Is the SPF in your makeup routine still effective?
It’s become a trend to incorporate SPF into multiple steps of your routine, but is SPF in makeup worth the hype?
Clients frequently ask me if they’re getting enough sun protection by only using makeup with SPF in it, and unfortunately, this is not a sufficient level of protection. There are several factors that make SPF in makeup not as effective as a standalone SPF. So let’s cover the primary reasons!
Reapplication is imperative for SPF efficacy
For any SPF, reapplication is imperative to it remaining functional. You need to reapply SPF every 2 hours; otherwise, your skin is not fully protected. Since one of the reasons people opt for SPF in their makeup routine is convenience, I like to point out that this is where the convenience ends. Having to reapply a tinted moisturizer every two hours will likely lead to cakey results—which is the opposite goal for most people using tinted moisturizers. So it’s not bad to have SPF in your tinted moisturizer or foundation, but be prepared to use something else when reapplying.
Lower SPF Ratings
Many SPF ratings found in makeup products are lower than the suggested minimum, which is 30 SPF. This means you’re not getting enough UVA and UVB protection to prevent sun damage. It’s also important to understand that layering multiple SPF products does not increase the level of protection. If you wear SPF 15 and SPF 30, you aren’t getting the SPF 45 level of protection. So, incorporating SPF into every part of your makeup routine (throwing a little shade at Colorescience here) doesn’t improve your overall coverage. And while many companies aren’t claiming this, the consumer may assume that this is the case.
Less Effective Application
Aside from needing to reapply, products like tinted moisturizers are less effective overall due to the formulation. You need to apply at least 1/4 teaspoon of SPF to the face for it to be effective. This is likely a lot more product than the amount of tinted moisturizer or foundation that you would be using. This makes it tricky to get complete and even coverage with products that aren’t solely an SPF. If you want to use a tinted SPF, you may consider adding your favorite foundation to your favorite SPF instead. Just make sure you do it during the application! Never mix anything into your SPF bottle, as you could alter its efficacy.
The Conclusion
While the SPF in your makeup is technically still effective, it may not be the best option for you if it’s your sole SPF. If your fave tinted moisturizer has SPF in it, don’t feel like you have to throw it out! Just make sure you incorporate a regular sunscreen into your routine to ensure you’re getting the best coverage possible.
In my professional opinion, I don’t recommend that my clients rely on their makeup with SPF in it for safe sun exposure. I always recommend an SPF that they enjoy applying and that their skin agrees with, which has at least 30 SPF coverage. Some of my favorite formulations that are lightweight and easy to reapply are the Everyday Humans Resting Beach Face (SPF 30) and the Korean Skincare Brand Pfect-A Solar Elixir Sunscreen (SPF 50).
If you’re curious about sunscreens, check out this article from the American Academy of Dermatology Association. I encourage you to wear sunscreen and protect your skin from harmful UV rays, despite the current trends that are demonizing sunscreen or suggesting alternatives.
