The locals in Goa know that the beaches are not to be missed and plenty of time must be spent exploring the beautiful architecture and fragrant spice shops. But what they would also tell visitors is that the sun and humidity can feel oppressive. It is a not a place to be without proper sun protection!
You definitely want to follow the guidelines set out by the Skin Cancer Foundation. This means you’ll want to use UV protective clothing, wear hats and sunglasses, and seek shade whenever possible.
Most importantly, you cannot skimp on sunscreen in Goa! Searching for sunscreen can feel overwhelming because there are so many choices. It’s hard to know which sunscreens are effective and of good quality.
Let me help you start your search for a sunscreen to use in Goa!
After extensive research into how to best protect your skin in Goa, SimplySunSafe recommends Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35 as the best sunscreen for Goa. Keep reading for a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table, and in-depth reviews of the top 5 sunscreens for Goa.
Best Sunscreen for Goa Comparison
 Badger Sport Sunscreen |
 thinksport Sunscreen |
 BurnOut Ocean Tested |
 Vanicream Sunscreen |
 LaRoche-Posay Ultra Light Sunscreen |
|
| SPF | 35 | 50+ | 30 | 30 | 50 |
| Broad spectrum | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Active ingredients | Zinc Oxide (22.5%) | Zinc Oxide (20%) | Zinc Oxide (20%) | Zinc Oxide (6%) & Titanium Dioxide (3.4%) | Titanium Dioxide (11%) |
| Water resistance | 80 Minutes | 80 Minutes | 80 Minutes | 80 Minutes | 40 Minutes |
| See at Amazon | See at Amazon | See at Amazon | See at Amazon | See at Amazon |
Buyer’s Guide
To make sure that your skin is properly protected against the scorching sun in Goa, look out for a few must-have features in your sunscreen:
Broad spectrum protection
One of the most important features of the right sunscreen for Goa is broad spectrum protection. This means that you will be provided with balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This may sound superfluous, but it’s necessary because each radiation type works differently.
- UVB rays are the more commonly attended ones because they damage the outer layer of your skin causing you to tan or burn
- UVA rays may take longer to visibly notice, as they penetrate the deepest layer of your skin (the dermis) altering skin DNA and causing premature aging
Exposure to both radiation types increases your risk of skin cancer, which is why you want to find broad spectrum protection, especially in the unrelenting sun of Goa.
To find a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection take a moment to check the sunscreen’s label and ingredients list. You might see words on the label like ‘broad spectrum’ or ‘UVA/B’ indicating sufficient protection. When you’re checking the ingredients list, search for zinc oxide. All sunscreens with zinc oxide protect against the full range of UVA/B rays, which makes them an ideal choice for Goa!
Best SPF for Goa
So you’re out searching for a sunscreen and you ask yourself what to look for. A high SPF rating, right? Many people, including myself, were taught that this is what to pay attention to in a sunscreen.
But what does the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) actually tell you? Understanding how it works will really enhance your sunscreen search!
The SPF rating indicates what fraction of the sun’s rays will reach your skin, as long as you have properly applied the product. In other words, if you’re wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30, then only 1/30th of the sun’s rays will reach your skin. Is it becoming clearer why wearing sunscreen means you can spend more time in the sun? Good, but don’t get carried away!
Wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 does not mean that you can spend 30 times longer in the sun than if you were not wearing sunscreen. Don’t be tempted to test this out, especially in Goa, where the sun is mighty!
There are many factors that influence the effectiveness of SPF like the time of day, amount of sunscreen you have properly applied, and even reflections from other surfaces like sand or water.
Look at this table below to gain a better understanding of how much protection different SPF ratings provide:
| SPF Rating | UVB Protection |
| None | 0% |
| 2 | 50% |
| 15 | 93% |
| 30 | 97% |
| 50 | 98% |
| 100 | 99% |
Not what you were expecting?
I know, it goes against what seems logical, but the truth is that there really is very little difference between a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 and one with 100.
So which should you choose? SimplySunSafe follows the FDA’s guidelines and suggests that you always wear a sunscreen with an SPF rating no lower than 30 and no higher than 50.
And in Goa, don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours, no matter what SPF rating you choose!
Physical is better than chemical
Here’s an interesting fact: sunscreens can be grouped into two main categories – chemical and physical. The differences between each type lie in the active ingredients and in how they work to protect your skin.
- Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays as they reach your skin
- Physical sunscreens reflect UV rays before they reach your skin
There are many good reasons to choose physical sunscreens over chemical ones. They:
- stop more radiation reaching the skin
- work immediately upon application
- last longer
- are less likely to cause irritation
- have a longer shelf life
There are also reasons to not use chemical sunscreens. They often contain ingredients which mess with your hormones. You do not want to take that risk. The worst of these ingredients is called oxybenzone, and is still legal despite concerns expressed by the FDA.
While shopping for your sun protection for Goa, check the ingredients for this chemical and avoid it at all costs!
Stick with a physical sunscreen for the safest and most effect sun protection in Goa!
Water resistant
If you live in Goa, then you know how humid it can get. If you’re traveling there for the first time, then let me tell you, you will be sweating!
The blazing sun and the tropical climate do not let up in Goa so it’s better to be prepared! Not to mention that Goa is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, which means swimming, or at least sitting near the water!
That is why I highly suggest that you make your daily life or trip in Goa easier and choose a sunscreen that is water resistant.
While you’re searching through different sunscreens, you will notice that sunscreens come with water resistance for 40 or 80 minutes. Due to the consistently high humidity in Goa, and especially if you plan for any swimming, 80 minutes of water resistance is the best choice.
The sun’s UV rays will be bearing down in you in Goa, and you don’t want to leave your skin unnecessarily vulnerable. So choose a water resistant sunscreen for the most reliable sun protection!
Suitable for daily use
The daily sun and warm climate is one of the best parts about living in or visiting Goa. You will definitely get your dose of Vitamin D! But you need to protect your skin from damage each and every day in Goa, so you will want to find a sunscreen that you can easily implement into your daily routine.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you want a sunscreen that you can wear daily on both your face and body?
- Do you need a specific sunscreen for Indian skin?
- What skin conditions or sensitivities do you need to keep in mind?
- Will you wear makeup on top of your sunscreen?
Having these answers in mind will streamline your sunscreen search and help you find the best product for your skin in Goa.
SimplySunSafe has recommended products that are effective yet gentle enough for daily use on your face in body in Goa!
5 Best Sunscreens for Goa
After thorough research into what is needed for sun protection in Goa which included discussing issues with customer, reviewing customer feedback, examining manufacturer specifications, and participating in skincare forums, SimplySunSafe has collected the best 5 sunscreens for Goa.
With each sunscreen, you will get physical, broad spectrum protection with an SPF rating of 30 or greater. All of SimplySunSafe’s recommended products are gentle enough for daily use and water resistant!
1. Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35
- SIMPLY THE SAFEST SPORT SUNSCREEN - Badger sets the standard for simple safe sunscreens that protect you and your family. This broad spectrum mineral sunscreen has only 5 simple ingredients: non-nano zinc oxide, organic sunflower oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil, & sunflower vitamin E. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic & fragrance-free this all natural sports sunscreen is perfect for sensitive skin and all skin types.
- PROTECTS WITH THE MINERAL ZINC OXIDE - Badger’s SPF 35 Unscented Sport Sunscreen Cream uses non-nano, large particle zinc oxide which stays on top of your skin, scattering and absorbing UVA & UVB rays, and won’t absorb into your bloodstream. Naturally water and sweat resistant for at least 80 minutes, perfect for swimming, surfing, skiing, and other sports.
- REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN - Safe for coral means safe for you too! Badger sunscreens are made without oxybenzone or any chemicals shown to harm coral or humans. All Badger sunscreen lotions and creams are top rated for safety and efficacy by the EWG sunscreen guide. This eco-friendly biodegradable sunscreen protects you without endangering marine life.
- 98% ORGANIC INGREDIENTS FOR HEALTHY SKIN - The certified organic sunscreen base ingredients are antioxidant rich, ultra-moisturizing, and great for your skin. Non-GMO, fragrance free, and contains no dyes, parabens, or other artificial ingredients. Healthy botanical ingredients promote healthy skin.
- A BRAND YOU CAN TRUST - Badger is a family owned, women run B Corporation (Benefit Corp) making mineral sport sunscreens and other organic skin care products that we use on our own families in rural New Hampshire since 1995. We are the leaders in safe natural sunscreens. Don't just take our word for it, read our ingredients, see what others say about Badger sunscreens, and try them for yourself.
