While SPF is a year-round essential, it’s especially important to step up your sun care routine during the warmer months, when UV rays are at their strongest. That means protecting often-overlooked areas of sun exposure—like the scalp, ears, and hairline—which can burn easily if you’re not careful.
Instead of relying on greasy liquid formulas that leave skin feeling oily or hair looking flat, consider switching to a brush-on SPF powder. These mess-free products combine mineral sunscreen with a finely milled powder, delivered through a built-in brush for quick, targeted application. They’re typically formulated with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, making them ideal for sensitive skin. For Amazon shoppers, the Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-on Powder SPF 50 outperforms other formulas on the market with its dermatologist-tested sun protection, long-lasting coverage, and skin-perfecting qualities.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-on Powder SPF 50
Amazon
Plus, it won’t leave behind a white cast. Lightweight and portable, it’s perfect for on-the-go touch-ups—whether you’re headed to the beach, brunch, or are just running errands. Bonus: It can be used along the scalp, hairline, and part lines—not just the face.
This best-selling brush-on sunscreen also stands out for its multi-protective formula that shields against both UV and blue light damage. With water- and sweat-resistance for up to 80 minutes, it’s ideal for sunny days, swims, and other outdoor adventures. One reviewer wrote, “I spent two weeks at the beach and this powder really works—no greasy shine, stays put through sweating and swimming.” Chiming in, another shopper added, “I haven’t gotten a sunburn, in or out of the pool, while wearing it.”
Beyond sun protection, the Colorescience sunscreen is enriched with hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-rich ingredients like grape seed extract and green tea to help nourish and soothe the skin. It’s also non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, so it won’t clog pores or trigger irritation—two musts for sensitive skin.
Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays, mineral sunscreens physically block them. This one uses antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory zinc oxide, making it a go-to for anyone with easily irritated skin. In addition to calling it a “lifesaver” in their review, an Amazon shopper shared, “I keep this in my purse and use it several times a day. I also travel with it.” Vouching for its portability, another reviewer said, “I love how it’s easy to apply when traveling, in the car, on a hike—basically anywhere.”
Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-on Powder SPF 50
Amazon
The sunscreen’s lightweight texture is another major draw. Shoppers describe it as breathable, smooth, and easy to layer over makeup or wear alone. It comes in four shades—fair, medium, tan, and deep—that subtly even out the complexion, creating a filter-like, pore-blurring finish that “looks pretty on the skin [and] not cakey at all,” according to reviewers. In fact, a shopper dubbed it “one of the best ‘youth in a bottle'” products. Despite the nearly sheer tint, it’s effective on easy-to-burn spots like the scalp and ears. A final reviewer raved, “The fact that you can sun protect your ears or scalp with no mess is worth every penny.”
With thousands of five-star ratings, this dermatologist-tested sunscreen has earned its spot as a warm-weather staple. Looking for more options? The popular powder SPFs, below, are also worth adding to your sun-care lineup.
More Powder Sunscreens to Shop:
Supergoop! Mineral (Re)setting Powder Face Sunscreen SPF 35
Sephora
Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush SPF 30
Amazon
Brush On Block SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen
Amazon
iS Clinical PerfecTint Powder SPF 40
Amazon
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