Last updated: October 2026 · Written by the Tivora team · Reading time: about 7 minutes
Many men in India think sunscreen is a "women's product" or something only for beach holidays. Yet men spend just as much time in the sun, on bikes, at work sites, on cricket grounds and on long commutes, and they tan, pigment and age from it just like anyone else.
This guide is a simple, no-fuss explanation of why men need sunscreen, how to choose one that doesn't feel greasy, and how to fit it into a routine that takes under a minute.
Quick answer
Yes, men need sunscreen every day. Choose a lightweight, non-greasy SPF 50 PA++++ gel or cream, apply about two finger-lengths to your face, neck and ears after washing your face (and after shaving), and reapply every 2 hours if you're outdoors. Sunscreen is not gendered: the same product works for everyone.
Why men need sunscreen
- Tanning and dark spots: two-wheeler rides, outdoor work and sport mean a lot of sun on the face, neck, ears and hands.
- Early ageing: sun damage is the main cause of visible ageing, such as wrinkles, rough texture and uneven tone.
- Skin cancer risk: less common in Indian skin, but not zero, and often caught later.
- Men use less sunscreen: in a US survey analysed in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, under 15% of men said they regularly used sunscreen on their face and other exposed skin, compared with about 30% of women.
Common reasons men skip sunscreen (and the fix)
| "I don't use it because..." | The fix |
|---|---|
| It feels greasy and sticky | Choose a lightweight gel or light cream; avoid thick beach sunscreens |
| It leaves a white layer | Pick a chemical or hybrid formula with no white cast |
| It's a women's product | Sunscreen isn't gendered; skin is skin |
| It stings after shaving | Wait a few minutes after shaving and choose fragrance-free |
| I don't have time | It's one step, under a minute, after washing your face |
| My skin is dark, so I don't need it | Darker skin still tans, pigments and ages from the sun |
How to choose a sunscreen for men
- SPF 50 and PA++++ for strong protection against both burning and tanning.
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture: gels and light creams work well for oily skin and Indian weather.
- Non-comedogenic if you get breakouts.
- Fragrance-free if your skin is sensitive after shaving.
- No white cast on your skin tone.
- Water and sweat resistant if you play sport or work outdoors.
For more on textures, see our guide to the best sunscreen for oily skin.
A simple 3-step routine for men
- Wash your face with a gentle face wash.
- Shave (if you do), rinse, and let your skin calm down for a few minutes.
- Apply sunscreen: two finger-lengths for face and neck. Don't forget your ears, the back of your neck and your scalp if you have thinning hair.
If your skin feels dry, use a light moisturiser before sunscreen, or choose a sunscreen that moisturises.
Areas men often miss
- Ears and back of the neck: especially when riding a bike.
- Scalp and hairline: if your hair is short or thinning; a cap helps too.
- Beard area: rub sunscreen gently into stubble, or use a light lotion or gel that spreads easily through facial hair.
- Back of the hands and forearms: exposed on every ride and drive.
- Lips: use a lip balm with SPF.
When to reapply
Reapply every 2 hours when you're outdoors, and straight away after heavy sweating, swimming or wiping your face. If you're in an office most of the day, one generous morning application plus a top-up before heading out is a practical routine. Read more in our complete sunscreen guide for Indian skin.
Our pick: Tivora BrightShield SPF 50 PA++++
Tivora BrightShield SPF 50 PA++++ works for men and women alike. It's a lightweight cream that doesn't feel greasy, leaves no white cast, and moisturises lightly, so many men can use it as their only morning product after washing their face. It also contains Alpha Arbutin, Tyrostat and Melanostatin to help with tanning and dark spots from daily commutes. It comes in a 50 ml tube for ₹615, or two for ₹999.
Tivora BrightShield SPF 50 PA++++
Lightweight daily sunscreen with Alpha Arbutin, Tyrostat and Melanostatin. No white cast. ✓ Dermatologically tested · Non-irritant
₹615 · 2 for ₹999 · Free shipping
Frequently asked questions
Do men really need sunscreen?
Yes. Men's skin tans, pigments and ages from sun exposure just like women's, and men often spend more time outdoors.
Can men use women's sunscreen?
Yes. Sunscreen isn't gendered. Choose based on your skin type and texture preference, not the packaging.
Which sunscreen is best for men with oily skin?
A lightweight, non-comedogenic SPF 50 PA++++ gel or light cream with a matte or natural finish.
Should men apply sunscreen before or after shaving?
After shaving. Rinse, let your skin settle for a few minutes, then apply sunscreen.
Do men with beards need sunscreen?
A beard gives some shade, but not full protection. Apply sunscreen to the skin around and under your beard, especially cheeks and neck.
How much sunscreen should men use?
About two finger-lengths for the face and neck, the same as anyone else.
The bottom line
Sunscreen is one of the simplest things men can do to prevent tanning, dark spots and early ageing. Pick a light, non-greasy SPF 50 PA++++, apply it after washing your face every morning, and reapply when you're outdoors. For a one-step option with brightening actives, try Tivora BrightShield, and see our guide on how to remove tan from your face.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. If you have a skin condition, speak to a qualified dermatologist.
Sources
- Harvard Health: Survey finds men don't use enough sunscreen
- American Academy of Dermatology: How do I know if I'm using the right sunscreen?
- American Academy of Dermatology: How to decode a sunscreen label
