Mineral powder sunscreen for the face

What does mineral sunscreen do?

Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both. They protect primarily by absorbing ultraviolet radiation and converting it into a small amount of heat; they also reflect and scatter some light. The familiar explanation that mineral sunscreen simply bounces sunlight away is incomplete. Look for broad spectrum protection rather than assuming the word "mineral" tells you everything about coverage.1

What should you look for on the label?

• Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
• SPF 30 or higher is the recommended starting point.
• Water resistant matters for wet or sweaty skin. Not every sunscreen has this property.
• A water resistance claim lasts either 40 or 80 minutes, not indefinitely.

SPF describes protection primarily against UVB, the main cause of sunburn. The tested rating depends on applying enough product: a high number cannot compensate for a thin application. For extended time outdoors, SPF 50 is a useful choice for your base sunscreen, alongside water resistance if you will swim or sweat heavily.14

How to use powder in your facial sunscreen routine

1. 1Apply your base sunscreen before going outdoors. Allow about 15 minutes before sun exposure as a practical routine.
2. 2Use enough traditional sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology advises at least 1 teaspoon for the face, approximately enough to cover the length of your index and middle fingers. Rub it thoroughly into the skin.
3. 3Cover the other exposed areas too, including your ears and neck. Facial coverage does not protect those areas.
4. 4Use mineral powder sunscreen as an additional touch up, rather than replacing the base application with powder.
5. 5Reapply sunscreen every two hours outdoors and immediately after swimming or sweating. Keep using traditional sunscreen for reliable coverage rather than relying on powder alone.

Use sunscreen when going outside even on cloudy days and during winter. UVA can also pass through glass. Sun protection is not only a beach routine.24

Does face powder with SPF replace sunscreen?

No. Makeup with sun protection is a secondary sunscreen: sun protection is not its main function. A mineral powder sold specifically as sunscreen and a makeup powder carrying SPF are not necessarily the same product, but neither should replace your traditional sunscreen. An SPF number on makeup is not permission to retire your sunscreen.45

What should you expect from the finish?

Mineral sunscreen can leave a white cast, particularly on darker skin tones, although newer formulations can reduce it. Traditional mineral sunscreens also tend to feel thicker and can be harder to spread than chemical sunscreens. These are general differences between sunscreen types, not a reason to expect every mineral powder to have the same finish.5

Is mineral sunscreen suitable for sensitive skin?

Mineral sunscreens are generally well tolerated by sensitive skin and are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions than chemical sunscreens. They can also be a useful option for oily or acne prone skin because they are less likely to clog pores. Choose the full formula you tolerate, rather than treating "mineral" as a promise that a particular powder will suit you. Ask a healthcare provider or dermatologist if you are concerned about how specific sunscreen ingredients affect your skin.5

Is tinted sunscreen useful for dark spots?

A tinted sunscreen containing iron oxide adds protection against visible light, helping protect against dark spots. For that purpose, look for iron oxide as well as broad spectrum coverage and SPF 30 or higher. A tint is not a substitute for adequate sunscreen coverage.2

Can you use mineral sunscreen during pregnancy?

Mineral sunscreens have long been used safely during pregnancy, and many dermatologists recommend them. Chemical sunscreens can also be appropriate. Pregnancy can increase susceptibility to melasma, a condition that causes dark patches, and sun exposure can worsen those patches. Keep daily sunscreen as the foundation of protection rather than switching to powder alone.1

What else do you need outdoors?

Combine sunscreen with shade, protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses because no sunscreen blocks all ultraviolet radiation. A hat and shade still belong in the plan, because sunscreen does not get sole custody of sun protection. If you think your skin has developed sun damage, a dermatologist can examine it and advise you.124