Last update on 2023-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The guessing game is over! SimplySunSafe’s choice for the best sunscreen for Goa weather is Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35. Badger Sport is a very versatile product that provides durable broad spectrum protection with a high concentration of active ingredient zinc oxide (22.5%).
For daily use on the face and body, Badger Sport is the ideal option as its formula is deceptively simple, with a total of only five ingredients. Irritation will not be an issue with this gentle sunscreen.
Like many zinc oxide sunscreens, Badger Sport’s formula is a bit thick and will require some effort to rub in. You’ll want to make the extra effort to minimize any white cast that may be left on your skin!
Sweating and water activity won’t stop you from enjoying your hot, sunny days in Goa with Badger Sport. It provides 80 minutes of water resistance and is very strong even with heavy sweating!
If you’re looking to find sun protection for the whole family, then you’re in luck! Badger also have great products available for kids and babies.
Choose Badger Sport and experience the full days of sunny joy that Goa offers!
- Simple, gentle formula
- Durable 80 minute water resistance
- Available in kids and baby formulas
- Thick formula
2. thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+
- SAFE, NATURAL PROTECTION: Thinksport sunscreen provides effective sun protection for athletes, sports and active use. The broad spectrum UVA & UVB sun cream is suitable for daily use on even sensitive skin, offering gentle defense against the sun’s rays.
- EASY APPLICATION: The hydrating body and face sun cream is quick and easy to apply, and protection from the sun begins instantly. The fast absorbing SPF 50+ sun lotion won’t leave your skin feeling oily or sticky, and has no unpleasant chemical scent.
- CLEAN MINERAL FORMULA: The first sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, Thinksport vegan, Leaping Bunny certified sun creams contain no PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals.
- WATER RESISTANT: Ideal sunscreen for sport and other activities that make you sweat. Our sun cream provides the highest water resistance per the FDA, offering continuous protection for up to 80 minutes in the pool or sea before the sunscreen should be re-applied.
- REEF FRIENDLY: Safe for you, and safe for the earth. Produced in the USA, our sunscreen’s active ingredient is non-nano Zinc Oxide, and the formula is highly biodegradable, non toxic and does not contain any known chemicals harmful to coral reefs.
Last update on 2023-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SimplySunSafe’s second recommendation for sunscreen in Goa is thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+. This product is the best sunscreen for Goa beaches!
With a high SPF and broad spectrum protection through its active ingredient zinc oxide (20%), your skin will be shielded well as you beach hop in Goa.
Although this sunscreen is targeted towards sports activity, it is very gentle. You will be able to incorporate thinksport into your daily skincare routine without experiencing any irritation. It was the first sunscreen to pass the Whole Foods premium care requirements and is unmatched in terms of safety!
Something for locals and travelers alike to keep in mind is that thinksport’s formula is rather thick and will leave a slight white cast on your skin. But in the strong Goa sun, and especially on the beaches, this is a good way to remind yourself to reapply every two hours!
Your swimming and sweating needs are covered with thinksport’s 80 minutes of water resistance. It is durable and won’t run into your eyes even if you’re sweating heavily – which means thinksport will pass Goa’s humidity test!
Thinksport is another company that aims to protect your whole family. Try thinksport Kid’s Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ and thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ to get effective, quality protection for everyone in Goa!
thinksport is great for Asian conditions and is the SimplySunSafe recommended sunscreen for Thailand.
- Gentle enough for daily use
- 80 minute water resistance
- High SPF rating
- Thick formula
- Slight white cast
3. BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical SPF 30
- UVA / UVB broad-spectrum protection.
- Very water resistant.
- 18.6% Zinc Oxide.
- Chemical-free, biodegradeable, ocean-safe, eco-sensitive.
- Paraben-free, petroleum-free, paba-free.
Last update on 2023-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another great option for sunscreen in Goa is BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical. This is a durable formula that provides broad spectrum protection with its active ingredient zinc oxide (20%).
Though it sounds like a sunscreen for the rough and tough, BurnOut Ocean Tested is actually very gentle, and you will be able to use it daily on your face and body with no irritation!
