Powdered Sunscreen

BRUSH ON BLOCK® Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen

Quick, easy, translucent sun protection for the whole family that you simply brush on!

 BRUSH ON BLOCK® was created to help encourage every man, woman and child to wear sun protection daily. Brush On Block is an innovative mineral powder sunscreen in a self-dispensing brush that offers the perfect on-the-go sun protection for all of your outdoor activities. Brush On Block is sweat and water-resistant, providing broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Translucent coverage means you can put it on over or under makeup and also makes it ideal for men and children.

With its easy brush-on application, you’ll use it often, reapply it with ease, and take it everywhere for sun protection whenever you need it. Brush On Block is perfect for all your everyday activities—golf, tennis, walking, soccer, backpacking, trail running and more.

Containing the naturally occurring active sunscreen ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, Brush On Block is free of chemical sunscreen ingredients, making it safe for humans and for our oceans and reefs. Say goodbye to messy lotions, cold sprays, greasy oils, and the sticky hands, shiny faces and stinging eyes they cause. Brush On Block offers a fast, convenient and effective way to protect everyone’s skin form the sun, every day.

Brush On Block comes in a patented, self-dispensing brush that is refillable. It also has a closure, so that it won’t leak into your handbag or sports bag. When your mineral powder is running low, simply remove the bottom cartridge and replace it with a refill cartridge.

Available in:

  • BRUSH ON BLOCK Broad Spectrum SPF30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen. Original Translucent in our patented Refillable Brush.  MSRP $34
  • BRUSH ON BLOCK Broad Spectrum SPF30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen Refill. Original Translucent, Refill Jar easily attaches to your existing brush.  MSRP $20
  • BRUSH ON BLOCK Broad Spectrum SPF30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen Eco-Friendly Refill. Original Translucent, this recyclable pouch pours into your existing brush and cartridge. Contains extra powder in case of spills.  MSRP $16
  • BRUSH ON BLOCK Broad Spectrum SPF30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen Tinted. Touch of Tan is a subtle warm shade in our Refillable Brush.  MSRP $34
  • BRUSH ON BLOCK Broad Spectrum SPF30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen Refill Tinted. Touch of Tan is a subtle warm shade, Refill Jar easily attaches to your existing brush.  MSRP $20

Brand Story

Andrea Wetsel, a mother of two young daughters, was experiencing the daily battle of applying goopy sunscreen to her girls when she met celebrity makeup artist, and cancer survivor Susan Posnick. Both women adamantly agreed that every person needs to wear sunscreen every day. They fell in love with the idea of making sun protection easy and convenient for the whole family, so they put their talents together and Brush On Block was born.

In the process of launching Brush On Block, Andrea learned even more about the dangers of the sun. “It isn’t just about sunburn. When you realize that one in every three cancers diagnosed is skin cancer, you become pretty passionate about sun protection. Brush On Block makes protecting your skin easy.”

Product Key Points

  • Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Protection
  • Sweat and Water Resistant
  • No Chemical Sunscreen Ingredients
  • No Greasy Hands, Sticky Mess, Cold Sprays or Lotions
  • Doesn’t Sting Eyes
  • Goes on Over or Under Makeup
  • Easy to Reapply
  • Non-irritating and Won’t Cause Breakouts
  • Easy and Convenient
  • Portable, Self-dispensing Brush
  • Great for Thinning Hair or Bald Spots
  • Ideal for Men, Women and Children
  • Refillable and Easy to Clean
  • Reef Friendly, Vegan, Cruelty-free and Gluten-free

Key Features and Benefits

SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Protection

Provides non-irritating protection from both harmful UVA rays (the rays that cause aging) and UVB rays (the rays that cause sunburn).

Translucent Formulation

         Provides invisible coverage for all skin tones--for men, women and children.

Touch of Tan Tinted Formulation

        Subtle, warm shade kick-starts or extends your summer glow.

Mineral Powder Protection

  • Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide occur in nature and protect skin naturally, without chemical sunscreen ingredients.
  • Mineral protection means no greasy mess, sticky hands, stinging eyes or shiny face.
  • Non-greasy protection for your scalp, part and bald spots.
  • Non-irritating formula won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
  • Dermatologist reviewed.

