Reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is essential for effective skin protection, but doing so over makeup can be challenging. Dermatologists and makeup artists share their advice on how to maintain sun protection without compromising your look.
Whether you use a moisturizer with SPF or a mineral sunscreen, the general guideline is to apply at least two finger-lengths of sunscreen every day, regardless of weather, and to reapply every two hours. However, for those who wear makeup, reapplying sunscreen throughout the day can be tricky.
Removing makeup to reapply sunscreen is not practical, which often leads to people applying sunscreen just once daily. But experts stress that reapplication is crucial for maintaining effective protection.
Dr. Clare Kiely, a dermatologist and co-founder of The Skin Diary, emphasizes that 80% of visible skin aging is caused by UV exposure rather than chronological age. While sunlight provides necessary vitamin D, sunscreen is vital to prevent skin damage and reduce skin cancer risk.
“If you spend extended time outdoors—such as on sunny vacations, swimming, or exercising—your sunscreen can wear off. That’s why regular reapplication every two hours is essential,” Dr. Kiely advises. She also recommends wearing UV-protective clothing to provide more durable protection that won’t wash off.
For those mostly indoors during the day, applying sunscreen once in the morning and again before leaving the house or returning outdoors is usually sufficient, she adds.
Some sunscreen filters degrade when exposed to UV light over time—a process called photodegradation—even without water or sweat. Although newer technologies with encapsulated and stabilized filters have improved durability, repeated application remains necessary.
Experts recommend applying about half a teaspoon of sunscreen to cover the face, neck, ears, and hairline. When using sprays or powders with SPF, ensure even coverage, as these lighter formulations can be harder to track.
Makeup artist Kenneth Soh prefers using a makeup sponge to gently pat on a lightweight, non-greasy liquid sunscreen for reapplication, similar to applying loose powder. He notes this technique works best for lighter skin tones, as it may cause unevenness on darker complexions. For all skin tones, he suggests using an SPF-setting spray.
Makeup artist Mira Parmar agrees, praising SPF sprays for their ease of use and ability to maintain makeup integrity. She recommends products like Naked Sundays SPF50 Moisturizing Radiance Spray, which offers protection without disturbing makeup and leaves a radiant finish.
Parmar also favors Ultra Violette’s Preen Screen SPF50 and Ultrasun Wet Family Skin Spray, both transparent, fast-absorbing, long-lasting, and suitable for both dry and damp skin.
SPF powders are another option, available in tinted and transparent versions, though color ranges may be limited. Supergoop’s Setting Powder Stick SPF30 provides light coverage, sets makeup, and delivers sun protection throughout the day.
Related Topics
