Stay Glowing: Mastering the Art of Reapplying Sunscreen Over Makeup

If SPF isn’t already your BFF, it’s time to make a friendship pact – for life. Even if you’ve spent ample time applying your makeup, you can still protect your skin without messing it all up. In this guide, we’ll talk you through how to reapply your sunscreen without ruining your gorgeous face of makeup (and taking away the compliments you deserve).

The role of sunscreen in your beauty routine

Do we really need to list the benefits of sunscreen? Okay, well, apart from preventing sun damage and premature ageing, a morning application (and subsequent reapplications) provides skin protection against skin spots and skin cancer. All that? It’s reason enough to look after your precious skin.

Why reapply sunscreen over makeup?

Most suncare brands recommend reapplication every 2 hours, and more frequently when sweating, swimming or toweling. Sure – while you’re likely not sporting a full face of makeup at the beach, harmful UV rays can still cause damage if you’re just driving, walking, or even if you’re just sitting by the window. This is why it’s so important to reapply throughout the day, no matter what’s on the agenda.

Challenges of reapplying sunscreen over makeup

You may face some, shall we say, challenges when reapplying sunscreen over makeup. (You know – cakiness, smudges, a sweaty mess, etc.) After all, why interfere with the natural, flawless look you worked so hard on? This is often why many makeup wearers choose to avoid sunscreen reapplication altogether. Big mistake. See, the benefits of our bestie SPF outweigh the sunburn and long-term skin damage. Just ask our other bestie Aloe Vera – she’s (literally) seen it all.

❤️ You'll love: Meet Sundae’s Skincare’s Anti-Inflammatory MVPs

The best sunscreen reapplication tips

Want to avoid caking, smudging and everything in between? Discover our top tips on how to reapply sunscreen over makeup.

1. Look for make-up-friendly sunscreen options: Opt for an SPF spray or a powder that is specially formulated to be spritzed or dabbed on top of your base makeup.
   
   
2. Try products with built-in SPF: Many foundations, skin tints and face moisturizers have a low level of SPF. While they offer some protection against UV rays, they typically feature SPF15. For better coverage, consider opting for products with more protection. (SPF30 or SPF50 work a treat.)
   
   
3. Use an SPF setting spray: Thankfully, times have changed, and SPF reapplication is waaaay easier these days. (*Ahem* – brands are finally seeing the light!) A prime example is an SPF reapplication mist, which is a perfect addition to your summer makeup bag. (For touch-ups and glow-ups, whenever you need it! Plus, they’re super fun to spritz on.)

It’s time to fall in love with sunscreen (that is if you haven’t already). ‘Cause, as a crucial step of your daily beauty routine, it helps to maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin. (Love. Literally. Head over heels. From your head to your heels. Need we say more?!)

P.S: It’s always a good idea to have a ‘sunny day stash’ with you – you know, a section in your tote or serious business bag for your sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat (and maybe some snacks). You never really know where the day will take you. So, keep calm and SPF on. Again and again and again.

Happy Sundae x

Written By: Lizzie Waley (Sundae Co-Founder & Body Care Enthusiast) | LinkedIn

Fact Checked: Charnnie Frimpong (Sundae Content Marketing Manager) | Linkedin