8 Ways to Reapply SPF Over Makeup, According to Dermatologists
Medically reviewed by Lucy Chen, MD
At this point, we all know we should be wearing sunscreen every single day. Even if it isn't particularly sunny or you're not spending hours outside, harmful UV rays can still cause damage. Yes, even if it's cloudy and you're just sitting at home by a window, you still need sunscreen. And not just that, but it's also critical to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, despite wearing makeup that may have some SPF in it.
We understand that remembering to reapply SPF every two hours can be annoying and that applying it on top of makeup may even sound like even more of a deal-breaker. However, just because you spent time to achieve a flawless face doesn't mean that your SPF is going to mess it up. In fact, there are many ways to reapply sunscreen over makeup without having it budge.
We spoke to dermatologists, Doris Day and Marina Peredo to get their tips on protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays throughout the day while keeping your makeup intact. Read on for the best ways to incorporate SPF setting sprays, powder sunscreens and more.
Meet the Experts
Doris Day, MD, is a New York City-based, board-certified dermatologist specializing in laser, cosmetic, surgical, and aesthetic dermatology at her practice .
Marina Peredo, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist who practices aesthetic, laser, and surgical dermatology. Her practice, Skinfluence, is based in New York City.
Apply Sunscreen All Over Your Face
First things first, before you can even think about reapplying your sunscreen, you need to start with a solid base. “The best way to approach sunscreen and makeup is to lay a strong foundation of SPF before applying any makeup," emphasizes Dr. Peredo. This should be a non-negotiable step in your skincare routine every single day.
The rule of thumb is to squeeze sunscreen onto your pointer and middle fingers and apply that much to your face. This should be more than enough to cover your entire face, ears, and neck, but feel free to apply more if necessary.
Use a 2-in-1 Makeup Primer
Many sunscreens work fabulously under makeup, but some are actually formulated to keep it in place and prolong its wear time. Consider using an SPF that doubles as a makeup primer. Apart from saving you a little bit of money and a step in your routine, it'll help elongate the life of your look, especially on hot days when you're more prone to sweat. We like Live Tinted's 3-in-1 Mineral Sunscreen, Moisturizer, and Primer SPF 30 because it doesn't leave a white cast.
Consider a Sunscreen Tint
Dr. Peredo says your best bet is to take the “multitasker” approach and use a tinted SPF. She says it can be applied lightly– with your fingers, a sponge, or makeup brush– on top of your makeup (and your first layer of sunscreen) to freshen up your skin and add another layer of SPF protection. Using tinted formulas such as ILIA's Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 can also take the place of a heavier foundation if you're looking for a lighter alternative to wear during warmer months.
Touch Up With a Powdered Sunscreen
One of the easiest ways to reapply SPF on the go is with a light dusting of powder sunscreen. Dr. Day recommends mineral-based powder formulas as they "are designed to go over makeup and keep you protected. She adds that not reapplying your sunscreen makes it "as if you never applied it [in the first place], due to the fact sunscreen wears off or degrades within a few hours of application."
Look for an all-in-one formula like Supergoop! (Re)Setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35, which dispenses straight from the brush for an easy touch-up. It's a fan favorite and comes in four universal shades. Swirl it over your face in a circular motion until it's blended and you're good to go (for two more hours that is)/ Powder sunscreens are a great alternative to lotions and creams if you tend to be oily and want to maintain a matte finish on your skin throughout the day.
Spritz On SPF Setting Spray
If you don't want to actually touch your face– we get wanting to keep things hands-free when you feel sweaty and gross– an SPF setting spray is the perfect answer. Mist generously over your face for a sunscreen refresh and a little pick-me-up.
Dr. Peredo recommends reapplying it "on top of makeup every 30 minutes if you are directly in the sun or every two-to-three hours if you are not." So basically, if you're at the pool or beach, be sure to use your refreshing SPF mist consistently, and if you're out and about running errands, every few hours is fine. COOLA's Makeup Setting Spray Organic Sunscreen SPF 30 is ideal to spray multiple times a day for ensured protection. Pro tip: keep it in a cooler if you're at the beach or a sporting event to maximize its refreshing feel.
Get Your SPF From a Compact
Portable pressed powder compacts that have SPF are great, too. It's important to pay attention to the SPF number, though. Dr. Day says that "SPF 30 is the perfect place to start when looking for suitable SPF options" and doesn't recommend SPF 15 or below for anyone, especially on the face.
When using portable powder compacts, be sure not to double-dip sweaty sponges back into the compact as this can cause bacteria to spread and compromise the top layer of your powder compact. It may even become bumpy or hardened by excess oil, so keep an eye out for that. If you're looking for a cream-to-powder compact, Avène Mineral Tinted Compact SPF 50 is suitable for base makeup and touch-ups.
Blot Your SPF On Repeat
Blotting your regular sunscreen on top of your makeup using a sponge is also a suitable and efficient option for re-applying your SPF. To do this, add your regular liquid or cream SPF to a sponge and lightly blot all over the face until it's been absorbed and each area is covered.
Throw On a Hat with UPF Protection
While this isn't technically a reapplication method, certain types of fabrics do contain UV protection and can effectively protect the skin from the sun. Dr. Day recommends wearing hats with broad brims, sunglasses with UV protection, soaking up as much shade as possible, avoiding mid-day sun when it's the strongest, and wearing protective sun clothing. Look for hats and clothing with labels stating the UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating on it.
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