New In My Practice: OTC

With Kathleen Behr, MD.

In each issue, Practical Dermatology® magazine spotlights a new device or cosmeceutical that dermatologists are recommending to patients. This month, Kathleen Behr, MD, of Behr Laser & Skin Care Center in Fresno, CA, discusses Colorescience’s Sheer Matte SPF 30 brush.

What is the Sheer Matte SPF 30 brush?

Dr. Behr: The Sheer Matte SPF 30 sunscreen brush is an all-mineral SPF powder with triple coated active minerals and specialty ingredients designed specifically for patients who have oily skin. The product just launched in July; however, I had a sneak peek earlier in the year and I have been excited to bring the product into my practice.

I have been recommending it to my teenage acne patients and patients who are especially concerned about oil. It is sheer and weightless and a great solution to get my male patients to reapply sunscreen also.

What are the actives?

Dr. Behr: The sun protection active is 22.5% Zinc oxide. As part of the Colorescience Total Protection family, it is formulated with EnviroScreen technology and triple-coated minerals to protect against ultraviolet, high-energy visible (HEV)/blue light, infrared radiation, and pollution. Because it is all mineral, it is reef-safe, too. What is unique about this formulation is the specialty ingredients that help absorb excess sebum, mattify the skin, and reduce shine and appearance of pores. It also contains antioxidants and iron oxides.

This first-of-its-kind powdered SPF product can do all that for patients who struggle with oily skin. The product carries the Skin Cancer Foundation Daily Use Seal of Recommendation. It is small enough to fit in your pocket, so it is convenient to take it anywhere. Another stand-out feature is that the bristles are soft and coated with an antimicrobial. It is non-comedogenic, hypo-allergenic, and fragrance-free.

How do you suggest that your patients use this?

Dr. Behr: I recommend this for patients who need oil control, may struggle with blemishes, and are reluctant to use a cream or lotion sunscreen because they feel more oily or shiny. It absorbs excess oil, reduces shine, and won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. I love this untinted product for men since they often hesitate on using the tinted Colorescience Brush. This product applies sheer on oily or well-moisturized skin of any skin tone. It can be used on bare skin or on top of a powder foundation or makeup. Just like the Colorescience Total Protection Brush On Shield SPF 50, patients use small circular motions, sweeping directly onto skin. I recommend they apply generously across their face for at least 60 seconds while making multiple passes. I let them know it can be used all over or supplemented in the T-zone. Reapplication is key, so I make sure they know to reapply at least every two hours.

What type of results are your patients seeing?

Dr. Behr: Patients love that this helps to absorb excess oil and mattifies while providing UV, blue light, IR, and pollution protection. They appreciate that it is lightweight and sheer, easy to use and they are now willing to apply and reapply, which is the best result you can get from a sunscreen product.

What other products or procedures complement the use of this brush?

Dr. Behr: I practice in one of the hottest, sunniest parts of California and like all dermatologists, my number one, non-negotiable product every patient must have is sunscreen. For my oily, acne prone patients, this has been a struggle. What I like about this product is that it will not irritate their skin if they are using other skincare or prescription products.

We all know that zinc oxide protects and calms sensitive skin. The product is hypoallergenic, sensitivity tested, it can be safely used in conjunction with other products and with the procedures I perform in the office.

It is ideal for everyday use and after any in-office procedure for oily skin patients.

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