How to Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup

Maintaining your sun protection while wearing makeup can seem daunting, but reapplying sunscreen every two hours is essential to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Whether you're at the beach or working indoors by a sunny window, reapplying sunscreen doesn’t have to mean smudging your makeup. 

Here are eight easy ways to ensure your skin stays protected without compromising your look.

Why is Sunscreen So Important?

Sunscreen is the most effective way to prevent premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. It reflects harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, even when you're indoors, UV rays can penetrate through windows, making sunscreen a daily essential​.

The key is not just to apply it in the morning but to reapply it every two hours. Without regular reapplication, sunscreen degrades, leaving your skin vulnerable​.

What If I’m Wearing Makeup with SPF?

While many makeup products contain SPF, they don’t provide adequate protection on their own. According to dermatologists, the SPF in makeup is often insufficient because most people don’t apply enough product to achieve the labeled SPF protection. To truly protect your skin, always apply a layer of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher underneath your makeup, then follow up with reapplication using one of the techniques below.

8 Tips to Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup Without Ruining It

SPF Mineral Powder

Mineral powder sunscreens are ideal for reapplication because they contain physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays, rather than being absorbed like chemical sunscreens. Mineral powders are perfect for oily skin types, as they offer lightweight, non-greasy protection. Plus, they can absorb excess oil, which keeps your skin looking matte throughout the day. Powders like Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35 is convenient, portable, and can be dusted over makeup without disturbing it​.

SPF Setting Sprays

These are great when you’re looking for hands-free reapplication. Setting sprays with SPF form a lightweight, even layer on top of makeup. They help refresh your skin while providing an extra layer of protection. A product like COOLA Makeup Setting Spray SPF 30 is great for those constantly on the go. It’s particularly handy in hot weather when you want to avoid touching your face or adding layers of product. SPF-setting sprays are formulated to lock makeup in place while delivering sunscreen benefits​. 

Cushion Compacts with SPF

Cushion compacts are portable and user-friendly. They contain liquid sunscreen in a compact form, which you apply using a sponge. The benefit of cushion compacts is that they can apply sunscreen evenly over makeup without smudging or requiring a full reapplication. They’re also great for touch-ups in specific areas where you need more coverage, like the nose or cheeks. These compacts often provide a dewy finish, making them a great choice for dry skin types​.

Sunscreen Sticks

Sunscreen sticks are compact and easy to carry. They allow for precise application in smaller areas like the nose, forehead, and chin—areas that are more prone to sun exposure. Sunscreen sticks glide smoothly, and they’re a mess-free option. They are especially effective when you’re in a rush and don’t want to disturb your makeup. Some sunscreen sticks also contain additional skincare benefits, such as moisturizers or antioxidants, making them a versatile choice​.

Blotting Papers First

If you have oily skin, blotting papers is a crucial step before reapplying sunscreen. They help to absorb excess oil and sweat from the skin, creating a clean surface for reapplication. Without blotting first, sunscreen might mix with the oil on your skin, leading to a greasy look and reducing its effectiveness. Blotting helps maintain a matte finish, which is key for avoiding a shiny complexion​.

Avoid Oily Sunscreens

Opt for sunscreens with lightweight, non-greasy formulas, especially when reapplying over makeup. Oil-based sunscreens can break down your makeup, causing it to separate or slide off your face. Gel or spray sunscreens are often better suited for reapplication over makeup, as they tend to be more lightweight and less likely to interfere with your look​.

Layering Technique

For maximum sun protection, it's important to layer your sunscreen. Start with a base layer of cream or lotion sunscreen under your makeup. Throughout the day, reapply with powder or spray formulas to avoid smudging. Layering helps ensure that your skin remains protected, especially during prolonged sun exposure. This technique works well with various SPF formats, giving you flexibility in how you maintain protection throughout the day​.

Use Clean Tools

When reapplying sunscreen over makeup, make sure you use clean beauty sponges or brushes. This helps you apply sunscreen evenly without disturbing your makeup or introducing bacteria onto your skin. Tapping the product in with a clean tool ensures minimal smudging and keeps your makeup looking fresh. Using the right tools is key to flawless applications.

Reapplying sunscreen doesn’t have to interfere with your makeup. By using the right products and techniques, you can stay protected from UV rays while keeping your look flawless. 

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FAQ

How should sunscreen be reapplied correctly?

Answer: Blotting away extra perspiration or oil improves the sunscreen's skin-stickiness. Gently reapply after removing with a clean tissue or blotting paper. Blotting paper can be used to eliminate shine without removing makeup if you're wearing it. If necessary, carefully dab sunscreen onto your makeup.

What sunscreen is resistant to makeup stains?

Answer: For combination and oily skin types, Clinique's Moisture Surge SPF is one of the finest sunscreens to use under makeup. Many sunscreens are designed to be used as lotions, but this one delivers lightweight hydration like hyaluronic acid and aloe with a jelly texture that feels cool to the touch.

Should I wear sunscreen? 

Answer: Always use sunscreen before makeup. You may visualize the three letters SPF to help you remember this using a basic memory device. The initial letter S represents skincare, while the last letter F represents foundation. Sun protection should always come before makeup and skincare.

If you have oily skin, how should you reapply sunscreen?

Answer: Reapply as necessary. Keep a travel-sized bottle of sunscreen on hand for quick touch-ups during the day, especially in areas that tend to get oily. To guarantee that the sunscreen adheres properly, carefully wipe away any extra oil or perspiration from the skin before reapplying.

How can sunscreen be reapplied without getting into acne?

Answer: Make use of a sunscreen powder or spray designed just for this use. Spray a little amount of sunscreen onto your face a few inches away. If you would rather have a powder, apply it with a brush to sun-exposed regions. You might opt to remove any extra oil using blotting sheets before reapplying.

Does sunscreen apply itself without a moisturizer?

Answer: Additionally, long-term neglect of moisturizers will result in poor skin health if you have dry skin. Can we use sunscreen on our faces straight without first applying a moisturizer? Sure, you may use sunscreen alone on occasion if you don't wear moisturizer but avoid doing so over time.