We live in a world where we are constantly being reminded that we need to reapply our sunscreen throughout the day, especially if we’re spending extended time in the sun. I just told you this in my last post. Like wearing it at all, it’s something we all kind of know we should be doing, though many of us aren’t. However, I think it goes a little beyond sheer laziness. Being told to reapply sunscreen is one thing. But how do we do it? I think us makeup wearers face a unique dilemma: how to do you reapply sunscreen over makeup? It’s tricky, but it’s definitely possible.
It’s a tricky problem to work around, but it’s important. Applying one layer of sunscreen at the start of the day just isn’t enough. Like anything else – makeup, lotions, etc. – your SPF will fade, rub off, and eventually stop giving you adequate protection against the sun’s damaging rays. How often you need to reapply depends on a few factors, like if you’re wet, inside/outside (yeah, you even need to reapply if you’re inside.) However, the general rule of thumb is about every 2 hours with sun exposure, more if you’re swimming or exercising enough to sweat.
So while a finicky thing to navigate, there are a few easy tips and tricks I use for reapplying sunscreen and reapplying over makeup.
Tips to Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup
Tip No. 1 | Apply SPF right the first time
Kind of like a crumb coat on a cake or primer on a wall, the initial application of application of sunscreen is really important. Even on days when UVB rays are low or you’re inside and may not burn, you’re still being exposed to UVA rays — the long waves that penetrate the skin and can lead to damage and skin cancer. The base layer of sunscreen should be done as the last step of your skincare routine and be thorough.
Instead of applying one heap of sunscreen and spending a lot of time rubbing it in, I apply two thinner layers. Not only does it help ensure it’s fully absorbing into my skin, it also helps me get a more even coverage, thus getting more protection from the SPF. It’s also recommended to apply your sunscreen, 15-20 minutes prior to sun exposure.
Tip No. 2 | Opt for a lightweight formula for reapplication
If you’re like me, you remember the goopy, white sunscreen of your childhood. It was thick, left behind a white cast, and it seemed like it took forever to blend out. Luckily, the sunscreen industry is becoming a hell of a lot less … sleepy. And there are lots of different options for every need.
When it comes to reapplication and reapplying sunscreen over makeup, it’s best to opt for something lightweight (not light in SPF, just texture.) Fluid formulas are easier to blend over and pat into makeup, whereas thicker formulas usually require a good deal of rubbing, which can disturb the makeup beneath it.
Tip No. 3 | Try something tinted
Wether or not you’re in the sun or at your desk, trying a tinted sunscreen formula may work well for you. Especially if you’re someone who prefers a natural, no makeup makeup look, a tinted sunscreen may be the perfect alternative to foundation and will make reapplication simple. Not to mention, dermatologists believe tinted formulas, as opposed to clear, help protect you against blue light — which you can get from the sun or your devices.
Tip No. 4 | Just wash your face and start over
While the above tips are great for protecting against incidental sun exposure throughout the day, sometimes it’s best to just start with a clean slate. If you’re headed to the beach or an event where you’ll be exposed to the sun for a long period of time, especially during peak UV hours, it really is best to wash your face and apply a fresh layer of sunscreen.
Types of Sunscreens I Like to Use for Reapplication Over Makeup
So, now that we have a few tips for how to actually reapply sunscreen over makeup, what sunscreens are the best for this?
Air Cushion
I’ve found that the most difficult part of reapplying sunscreen over makeup is potentially rubbing away the makeup beneath it. That’s why I love using an air cushion and using a tapping motion, instead of rubbing, for reapplication. If you’ve used a cushion compact, you’ll know the sponges included offer a really even layer of coverage for your foundation and powder application. It does the same thing with sunscreen. These cushions, unlike a beauty sponge like a BeautyBlender, aren’t designed to absorb liquid or moisture. So the bulk of your sunscreen will end up on your face.
Mineral Powder SPF
I really like mineral powder SPF for reapplication over makeup. Though I wouldn’t recommend for your initial layer, it’s a great option for reapplying during the day, especially if you’re a makeup wearer. Plus, most of us like to touch with our faces with a little powder anyway, to combat any shine or makeup movement.
Lightweight Liquids
Like I said previously, opting for a lightweight formula is the way to go for reapplication. But when it comes to reapplying sunscreen over makeup, I also think it’s best to either look for a lightweight sheer formula or a lightweight tinted formula.
One of my favorite fluid sunscreens is the La Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk*, but it does leave behind a bit of a white cast. While it doesn’t matter under makeup and works for me on no makeup days, it would definitely be apparent over makeup. Instead I like to reach for something clear like Glossier’s Invisible Shield*. And I like to use the air sponges I mentioned to tap it into my skin.
UV Mists
So. UV mists get a bad rep. And I get it. You have considerably less control over where the product ends up with a spray sunscreen. When using a spray sunscreen on my body, I always rub it in with my hands. And when I use them on my face, I still rub it in or pat it in with a sponge.
While tricky, it’s really important to reapply sunscreen throughout the day to keep your skin protected, even while wearing makeup. Hopefully these tips to reapply sunscreen over makeup were helpful.
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