This $36 Powder Sunscreen Keeps My Oily Skin Matte During Heat Waves
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I have oily skin, so setting powder is essential. It's the only thing that stands between me and looking like a disco ball in Ibiza by noon. Brush on Block is my favorite SPF makeup . The translucent powder sunscreen comes in a tube with soft bristles that I dust over my shiny face like a traditional setting powder.
- SPF 30 coverage
- Works as a SPF setting powder
- Mess-free scalp application
- Replaces need for a separate dry shampoo
- Available at two protection levels: SPF 30 and SPF 50.
- Sold in 2 shades: Translucent (featured) and Touch of Tan
- Clings onto dry patches so don't skip moisturizer
How I Use Brush on Block Powder Sunscreen
Setting Powder
After applying one of my favorite face sunscreens — Isdin , EltaMD , Tower28 , or Beauty of Joseon —I twist open Brush on Block's tube, tap the base a few times, and powder my face, paying close attention to my shiny T-Zone. The bristles are surprisingly fluffy and don't scratch my skin, which is always a win. What I like most is that the powder SPF helps set my tinted sunscreens and foundations without any flashback in photographs. And unlike other similar products, Brush on Block leaves my face looking velvet-matte rather than flat and overly powdery.
The mess-free design is ideal for touch-ups on the go, like when I'm at my desk or before al fresco dining. It features a clear push-down cover that helps prevent accidental spills and keeps the bristles clean. The broad-spectrum sunscreen is also water-resistant, so I can dust it on while poolside without worry.
Scalp Sunscreen
A study found that your scalp is the second most common spot for melanoma to occur—a real reminder that sun protection is a beauty necessity. And your strands don't offer enough natural protection. Research shows that the scalp can get sunburned through your tresses, especially if you have light, fine, or thin strands. This powder SPF checks all the key points dermatologist Hadley King, MD, looks for in a scalp sunscreen: mineral-based active ingredients, a non-nano formulation, no white cast, hydration, and zero greasiness.
Dry Shampoo Hack
No, really. Hear Dr. King out: Brush on Block is so oil-absorbing that when she massages it into her scalp, the powder doubles as her dry shampoo, saving her from purchasing and traveling with an extra product. Genius! Just pay extra attention to rubbing the powder in if you have dark hair like me. Spending the extra 30 seconds is worth the payoff for a grease-free scalp.
This formulation also adds volume and texture by coating your strands with fine powders, making your hair appear fuller without sticky residue, dermatologist Gary Goldenberg, MD, told me in our guide to the best sunscreens .
Made With Mineral Ingredients
Need another reason I adore this sunscreen and confidently recommend it? Brush on Block is made with mineral zinc oxide that's gentler on sensitive skin. The combination of zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C moisturizes and protects the skin from environmental stressors, dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, previously told me.
What I Don't Like
The biggest downside with all powder sunscreens is that they don't offer enough protection on their own. You'll need to layer this one over your traditional face sunscreen lotion. More specifically with Brush on Block, this powder sunscreen can look patchy if you have dry skin. I need to layer my thicker Prequel AM/PM Moisturizer underneath instead of my more summer-appropriate Multi-Quench Gel Cream .
TL;DR: Is Brush on Block Sunscreen Worth It?
I've been using Brush on Block on and off for two years and it remains a staple in my routine. It effectively controls excess shine and is travel-friendly for quick touchups at the office, evenings out, or on vacation at COMO Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos. Because it triples as SPF makeup, scalp sunscreen, and a dry shampoo, it's definitely a product I'll be reaching for throughout the year. I trust it so much that I also plan on gifting my family and friends back home in Florida their own Brush on Block SPF.
More SPFs I Trust
If you're still open to trying a powder sunscreen or one made specifically for your scalp and hair consider this trifecta of heavy-hitters. My suggestions range from the sub-$15 Hawaiian Tropic to the classic Supergoop! powder. Sun Bum is also a hit, but it can only be applied to your hair and scalp instead of the face.
Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Brush SPF 30
Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Scalp and Hair Mist
Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 30
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