Skin School

Is Sunscreen in Makeup enough?

We hear this question from our readers all time... "If my foundation has SPF 50, do I need to wear sunscreen under it?"

Well keep reading to find out the answer from dermatologists.

Makeup with SPF, especially in summer is the biggest temptation. To rely on it solely would be a bad mistake for your skin.

Dermatologist Leslie Baumann, MD, says "Makeup does not provide enough coverage, you need seven times the normal amount of foundation and 14 times the normal amount of powder to get the sun protection factor on the label."

The reality is, no one does this!

“Having more protection is never a bad thing,” says Dermatologist Chiu. “Sometimes makeup rubs off, SPFs breakdown on the skin, etc., so having some backup is the safest!”

There is no way around it, even if you layer an SPF 15 foundation over an SPF 30 sunscreen, you won’t get 45-level coverage.

Both dermatologists recommend applying sunscreen before makeup. If you need to touch-up throughout the day, try a mineral powder SPF, great during summer.

Or try wearing sunscreen as a primer. Try Black Girl sunscreen, it is as lightweight and an easy way to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. We sell in the UK Black girl sunscreen in our store so please grab a bottle and keep your skin protected.

Our guide to wearing sunscreen before makeup

1. Select the proper sunscreen

2. Apply a thin layer of sunscreen on your face, neck, and ears

3. Let it dry

4. Apply your makeup

Our thoughts.....

You can never be too protected from the sun, especially with the damaging effect of sun rays, so layer on that SPF. Always start with a proper sunscreen as a base, and use makeup with SPF only for lasting protection.

Don't forget to reapply your sunscreen throughout the day! We know it’s a pain, but your skin will thank you!