Sunscreen Powders Are Changing the SPF Game
1 min readAt this point, you know the drill: sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. No longer is SPF just a summertime necessity; it should be a year-round essential part of your daily beauty routine. For years, though, it’s been the least glamorous step—it’s often messy, heavy, or difficult to wear with makeup. But today’s SPF formulas are proving that sun protection can be elegant. Cue: powder sunscreen.
Designed to be patted over the skin throughout the day, these lightweight mineral powders help refresh your complexion, absorb excess oil, and layer seamlessly over foundation without ruining your makeup. The best formulas are quick, convenient, and virtually invisible. Beloved brands like Supergoop!, Tarte, and Hawaiian Tropic—among a plethora of others—have been making high-quality formulas that are lining vanities everywhere.
But to be clear, powder sunscreen isn’t meant to replace your morning application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Dermatologists recommend using a lotion, cream, or fluid as your primary layer of protection, then reaching for powder SPF as a touch-up option when you’re on the go.
So slip one of these sunscreen powders into your handbag—it’ll make your SPF routine as easy as can be. Below, find our five favorite formulas.
Pros
- Antioxidant-rich and hydrating formula
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some say it’s a bit thicker and hard to spread
Colorescience’s powder sunscreen is the most popular, and for good reason. It’s water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and also has blue light, pollution, and infrared defense against premature signs of aging and skin damage. It’s also the only powder sunscreen recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation for active use.
Pros
- A twist-lock mechanism helps to control powder flow and prevent messes
- Compact size fits in purse
Cons
- Layering it a few times a day can cause it to be cakey
Supergoop! is all about making sunscreen chic and seamless in your daily routine, and this powder exemplifies that. From the portable design to its on-the-go sun protection, shine control, and soft-focus matte finish designed to set makeup, it’s sun protection made easy.
Pros
- Travel-friendly size
- 100% mineral composition
Cons
- Some say the container falls apart over time
Master of affordable sunscreen, Hawaiian Tropic delivers a mineral powder that doesn’t sacrifice quality for affordability. Its matte finish and the brand’s signature light tropic scent will make it a go-to in your everyday skincare routine.
Now 30% Off
Pros
- Colored options are good for brightening and color-correcting under-eye conceal
- The powder doesn’t cause a white cast in photos
Cons
- Not as hydrating as other formulas
If you’re looking for a powder sunscreen that’s designed to be applied over makeup, Tarte’s is at the top of the game. It sets makeup without settling into find lines, delivering a smooth look.
Pros
- Vegan brush
- Refillable tube
Cons
- You may need to reapply more often as it may offer less sun protection than others
If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, consider Jane Iredale’s lightweight, broad-spectrum. The reef-safe formulation is water resistant for up to 40 minutes, and it’s designed for your face, body, and scalp. It also utilized titanium dioxide and natural clay minerals that nourish and calm the skin—even soothing sunburns.