Sun Protection / Skincare Tips / Sunscreens

What Is Powdered Sunscreen? Andrea's Guide to Mineral Powder SPFs...

 

 

Have You Heard Of Mineral Powder Sunscreens?

We ask Andrea if a powder provides the same protection as a cream or lotion-based sunscreen?

In my opinion, powder sunscreens are great as long as you're not using the powder product only, especially during the summertime when the sun is much stronger.

It's not because creams are better than powders -  the ingredients are the same - the issue relates to the application.

With a powder, a swipe of powder is blotted onto the skin so it is likely that there is not enough to properly protect the skin.

There is no real way of knowing whether the product has been applied adequately or with the correct amount to rely on it for as much protection as a cream.

Why We Love...

I think powder-based sunscreens are ideal for re-application over makeup or topping up your protection throughout the day.

As it is a powdered formula it will never interfere with your make-up, helping to lock your foundation firmly in place. 

Application is so much easier and less messy and they are ideal to have in your handbag.

Powder sunscreens are great for acne skin types as many acne sufferers hate the thought of applying creams to their skin throughout the day.

They are also great for using on kids, as I know from experience with my own boys who hate having sunscreen applied but never object to the powder!

Ideal for tennis, golf, biking, or any sport where greasy, slippery hands are to be avoided.

 

Here Are My Useful Powder Sunscreen Tips:

- Make sure you apply your broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning and then use the powder as a top-up throughout the day

- I would recommend 'two passes' when applying powdered sunscreens

-  Focus on the areas that are most prone to burning – like the middle of the face and upper forehead

- Sunscreens should last for at least 1 year from opening but don't use out-of-date sunscreens

Interested? Here Are 3 Of My Favourites…

ColoreScience Sunforgettable SPF 50

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Mineral Sunscreen Brush SPF 50

- Available in shades Fair/Medium/Tan/Deep

100% all-mineral formula 

Free from parabens, sulfates and fragrance

Protects against:

- Infrared radiation

- Blue (HEV) light

- Pollution

- UVA/UVB rays

- Water resistant (80 minutes)

 

Brush on Block SPF 30

 

100% all-mineral formula

Reef-friendly, vegan friendly, free of parabens and gluten free. 

- Ideal for all skin types, especially kids & men 

- Contains Antioxidants

- SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Protection

- Available in Translucent & Tan

- Refillable

- Great for protecting skin, scalp, part lines, and thinning hair

- Sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes

 

Jane Iredale Powder Me Dry Sunscreen SPF 30

Jane Iredale Powder Me Dry Sunscreen SPF 30

REFILLABLE. REUSABLE. RECYCLABLE

Includes two fully recyclable refill canisters

100% all-mineral formula

Vegan, Cruelty-free

Available in 4 shades: Translucent, Nude, Golden, Tanned 

- Reef-safe formula is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
- Safe and effective SPF for all skin types; ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin                                                           

  - Wear alone or over makeup

 

Discover powdered sunscreens here..

 

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Andrea Patel Dermatology Nurse Practitioner & Director Author
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