Water Resistant (80 Minutes)

  • Protects in the water or while sweating for up to 80 minutes.
  • Won’t run in your eyes.
  • Reapply after towel drying

Patented Brush

  • Open/Close locking mechanism means powder won’t flow or leak when you don’t want it to.
  • When not in use, it won’t spill in your handbag, sports bag or backpack.

Refillable and Easy to Clean

  • Remove powder cartridge to wash brush
  • When running low on powder, simply exchange powder cartridge with a new one.

Safe For You, Safe For the Environment

Physical or natural sunscreens contain the mineral ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, and work by sitting on top of your skin to deflect or scatter the sun’s rays. They do not absorb into your skin and are often referred to as physical blockers. Physical sunscreens are less likely to cause stinging, irritation, allergic reactions or clogged pores and are gaining popularity as consumers look to better understand the products they put in an on their bodies.

Chemical sunscreens are synthetic sunscreen chemicals that must be absorbed into your skin to be effective. They create a chemical reaction and work by converting UV rays into heat and releasing that heat from the skin. They are often referred to as chemical absorbers. With chemical sunscreens, the higher the SPF, the greater the possible irritation, as the chemical content is greater, and they may clog the pores for oily skin types. And regardless of how high the SPF is, chemical sunscreens are only effective for two hours.

In 2020, the FDA proposed new sunscreen regulations to better ensure consumers have access to safe and effective sun care. Under their proposal, the only sunscreens that were noted as generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE) were titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. All chemical sunscreens, including oxybenzone, avobenzone and octinoxate are under review to determine if they will be classified as safe. Many consumers are reacting to this news by using only mineral sunscreens.

Only you can determine which type of sunscreen is best for you and your family, but concerns have been raised about the safety of chemical UV filters, especially for those with sensitive skin. Oxybenzone, a common chemical sunscreen active, is found in a majority of sunscreens sold in the US. This ingredient has been shown to disrupt normal hormone functions and some health professionals are recommending that products containing this ingredient not be used on babies and children. You need to read the label to know if a product contains other chemical sunscreens the FDA has flagged for potential human health concerns.

Oxybenzone has faced other recent challenges. Along with Oxtinoxate, the ingredient has been in the news as suspected contributors to coral bleaching and death. These sunscreen actives have been banned in Hawaii, Fiji, the US Virgin Islands, and parts of Mexico, Florida, Indonesia and the Caribbean, and a ban is proposed in California. While reef safe and reef friendly are not regulated terms, most brands, including Brush On Block, are using it to mean that their sunscreens do not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate. The industry agrees that the natural minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are safe for coral reefs.

At Brush On Block, we only use natural sunscreen actives in keeping with our mission to produce convenient, healthy and innovative sun care

How to apply

Brush On Block should arrive in the “CLOSE” position. For application, turn the bottom cylinder to “OPEN”, you should hear and feel a click. If you don’t hear the click, first turn the bottom cylinder to the right so it is firmly in the “CLOSE” position.  Then twist the bottom cartridge about ¼” to the left until you feel the click.  The brush is now in the “OPEN” position and the powder will flow through the brush head.  Flick the brush until you see powder on the brush head and begin applying. Flick again if it looks like there is no powder remaining on the brush head. Lightly buff onto the skin in a downward or circular motion, making sure to include forehead, eyelids, cheeks, nose, jawline and chin; continue with back of ears and down the neck (and arms and hands if exposed). If it looks like there is no powder on the brush head, you will need to flick again. The result should be a slight matte finish. Men seem to really get it if you tell them to use it like they are putting on shaving cream with a brush. Go ahead and apply more than you think you need—with sunscreen, liberal application is always the safest bet.  When you are done, slide the brush sleeve up over the brush head and replace cap.

