Say one skincare product that is indispensable for the health of our skin, and ‘sunscreen’ will surely top the list. From general healthcare professionals to expert dermatologists, all advise us to wear sunscreen every day irrespective of the year’s season. But the question is, how exactly should you wear sunscreen under your makeup? Yes, we understand your confusion, girls! So today, let’s talk about this fundamental yet critical topic. (1)
What SPF To Wear?
Before we apply and reapply sunscreen under makeup, we must know the level of protection we need to shield our skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s rays. Find a sunscreen that contains three key ingredients, i.e., zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and avobenzone. It is the very first rule to ensure maximum protection from UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Next is the Sun Protection Factor or SPF. Make sure you pick at least SPF 30 and massage it into the uncovered parts of the body (exposed to the sun) until it is absorbed completely.
Is SPF In Makeup Enough?
What if your makeup products already come with certain SPFs? After all, you will slather a layer of your makeup over your sunscreen. So, will not it be enough? No, it’ll not be sufficient for your skin to use only makeup with SPF and skip the sunscreen. Firstly, the SPF offered by makeup products is unreliable regarding skin protection from sun damage. Secondly, the applications and coverage of makeup items differ widely, eventually impacting their SPFs’ effectiveness. Hence, apply sunscreen underneath your foundation or moisturizer, whether your makeup includes SPF.
How To Apply Sunscreen Under Makeup?
The rule of thumb for applying sunscreen is, ‘Apply it daily and throughout the day.’’ But how do you apply it when you must put some makeup on? Check out the method below:
- Cleanse your face with a mild cleanser and plain cold water. You might also want to exfoliate gently at this stage if you wish. Pat it dry with a soft towel.
- Tone up your face by using a suitable toner. This step is essential, especially if you have open pore issues.
- Apply enough sunscreen onto your palm and apply it all over your face, neck, and other open parts of your skin that will be exposed to the sun. Try to apply it as evenly as possible.
- Wait for 15-20 minutes and allow the sunscreen to sit. It will help in the complete absorption of the product and give you a perfect base for your makeup application.
- Now, apply your favorite moisturizer, foundation, and other makeup products.
How To Reapply Sunscreen With Makeup On?
As we said earlier, sunscreen needs to be reapplied throughout the day. According to experts, one should reapply sunscreen every 2 hours based on the SPF chosen. But how to do it rightly when you have your makeup on? Will it not spoil your carefully made-up face? You can avoid a mess while reapplying sunscreen just by following a few tips. Here we go:
- Ideally, you can wipe or wash off all your makeup and apply another layer of sunscreen. However, it would be a bad idea, so we are giving you a few alternatives below.
- Get a high-quality loose powder with added SPF and apply it all over your face with the help of a powder brush whenever you need to reapply your sunscreen.
- A translucent mineral powder, including specific SPF, will also serve the same purpose. It will regulate excess oil production, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the sunscreen underneath your makeup.
- A tinted compact with added SPF can be applied over your makeup for a fresh touch of sun protection.
- You might also opt for a cushion compact to help you press your makeup in and add extra sun protection.
Some More Tips To Follow
Now, you know how to apply sunscreen under your makeup and reapply it even when you have already applied it. We have some more essential tips for you that would help you make the most of your sunscreen application:
- If you have oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin, try to find a lightweight (e.g., matte gel) formula for yourself that would absorb into the skin fast without giving a greasy feel.
- Many sunscreen lotions are available in the market that act like moisturizers and go deep into the skin without leaving zero cast. These will be the best for wearing under makeup.
- Try to use mineral makeup as it helps retain sunscreen’s effectiveness when layered over it.
- You may replace your foundation with a tinted sunscreen that matches your skin tone.
Summary
Sunscreen is vital for skin health, but how to wear it under makeup can be confusing. Choose sunscreen with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and avobenzone, ensuring at least SPF 30. Makeup with SPF alone is insufficient for sun protection. Cleanse, tone, and apply sunscreen evenly before waiting 15-20 minutes. Follow with moisturizer, foundation, and makeup. To reapply, use a loose powder with SPF, translucent mineral powder, tinted compact, or cushion compact. Opt for lightweight formulas based on skin type and consider mineral makeup for enhanced protection.
