At the risk of sounding like a broken record, sun protection is essential to stave off ageing as ultraviolet rays are the biggest source of skin damage. But what happens when you’re on the move and wearing makeup? Reapplying regular sunscreen can cause the makeup to smudge and slide off.
Enter powder sunscreen, a convenient solution for quick touch-ups throughout the day. All you need to do is just swipe the powder across your face.
Powder sunscreens also help mop up excess sweat and shine. In a pinch, they double as dry shampoo as well (your scalp needs sun protection too!).
Best powder sunscreen: what to look out for
- SPF Level: Look for a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to effectively protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Ingredients: Most sunscreen powders contain mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide physical sun protection and are gentle on sensitive skin.
- Skin Type Compatibility: Consider your skin type, such as acne-prone or oily skin. Choose a powder sunscreen that is non-comedogenic to prevent clogged pores or irritation.
- Texture and Finish: Would you prefer a matte or dewy finish? Matte powders are ideal for oily skin, while dewy finishes add a subtle glow to dry or mature skin.
- Water-Resistance: If you'll be spending time outdoors or engaging in water activities, choose something water-resistant that can withstand sweat and moisture for extended protection.
Here are our picks for the best powder sunscreens to throw into your handbag and touch up on the go. Remember that you’ll need to touch up your sun protection every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors.
Finish your look by adding that beautiful iridescent glow with this (Glow)setting Powder from Supergoop! What we love most about this powder is that it gives your skin that enviable lit-from-within glow (so it doesn't look too mattified) while providing the right amount of UV protection.
Also available at Lazada
Formulated with titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, mica and iron oxides, this powder sunscreen from Isdin provides protection against harmful UV rays, as well as free radical pollution damage, blue light and infrared radiation (IR). With a lightweight texture that goes smoothly onto the skin, this powder sunscreen also works well for those with normal and combination skin types.
Besides the use of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, the Derma E translucent powder sunscreen is also infused with skin-nourishing ingredients green tea, chamomile and vitamin E.
Affording a translucent finish, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are used in combination to provide broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection. The compact also comes with a mirror and brush.
Colorescience uses both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in conjunction with plant extracts such as grape seed, oak wood and sunflower sprout to protect and nourish the skin. There are a total of five shades and finishes to choose from.
Orbis' powder sunscreen uses both chemical and physical filters to afford waterproof SPF50+/PA++++ protection. There are two shades available - natural and lucent - and the compact is sold separately from the refill.
No chemical filters go into this 100% physical sunscreen from Hawaiian Tropic. The translucent formula is also enriched with naturally sourced sea minerals to absorb excess sebum and provide a matte finish.
This sheer and lightweight formula of Brush On Block's Mineral Sunscreen Powder effortlessly blends into your skin, giving you flawless coverage without messing up your natural skin tone. Toss it in your bag, and you're all set for touch-ups throughout the day. Plus, it's all-natural, vegan-friendly, and free of harmful chemicals, making it a safe choice for sensitive skin.
Only 10 natural mineral ingredients go into this Catrin powder sunscreen, which employs zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the filters. It also comes with a handy puff to touch up on the go.
This non-greasy, reef-safe formula provides instant skin protection. With SPF 30 coverage and a natural, hypoallergenic formula, it keeps your skin safe without harsh chemicals. Convenient and effective, it's water-resistant and doubles as a sand brush-off tool.
All the items are independently selected by our editorial team. If you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. But we only recommend products we love. Promise.