Best powder sunscreen: 10 top picks for quick touch-ups and UV defense

Include the best powder sunscreens in your skincare routine and make your reapplication process seamless and easy.
best powder sunscreens
Discover the best powder sunscreens for UV protection. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock.
Tanya Shree Updated: 5 Sep 2024, 04:37 pm IST
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Whether it is a harsh sunny day or a gloomy winter, sun protection is essential in all seasons. Even on cloudy days, the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin, causing long-term damages like premature ageing, hyperpigmentation and even skin cancer. To keep your skin protected, it is essential to use powder sunscreens as they offer a lightweight, non-greasy and seamless reapplication experience. They are milled powder from sunscreens that make the touch-ups easier. Packed with the goodness of titanium dioxide, silica, iron oxides, mica, antioxidants and botanical extracts, this type of sunscreen may feel comfortable on your skin. So, check out this list of the best powder sunscreens and protect your skin from UV rays.

What is a powder sunscreen?

Powder sunscreen is a type of mineral sunscreen, which comes in a finely milled powder form. This sunscreen can be applied using a brush or a puff. They are specially designed to sit on the skin’s surface to provide a physical barrier, which reflects and scatters harmful UV rays. This type of sunscreen makes for an amazing option for daily reapplication.

10 best powder sunscreens for summer

Sunscreen is one of the best skincare essentials for summer. So, check out this list of the best powder sunscreen in India:

1. The Derma Co Mattifying 100% Mineral Matte Powder Sunscreen

Protect your skin against UV rays by using The Derma Co Mattifying 100% Mineral Matte Powder Sunscreen. Suitable for all skin types, this powder sunscreen for the face comes with a built-in brush, which ensures smooth and even application. By giving 2500 plus strokes, it promises to shield your skin without budging makeup. It is made using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. The neutral tint of this sunscreen blends into your skin to provide broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white residue. The brand claims that this product is free from mineral oil, dye, parabens and sulfates.

2. Brillare Sunscreen SPF50

Brillare Sunscreen SPF50 promises to provide advanced broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It may help to shield your skin from harmful sun rays and prevent sunburn, photoaging and sun damage. This sunscreen is formulated with a finely milled powder texture to make effortless application and make your skin feel smooth. It has an oil-free formula to control excess sebum without leaving a greasy residue, which makes it one of the best powder sunscreens for oily skin. This lightweight and non-comedogenic sunscreen is designed to withstand water activities and perspirations.

3. Jovees Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Powder

Prevent sunburns and skin damage by using one of the best powder sunscreens for acne-prone skin. This mineral-based sunscreen contains light kaolin, corn starch, zinc oxide and almond powder. It may help block harmful UV rays, and infrared rays and contribute to a silky texture. The absorbent properties of this sunscreen may help control oil and provide a matte finish. The brand claims that its product is free from paraben, alcohol, and cruelty.

4. The Face Shop Natural Sun Eco No Shine Sun Powder

Reduce shine from your face and get a mattifying look by using The Face Shop Natural Sun Eco No Shine Sun Powder. Suitable for all skin tones, this powder sunscreen may help absorb excess oil and protect your skin against the harmful effects of infrared rays. It is formulated with sunflower sprout extract, cotton seeds, niacinamide and liquorice root extract, which may help block damaging UV rays.

5. Barely Sunny Broad Stroke Sunscreen Powder

Barley Sunny Broad Stroke Sunscreen Powder is free from talc, alcohol, silicones, paraben, sulphates, and fragrance and is non-comedogenic. This sunscreen powder may help protect your skin from UV rays. It is packed with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and iron oxide pigments and provides SPF 70.

6. Sandiva SPF Top-up Loose Powder

Sandiva SPF Top-up Loose Powder promises to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Regular use of this sunscreen may help reduce the risk of skin damage and ageing. This sheer, lightweight and non-greasy product can eliminate the need to reapply the regular sunscreen multiple times a day. By creating a physical barrier, this sunscreen may protect your skin from UV rays, smooth out tiny wrinkles and help you get rid of greasy mid-day shine.

