Sunscreen and makeup have had a complicated relationship. We all know the drill: Slather on the SPF before facing the day, but once my makeup is perfectly applied, the thought of reapplying sunscreen and risking that masterpiece is irritating, to say at the least. Enter makeup with SPF. It sounds like the perfect solution, right?
Right but like all good journalists, I always investigate when something sounds too good to be true. So before I toss my traditional sunscreens out the window, let’s take a deep dive into whether SPF-infused makeup really cuts it as our sole protector against those pesky UV rays.
The SPF Makeup Conundrum
Makeup with SPF makes some big claims to shield our skin from the sun. The convenience is undeniable but according to the experts, while these multitaskers offer some level of protection, they are not the knights in shining armour you’re hoping for.
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and it’s all about measuring how well a sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays, the kind that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. The catch with makeup products boasting SPF is that, the level of protection provided is directly related to how generously the product is applied – and when’s the last time you applied your foundation as liberally as your sunscreen?
“SPF in makeup can provide some level of sun protection, but it may not be sufficient on its own. The amount of makeup typically applied is often less than the recommended amount of sunscreen to achieve the stated protection level. Additionally, makeup may wear off or need to be reapplied throughout the day, leading to decreased protection over time,” says Dr Niti Gaur, Board Certified Dermatologist & Founder of Citrine Clinic.
Dermatologists and makeup artists, all agree that while incorporating SPF into makeup is beneficial, relying on it solely for sun protection might leave your skin vulnerable. To achieve the SPF listed on your makeup, you’d need to apply much more than the average person does. Think about it: a coin-sized dollop of sunscreen (or two the length of two fingers) is recommended for your face alone. Can you imagine using that much foundation?
The Verdict
It’s not all doom and gloom. Makeup with SPF certainly has its place, especially for those days spent mostly indoors with occasional sun exposure. For a trip to the beach or an outdoor workout, however, it’s best to stick with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF count.
The optimal strategy? “Always apply a dedicated sunscreen first: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, formulated for your skin type, and apply the recommended amount to all exposed areas. Consider SPF makeup as a bonus: Use makeup with SPF as an extra layer of protection, focusing on areas exposed after sunscreen application, like your lips or hairline,” says Dr. Sravya C. Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist at Manipal Hospitals.
This approach offers the best of both worlds: robust protection from the sun and a flawless complexion. Here are a few of our sunscreen favs.
So, is SPF in makeup as good as traditional sunscreen? In a nutshell, no. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth using. Think of SPF makeup as the cherry on top of your sun protection routine, not the whole sundae. By layering sunscreen beneath your makeup, you can enjoy the added benefits of SPF-infused products without compromising on protection.
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