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Powder sunscreens have become increasingly popular these days. While they are a convenient way to re-applying sun protection, experts say, that they won't make a difference if you use them as your primary sun protection. Confused? Well, let's find out more about it.
We have been witnessing many innovative sunscreen products hitting the market. Some innovative sunscreen products such as SPF for the scalp and hair are useful for providing sun protection to our scalp, but there are others like sunscreen pills that can be a matter of concern.
The powder sunscreen which has been trending in the beauty world is lauded by many because of its skincare benefits. Many find them very convenient to use as a re-applying option, but experts advise that you shouldn't be using them as the only form of a physical sunscreen. Why is it so?
Also Read: Here's How Physical Sunscreen Is A Much Better Alternative To Chemical Sunscreens
Read on to know more about powder sunscreens, their efficacy, and how to use them for your face and neck to make the most of their sun protection factor.
What Is Powder Sunscreen?
Powder sunscreen is an easy-to-apply sunblock that mimics the look and feel of setting powders. Most formulas have an in-built brush applicator for even application.
Loose SPF powder comes with a retractable sunscreen brush applicator. It is also available in compact form as well. Being lightweight, it absorbs excess oil from the skin and can be reapplied over make-up. The best part is it isn't greasy or heavy like sunscreen lotions.
The efficacy of powder sunscreen has always been in question and the main concern is whether it provides enough sun protection. So is it an effective method of protecting your skin from sun damage? Let’s find out.
Does SPF Powder Work?
Yes, it works but not when you use it as a primary sunscreen. A powder sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours after applying a traditional, liquid sunscreen. As per experts in terms of efficacy, your traditional sunscreen lotion or cream will give better sun protection as it spreads evenly. The powder sunscreen is not able to get absorbed into the skin or create a protective barrier over the skin surface for better sun protection. They have less SPF, so you need to reapply it frequently.
You can apply the SPF powders after every 2 hours for a touch-up over your make-up. Experts suggest applying an initial thick layer of liquid sunscreen under your make-up and then reapplying powder sunscreen every 2 hours. SPF powder is ideal for reapplication, but you cannot depend on it as a standalone sunscreen for sun protection.
What Are The Benefits of Powder Sunscreen?
The latest in the beauty world, SPF powder has many skincare benefits. Let’s elucidate the benefits of powder sunscreen for the face.
1. Won’t Mess Up With Your Make-Up
Powder sunscreen for the face is more or less like a setting powder that can be easily applied over your makeup for that matte finish.
2. Ideal For Sensitive Skin
It contains ingredients like zinc and titanium oxide which are gentle on your skin.
3. Portable
The product is easy to carry because of its compact size.
4. Easy Application
The product has an in-built brush for easy and even application.
5. Light-Weight
Due to its light weight, it won't make your skin look oily, giving it a matte finish.
As per experts, reapplying sunscreen frequently and in the correct amount is beneficial for your skin.
How To Apply Powder Sunscreen On Face?
Sunscreen powders usually come with an in-built sunscreen brush applicator.
Step 1: Tap the applicator brush downwards a few times to make sure that the powder is flowing through the bristles.
Step 2: Apply the sunscreen powder onto your skin in small circular movements that completely cover your skin.
Hold your breath when applying powder sunscreen! It's not something you want to breathe in.
How To Include Powder SPF In Your Morning Skincare Routine?
Your morning skincare routine should include cleansing, correcting, hydrating, and protecting with sunscreen.
- Make sure you follow all the steps of your skincare routine. Then apply a mineral sunscreen.
- If you wear makeup it's a good idea to apply it over the liquid sunscreen.
- Wait for a few minutes to allow the products to sink in and let your skin dry completely.
- Apply powder sunscreen to your face and make sure you reapply after every 2 hours.
Is Powder Sunscreen Safe?
In mineral sunscreens, titanium oxide and zinc oxide have been used for a long time and they have excellent safety profiles. These minerals can block the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun, protecting your skin from sun damage.
But as per experts the biggest concern while applying powder sunscreen is the inhalation of nano-particles of mineral sunscreen. You may not want these nanoparticles to go inside your lungs. The best way is to hold your breath while applying powder sunscreen.
Common Mistakes While Applying Powder Sunscreen
1. Using It As A Primary Sunscreen
The most common mistake that people generally make while applying powder sunscreen is that they use it as a primary sunscreen instead of applying it on top of a broad spectrum liquid sunscreen.
2. Uneven Application of Powder Sunscreen
While applying the sunscreen through the brush applicator it is really hard to know how much product comes out of the brush and how much are you applying.
What Should You Look For In Your Powder Sunscreen?
While choosing a powder SPF, look for a formulation with a broad spectrum so that your sunscreen can protect you from both UVA and UVB. Your sunscreen should have a minimum of SPF of 30+.
Check the list of ingredients to make sure that your sunscreen has zinc oxide formulated with titanium dioxide as both these minerals block the sun rays and protect your skin from its harmful effect.
Your powder SPF should contain iron oxide which can be considered an additional sun-blocking agent. Iron oxide offers protection from blue light as well.
Look for skin-friendly and anti-ageing ingredients such as antioxidants, olive glycerides, and ceremide 3 for skin hydration in your product formula.
Take Away
Sunscreen powder is an easy way to boost your SPF. You can also reapply sunscreen without messing up your makeup. Make sure that you do not inhale when applying powder sunscreen on your face. Smart skin care has finally embraced powdered sunscreens.
Also Read: De-tanning 101:Everything Under The Indian Sun
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