Routine guide
Sun Protection routine (AM/PM)
A commonly-advised routine structure
☀️ Morning (AM)
- Gentle cleanser
- Targeted active, if advised
- Moisturiser
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen — essential in the Indian sun
🌙 Night (PM)
- Cleanser
- Treatment active
- Moisturiser
⚠️ Go slow
- Introduce one active at a time
- Patch-test new products
- Do not layer clashing actives
Ingredients commonly recommended for sun protection
- Avobenzone — Commonly referenced as an organic broad-spectrum UVA filter in sunscreen formulations.
- Zinc oxide — Commonly advised as an inorganic (physical) broad-spectrum filter, often for sensitive skin.
- Titanium dioxide — Commonly advised as an inorganic (physical) UV filter providing broad-spectrum protection.
- Niacinamide — Commonly included to support barrier health, reduce visible redness, and help brightening/even skin tone.
- Vitamin C (5%) — Commonly added as an antioxidant for brightness and to help defend against environmental stressors.
- Ceramides — Commonly included to reinforce the skin barrier and retain moisture, especially for sensitive/dry skin.
- Oat extract — Commonly advised to soothe and calm stressed skin after UV exposure.
- Phospholipids — Commonly used in lightweight formulations to support barrier function and formulation stability.
Full Sun Protection guide with sources → · Check your own routine for conflicts →
🇮🇳 For Indian skin & climate
Sources frame sun protection in India as a daily necessity given the high-UV environment, intense sun exposure, and humidity. Indian skin is described as pigmentation-prone, so broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB) at SPF 50+ and PA+++ or higher is commonly advised to help reduce tanning, pigmentation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and photoaging. Lightweight gel and fluid bases are commonly recommended as suitable for humid Indian conditions and oily/combination skin. An India-specific Delphi consensus (PRISM-ISF) provides practical sunscreen-use recommendations for Indians.
Frequently asked
What is a good routine order for sun protection?
A common structure is cleanse → treat → moisturise → sunscreen in the morning, and cleanse → treat → moisturise at night. Introduce actives one at a time.
Is this a personalised plan?
No — it is a general structure from published guidance. A free CureSkin dermatologist assessment can tailor it to your skin, climate and history.
General educational information for Indian skin, compiled from published dermatology literature and structured ingredient data. Not medical advice or a diagnosis.