Last updated on November 9th, 2025 at 09:59 pm
Is Makeup With SPF Enough For Sun Protection?
Makeup with SPF is not new, but it is more popular lately.
This article explains what makeup with SPF is and the correct way to use it.
Let’s get started.
What is makeup with SPF?
Makeup with SPF means that the makeup’s composition contains sunscreen.
Which makeup has SPF?
Makeup with SPF can be in the form of a foundation, tinted moisturiser, or powders like bronzer or setting powder.
It is usually formulated with physical sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that shield the skin against UV rays.
You need to check the label because each product differs on the SPF level and ingredients.
Look for products with the same finish, coverage, look and feel as your usual makeup.
Related: SPF Levels Made Easy
Does makeup with SPF work?
The sunscreen present in the makeup fades after a few hours.
Makeup companies use far thicker layers in testing the SPF in their products than what you use.
To get the same protection as a regular sunscreen, you would need a lot more makeup than what you usually apply.
You don’t use that amount of makeup daily.
Not only that, but many times makeup is not applied evenly, leaving the skin exposed to the sun’s rays.
Makeup also transfers onto clothing or brushes, decreasing optimal coverage.
You would need much more makeup than you typically use to reach the labelled SPF.
SPF makeup will never be as effective as applying sunscreen and makeup separately.
Should you stop using makeup with SPF?
You can still use makeup with SPF for added protection, but it is not a replacement for regular sunscreen.
Apply the sunscreen first.
Wait at least 5 minutes before applying makeup to allow the sunscreen to be absorbed by the skin.
Alternatively, use a moisturizer formulated with sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 before applying makeup.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Powder sunscreen or spray sunscreen guarantees protection from the sun’s UV rays without ruining your makeup.
Use a beauty blender, fingers or sponge to press the spray or powder sunscreen onto the skin.
Disclaimer: This article is informational only. This article does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. If you have questions or concerns about caring for your skin, you should make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist.
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