Sunscreen and makeup: how to protect yourself and reapply sunscreen without ruining your makeup

Applying sunscreen to the face is the most important step in your morning routine. But how do you combine it with makeup, and above all, how do you reapply protection without taking off your makeup?

Under makeup

Sunscreen should be applied after moisturizer and before foundation. Choose lightweight textures (fluids, gels, invisible milks) and let it absorb for a few minutes before applying makeup: your foundation will adhere better and won't slide. Many face sunscreens also act as primers.

Is foundation with SPF enough?

Usually, no. To achieve the stated protection, you would need to use a much larger amount of foundation than we normally do. It's a great extra layer of protection, but it doesn't replace sunscreen.

Reapplying protection during the day

• SPF spray or mist: spray over your makeup with your eyes closed, from about twenty centimeters away.
• SPF powder: convenient for touch-ups and mattifying, especially useful in the city.
• Sunscreen sticks: practical for the nose, cheekbones, and ears, the areas that burn first.

However, at the beach or in the mountains, makeup takes a backseat: there you need real sunscreen, applied generously and reapplied often.

Frequently asked questions

Should sunscreen be applied before or after foundation?

Before: after moisturizer, letting it absorb for a few minutes before applying foundation.

Is foundation with SPF enough as sun protection?

Usually no, because you would need to use a lot more to get the stated protection. It's an extra layer of protection, not a replacement for sunscreen.

How do you reapply sunscreen over makeup?

With an SPF spray or mist, a powder with protection, or a sunscreen stick on the most exposed areas.