Helping your Customer and Making the Sale

“There are only two types of people in this world—those who love BRUSH ON BLOCK, and those that don’t know how to use it yet.” –Carrie Wilson, Blush Beauty Bar, Portland, OR

When a customer is looking at Brush On Block, this is your opportunity to assist them so that they will love the product and come back for additional brushes or refills.

Emphasize that Brush On Block can be applied right over the top of makeup like a lightweight setting powder. On men and children, it is virtually invisible, and will not look like makeup. It can be reapplied during the day, unlike a heavy cream lotion or stick, giving you superb sun protection without disturbing your makeup. Additionally, it is perfect for those with sensitive skin, who sometimes experience reactions to chemical sunscreens or heavy mineral-based creams. Because it is a powder, it is also excellent for those with oily skin.

Remind your customer of the importance of wearing sunscreen every day and explain that Brush On Block makes it easy with the built-in brush that allows you to have everything you need to apply safe, mineral protection no matter where you are. Many customers also need to be reminded that the SPF they apply in the morning in their moisturizer or foundation will not last them all day, and should be reapplied after 2 hours.

Show your customer how easy it is to protect those often-forgotten places, like the tops of the ears, the back of the hands, or the back of the neck with a ponytail, without any greasy, slippery mess.

Take a moment to explain the packaging to your customer:

  1. Show them the Open/Close mechanism.
  2. Show them how to Click (open the brush mechanism) and Flick (shake the brush to get the powder flowing).
  3. Show how the powder comes out of the center of the brush.
  4. Show them (by putting it on the back of one hand) how they can tell if they have successfully applied product—it will have a matte finish.
  5. Show them how to slide the brush sleeve halfway up for more precise application around the nose and eyes.
  6. Show them that the brush is soft, with synthetic bristles that won’t irritate their skin, so they should not be hesitant about applying generously.
  7. Show them how to slide the sleeve up over the bristles so that they can easily reapply the cap.
  8. Show them how to Click the brush back into the Close position to avoid any messy mishaps in their bag! (Not all brands have this.)
  9. If you stock refills, show them the refills…they don’t need to repurchase a $34 brush every time. They can easily attach a new refill for just $20, or refill the bottom of their current brush for just $16. The brush will last through several refills if it is kept clean.

If a customer is concerned about the color of Brush On Block, apply some to their skin so that they can see that the product is translucent on the skin. The pigments in the product are just enough to balance out the white tones of the active ingredients. No need to worry about their children or husband looking as if they are wearing makeup.

For people who want a bit of color, the Touch of Tan Brush On Block will give them a subtle, sun-kissed glow without looking orange or fake. It is especially great for winter, to perk up their complexion while protecting from the (still damaging) rays of the sun.

How to Encourage BRUSH ON BLOCK Refill Use

While it is nice to start with a fresh, new Brush On Block brush, it isn't very nice for our planet. That's why we make Refills. We think our brushes are the nicest you'll find out there among self-dispensing products, and they are made to last through several (really, quite a few!) refills. But you do have to take care of your brush.

  1. Encourage your customers to clean their brush with a brush cleaner and tissue regularly. This not only helps keep the brush from putting oils and dirt back on the face, but keeps the powder flowing smoothly!
  2. When it is time for a refill, it is time to give the brush a thorough washing. Remove the empty cartridge and wash the brush as you would any other brush, with gentle soap in running water. But keep the bristles pointing downwards so that no water goes into the white tube in the center of the brush.
  3. After the brush has dried at least overnight, attach a new Refill. If the brush doesn't flow well, some water may have gotten into that tube. It happens. Simply straighten a paperclip and stick it down the tube from the center of the bristles to dislodge any clumps that formed in the moisture. Now your brush should be clean and good as new, ready for another several months of use!

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long should the original mineral cartridge last?

The minerals in your Brush On Block brush should last approximately 2-3 months with daily use for the face, neck, arms and hands. If you are repeating applications due to swimming or sweating, you may use the product more quickly.

I can’t get the powder out – how does it work?

First, be certain that your powder cartridge is screwed tightly to the brush base in the “CLOSE” position. To begin dispensing the minerals, simply twist the bottom cylinder slightly to the left until you feel a “click.” The brush is now in the “OPEN” position. Flick your wrist or tap the brush across the palm of your hand until you see the minerals on the brush head.

