Some people might slack off when it comes to their SPF routine because they find that some sunscreens can feel greasy or oily, leaving them with a shine that’s not exactly radiant. I don’t have to tell you that guarding your skin against the sun’s harmful rays is of the utmost importance because it can lower your risk of skin cancer and also prevent premature aging.
One product you can add to your routine that might make you stick to a good suncare regimen? A powder sunscreen. “They are easy-to-apply sunscreens in a powder format that often mimic the texture of a setting powder or powder blush,” explains board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, and medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology Tracy Evans, MD, MPH, FAAD, FACMS. “They’re lightweight and often come with a retractable brush.”
But the important thing to note about these sunscreens is that they shouldn’t be used as your only method of sun protection. “In my opinion, they should be used as an addition to the normal sunscreen mainly because it’s difficult to get enough sun protection using a pure powder sunscreen,” says board-certified plastic surgeon Amir Karam, MD. “Sunscreen is such an important part of anti-aging as well as the prevention of skin cancers. You don’t want to get this step wrong.”
Since many of these mineral-based powder sunscreens have a tint to them, Karam says they can be used like foundation. He says one method is to use a regular sunscreen product (like EltaMD’s tinted or clear sunscreen) and apply the powder-based sunscreen on top of it for a matte finish (and for more sun protection).
You can also use powder sunscreen as a touch-up. “It’s convenient and portable, making it perfect for reapplication in the middle of the day when you may not want or be able to apply a cream or lotion sunscreen,” says board-certified dermatologist and founder of Maei MD Rebecca Marcus, MD. “It can be applied over makeup. Also, it can be used in the hairline and the part to apply sunscreen to the scalp, which would be more difficult with cream or lotion.”
To apply, there are a few steps to follow to ensure you’re putting on an effective amount of sunscreen. “Before taking the cap off of the brush, turn the brush upside down and tap it (hard!) three times into your palm,” Marcus recommends. “This should fill the brush with powder so it’s primed to apply to your skin. Then, brush evenly over the face, neck, scalp, or wherever you wish to apply it. It’s hard to apply a thick enough layer of powder to get the full SPF listed on the label, so it’s best to layer powder sunscreen with other sun-protection products and practices.”
When shopping for a powder sunscreen, Ife Rodney, MD, FAAD, of Eternal Dermatology and Aesthetics suggests, “Be sure to choose a broad spectrum mineral sunscreen—look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in the active ingredients. It’s great if it also contains iron oxide, as this blocks out blue light rays emitted from computer screens and electronic devices. Blue light san cause premature aging of the skin.”
Take a look at some powder-sunscreen options below.
Both Evans and Karam recommend Colorscience’s option. Karam says it features a variety of shades and also has a good level of efficacy.
Both Evans and Marcus like this one from Supergoop!. The mineral powder also minimizes oil and shine. “I love Supergoop!’s (Re)Setting 100% Mineral Sunscreen Powder because it comes in three shades. Plus, it’s translucent, so there’s something that works for everyone,” Marcus says.
Rodney and Evans recommend Isdin’s formula. “This mineral sunscreen contains titanium dioxide, iron oxides, zinc oxide, and mica to not only protect against UVA and UVB rays, but also against blue light and infrared radiation,” Rodney says.
“Tarte’s Sea Set and Protect powder has a silky texture that helps to set makeup when applied on top. Plus, it’s cruelty-free!” Marcus says. The vegan formula contains titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and vanilla (which is rich in antioxidant properties and can target the signs of aging). The powder is translucent and won’t feel cakey.
Don’t forget about your head! “It also contains dry shampoo to help keep your hair looking great and your scalp protected at the same time,” Marcus says.
“This broad spectrum compact sunscreen also serves as a primer under makeup. You can add additional layers for more SPF coverage,” Rodney says.
This transparent mineral sunscreen not only protects against harmful sun rays but also controls shine, blurs pores, and sets makeup.
Reef-safe and sustainable, Larkly’s translucent formula doesn’t leave a greasy or chalky finish. It also contains antioxidants like resveratrol, green tea, and licorice root.
Use this weightless, broad-spectrum sunscreen on your face, body, and scalp. The formula is water resistant for up to 40 minutes. It also works for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Available in four shades, this powder sunscreen is both hydrating and oil absorbing. It contains key ingredients like zinc oxide, glycerin, lycopodium clavatum (a hypoallergenic plant enzyme that improves hydration levels), imperata cylindrica root extract (improves dull skin), and hydroxyapatite (enhances sun protection and prevents the signs of aging).
Eminence’s mineral powder is water resistant and will leave a matte finish. In addition to zinc oxide, the formula contains vitamins A and E to fight free radicals.
Supergoop!’s Glow Screen is my favorite everyday sunscreen. It protects my skin and leaves a nice glowy finish.
A sunscreen spray comes in handy when you’re applying SPF to your whole body—it’s definitely easier and more hands-free! This one from Coola also contains nourishing ingredients like cucumber, algae, strawberry extract, and raspberry-seed oil.
You don’t have to worry about any greasiness or unwanted shine with Neutrogena’s sheer sunscreen. It goes on with a matte finish.
If you’re looking for a tinted sunscreen, try this one from Australian Gold. The non-chemical formula works like a BB cream or foundation.
Shiseido’s highly-rated sunscreen goes on clear and doesn’t leave any residue. It contains the brand’s SynchroShield technology, which is a protective veil that gets stronger in heat and water.
CeraVe’s tinted sunscreen blends easily into the skin and features three essential ceramides and niacinamide to condition.
Don’t forget to protect your lips. Fresh’s hydrating balm also has a sheer and buildable tint.
Ideal for normal, oily, and combination skin types, Paula’s Choice’s tinted moisturizer protects against UVA/UVB rays while also neutralizing free radicals and boosting collagen production.
Set your makeup while adding extra sun protection with this spray from Kate Somerville. It contains a light-diffusing silicone powder to soften fine lines and wrinkles and leave a matte finish. Plus, it’s infused with hyaluronic acid for hydration.
