This Is How You Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup

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The one skincare tip all dermatologists can agree on is the importance of sunscreen. For real, every derm we’ve ever spoken to has told us that sunscreen is one of THE most essential products if you want to keep your skin looking young, fresh, and damage-free. They also insist that for SPF to be effective, it needs to be re-applied every two hours. When we first heard this, our beauty brain went into a frenzy… How are we supposed to reapply sunscreen over makeup – what about our freshly caked face? Well, don’t sweat it guys, because the beauty world came through with a solution. Here’s why you need to be applying sunscreen every day, and how to reapply sunscreen without messing up your makeup:

Why Sunscreen is Essential

Realistically, reapplying sunscreen every two hours is a pretty high maintenance habit. But, when you consider that sun exposure causes the premature formation of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, pigmentation, the deconstruction of collagen that results in sagging skin, not to mention skin cancer, it’s totally worth it. In fact, 90% of how your skin ages is within your control and is directly linked to sun exposure, which is why it’s SO important to keep it protected against harmful UVA and UVB rays.

The Base Layer

For your first layer of protection, make sure you find a good sunscreen. Dr. Friedmann from the Harley Street Dermatology Clinic told us; “Choose one that not only has a high SPF (to protect against the burning UVB rays) but one that also has at least a 4-star UVA rating, preferably 5 stars [PA +++]. We know that UVA rays can cause skin cancer, and so sunscreens that protect against UVB only, are not good.”

Apply two fingers’ worth of SPF (a dime-sized amount) to your face, neck, and décolletage once you’ve completed your skincare routine and before you start applying your makeup. Now, you’ve got your base layer of SPF, if you’re out and about in the sun, then here’s how to reapply sunscreen once your face has a full beat…

Use a Setting Spray with SPF

A setting spray that contains SPF is the easiest way to top up your skin protection throughout the day. It won’t mess up your makeup, and most formulas also have hydrating ingredients to refresh and rejuvenate your skin – it’s a win-win!

My Fave SPF and Sunscreen Toppers:

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40, $36, is basically ‘that bitch’ of SPF! I wear this every day under my makeup and it wears so well; it literally disappears into your skin and has no fragrance or oil, it just feels super smooth and looks completely matte. Throughout the day, I love to top up with the Filorga UV-Bronze Mist SPF50+, $33, which contains a powerful antioxidant that’s activated by the sun’s rays to give your skin protection and hydration, all while preventing premature signs of aging. It’s even water-resistant, invisible, and completely compatible with makeup. The mini bottle is the perfect size to keep in your bag for top-ups during the day, and the mist is so lightweight you hardly even feel it.

I also like the Supergoop (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35, $30, which is great if you have oily skin and tend to get shiny as this helps to mattify and refresh. The powder comes in four translucent shades so you can find one that works for your skin tone.

Check out four more of our fave SPF protective facial mists and setting sprays:

Source: Coola, Supergoop, Kate Somerville, Soleil Toujours

Coola Organics Makeup Setting Sunscreen Spray, $36: This SPF 30 setting spray is formulated with 70% organic ingredients so it’s ideal if you have sensitive skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid to help your skin retain moisture, and aloe vera to soothe.

Supergoop Defense Refresh Setting Mist, $14: An ultra-fine setting spray that boasts SPF 40 to protect against UVA and UVB rays. It’s also infused with silica silicate to control oil and reduce shine, so if you prefer a matte finish, this setting mist is perfect.

Kate Somerville UncompliKated SPF Soft Focus Makeup Setting Spray, $44: This spray will set your makeup instantly while softening the appearance of lines and wrinkles, as well as hydrating the skin with hyaluronic acid. It also smells delicious as it’s scented with all-natural lavender oil. And we can’t forget to mention that it’s also SPF 50.

Soleil Toujours Organic Set + Protect Micro Mist, $38: Packed with antioxidants, this spray will show your skin some love, protect it against aging free radicals, and of course shield it from sun damage. Just like the Coola Organics mist, it’s made from 70% organic ingredients.

Key tip: When you’re applying a spray-on sunscreen, you need to be generous with how much you use to guarantee you’re actually getting the SPF protection it promises. We like to spray for 3-5 seconds – it may sound like a lot but it’s totally necessary. Keep your eyes shut throughout the misting, and don’t open them for at least a few seconds.

Try Powder Sunscreens

A setting powder that contains SPF is another must-have multi-tasking product as it’ll keep your skin shielded from harmful UVA and UVB rays and keep your makeup in place. If you have oily skin, they’re also great at blotting away shine and mattifying your makeup. Here are the powdered sunscreens we love:

Source: ColorScience, Physicians Formula, Supergoop

ColorScience Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen Brush SPF 30, $69: If you have sensitive skin, this gentle mineral formula is perfect. The SPF 30 powder provides a sheer veil of coverage to smooth the appearance of fine lines and pores and conceal any redness.

Physicians Formula Mineral Wear® Talc-Free Mineral Airbrushing Pressed Powder Spf 30, $16: This mineral powder will help smooth imperfections while also protecting your skin from sun damage. The formula also boasts antioxidants to help fight against free radicals that cause premature aging. It also comes in a handy compact, so you can use your own brushes and sponges.

Supergoop (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35, $30: A 100% mineral broad-spectrum UV SPF that offers flawless protection with a satin finish. It can be used to set your makeup or for reapplying SPF. It also comes in four broad shades.

Do you guys use sunscreen daily? Let us know in the comments below.

Disclaimer: Every product we review has been independently selected and tested without bias by our editorial team. We never take payment to review products, although some brands allow affiliate links, so we may earn a commission if you purchase a product by clicking on one of our links.