The first time your customer uses their brush, it is a good idea to put the brush in the open position and, with the cap still on, turn the brush upside down and tap the top of the cap on a table several times. This will fill up the inner tube that delivers the powder.

Is BRUSH ON BLOCK waterproof?

Brush On Block is both water and sweat resistant and retains SPF 30 protection up to 80 minutes of water activity or sweating. It should be noted, however, that wiping your face with a towel when it is wet will remove the product, and you should reapply after toweling dry. The FDA does not allow sunscreens to make the claim of “waterproof.”

Does SPF 30 provide adequate coverage?

SPF 30 protects your skin from 97% of UVB rays.  (SPF 50 protects from 98% of UVB rays, so the increase is smaller than most people realize.) Remember that it is also important to use a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection, like BRUSH ON BLOCK to also shield you from UVA rays, which cause photo-aging and can also lead to skin cancer.

I read that I shouldn’t count on a powder sunscreen to really protect me, but should wear another sunscreen under it, is this true?

Brush On Block has undergone testing to show that, with proper application, the powder provides SPF 30 protection on it’s own, and is water-resistant to 80 minutes. It did not receive the SPF 30 rating over the top of another sunscreen, but was tested on humans, without any other sunscreen. Just be sure you are applying a generous amount, and buff it onto the skin with the brush.

Can I wear BRUSH ON BLOCK with makeup?

Brush On Block can be worn either under or over makeup or foundation. It is translucent, and since it sits on top of the skin’s surface, there is no risk of smudging, running or greasy residue. Many people find that it functions as an excellent finishing powder, setting foundation and makeup while providing sun protection. And most importantly, it is easy to reapply over makeup without starting over with foundation.

Will BRUSH ON BLOCK irritate my skin like sunscreen lotions do?

Since Brush On Block is not absorbed into the skin and sits on top of the skin surface, it is less likely to cause skin irritation, break-outs or to clog pores. It is ideal for both acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Does BRUSH ON BLOCK contain Nano Particles?

Nano-particles are widely discussed and often misunderstood.  In the US, the FDA has not ruled on what they consider to be a nano-particle, yet it is generally considered to be particles that are in the size range of 1 - 100 nanometers.  One of the greatest concerns regarding nanoparticles has to do with potential inhalation.  Particle size testing done on Brush On Block shows that it does not contain any nano-sized particles and that the particles are large enough that they pose no inhalation risk. 

Can I use BRUSH ON BLOCK on my body?

While Brush On Block was designed for quick and convenient protection for the face, neck, arms and hands, and can be used on all body parts that are exposed to the sun or for those that require fast and easy sun protection.

Is BRUSH ON BLOCK just for women?

With its translucent coverage, Brush On Block was designed for men, women and children. Women like it because they can wear it under or over their makeup, or without any makeup at all. Men like it because it offers quick and convenient protection, including those hard to protect areas like the back of the neck, ears and bald spots. Brush On Block is great for children because it doesn’t sting their eyes, and the brush feels so good on their delicate skin.  Sports enthusiasts love Brush On Block because it doesn’t run in their eyes, or get tennis and golf club grips greasy. Both men and women can appreciate the subtle hint of color that the Touch of Tan formula offers, as it gives a healthy glow.

Is BRUSH ON BLOCK safe for children?

Brush On Block can safely be applied to children 6 months of age and older. As a matter of fact, many parents have found that Brush On Block is easier to use on kids than many leading lotions, sprays or sticks. For children under 6 months, please check with your doctor.

What makes BRUSH ON BLOCK a Mineral Sunscreen?

Brush On Blockcontains titanium dioxide (8%) and zinc oxide (14%), both of which are well-known, naturally occurring minerals, to provide SPF and broad spectrum coverage.

Why is mineral sun protection better than chemical sunscreens?

