To reiterate every dermatologist’s favorite skincare advice, sunscreen is a daily must. But which form is best? Makeup with SPF seems like an easy way to increase your skin’s protection from the sun: It’s made for even coverage, features a skin-flattering finish, and packages two benefits in one formula. But does it actually work—and does it work well enough to replace your regular sunscreen formula?
To break down the differences between using a regular sunscreen and an SPF-infused makeup product, we talked to a dermatologist. Below, find out how your makeup products with sunscreen work and why they can be the smartest way to maximize your daily sun protection.
Do I need to wear SPF every day?First, a quick refresher on why you need to wear sunscreen daily. The sun emits two kinds of UV rays: UVA and UVB, and both can damage your skin. “UVB peaks between 10:00 A.M. and 2:00 P.M., causing sunburns and mutations that can lead to skin cancer,” says dermatologist Anna Guanche, M.D. “UVA is present all day long, and it penetrates deeper into the skin and causes photodamage.” To stay protected, dermatologists recommend looking for a label of SPF 30 or above, whether you’re WFH or chilling poolside. Does makeup with SPF work?Yes—but you need to be mindful of application. According to Dr. Guanche, makeup with SPF 30 offers ample coverage for a day spent WFH, even when sitting by a window. When you spend extended time in direct sunlight, though, you’ll want to pair it with your regular sunscreen. To get the level of UV protection stated on any SPF label, you need to apply a lot: about two full fingers worth of product to your face. Since you’re likely applying less of your makeup with SPF, it’s smart to layer it over another sunscreen to maximize your overall photoprotection. Makeup with SPF can actually be a great way to add a bonus layer of UV filters to your daily routine, but we always recommend wearing it with another sunscreen formula to make sure you’re fully shielded. |
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Just remember: Apply both your regular sunscreen and any SPF makeup products every two hours when you’re outside. |
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Anna Guanche, M.D. (she/her) is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon specializing in cosmetic procedures. Her practice is Bella Skin Institute in Calabasas, CA, where she cares for all types of skin conditions with a special emphasis in the areas of cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery.
Sara Wren (she/her) is the Director of Artistry at Milk Makeup. In her role, she does all the makeup artistry and direction for our Milk Makeup global campaigns, educates the staff and field team on application methods, stars in the brand’s social media videos, and travels to different markets spreading Milk Makeup’s good vibes. When she’s not on set, Sara loves experimenting with DIY hair colors, eating tacos, watching basketball, and scouring for vintage cosmetics to add to her impressive collection.
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