We get it: Sunscreen can be sticky, greasy, and heavy. It can also leave a ghostly white cast and make your makeup slide off by midday. So, do you really need sunscreen before makeup?
Straight answer: YES.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable — even under makeup. Skip the SPF, and you’re laying your skin wide open to dark spots, acne scarring, wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging… not to talk about skin cancer.
According to Yale Medicine, 90% of premature skin aging (think wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, and sun spots) is a direct consequence of not wearing sunscreen and that everything else in your skincare routine is useless if the complexion is unprotected against sun damage.
And no, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, SPF-enriched makeup does not help protect against sun damage.
Why? Firstly, for adequate sun protection, you will need to apply a dollop about the size of a nickel on your face — that’s roughly seven times the amount of foundation than is normal, even for full coverage. Which is not going to be a good look.
Secondly, makeup isn’t always applied evenly and comes off easily, which makes it a notoriously ineffective ‘screen against sun exposure.
On the other hand, layering makeup over sunscreen increases its sun protection factor — so say the experts, like the American Academy of Dermatology! To get the maximum benefits from both, ensure you’re layering them correctly. After cleansing and toning, apply your sunscreen. Let it sink into your skin for a few minutes before applying your makeup. This ensures your sunscreen has properly absorbed and provides a seamless base for your makeup.
And finally, it’s important to remember that the FDA has rigorous standards for what constitutes “sunscreen” (and with good reason, given the scope of sun damage). Makeup with sun-protective ingredients doesn’t qualify as sunscreen — it’s just still makeup with a little extra thrown in.
So, you absolutely do need sunscreen under your makeup — at least if you want good skin for the rest of your life.
Fortunately, there’s a whole new crop of sunscreens for makeup that actually give your foundations, powders, and blushes a smooth base along with staying power rather than hinder the process.
Think transparent formulations, no greasiness, mattifying ingredients like silica and lightweight textures that layer without pilling — yes, these exist!
Want to learn how to make the best choice? Scroll below to understand everything you need to know about choosing the best sunscreen for face under makeup — and how to layer it for maximum effect.
Best sunscreens for face under makeup
It sounds like a lot to ask from SPF, but the perfect sunscreen for makeup does exist! Where to find these skincare unicorns? And what about tinted sunscreens that can actually do double duty as makeup?
We have rounded off the best facial sunscreens for under makeup, right here. Pick. Choose. Create the perfect face. And keep it going through the day.
PS: Check out this post for the best sunscreens over makeup when you need to top up throughout the day!
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 PA+++
An absolutely clear gel that literally disappears into skin within seconds sans any white cast (even on darker skin tones), feels like nothing and dries down to a blurring finish — almost like a primer. Plus, it also has high sweat- and water resistance. This one is my personal favorite sunscreen for makeup.
Where to buy: Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Amazon
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 Sunscreen
There’s a reason Supergoop! rules the sunscreen stakes… they make a sunscreen for literally every skin type. If yours tends to be on the drier side, the Glowscreen has added hyaluronic acid for hydration (so makeup doesn’t start getting cakey), along with the same blurring effect and sheer weightlessness of the Supergoop! Unseen (above).
Where to buy: Sephora, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Amazon
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
A velvety textured sunscreen that’s ultra-light, oil-free, non-shiny, non-greasy, fragrance-free and melts into skin like a dream — quickly and without any white residue. It’s also water-resistant for 80 minutes, in case you and your (waterproof) makeup are planning any swimming activities.
DUNE The Mug Guard Sunscreen SPF 50
This premium sunscreen not only delivers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection but is also infused with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to nourish and hydrate your skin. Its ultra-lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving no residue or white cast, making it perfect under makeup. Designed for all skin types, including sensitive, its non-comedogenic and anti-pollution properties ensure your skin stays clear and protected. Ideal for daily use, DUNE Mug Guard blends seamlessly into any beauty regimen, promoting a radiant and healthy complexion.
Where to buy: Amazon
Fenty Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen
It’s a handful of a name but like all things that RiRi’s magic touches, this oil-free sunscreen layers perfectly under the heaviest makeup, with no piling or flashback. It also won’t appear ashy even on the darkest complexions and is made from coral-reef friendly ingredients.
Where to buy: Amazon
Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer
This sunscreen is more like a makeup primer that sets the perfect great base for the rest of your products with its sheer, velvety texture and a formula that actually mops ups extra oils through the day. It goes on white but dries completely transparent, so don’t have a panic attack the first time you try it out!
Where to buy: Sephora, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Amazon, Ulta
Chantecaille Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen SPF 45 Primer
A dual-purpose marvel, Chantecaille’s sunscreen not only offers robust SPF 45 protection but also serves as a perfect primer. The botanical formula soothes and nourishes the skin, creating a flawless canvas for makeup application.