7. Keya Seth Aromatherapy, Device of Drop Umbrella Sunscreen Powder

Keya Seth Aromatherapy, Device of Drop Umbrella Sunscreen Powder is packed with SPF 50 and PA+++. This powder sunscreen promises to offer all-round sun protection against UVA and UVB rays and provide a makeup-like finish. It is filled with the goodness of micronized zinc oxide that may help to regulate your skin’s oil production with its mild astringent. This sunscreen also contains sandalwood oil and tinosorb M, which may soothe your skin. By offering broad-spectrum protection, this product can maintain photo-stable skin. The brand claims that this product is sweat-resistant and may help to prevent sunburn and suntan.

8. The Derma Co Hyaluronic Sunscreen Compact Powder

The Derma Co Hyaluronic Sunscreen Compact Powder is packed with SPF 50 and PA+++, which may help to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. By offering long-lasting coverage, this sunscreen may help to blur your pores and conceal imperfections effortlessly. It blends seamlessly into the skin to leave it smoother. It has a super fine texture, which ensures that your skin looks flawless and absorbs excess oil. The brand claims this product is free from mineral oil, dye, parabens and sulphates.

9. Lakme Sun Expert Ultra Matte SPF 40 PA+++ Compact

Lakme Sun Expert Ultra Matte Compact comes with SPF 40 and PA+++. This non-sticky and matte sun protection powder may shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. It may help to prevent sunburn, dark spots, premature ageing and skin darkening. Regular use of this product may reveal a soft and non-greasy texture. It may give an even-tone complexion and is perfect for long-day use.

10. Lakme Rose Powder Sunscreen

Lakme Rose Powder Sunscreen is suitable for all skin types. By providing light coverage, this product may leave your skin feeling soft and supple. This light, rosy and refreshing powder with sunscreen may protect your skin from harsh rays and promote flawless and even-toned skin.

How to treat sunburn?

Overexposure to the sun’s harmful rays may lead to sunburn. To treat this, the American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests a few tips:

  • If you get sunburn, take frequent cool baths to get relief from the pain. Gently pat yourself after getting out of the bathtub.
  • Then, apply a moisturiser that contains aloe vera or soy as these ingredients may help to soothe your sunburned skin.
  • You may also consider applying calamine lotion or placing a damp washcloth on the affected area.
  • Consult your healthcare provider and take aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce any swelling and discomfort.
  • If you notice any blisters, allow them to heal and don’t pop them as they may protect your skin from infections.

What are the benefits of powder sunscreens?

  • Unlike traditional sunscreens for the face, powder sunscreens are easy to use as they can be applied with a brush or puff. This method allows for quick and easy application, which makes it ideal for on-the-go use.
  • Finding the right sunscreen for oily skin can be challenging. But powder sunscreens offer optimal sun protection without causing a greasy feel, which makes them perfect for oily and acne-prone skin. They help absorb excess oil, provide a matte finish, control shine and reduce the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.
  • They are lightweight and comfortable to wear as they do not leave a sticky residue. The airy texture of these sunscreens makes sure that your skin can breathe while still being protected from harmful UV rays.
  • Reapplying sunscreen after every two hours is essential as mentioned by the American Academy of Dermatology Association. These sunscreens make the reapplication process seamless as they can be applied over makeup without disturbing your look.
  • They often contain mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection against UV rays. This helps prevent sunburn, premature ageing and skin cancer.
  • Regular sunscreens contain chemical agents, which may irritate. Using these sunscreens may help prevent the risk of irritation, which makes them perfect for sensitive skin.

How to use powder sunscreen?

  • Start by choosing the right sunscreen powder. Look for broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of at least 30.
  • Next, prepare your skin by using moisturisers, serums or primers,
  • Now, gently shake or tap the powder sunscreen to release the powder into the applicator.
  • Apply the product to your face. Use a circular motion to distribute the powder evenly.
  • Make sure that the product is blended well into your skin.
  • Reapply the powder after every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming.

Also Read: Sunscreen: 10 myths about sun protection debunked!.

How to choose the best sunscreen?

