Is Makeup With SPF Enough For Sun Protection?
Makeup with SPF is not new but has become more popular lately. This article will explain what is makeup with SPF and the correct way to use it.
Let’s get started.
What is makeup with SPF?
Makeup with SPF means that sunscreen was added to the makeup’s composition.
It can be in the form of a foundation, tinted moisturizer, or powders like bronzer or setting powder.
It is usually formulated with physical sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that shield the skin against UV rays.
You need to check the label because each product differs on the SPF level and ingredients.
Look for products whose finish and coverage look and feel like your usual makeup.
Is makeup with SPF effective?
No. Sunscreen present in makeup fades after a few hours.
Makeup companies use a far thicker layer in testing the SPF in their products than what you are applying when you use the product.
To get the same protection as a regular sunscreen you would need 7 times the foundation usually applied or 1 to 1.5 teaspoons.
You don’t use that amount of makeup daily.
Not only that but many times makeup is not applied evenly leaving skin exposed to sun rays and transfers onto clothing or brushes decreasing optimal coverage.
You would need much more makeup than you typically use to reach the labelled SPF.
SPF makeup will never be as effective as applying sunscreen and makeup separately.
Related: SPF levels Made Easy
Should you stop using makeup with SPF?
You can still use makeup with SPF for added protection, but it is not a replacement for regular sunscreen.
The FDA recommends that sunscreen should be applied separately before makeup.
Don’t forget to wait at least 5 minutes before applying makeup to allow the sunscreen to be absorbed by the skin.
Alternatively, use a moisturizer formulated with sunscreen with an SPF of a minimum of 15 before applying makeup.
You must still reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Powder sunscreen or spray sunscreen guarantee protection from the sun’s UV rays without ruining your makeup. Use a beauty blender, fingers or sponge to press the spray or powder sunscreen onto the skin.a
Disclaimer: This article is informational only. This article does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. If you have questions or concerns about caring for your skin, you should make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist.
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