Where to buy: Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom
Sisley Paris Super Soin Solaire Tinted Sun Care SPF 30
Sisley Paris combines sun protection with skin care in this luxuriously tinted sunscreen. Offering both UVA and UVB protection, it’s active ingredients enhance skin tone while defending against photo-aging, ideal for those who prefer a natural finish.
Where to buy: Amazon
Clé de Peau Beauté UV Protective Cream SPF 50+
Elevate your beauty regimen with this sumptuous cream that offers high-level sun protection without compromising on aesthetics. Perfect under makeup, it hydrates and conditions the skin, ensuring a smooth and radiant finish.
Where to buy: Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom
Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF 30
This mineral formula offers a sheer, weightless defense against sun damage. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it blends invisibly under makeup without any white cast. Enriched with antioxidants, it also helps to soothe and protect the skin from environmental aggressors, making it an ideal choice for those who value both protection and a flawless makeup base.
Where to buy: Sephora, Amazon, Ulta
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
EltaMD’s UV Clear Facial Sunscreen is a fan favorite, especially for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. It’s oil-free, non-comedogenic, and packed with niacinamide, which reduces redness and inflammation. It dries clear and doesn’t interfere with your makeup, making it an excellent everyday choice.
Where to buy: Amazon
COOLA Mineral Face Matte Finish Cucumber SPF 30
Perfect for those seeking a matte finish, this mineral sunscreen offers a light cucumber scent and controls shine, providing an excellent primer-like base for makeup.
Where to buy: Amazon
PS: Besides the sun’s rays, another kind of light is damaging your skin RIGHT now as you are reading this article. It’s called blue light and is given off by electronic devices. And it can cause even more skin damage than UVA and UVB rays. Read about blue light, why it’s wrecking your skin, and all the solutions RIGHT HERE!
FAQs
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the best sunscreen under makeup.
Which sunscreen can be applied under makeup?
The best sunscreen under makeup is one that’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave a white cast. If you have oily skin, opt for a mattifying, non-comedogenic sunscreen that won’t clog pores. If you have dry skin, a moisturizing sunscreen could be your best bet.
Can I apply makeup right after sunscreen?
Allow sunscreen to absorb into your skin for at least five minutes before applying makeup. This ensures that your sunscreen creates an effective shield on your skin.
Which is first, primer or sunscreen?
According to dermatology experts, sunscreen application should always come before any makeup, including primer. Generously apply the sunscreen and allow it to sink into your skin. After waiting around 5-10 minutes for the sunscreen to fully absorb, you can use the primer and the rest of your makeup.
Can I use sunscreen as primer?
Some sunscreens can also work like a primer, including smoothing the skin or providing a matte finish, creating a good base for makeup application while shielding your skin against harmful UV rays.
Which sunscreens are suitable for oily skin under makeup?
For those with oily skin, a mattifying or oil-free sunscreen is essential. These formulas can help control shine while providing sun protection. It’s also worth considering physical sunscreen, which is usually less likely to clog pores than chemical sunscreens.
Can I skip sunscreen if my makeup makeup products have SPF?
While makeup with SPF provides some protection, it’s often not enough according to every Board-Certified Dermatologist I have called for this post. You would need to apply a thick layer of makeup to get the full SPF benefit listed on the product, which is generally not how makeup is worn. So, don’t skip your sunscreen — layer it underneath your makeup.
Can sunscreen replace my moisturizer?
Some sunscreens have moisturizing ingredients like plant-based squalane and hyaluronic acid and can be used as a moisturizer. However, if your skin is dry, using a separate moisturizer before applying sunscreen is better.
How to reapply sunscreen over makeup?
Yes, you can use a powder sunscreen that can be applied over makeup. These are must-have products for touch-ups throughout the day to maintain effective sun protection.
What ingredients should I look for in a sunscreen for sensitive skin?
For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are recommended as the main ingredients, since they are less likely to cause skin irritation compared to chemical sunscreens. Also, look for products free from alcohol, fragrances, and parabens.
Jackie A says
Love this list and I want to add one that I recently discovered that also plays well with others. Biossance SQUALANE + ZINC SHEER MINERAL SUNSCREEN. It’s a new favorite.
Liata says
Wish more of these were mineral sunscreens. The chemical type burns my eyes.
Terraria says
I also think that there is no need to put on poor sunscreen when wearing makeup, it makes the face heavy, sticky and the background is not beautiful.
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Anonna says
Sunscreen is a very essential product for our skin. It protects our screen from sunburn. We should use best sunscreen which one is suitable for our skin.