When buying the best sunscreen, it is important to pay attention to the formulation of the product. If you are buying a powder sunscreen, make sure to check its ingredients list. Opt for a sunscreen that is packed with UV filters and botanical extracts, which may help to shield your skin against UV rays, while maintaining its smoothness and suppleness. Ensure that it is free from harmful ingredients like parabens and sulfates as they may cause allergic reactions. If you are still confused about which product to buy, click here to get suggestions from experts or visit your dermatologist for better guidance.

(Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)

Best powder sunscreens

Top Features ComparedPriceSPF
The Derma Co Mattifying 100% Mineral Matte Powder Sunscreen For All Skin Types With Spf 50 & Pa++++ For On The Go Broad Spectrum Protection - 4G, Beige 607 50
Brillare Zinc Powder Sunscreen SPF50 - Broad Spectrum Protection, Sweat Resistant Powder, Invisible Finish, Non-Greasy Formula - Skin-friendly Mineral Sunscreen for Daily Use 795 50
JOVEES Broad Spectrum Sunscreen For All Skin Type Powder With Spf 30 | Prevents Sunburns, Skin Damage & Uneven Skin Tone | Natural Mineral Based Ingredients |50Gm 247 30
The Face Shop Naturalsun Eco No Shine Sun Powder| Unisex Sunscreen with SPF 30, PA ++| Mattifying, sweat resistant powder for advanced sun protection| Suitable for all skin types, ideal for sensitive and acne prone skin, 13gm 999 30
Barely Sunny Broad Strokes Sunscreen Powder SPF 70 PA++++UVA for Sun Protection & Ultra Soft Skin (Invisible) 899 70
SANDIVA Spf Top-Up Natural Loose Powder With Zinc Oxide|Broad Spectrum Spf 30 Pa+|Tinted Lightweight Powder For Sun Protection|No White Cast|For All Skin Types|Tint 11 - For Lighter Indian Skin|5Gm 400 30
KEYA SETH AROMATHERAPY, DEVICE OF DROP Umbrella Sunscreen Powder SPF 50 & PA+++ 50g 239 50
The Derma Co Hyaluronic Sunscreen Compact Powder SPF 50 PA+++ with Ceramides | Matte Finish | Even Skin Tone | Oil Control | Non sticky - 7g 659 50
Lakme Sun Expert Ultra Matte Spf 40 Pa+++ Compact, Non Greasy Non Sticky, For Indian Skin, Gives Even-Tone Complexion, 7 g 248 40
LAKMÉ Rose Powder, Sunscreen, 40G Pack - All Skin Type 188 N/A
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Related FAQs

How does sunscreen work?

Sunscreens contain physical and chemical compounds that can block ultraviolet rays. Chemical filters of sunscreen like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octocrylene and ecamsule can absorb high-intensity UV rays, which results in excitation to higher energy states. These molecules then absorb energy and transform it into lower-energy wavelengths, such as infrared light, when they return to their ground states. The physical filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide work by reflecting or refracting UV rays away from the skin.

What is the right age to use sunscreen?

Everyone, including men, women and children over 6 months should use sunscreen. Parents should avoid applying sunscreen to babies under 6 months as their skin is sensitive and the ingredients of the sunscreen may cause any adverse reactions.

What is the difference between sunscreen and sunblock?

Sunscreens are those products that can absorb UV radiation and prevent it from penetrating the skin. They often contain chemical filters like oxybenzone and more. Sunblock refers to those products that can physically block UV rays by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting the rays. They typically contains ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Which is the best time to apply sunscreens?

You must apply sunscreen atleast 15 to 30 minutes before going out. Make sure to re-apply sunscreen after 2 hours or immediately after water activities.

About the Author

Meet Tanya Shree! Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and a flair for photography and visual communication, she is a stickler for detail.An avid reader and a shopping aficionado, she has a knack for spotting hidden gems and dissecting products. Her own passion to check out the best deals online matches her dedication to ensure our readers get information that is research-backed and fact-checked.With her clear, concise and reliable content, Tanya helps users make the best choice when it comes to choosing health and wellness products from the vast online pool. ...Read More

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