Makeup + SPF Reapplication

If you're a skincare nerd like myself, you will know all about the importance of using daily SPF not only for sun protection, but for anti-aging as well as supporting our skin barrier with our use of actives in our skincare products. You will (hopefully) also know we are only protected by our SPF for 2-3 hours after every application. So what does that mean for those who wear make up everyday? Reapplying your sunscreen over a full glam look is...not ideal. 

Here's the deal...

When you apply sunscreen in the morning (under your makeup), you’re protected for about 2-3 hours. After that, your sunscreen is no longer doing its job, so yes, you need to be reapplying to be maintaining your SPF protection throughout the day. 

Here are some truths on SPF reapplication:

• Make up containing SPF: Yes you can get make up that contains SPF but here's the reality kick - you need 1 teaspoon (approx 5ml) of SPF for your face neck and chest which means the amount you need for adequate protection will likely end up making you look like one of willy wonka's oompa loompas. Not to mention make up containing SPF is usually in the 15-30+ broad spectrum range. 
  
  

• Sunscreen mist spray's: An SPF reapplication spray is never truly accurate - think of a fake tan spray at home: if you just spritzed it on, you’d be left with uneven splatters, patchy coverage, and poor absorption. To get proper protection, you’d still need to rub it in, which defeats the purpose of a mist in the first place. On top of that, the amount of SPF that actually reaches your face through a mist is far from adequate for real sun protection.

• Powder SPF: Is simply not enough protection

So What Can You Do?

Here’s where I say: do your best. You may have some days where you can go make up free which makes SPF reapplication easier, or you may have days where SPF reapplication looks like applying tinted moisturiser onto key zones (cheeks, nose, forehead) or simply just avoiding the sun 😳

I think a big part of it is about finding a SPF 50+ in a formula and finish that really works for your skin. Generally, reapplying it gently over your makeup won’t cause any major mishaps, and a quick touch of bronzer and blush on top usually has everything looking fresh and flawless again. 

💡 Fun fact: The difference between SPF 15+ (93% protection) and SPF 50+ (98% protection) isn’t that dramatic - so even small reapplications are worth it and is part of the "do your best" rule of thumb. 

Remember, in terms of sun protection, SPF is one of many things you should be doing for adequate protection - slip (on protective clothing), slop (on SPF), slap (on a hat), seek (shade) and slide (on sunglasses). 

Bottom Line

Perfect SPF habits are tricky if you wear makeup. The best thing you can do? Apply generously in the morning, do your best with reapplication, and don’t stress if it’s not flawless. Consistency beats perfection every time 🧴✨