Summer Skin Savior: Sunscreen in a Brush

The fact that sunscreens lose most of their efficacy after approximately 90 minutes in the sun is something most of us prefer not to think about, since we feel we’ve done our duty by applying a thin film, under our makeup, at about 8:00 in the morning. Is anyone really going to slather on another layer over foundation? (Exactly.)

This summer, salvation comes in a brush. The new powder sunscreens—lightweight mineral blends that provide chemical-free broad-spectrum protection (ideal for sensitive skin) thanks to micronized zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—are the ultimate multitaskers. They dust on invisibly over makeup (some even come with a hint of bronze), and ingredients like silica and cornstarch absorb excess oil, leaving a smooth matte finish. “I use them a lot because I hate a four o’clock shine,” says Debra Jaliman, M.D., author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets From a Top New York Dermatologist. She’s also a fan of the high levels of zinc: “Physical block is like wearing a shirt on your skin. You really get so much more protection.” Plus, she adds of the slim tubes, “it’s something you can throw in your bag, and it won’t spill because it has a brush.” Reapplying just got really easy.

Innovative Skincare SPF 20 Powder Sunscreen, $43
skinterra.com
Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Instant Mineral SPF 45 finishing powder, $32
peterthomasroth.com
Bare Minerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen, $28
sephora.com
Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder SPF 50 brush medium, $60
colorescience.com
Jane Iredale Powder-Me SPF 30 Dry Sunscreen, $46
shop.janeiredale.com
Susan Posnick Colorflo SPF 26 Powdered Foundation, $64
beauty.com