Physical sunscreens contain the mineral ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, and work by sitting on top of your skin to deflect or scatter the sun’s rays.  They do not absorb into your skin and are often referred to as physical blockers.  Physical sunscreens are less likely to cause stinging, irritation, or clogged pores. 

Is it safe around my eyes?

While Brush On Block should not be placed in the eyes, there is little risk of the product running or dripping into the eye area. To apply to smaller areas around the eyes and nose, slide the plastic brush sleeve halfway up for more precise application. Brush On Block can be lightly dusted around the eye area and over closed lids.

What are the benefits of the botanical ingredients in BRUSH ON BLOCK (i.e. Green Tea Leaf Extract, Safflower Seed Oil and Chamomile Flower Extract)?

Green Tea Leaf Extract is a natural antioxidant, while Safflower Seed Oil is an emollient that moisturizes and protects the skin. Chamomile Extract  helps prevent skin inflammation and irritation. Together these botanicals work to enrich, soothe and replenish your exposed skin.

Does BRUSH ON BLOCK contain parabens, PABA or phthalates?

Brush On Block does not contain any parabens, PABA or phthalates.

Has BRUSH ON BLOCK been tested on animals?

Brush On Block is a cruelty-free company, certified by PETA. We do not test our products on animals, and our brushes are made of synthetic hairs. 

Is BRUSH ON BLOCK suitable for vegans?

Brush On Block is vegan-friendly. Our brush is made of synthetic hairs and the mineral powder contains no animal by-products.

How often do I need to reapply BRUSH ON BLOCK?

Brush On Block should be reapplied after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying, or at least every 2 hours.

Can I wash my brush?       

Absolutely! The Brush On Block brush head may be cleaned with a brush cleaner, soap or shampoo. Clean with brush cleaner by spraying 2 to 3 sprays on a paper towel or tissue. Gently wipe bristles where you have sprayed, until you no longer see powder on the brush head.

To clean your brush with soap or shampoo, remove powder cartridge from the brush and set aside. Hold the brush sideways under running water. Keeping the brush horizontal or pointing downwards, apply a small amount of shampoo or gentle soap onto the brush and rub with your fingers. Keep in mind that the tube in the center of the brush head is how your powder flows, so keeping it as dry as possible will lengthen the life of your brush. Rinse horizontally under running water. Squeeze the brush to remove excess water. Allow to dry overnight on its side. Once thoroughly dry, screw bottom powder cartridge back into place.

My brush used to work, but now it doesn’t. What happened, how do I unclog it?

There are several things that can cause a brush to stop working, and all are easy to fix.

  1. Your brush may need to be washed. If you apply your Brush On Block frequently over sweaty or oily skin, the brush can get dirty enough that the bristles begin to clump together. Test to see if this is the issue by running your finger across the top of your brush. If the bristles move individually, that is not the problem, but if they move as a group, and the brush tends to stay in the position you put it, you need to wash it. When the bristles clump together, the powder can become trapped around the white tube, and not come out to the tip of the brush.
  2. Perhaps you already washed your brush, but some powder got into the tube before it was dry. This can happen if you don’t hold your brush with the bristles pointing down. To fix the issue, unbend a paperclip and stick it down the center of the white tube in the middle of the bristles. Move it around in a circular motion to dislodge any clumps.
  3. If you have had your brush for several months, it may be that it is nearly empty. As you reach the bottom of the cartridge, the powder will slow down. When you attach a refill, just add any remaining powder into your new refill.

A note about Ingredients

When your customer is looking at the ingredient list of Brush On Block, they may expect that the ingredients be listed in order of predominance, as they are with most food and cosmetic ingredient labels. Sunscreens are regulated as an Over-The-Counter Drug, and the FDA requires that the Inactive Ingredients be listed in alphabetical order.

Brush On Block's inactive ingredients (in alphabetical order) are: bisabolol, boron nitride, caprylhydroxamic acid, chamomile flower extract, ethyl ferulate, glycerin, glyceryl, caprylate, green teal leaf extract, iron oxides, jojoba seed oil, lauroyl lysine, mica, rice lipids, rice starch, safflower seed oil, silica, triethoxycaprylylsilane.