Is this the solution for the summer?
We’ve all been there: a sunscreen that doesn’t absorb properly. There is nothing more annoying than an SPF that seems to slide off your face in the sun. A sunscreen powder seems to be the solution for this. But does this work just as well as a cream?
Apply SPF
Nowadays there is an abundance of sunscreens on the shelves. We see all kinds of formulas from different brands. While a few years ago there were only creams with an SPF, there are now also varieties of oils, gels, serums and lotions, but also powders. It is recommended to apply sun protection several times a day. Your day cream, foundation or setting spray with a factor is a nice addition, but does not provide sufficient protection.
A sunscreen powder seems to be a good alternative because you can apply it during the day – even with make-up on. “Powder sunscreens can be a great choice for applying sunscreen over your makeup,” Blair Murphy-Rose, dermatologist and founder of Skincare Junkie, tells Real Simple. According to Blair, some people prefer powder sunscreens because they are non-greasy and often have a matte finish.
Sunscreen powder
A sunscreen powder is applied with a brush, which in most cases is attached to the product itself. So handy! The product is considered a physical sun protection product, meaning it is made with natural mineral-based ingredients including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. We want to protect our skin against both radiations. UVA rays age your skin and UVB rays can burn your skin.
Blair also says that sun protection with only mineral powder can also be better for people with sensitive skin. You can apply sunscreen powder to your face, but also to your hair parting.
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But does the product actually work that well? It is often considered a less protective form of sunscreen, compared to the cream varieties. “In theory, sunscreen powders should be just as effective as creams with the same SPF factor, as long as you apply them correctly,” says Murphy-Rose. “However, powder sunscreens are often not applied liberally enough to achieve the labeled SPF,” she adds. Powders can also be less resistant to water than other products with an SPF.
Blair says she personally wouldn’t recommend a powder variety unless someone prefers the aforementioned benefits of a powder sunscreen. It just depends on your preference, as long as you protect yourself well against the sun. This way you don’t bandage and you keep your skin young.
Source: Real Simple | Image: Adobe Stock
