“I love to recommend powder sunscreens as an easy way to reapply throughout the day,” says Jessica Dowling, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “They are convenient, portable, and easy to apply on the go without feeling like you have to wash your hands after. What’s more, they also allow you to reapply without feeling like you’re taking off or ruining your makeup.”
Convinced? Keep scrolling to shop our top picks.
The best SPF powder sunscreen, at a glance
- Best overall: Colorescience Sunforgettable® Total Protection(image) Brush-On Shield SPF 50, $69
- Runner up: ISDIN, Isdinceutics Mineral Brush, $60
- Best for dry skin: Supergoop!, 100% Mineral (Re)setting Powder SPF 35, $35
- Best for oily skin: AziMD, UV Clear SPF 40, $58
- Best for sensitive skin: Avène, High Protection Tinted Compact SPF 50, $42
- Best waterproof: Brush on Block, Translucent Mineral Powder Sunscreen SPF 50, $46
- Best translucent: Hawaiian Tropic, Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush SPF 30, $20
- Best tinted: DRMTLGY, SPF Radiance Powder, $35
- Best for dark skin tones: iS Clinical, PerfecTint Powder SPF 40, $78
- Best for the scalp: Supergoop!, Poof 100% Mineral Part Powder SPF 35, $35
The benefits of powder SPFs
1. They’re made with mineral sun blockers
Powder SPFs tend to be made of finely milled mineral particles—zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—that sit on top of your skin. These ingredients work as physical blockers, deflecting UV rays before they can penetrate your skin and cause damage.
“Most powder sunscreens are made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are natural and mineral-based ingredients,” says Jennifer Kramer, a paramedical esthetician and founder of Corrective Skincare LA. “Used correctly, they create a protective barrier against the sun’s damaging effect, just like gels, creams, and sprays.”
2. They’re great for sensitive and oily complexions
Powder sunscreens have a one-up on their liquid counterparts as they offer mattifying and grease-absorbing benefits that are great for oily skin. Their mineral formulas are generally better than chemical-based formulas for sensitive