The 9 Best Powder Sunscreens for Streak-Free UV Protection

This powder’s zinc oxide protects against both UVA and UVB rays, while its ceramides and vitamins A, C and E nourish the skin and protect against free radical damage. Users love that translucent formula mattifies the skin without leaving behind visible powder specs. “I was a little afraid it would mess up my makeup but this doesn’t add any significant color or texture, it actually sets the makeup nicely,” writes one reviewer.

OK, so $18 isn’t exactly cheap, but in terms of powder sunscreens, it’s about as inexpensive as they come. Besides the price point, our favorite thing about this sunscreen is that it’s made with non-nano zinc oxide and non-nano titanium dioxide, so it’s reef safe. One thing to note? Some buyers mention that despite its product description, it’s not really translucent if that's what you’re going for.

When you think of powder sunscreen, this one probably comes to mind first. It’s one of the most popular, and it even gets the Skin Cancer Foundation’s seal of approval. In addition to the standard zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this formula is infused with hyaluronic acid for hydration, iron oxides to protect against blue light and mica to create a subtle glow. And judging by the over 100 five-star reviews on Dermstore’s site, we’d say it delivers on its promises.

This talc-free SPF 20 powder from Ilia won’t just protect you from the sun, it’ll enhance your skin too. Aloe leaf extract, passion fruit and rosemary oil combine to soothe and fight inflammation while you wear it. And we love the fact that you can easily remove and clean the brush head to ensure there’s no buildup.

Since this is a setting powder rather than a translucent one, it provides more coverage if you’re hoping to conceal dark spots and blemishes. And it’ll keep your makeup in place even on a hot summer afternoon thanks to its sweat-resistant staying power. Some reviewers note that the packaging can be finicky, so you might want to use your own brush instead of the included one for a better application.

If you’re on the hunt for a powder sunscreen with serious mattifying power, look no further. Fans rave that this SPF from Tarte combats oiliness and lasts for hours to keep your face shine free. “I have a very oily T zone, and extremely sensitive skin on my cheeks that dry out easily. This powder covers well, helps take the shine off my face during the day, seems to work well as a sunscreen and doesn't irritate my skin,” writes one buyer. And apparently this Tarteguard powder smells like vanilla, if that's something you’re into.

Scalp sunburns are the worst, but we’d rather suffer through them then get our hair all greasy by applying sunscreen to our part. Enter: This powder. It dusts onto your part and hairline for SPF 45 protection that you won’t be able to see or feel. Plus, it contains silica to absorb excess oil if your scalp tends to get a little greasy throughout the day.

Unlike most powder sunscreens, this stuff isn’t just for your face—it’s designed for your body too. Pat the sponge applicator on your skin to release the powder, then gently glide it along your body to spread it out. We have a feeling this is going to be a game changer this summer, since our chest is always getting burned.

Peter Thomas Roth knows skincare, and this product is no exception. It’s formulated for all skin types (including sensitive skin) so it won’t cause irritation. “It’s the only stuff that doesn’t give me a rash,” writes one woman. Multiple reviewers also note that despite breaking out easily, this SPF hasn’t caused any flare ups. Score.