If there was one essential that should be in everyone’s beauty case, it should be sunscreen. But with 10-step skincare routines, along with primer, foundation, and setting spray – where do we fit in the humble (but oh-so-important) SPF?
For example, should you apply sunscreen before or after applying makeup? Should you apply sunscreen or primer first? And what happens when it’s time to reapply your SPF and you have a full face of makeup on? Don’t worry – we’re here to help simplify things.
Sunscreen and makeup: key takeaways
- Always apply sunscreen under makeup.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF30+ daily, even when it’s cloudy.
- Apply sunscreen before primer and wait a few minutes to prevent pilling.
- Let sunscreen fully absorb before layering on foundation or setting spray.
- Reapply frequently using SPF setting spray or by dabbing SPF on with a makeup sponge.
Ahead, we’ll answer all of your sunscreen and makeup-related questions (and, yes, teach you how to reapply sunscreen over makeup without destroying your work). So, read on for expert tips on how to wear sunscreen and makeup, so your skin not only looks flawless, but also stays comfortable and protected throughout the day.
Why wearing SPF under makeup is essential
You likely already know this, but it bears repeating: sunscreen is a must every single day. While you may think of sunscreen as something that you mainly use in the summer, the reality is that your skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful rays every day, even if it’s rainy or overcast.
In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, clouds only block about 20% of UV rays. In the short term, exposure to UV rays can cause painful sunburns. Over time, UV exposure can damage the skin, accelerate the visible signs of ageing, and increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
Should you wear sunscreen under makeup or above?
Short answer: Under your makeup is best.
If you’re wearing sunscreen and makeup, it’s always best to apply your SPF first, before layering on any other makeup products. There are a few reasons for this.
Firstly, if you apply sunscreen over foundation or setting powder, it can end up looking cakey and interfere with your look.
Secondly, it’s best to apply SPF before makeup because ideally, you want to wait about 5 minutes for the sunscreen to fully absorb into your skin.
We still recommend applying sunscreen under foundation, even if you’re wearing a tinted SPF like our Buttermelt Glaze Soft Glow Skin Tint SPF30.
Should you apply sunscreen first or primer first?
Okay, so you now know it’s better to wear sunscreen before makeup. But does that still apply if using primer?
Short answer: Yes, sunscreen should go before primer.
Think of SPF as the final step in skincare and the base layer for your makeup. Once it’s fully absorbed, you can smooth primer over the top to create an even canvas for foundation and the rest of your makeup.
Pro tip: Wait a couple of minutes after applying sunscreen before going in with primer. This helps prevent pilling and ensures your SPF layer stays intact.
How To Apply Sunscreen Under Makeup Properly: Step-by-Step
Sunscreen should generally be the last step in your daily skincare routine, after moisturising but before applying your primer or face makeup. But we’ll break it down even further. Ahead, discover exactly how to layer skincare, sunscreen, and makeup for a look that lasts.
Step 1: Cleanse your skin
Start by cleansing your face to remove any excess dirt, oil, or leftover makeup that can interfere with your sunscreen and makeup application. Look for a cleanser designed for your skin type – creamy, hydrating cleansers are great for those with drier skin, while gel and foam cleansers may be better for those with combination or oily skin.
Step 2: Apply facial serums and treatments
Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, then layer on any serums or emulsions you use. Make sure to let each product absorb fully before applying the next to help minimise the chance of pilling.
Step 3: Moisturise
Next, reach for your moisturiser. Even if your skin doesn’t feel dry, this is an important step to replenish your skin and provide a smoother canvas for your makeup. We love lightweight water-based lotions for those with oily skin, while richer moisturising creams are best for those with drier skin. If you’re prone to breakouts, be sure to select a moisturiser that’s labelled non-comedogenic – that means it won’t clog your pores.
Step 4: Apply sunscreen
Reach for a broad-spectrum formula with an SPF of at least 30 (that’s what pros recommend as a minimum for sun protection). Take care to apply it to your entire face and neck, as well as any other exposed skin, including your eyelids, ears, and along your hairline. You should use at least a quarter-teaspoon’s worth for your face to ensure adequate coverage.
Step 5: Let your sunscreen absorb
Experts typically suggest giving your sunscreen 5-10 minutes to sink in. This time is needed for the sunscreen to provide maximum protection. Plus, if your sunscreen doesn’t absorb before you put on your makeup, all your blending and buffing may actually remove the sunscreen. Take that 10-minute window as an opportunity to browse our TikTok for makeup inspiration (or find some here!).
Step 6: Apply primer
Once your sunscreen has sunk in, you can go ahead and apply your makeup primer. This will help your makeup last longer and go on smoother.
Step 7: Apply foundation and other makeup
Finally comes the most exciting step: painting your canvas. Apply your foundation, concealer, blush, and any other makeup as usual, then seal it all in with a generous misting of your favourite setting spray.
How to reapply sunscreen over makeup
We’ve answered the question “Do you put sunscreen before or after makeup,” but there’s still the lingering question of reapplication. Vigorously rubbing sunscreen all over your foundation, concealer, and other makeup products can (unsurprisingly) disrupt your work.
So, here’s how to apply SPF over makeup – without starting your look from scratch!
Option 1: Use an SPF setting spray
Misting your face with an SPF-infused setting spray is a great way to reapply your sunscreen without disrupting your makeup. In fact, since setting spray helps extend the longevity of your makeup, this hack can actually make your look last longer. Just be sure to apply a generous misting of SPF setting spray to ensure you’re well-covered
Option 2: Use a sponge to dab on SPF over makeup
If you don’t have an SPF-infused setting spray on hand, that’s okay – it’s totally possible to reapply a cream or gel sunscreen over makeup. The best way to do so is with a makeup sponge.
We suggest dispensing a coin-sized amount of SPF on the back of your hand and then dipping your sponge into it. You can then lightly pat the sponge over your face, re-saturating it with SPF as needed to ensure your skin is completely covered.
While this reapplication method may be a bit more time-consuming than spritzing your face with setting spray, it’s viable. It’s not a bad idea to store a few of your must-have makeup products in your bag, either, just in case you want to touch anything up.
