Find a formula you can layer
“Ideally, you should be applying a lotion or cream with SPF 30 or more as your primary sunscreen in the morning and then have a powder sunscreen on hand for reapplying every few hours throughout the day,” says Dr. Soni. Dr. Zeicher agrees: “Think of powder sunscreen like the cherry on the top of the sundae, but without the ice cream, there’s no sundae to begin with,” he says. Bottom line: You always want to layer your powder SPF over a traditional liquid sunscreen of SPF 30+.
Consider the price
Many powders come in self-dispensed brush containers, says Dr. Zeichner. “I recommend brushing your powder sunscreen over your face multiple times to make sure you’ve got enough on. A single swipe over your face will definitely not give you enough SPF protection.” So if you’re buying a tiny, super-expensive powder formula, ask yourself if it’ll be worth the cost if you apply a generous amount multiple times per day.
Know their purpose
Powder sunscreens are ideal for city dwellers, but not for beachgoers, says Dr. Idriss. “If you’re out and about in the city, a powder sunscreen is a great way to reapply SPF without displacing your makeup.” If you’re at the beach and swimming or sweating, a regular SPF lotion or cream should be your go-to instead.