Wondering how to reapply sunscreen over makeup and throughout the day? It’s such an important, but often neglected aspect of suncare.
We all know how crucial it is to use your best facial sunscreen daily, come rain or shine. Most of us would admit, though, that we’re not always reapplying, which is every bit as important. According to Dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall this is because, “UV rays cause ingredients in some chemical sunscreens to degrade, so as the day progresses they will be less effective at protecting the skin.”
How often you reapply is dependent on where you are in the world and how hot it is outside, says Dermatologist Dr Emma Craythone. “If you apply liberally to your face, hands, and arms (and any other areas that are exposed) and are staying mostly inside, you should be set for the day,” she says. “However, if you are out in the sun all day, you must reapply every two hours.”
How to reapply sunscreen over makeup
1. Use powder formulas
If you're wondering how to reapply sunscreen over makeup without disrupting your foundation, a powder is the best way to go. Makeup artist Brooke Simons favors this method when she needs to top up her protection. "I love using a powder SPF over makeup on my clients - they usually come with a brush and the product disperses through it and can be swiped across all areas of the face," she says. "These are genius as you can apply them in the same way that you would usually use your powder, with the added benefits of SPF protection."
Powders also work best if you prefer a more matte look. The included brush applicator also means they're extra handy for adding to your handbag, so there's no excuse not to top up.
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2. Use mists or sprays
If powders aren't your thing, you may prefer a mist or spray formulation - especially an SPF-infused setting spray, which is one of the best sunscreen innovations in recent years. These products are another great tip for how to reapply sunscreen without impacting your makeup whatsoever - with a fine mist and a touch-free application. Dr.Craythorne uses this method. "You can reapply over make-up and your SPF will still work fine - you just have to be careful over some foundations if it pills - that's why sprays work really well."
Simons says sprays are better if you're not a fan of a matte look. "The sunscreen powders can be quite mattifying, so if you’re into a more dewy, glowy look I would suggest using an SPF setting spray," she says. "Although they do tend to be on the oilier side so something to bear in mind based on your skin type."
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3. Use matte sticks
A couple of the skin experts recommended sticks for an easy way of reapplying sunscreen. They're handy for their solid, spill-free formulations - plus, they're also usually pretty pocket-sized. This makes them extra convenient for carrying around in the daytime and saving on the liquid allowance on airplanes when you're traveling.
The slight downside is that you have to physically apply solid sticks across your skin, so there's potential to smudge your base. If you have a full face of makeup, we'd advise sticking to the powders or sprays. If you wear a relatively light base, like a CC cream or tinted moisturizer, a quick sweep of a stick shouldn't impact it too much.
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How to reapply sunscreen on bare skin and body
How to reapply sunscreen when you have bare skin is an altogether simpler affair. For your face, you can use the methods for reapplying sunscreen over makeup - mists and sprays are quick to apply, mess-free, sink in speedily and you won't have to buy multiple products to do the same job. Or use your everyday SPF again throughout the day, topping up your cream or serum in a light, even layer.
If you're on vacation, or sitting in the sun for a couple of hours, it's key to know how to reapply sunscreen to your body, as well as your face. Consultant Dermatologist Dr Hiva Fasshi recommends that we, "reapply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going out." She continues, "If you plan to spend the whole day out during the spring and summer months, reapplication is recommended every 2-3 hours. Physical activity or swimming will result in rubbing off of the sunscreen from the skin, so apply again after those activities."
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Our beauty editor recommends for the body...
