all skin types, this sunscreen, enriched with vitamin C and 5 brightening actives, helps prevent sun-induced dullness and dark spots with consistent use.

Reasons to buy

Milky and lightweight formula

SPF 50 PA++++ UVA+UVB protection

Reduce pigmentation with 5 brightening actives

Reason to avoid

Some people feel it melts or feels greasy in humid weather

Slight fragrance may irritate some users

Garnier Super UV Invisible Serum Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ blends high UV protection with vitamin C in a fast-absorbing serum formula. It shields skin from UVA and UVB exposure while helping improve brightness and uneven tone over time. The lightweight, non-sticky texture is paraben- and oxybenzone-free, making it suitable for oily, dry, and acne-prone skin, while leaving no white cast. This makes it an everyday option for comfortable sun protection with added radiance support.

Reasons to buy

Lightweight and has a serum-like texture

High UV protection with no white cast

No parabens and no oxybenzone formula

Reason to avoid

May feel shiny or greasy on oily skin

May require frequent reapplication in strong sunlight

Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ pairs effective broad-spectrum UVA/UVB and blue light protection with skin-beneficial ingredients like Vitamin C and papaya extract, which help brighten dull skin and support an even tone. It claims to be clinically in vivo tested and features a lightweight, gel-like consistency that absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast, making it suitable for all skin types. The added hydration and dewy finish make it an easy everyday choice for radiant, protected skin.

Reasons to buy

Papaya and vitamin C provide a glow boost over time

Blue-light and pollution protection

Gel-like texture that layers smoothly under serums and makeup

Reason to avoid

The pump dispenser often fails or doesn’t work properly

Oily/slightly greasy finish for some

This sunscreen is for individuals seeking protection that feels effortless on the skin. Dr Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++ is a quick-absorbing formula, in-vivo tested (CTR/2025/03/083105), that stays light and works across skin types without leaving a white cast. Its key ingredients, such as ceramides, support the skin barrier, while vitamin C helps keep dullness at bay. If you are looking for a daily sunscreen for oily skin, especially one with quick absorption and a comfortable finish, you can try this sunscreen.

Reasons to buy

Suitable for all skin types

Blends smoothly with other products and can improve skin texture

Ceramides and vitamin C help brighten skin and support barrier strength

Reason to avoid

Not ideal in the sun or when sweating

Some reported that it makes skin darker or slightly grey, especially on medium to deeper skin tones

Foxtale Glow Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ pairs strong UV protection with skin-beneficial vitamin C and niacinamide to help brighten, even tone, and guard against tanning. It’s a lightweight, non-greasy gel that sinks in quickly with no white cast, making it easy to wear alone or under makeup. Suitable for all skin types, this everyday sunscreen, in-vivo tested, helps keep skin protected, hydrated, and radiant, with daily sun defence.

Reasons to buy

No dullness formula

Zero white cast

Gives that golden hour glow

Reason to avoid

May not prevent tanning

Fragrance can be strong or irritating for some

ProductSPF / PAIn-Vivo TestedTextureSuitable ForBenefit
Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow SunscreenSPF 50 / PA++++YesLightweight lotionAll skin typesBrightening and tan prevention
The Derma Co C-Cinamide Aqua Gel SunscreenSPF 50 / PA++++YesAqua-gelAll skin typesFor even-tone
WishCare Vitamin C Pure Glow Milk SunscreenSPF 50 / PA++++Not specifiedMilky lightweightAll skin typesPigmentation support
Garnier Super UV Invisible Serum SunscreenSPF 50 / PA++++Not specifiedSerum-likeOily, dry, acne-proneBrightness support
Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen GelSPF 50+ / PA++++YesGel dewy finishAll skin typesGlow enhancement
Dr. Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C SunscreenSPF 50+ / PA+++YesLightweight creamAll skin typesDullness reduction
Foxtale Glow Sunscreen SPF 50SPF 50 / PA++++YesLightweight gelAll skin typesBrightening and tone balance

Benefits of using sunscreen with vitamin C:

  1. Broad UV protection: Sunscreen with vitamin C helps shield skin from UVA and UVB rays that cause sunburn, tanning, and early ageing.
  1. Antioxidant defence: Vitamin C enriched with sunscreen helps neutralise free radicals triggered by sun exposure and pollution.
  1. Supports brighter-looking skin: Regular use of sunscreen can help reduce dullness and improve overall skin tone with consistent use.
  1. Helps limit sun-induced dark spots: Vitamin C supports skin clarity by addressing pigmentation caused by UV damage.
  1. Boosts skin resilience: Sunscreen enriched with vitamin C, which is also an antioxidant, helps the skin cope better with daily sun stress.
  1. Everyday protection with care benefits: Sunscreen combines sun safety with skin-supporting ingredients for daily use, promoting healthy and brighter skin.

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The first two products listed in this article are sponsored, and the others are in no particular order of priority.

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