Best Tips For Reapplying Sunscreen Over Makeup
Another blog = another opportunity to convince you on the importance of SPF. It’s quite literally, a non-negotiable. Without question, the most important skincare product you can use every single day is sunscreen. But here's the thing—you need to be using enough and reapplying it regularly. Which enters the big question of today, how do I reapply if I am wearing makeup?
I am going to keep this blog a little extra blunt and honest with you, but it’s only because I care!
Keep reading for all my reapplication tips and truths.
Do You Really Need to Reapply Sunscreen?
Probably obvious after that first paragraph, but Y-E-S. Even the most advanced sunscreen needs a refresh. UV filters break down over time with sun exposure, sweat, skin oils, and touch. So while your morning application is essential, it’s unfortunately just not enough to last all day.
Now, I do think it’s important to preface my “rules” on this subject. While I am going to reapply multiple times a day regardless of the day, it does vary slightly based on the day’s events. For example, if I’m outside, at the beach, on a walk, or in the sun for more than a few minutes, I reapply every 2 hours like clockwork (this might seem overboard, but I know a lot of people who set an alarm, and I fully support this). On the flip side, I’m indoors all day, I’m a little less rigid, but I still reapply at least once or twice during the day.
Reminder: Sun damage is cumulative. That means every unprotected minute adds up. And consistent reapplication helps prevent early aging, discoloration, and—most importantly—skin cancer.
What I Don’t Use to Reapply (Even If It’s Trending)
Ok before we get into my re-application tips, I do want to briefly cover the products I do NOT subscribe to. This might disappoint some of you, because I know it’s tempting to reach for sprays, powders, and sticks because they seem more makeup-friendly, but let me be real with you: they don’t give adequate protection unless you’re using an absurd amount.
Here’s the science (LabMuffin and I actually discuss each of these in a recent podcast episode):
Sticks: Studies show that you’d need 30+ swipes per area to get full SPF coverage. Let’s be honest, nobody is doing 30+ swipes per area. Most people only do a few passes.
Sprays: At best, only about 1/5 to 1/15 of the product lands on your skin. The rest floats off into the air unless you spray into your hand and apply it like a lotion (which lowkey defeats the purpose).
Powders: Let me just start by saying, even brands like Colorescience admit they provide very minimal protection. They’re great for reducing shine, but I wouldn’t rely on them for actual UV defense.
Bottom line: They’re obviously better than nothing, but nowhere near good enough.
What I Actually Do Instead
Ok enough on what I don’t use, let’s talk about what I use (and swear by):
This might be anticlimactic, but the truth is that 9/10 times, I reapply with the same sunscreen I used in the morning—because I know how it interacts with my makeup and skin.
I will squeeze 1/4 teaspoon of my favorite cream SPF onto the back of my hand.
I grab a clean, damp beauty blender or brush and dab the product gently into my skin.
I cover my entire face, neck, and chest.
Is there a tiny bit of makeup disruption? Yes. But the trade-off for real sun protection is more than worth it in my book. Plus, when using the right textures, the disruption is barely noticeable.
My Favorite SPFs for Reapplication
You can take a peek at my favorite sunscreen for every skin type, but here is a little roundup of my favs!
And for the body: Supergoop PLAY Everyday Lotion is always in my tote.
A Quick Note on Makeup with SPF…
This feels sorta on topic, so I want to throw it out there. I never rely on SPF in makeup alone. The amount you’d need to apply to get the full labeled protection is wild—like seven layers of foundation wild. But I do love using makeup with SPF as a bonus layer.
Some of my go-to makeup products that contain SPF:
IT Cosmetics CC Cream
Layering SPF is one of those rare situations in life where more really is more. Just don’t confuse “extra” with “enough.”
Alright that’s all for me! DM me any and all SPF questions! Happy Summer & reapply your SPF! Hungry for more? Don’t worry, I have a COMPREHENSIVE Skincare Guide For those who are ready to take a deep dive and overhaul their routine!
xx Amy
**Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and may contain products gifted in PR. This means that I may earn a small commission when you purchase via these links at no additional cost to you (thank you! It helps me keep things up and running)… As always I ONLY recommend products, goods and services that I stand behind and personally love and use.
