We should all know by now that even if it isn’t sunny or high summer, we still need to be protecting our skin daily from UV rays. However, common complaints people make about using liquid SPFs include them not sitting brilliantly under makeup, occasionally causing breakouts, and leaving an ashy cast on darker skin tones.
Though there are some brilliant liquid formulas out there nowadays, the demand for something more on-the-go, that can sit on top of makeup, is clearly there. Enter, powder SPFs for the face. , and they’re quick and easy to reapply. They also have less tendency to clog pores, since they’re made of minerals and don’t contain oil.
It sounds almost too good to be true, right? To make sure these powders are covering all bases (literally), we’ve been chatting to suncare expert and cosmetic doctor Dr Shirin Lakhani. Here’s what he had to report on these new finishing formulas…
Can the efficacy of a powder SPF match a liquid formula? Will I get enough coverage?
“It's important to remember that sunscreen efficacy is as much about the quantity of SPF applied as it is about the SPF number,” explains Dr Lakhani. “My concern would be whether or not you can get enough powder SPF applied to the skin to make it effective enough to protect skin adequately against the sun.
“On its own, I don’t think that a powder formula SPF will provide as effective coverage as a liquid formula – however, I think that they could be very effective when used in combination with a liquid base. For example, apply a liquid sunscreen to the face in the morning for that good initial layer of coverage, and then touch up with a powder SPF during the day when you’re on the move.”
Do powder formulas have to be applied more frequently than a liquid then?
“The main risk of using SPF powder is that the coverage might not be thick enough to provide adequate protection,” says Dr Lakhani. “Most advise that they need to be reapplied ‘regularly’ throughout the day, so in keeping with the advice about applying liquid SPF every couple of hours, I would follow the same guidelines if you want to use a powder.”
Am I getting the full amount of coverage by applying an SPF powder over the top of my makeup, rather than applying it on bare skin?
“Again, it depends on the amount you’re applying, but you can top up your coverage by using the powder on top of makeup – like foundation – which has an SPF,” Dr Lakhani advises.
So there you have it. It sounds like these powders do in fact have a place in your handbag – but just make sure to double up your protection when you can, especially on sunny weeks like the one we’re experiencing.
Shop a powder SPF formula
Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Protection Powder Brush SPF30, £15 here
The translucent formula blends into most skin tones to provide a beautiful matte finish, while its 100% mineral actives offer broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection without chemical filters.
ZOSkin Sunscreen + Powder Broad Spectrum SPF30, £69.99 at skin clinics nationwide
Dr Lakhani recommends ZOSkin for the “best” sun protection. This powder formula might be a bit pricey but comes in three shade choices; light, medium and deep. It also promises buildable coverage with colour-enhancing pigments, and reflecting minerals for a luminous glow.
Supergoop!(Re)Setting Powder SPF30, £28 here
This new launch has only just hit shelves, but is already proving popular. It’s a 100% mineral setting powder with SPF30, offering a mattifying effect when applied over makeup or on bare skin. It comes in one universal, translucent shade and also sets makeup.
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