But our usual lotions and sprays often come with downsides: they can leave a greasy film on the face and are less than convenient for on-the-go reapplication. We’ve all had those awkward moments when someone points out an unsightly streak around our hairline or nose hours after we thought we’d cleanly reapplied – what a disaster!

Luckily, some pioneering genius has invented powder sunscreens. Long heralded as the convenient, mess-free alternative in sun protection, these finely milled formulations are becoming the “It” product in everyone’s summer skincare arsenal.

The best way to use powder sunscreen is as a top-up throughout the day. Apply your favourite sunscreen at home in the mirror to get maximum coverage, then reapply powder sunscreen throughout the day for added SPF and beautifying properties.

Here are five of our favourite brands that we love to dust on in the high heat of a summer’s day.

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1. Supergoop! (Re) setting 100% mineral powder broad spectrum sunscreen, SPF 35 PA+++

In-the-know beauty buffs likely recognise Supergoop! for its stand-out, weightless sunscreen line. Not to be left behind, the brand introduced a refillable SPF 35 mineral powder sunscreen, employing non-chemical zinc oxide for robust sun defence. Complete with a brush for on-the-move application, it targets shiny spots and, true to its name, doubles as a setting powder. Not to mention, its feather-light composition, enriched with ceramides and olive glycerides, ensures supple skin that glows as bright as the sun.

2. Physicians Formula, mineral wear airbrushing pressed powder, SPF 30

Physicians Formula offers another compelling mineral option. While it may lack the slightly higher SPF rating and convenient application brush found in Supergoop’s version, it still impresses with its affordability and efficacy. Designed for light wear and focusing on clean, non-chemical components, this is a budget-friendly yet effective au naturel choice we can’t help but love.

3. La Mer, Soft Moisture powder foundation, SPF 30

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4. Jane Iredale, Powder-Me with refillable brush, SPF 30

Jane Iredale, another stand-out in the clean beauty realm, gets a glowing recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation for its mineral sunscreen. Engineered to resist elements like salt water and sweat, it’s your go-to for extended beach outings. The inclusion of an ultra-soft vegan kabuki brush simplifies application and its reef-safe formula ensures that our oceans stay as healthy as our epidermis.

5. Derma E, Essentials sun protection mineral powder, SPF 30

Crafted in partnership with Instagram-famous make-up artist Ash Deleon, this powder sunscreen earns expert kudos for its compatibility with other cosmetics. Its natural, skin-soothing formula is rich in green tea and vitamin E, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Infused with mica and silica, it not only protects but also imparts a radiant glow and plumping effect to the skin.