There is even aloe vera in the formula which means that not only will your skin be protected against the sun in Goa, but it will be conditioned, as well.
BurnOut Ocean Tested is a thick formula so you’ll need to make some effort to rub it in properly, but it’s well worth it for the great protection. If you find that the formula leaves a white cast on your skin and it bothers you, you can always cover it up with some makeup.
You’ll also get your 80 minutes of water resistance with BurnOut Ocean Tested so you won’t have to ‘sweat the small stuff’ in Goa!
- Gentle enough for daily use
- High concentration of zinc oxide
- 80 minute water resistance
- Thick formula
- May leave white cast
4. Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 30
- Dermatologist Recommended
- Broad Spectrum SPF 30
- No Sensitizing Chemical Sunscreen
- Non-Comedogenic
Last update on 2023-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 30 provides dermatologist recommended sun protection in Goa for locals and visitors. It offers broad spectrum protection with its active ingredients zinc oxide (6%) and titanium dioxide (3.4%).
Adding Vanicream into your daily skincare routine will be very easy and you won’t experience any irritation on your face or body.
The only thing to be taken into consideration is that while Vanicream will not leave a white cast on your skin like some other sunscreens, it does not work well under makeup.
If you plan to wear makeup on top of Vanicream, you will likely find your skin feeling a bit heavy. But if you have dry skin, then Vanicream will help keep it moisturized!
Vanicream provides you with your recommended 80 minutes of water resistance, as well. Just take heed, it may start to melt with excessive sweating so plan accordingly.
Another plus about Vanicream is that it is also available in an SPF 50 formula if you have paler or more photosensitive skin.
It’s a solid product worth testing out for Goa!
- Dermatologist recommended
- 80 minute water resistance
- Available in SPF 50 formula
- Formula is thick and feels heavy under makeup
- Lower levels of active ingredients
5. LaRoche-Posay Anthelios XL Ultra Light Sunscreen SPF 50+
- This 100% mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide was developed for sensitive skin with broad spectrum SPF 50 protection
- The non-whitening, fast-absorbing texture leaves a matte finish on skin. It is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield technology: broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants
- A powerful antioxidant complex to help protect skin from free radicals caused by UV rays
- 100% mineral filters are opaque powders and can leave an ashy, purple or white cast on some skin tones. To help minimize this, I often recommend layering with a foundation or moisturizer
Last update on 2023-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen is a blend of mineral sun filter, the patented Cell-Ox shield technology, and antioxidants into a Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB safe sunscreen. Incorporating a lightweight, invisible texture, it is fitting for normal to combination skin types plus sensitive skin types. This light, invisible sunscreen is non-greasy and non-comedogenic. It is formulated with thermal spring water for sensitive skin. Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50+ is a fast-absorbing, non-whitening, non-greasy, Oxybenzone-free, fragrance-free, Zinc Oxide based sunscreen.
It is a non-comedogenic sunscreen that does not clog the pores and soaks well into the skin, it is simple and effective to use, fitting for application as a makeup primer. The lightweight texture blends well and dries to a matte finish, unlike the sunscreens that feel oily and gooey on the skin after use. It provides forty minutes of waterproof protection and two-hour regular protection.
The cost is not exactly pocket-friendly. This reason pulls down this product in the rankings. The product also causes whitening. However, there is a tinted version for those who want the invisible finish. Overall, this is a nice sunscreen, especially for makeup wearers. It stays on well and protects one in the extreme Indian sun!
- Lightweight Matte Finish
- 80-minute water resistance
- Non-greasy
- Leaves white film on the skin
- Quite pricey
Conclusion
This guide was written for locals or travelers searching for the best sunscreen for Goa. I hope that by reading this guide you gained more knowledge about what is needed to properly protect your skin in Goa, and found a product that fits your specific needs.
SimplySunSafe recommends Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35 as the best sunscreen for Goa but all 5 products are great options that will sufficiently protect your skin daily in Goa.
It is always a good idea to test a few products before deciding on one. You need to find out how your skin reacts to different formulas. Then you will be able to choose the sunscreen that is the best fit for your unique skin.
Learning new things and hearing about different products from others is a joy for me. So if you use or know of another sunscreen that is great for Goa, please share it with me in the comments. I’ll be sure to check it out and maybe I’ll even add it to this list!
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