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Beauty/Skin/Sun Protection & Care

Top 10 Powder Sunscreens

Ready To Try Powder Sunscreen? Here Are The Internet's Top Recommendations

Image credits: jane iredale

Ask any esthetician or dermatologist, and they’ll say the same thing: A good skincare routine requires SPF. Using products with a high SPF is essential to prevent signs of aging and avoid sun damage. Today, we’re lucky to have a wide range of options when it comes to sun protection. Whether you want a mist that can handle sweat and salt water or a facial sunscreen that won’t leave a white cast, there’s definitely a sun protection product out there for you. One option you might not be familiar with is powder sunscreen.

What Is Powder Sunscreen?

Powder sunscreen is a hybrid of setting powder and sunscreen. Most powder sunscreens come with a built-in brush for easy, on-the-go application. They typically have a lightweight formula and provide SPF 25 to 50.

When To Use Powder Sunscreen

While it may be tempting to replace your facial sunscreen with a powder formula, the truth is that powder sunscreens are best used as a supplement to lotion-based sunscreens. The reason for this is simple: coverage. It’s a challenge to achieve the same level of coverage a lotion sunscreen can give you with a powder sunscreen, but that doesn’t mean that powder formulas don’t have their time and place.

One of the biggest benefits of using a powder sunscreen is the matte finish it provides. For instance, if you need to reapply sun protection after putting on makeup, a powder-based sunscreen won’t cause smudges or fading. Powder sunscreens are also a good option for use on the go; they’re compact and usually come with a brush or sponge, which makes it easy to throw them in your purse or beach tote

How We Found The Best Powder Sunscreen

Here’s how our Top 10 lists work: We use our data-powered ranking algorithm to find and score the top products in a given category. This tool takes information from reviews, best-seller lists, social media buzz, and more sources into account when determining a final ranking. Ahead, see which powder sunscreens were deemed the best by our algorithm, with options from Supergoop!, Bare Minerals, and more. 

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July 8, 2024

Written By:Sierra Rogers

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: amazon
Rank & Style Approved

amazon

Mineral Fusion Brush-On Sun Defense SPF 30

Overall Score

4.25

10

Mineral Fusion Brush-On Sun Defense SPF 30

4.19

5565 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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Best Powder Sunscreen For Dry Skin

THE HIGHLIGHTS
Described as a "weightless wonder," Mineral Fusion's Brush-On Sun Defense offers sun protection and shine control. Its formula includes sea kelp for a burst of hydration, as well as light-reflecting minerals that defend against UV rays.

MORE TO KNOW
Got a snorkel trip coming up? This sunscreen is reef-safe.


Clearstem Sunny Side Kick SPF 30 Brush-On Mineral Sunscreen

Overall Score

4.3

09

Clearstem Sunny Side Kick SPF 30 Brush-On Mineral Sunscreen

4.8

173 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Powder Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin

THE HIGHLIGHTS
The Sunny Side Kick isn't just a sunscreen, it's a skin-nourishing dust packed with good-for-you ingredients like zinc oxide, green tea, caffeine, and resveratrol. Brush a generous amount onto your face and decolletage 15 minutes before heading out for the day.

WHO IT'S BEST FOR
If you have sensitive or oily skin, this is one of the best powder sunscreens for you.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Bare Minerals ORIGINAL​ Mineral Veil​ Set + Protect Talc-Free ​Setting Powder ​Mineral SPF 25 PA++​

Overall Score

4.35

08

Bare Minerals ORIGINAL​ Mineral Veil​ Set + Protect Talc-Free ​Setting Powder ​Mineral SPF 25 PA++​

4.4

198 User Reviews

2.6

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Powder Sunscreen For Makeup

THE HIGHLIGHTS
If your primary motivation for purchasing a powder sunscreen is to find something that will extend makeup looks in the summer, then Bare Mineral's Original Mineral Veil Set + Protect is for you. It absorbs oil and blurs the look of fine lines while providing SPF 25. 

PROMISING REVIEW
"This setting powder is super easy to apply. A little bit goes such a long way! It quickly mattifies my face so that it doesn't look all shiny, and I love that it has SPF 25 built-in for some added protection against the sun since I live in Florida."


