by Alexandra Nicole Nuralam

Here Are 5 Ways You Can Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup

Everyone knows how important sunscreen is, but just as important is reapplying SPF so that your skin is protected throughout the day. You can pat yourself on the back all you want for applying sunscreen religiously every morning but that doesn’t mean the same level of protection stays for the rest of the day. If you want to fully reap the benefits of your SPF, you need to be reapplying it every few hours. The real question then comes down to this: how can we reapply sunscreen over makeup without actually ruining it? 

We get it—reapplying sunscreen over makeup sounds like messy business. Not to mention how icky it feels to layer something else on top of your full face of makeup. But don’t let that deter you from protecting your skin properly. Ahead, all the facts you need to know on reapplying SPF for high-level protection from the sun all year long.

Start with a good SPF base

A strong SPF base is vital to make sure that your skin is protected from the start—and no, SPF in your makeup products doesn’t count. Not only should you put on sunscreen daily, but you should be reapplying often, especially when you’re outside, next to a window, or at the beach. 

You can also opt for tinted sunscreen instead of liquid foundation—it’ll make reapplication a breeze. 

For liquid sunscreens: use a beauty blender 

Sometimes the right tools can really help. If you’re using a regular liquid or cream SPF, grab a dry beauty blender, squeeze out a small amount of sunscreen, and dab—don’t drag!—the product over your face. Concentrate on dotting and blending on a small area at a time for coverage, then move on to the next section.

You’ll also want to look for a lightweight sunscreen because it spreads more freely over the skin. Heavier, thicker formulas may require a degree of rubbing that might disturb your makeup.

Use a powdered sunscreen

A quick and mess-free option, it’s easy to touch up your SPF situation with a light powder sunscreen on top of makeup. All you need is to lightly dust it all over the face in a circular motion until it’s efficiently blended. Powder sunscreens are a great alternative to liquid and cream sunscreens if your skin is on the oilier side and want to look relatively shine-free throughout the day. Plus, they’re so easy to throw in a bag for easy reapplication anywhere. 

Be generous with SPF setting spray

If you carry a face mist around, maybe it’s time to upgrade it to one with SPF. It’ll leave you with one less thing to worry about—all you have to do is spritz every 2 to 3 hours for continued sun protection.

Remove makeup and reapply sunscreen

While reapplying sunscreen is good for incidental sun exposure—going for coffee runs or a short commute—you do need more protection if you’re planning a beach day or a tennis date. 

Wipe off your makeup and apply your SPF of choice to a clean, dry base 20 minutes before exposure.

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