What Are Powder Sunscreens? 7 Powder Sunscreens That Will Mattify And Protect

As the name suggests and from everything we have established so far, one thing is clear; Powder Sunscreens provide sun protection in powder form. They are often mineral-based and contain physical UV filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These work by sitting on top of our skin and reflect UVA and UVB rays. They are usually applied using a brush or puff, just like a compact.

While we would love that to be true, the fact remains that using just a powder sunscreen is not enough. Your base should be a chemical or mineral sunscreen as per your skin type, and you can use a powder sunscreen on top of it to mattify the base. They work perfectly for touch-ups, especially if you’re wearing makeup or just hate re-applying SPF every few hours. Think of them like the side-character to your main character — vital to the plot but not the main focus.

Pros:

They are travel-friendly and mess-free.

Powder Sunscreens are great for oily or acne-prone skin, especially in hot and humid weather.

They can double as a setting powder.

No worrying about white cast or greasy finish.

Easy to reapply over makeup without messing it up.

Cons:

It can’t be used as the only SPF source.

There’s no ideal quantity that needs to be applied, so you could be applying too much or less, depending on usage.

Not ideal for dry skin folks, and can cling to dry patches.

Regardless of these cons, powder sunscreens are an inevitable addition to our skincare routines. This is also evident from the number of skincare legends who have come up with their own Sunscreen powders and are bridging the gap between demand and supply (minor economics flex).

Here are 7 powder sunscreens in the Indian market right now that are amazing.

If you’re on a budget or just starting out, Keya Seth’s powdered sunscreen is a winner. It offers SPF 50 PA+++ protection, is broad-spectrum and seamlessly blends into Indian skin tones, giving a matte finish. With micronised zinc oxide, it also helps control the skin’s oil production. It has a light fragrance to it and comes with an applicator like the one you get with a compact powder.

User Rating: 4.3/5

Sun Protection: SPF 50 PA+++

At some point or another, most of us have used a Ponds product in our lives, and it’s only fair we give this brand a try for powder sunscreens too. Ideally made for Indian summers, it works as a sunscreen and a face powder. Users claim it can be used every day and love it for its economical price point that doesn’t compromise on quality. 

User Rating: 4.4/5

Sun Protection: SPF 50 PA+++

If you're looking for something herbal and lightweight, this one should be your pick. Jovees' sunscreen powder offers broad-spectrum protection and gives a matte yet hydrated finish. Enriched with Kaolin, it has oil-absorbent properties that work best for oily or combination skin. With whatever limited reviews are available online, this one appears to be budget-friendly and effective.

User Rating: 4.5/5

Sun Protection: SPF 30

Designed by dermatologists, this mineral-based sunscreen from The Derma Co. is made specifically for reapplication. Users have praised the product for being lightweight and leaving no white cast. It's also non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin as well. 

User Rating: 5/5

Sun Protection: SPF 50

This sunscreen powder is tinted (yes, that's a flex). Available in 4 shades, it offers broad-spectrum sun protection with a bit of glow. It goes beyond just sun protection and claims to treat fine lines and wrinkles. With ingredients like zinc oxide and tapioca starch, it's magic in a bottle. 

User Rating: 4.6/5

Sun Protection: Broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection SPF50+

Supergoop is one American brand that was popular in India, way before it even launched. The cult-favourite is known for its high-quality suncare products, and their (Re)setting Powder is a total game-changer. It is infused with ceramide-coated powders and silica, and comes with a built-in brush for easy application. However, despite being one of the most expensive sunscreen powders, it only has SPF 35, which could be a deal breaker for some.

User Rating: 5/5

Sun Protection: SPF 35

It's no surprise that MCaffeine has a sunscreen powder with coffee in it. For starters, coffee in sunscreen is a thing and it 100% works. Just like skincare, in sunscreens too, coffee soothes inflammation while caffeine repairs UV damage. It also has Kaolin Clay that controls oil production, almond oil, and vitamin E that reverses sun damage. We love how it comes with a brush applicator and is easy to use.

User Rating: 3.8/5

Sun Protection: SPF 50 PA+++