Jane Iredale Powder-Me SPF 30 Dry Sunscreen

Overall Score

4.4

07

Jane Iredale Powder-Me SPF 30 Dry Sunscreen

4.3

2752 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Vegan Powder Sunscreen

THE HIGHLIGHTS
Jane Iredale's Powder-Me SPF 30 Dry Sunscreen is a convenient, effective defensive layer. Its reef-safe formula is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, and the flow-through brush is hand-tied and made from vegan fibers. 

MORE TO KNOW
Going for boxer braids or a well-defined middle part? Dust this powder onto your scalp where exposed to avoid a sunburn.

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


ISDIN Mineral Brush Powder SPF 50

Overall Score

4.45

06

ISDIN Mineral Brush Powder SPF 50

4.23

1730 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Powder Sunscreen With Blue Light Protection

THE HIGHLIGHTS
ISDIN's Mineral Brush Powder SPF 50 provides a little coverage for your flaws and a lot of protection from the sun. The silky-smooth powder formula contains titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, mica, and iron oxides for highly effective defense against UVA/UVB rays and infrared radiation.

WHO IT'S FOR
If you're worried about free radicals and blue light, this powder sunscreen is formulated to defend your skin against both of those things.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Roe Wellness SPF 50 Mineral Powder

Overall Score

4.45

05

Roe Wellness SPF 50 Mineral Powder

4.7

243 User Reviews

2.7

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Powder Sunscreen For Babies

THE HIGHLIGHTS
At $25, roe Wellness's SPF 50 Mineral Powder is a steal. A reef-safe, cruelty-free option that provides SPF 50, this powder uses zinc to reflect the sun's rays away from the skin. It also has a type of ceramide called Ceramide EOP that boosts active ingredients' effectiveness while moisturizing skin. 

WHO IT'S FOR
Got a little one who needs protecting? Good news: This product is safe to use on babies.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Sunscreen Powder Brush SPF 30

Overall Score

4.6

04

Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Sunscreen Powder Brush SPF 30

4.18

4721 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Powder Sunscreen

THE HIGHLIGHTS
In the world of sun protection, Hawaiian Tropic is a familiar name. The company's Mineral Skin Nourishing Sunscreen Powder Brush SPF 30 is a dermatologist-tested product with a vegan formula that's designed to absorb excess oil and block UVA/UVB rays.

MORE TO KNOW
A few Target shoppers mentioned that this product fell apart at first use, spilling powder everywhere. Keep that in mind and be extra gentle with the packaging.


Brush On Block SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen

Overall Score

4.65

03

Brush On Block SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen

4.27

4222 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Powder Sunscreen On Amazon

THE HIGHLIGHTS
On its own or layered over makeup, the Brush On Block has you covered. Snag it in translucent or tan (the latter of which is great for concealing minor flaws). Plus, there's an on/off button for powder release to lower the chance of an accidental spill. 

PROMISING REVIEW
"I carry one in my car and purse and it’s so nice that it isn’t a greasy lotion and it's easy to apply. It doesn’t feel heavy and the tint is nice. It’s especially great for times when I find myself out in the sun when I didn’t plan to be and can just dust on some protection very quickly. Also, it's a lifesaver for kids when we’re at places like the park or a softball game."

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35

Overall Score

4.85

02

Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35

4.19

2360 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Powder Sunscreen For Oily Skin

THE HIGHLIGHTS
Supergoop! is a recognized name in the sun protection industry, and after using its (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder, you'll understand why. This on-the-go essential combines the powers of silica and mineral zinc oxide for broad-spectrum UV protection.

WHO IT'S FOR
If you struggle with oversized pores and oiliness, this is one of the best powder sunscreen options for you. Also, a variety of skin tones can use this product as it's available in light, medium, and dark tints, as well as a translucent version.

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

Overall Score

4.9

01

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

4.28

7834 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Powder Sunscreen Overall

THE HIGHLIGHTS
Our algorithm's top pick for the best powder sunscreen is Colorescience's Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield. This sunscreen is water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has an antioxidant-rich formula made from chemical-free active ingredients.

MORE TO KNOW
Are you prone to breakouts? If so, you'll be happy to hear that this product's brush has antimicrobial properties.

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

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