How To Reapply Sunscreen Over Makeup

Sunscreen is the most important part of your daily skincare routine. But, believe it or not, this is the product that’s most often skipped. For those who do apply it, a very small percentage actually top it up throughout the day and, while this is probably down to a number of reasons, makeup plays a key role. It can seem an almost impossible task to reapply sunscreen without messing up your makeup. However, there are a few tricks that can solve this.

So, how can you reapply sunscreen over makeup? And how often should you be doing this?

Keep reading to find out.

Why should you reapply sunscreen?

In chemical sunscreen, exposure to sunlight breaks down the actives – the ingredients that prevent the sun’s UV rays from reaching your skin. In physical sunscreens, prolonged wear causes the minerals to stick together which reduces their effectiveness.

The protective capacity of our sunscreen is also likely to be affected by natural actions, such as touching our face or sweating. These can’t really be avoided, so reapplying SPF is the easiest way to counter them.

How often should you reapply sunscreen?

How often you reapply your sunscreen really depends on circumstance. If you’re planning on being out in the sun for a large portion of the day, e.g. you’re going to the beach or for a picnic, then it’s recommended that you top up every two hours. If you’re spending most of the day inside, away from direct sunlight, then reapplying it once should be fine.

Does makeup with SPF work?

Given their claims, it’s not silly to believe that makeup products containing SPF provide adequate protection from the sun. After all, that’s often their selling point. However, the amount of foundation that you would actually need for the SPF to be effective is just not wearable. You’d have to absolutely cover yourself in it to get any kind of benefit! That’s why it’s so important to purchase products that can be considered sunscreens in their own right, these are going to have the most protective power.

4 easy ways to reapply sunscreen over makeup (from least to most effective):

1. Try a brush-on powder

While many people are still not convinced about the effectiveness of powder sunscreens, it’s definitely better to have some protection than none at all. Loose powder sunscreens are really easy to apply and can be really beneficial for oily skin types since they absorb excess sebum.

Most come with their own brush so these are also perfect for travelling (or just generally taking on the go). Here are some of my top picks:

• Brush On Block SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen
• Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

2. Opt for a sun protection spray or mist

Sprays are the SPF of choice for many makeup enthusiasts. They offer nice even coverage without the need to even touch your face. Sounds ideal, right?

The only issue with these is that you’ll probably have to apply a couple of layers in order to get the required level of protection. So, make sure to apply this generously and don’t forget your ears and neck!

It’s also a good idea to avoid aerosol sunscreens as these are diluted by propellant. A manual pump might require more effort, but it’s worth it for better protection.

I would recommend the Vichy Idéal Soleil Solar Protective Water, since it’s super hydrating. I also really like the Shiseido Sun Protection Spray as a slightly cheaper option.

3. Use a sun pact

This is where we start getting into high-coverage territory. A sun pact is, as it sounds, a compact that contains sunscreen instead of foundation.

You apply the sunscreen over the top of your makeup by carefully patting the cushion applicator onto your skin. Doing this shouldn’t disturb what’s laying underneath, but if it does you can always touch up your blush or bronzer afterwards.

The VT Essence sun pact is an amazing option. Or, if you already have a favourite sunscreen, you can buy an empty compact case and just fill it up with a product of your choice!

4. Use a microfibre sponge

I actually got this tip from pharmaceutical scientist Hannah English who states that this is her preferred way of applying SPF over the top of makeup. Following this method, she says, you can be sure that 1) you’re wearing enough and 2) that your makeup still looks good.

Hannah suggests using a microfibre sponge to apply your sunscreen (instead of a beauty blender) as it applies more evenly and absorbs less product. She recommends squeezing a couple of drops of your chosen sunscreen onto the sponge and then gently pressing it onto your face, starting with the areas where you’re most likely to catch the sun.

TOP TIP: Make sure that you’re using a dry sponge, as you don’t want water interfering with the way the sunscreen applies or the way it lasts throughout the day.

For a proper walkthrough, check out Hannah’s video down below:

How do you apply sunscreen over your makeup? Do you have any other tips?