Combining sunscreen with makeup is not only possible but highly recommended to ensure comprehensive skin protection and flawless makeup application. Many people wonder how to effectively layer sunscreen with their makeup without compromising either product’s efficacy.

“Makeup and sunscreen may sound like an odd combination but reality is far different from preconceived notions,” says Akanksha Vishnoi, co-founder,  YesMadam. “The sun does its thing, the UV rays leave no skin untouched, so the question is, what could be done without compromising the look?”

The good news is that there are several ways to achieve this seamlessly. Rupali Sharma, Founder & CEO, Aegte, a vegan and natural makeup & skincare brand recommends, “Firstly, always start with a clean, moisturized face. Then, apply a generous amount of sunscreen after a layer of gel-based or water-based primer as direct contact between sunscreen and skin can lead to acne. This helps provide a smooth base for makeup while preventing clogged pores, resulting in breakouts. For those who are concerned about sunscreen making their skin look greasy or interfering with makeup application, a 2-in-1 gel-based or matte-finish primer + sunscreen with pore blur benefits can be an excellent choice. These formulations are particularly beneficial for oily skin types and can help keep your makeup in place throughout the day.”

One of the easiest and most effective tips is to use a gel-based or water-based primer with sun protection that contains an SPF of 30 or above. This serves a dual purpose by creating a smooth canvas for your makeup like a pore blur primer and offering sun protection like a sunscreen.

“It helps avoid direct contact between the sunscreen and the skin as its primer properties create a protective layer to prevent clogged pores while blocking harmful sun rays. It not only preps your skin for long-lasting makeup but also blurs out pores, creating a smooth canvas for foundation application. The inclusion of SPF 30 or above provides robust protection against UV rays, eliminating the need for an additional sunscreen layer. In conclusion, incorporating sunscreen into your makeup routine is a vital step that shouldn’t be overlooked. By choosing a sunscreen with primer and pore blur benefits, you can protect your skin while achieving a flawless makeup look,” explains Sharma.

Vishnoi also has a trick up her sleeve if you forget to apply it before makeup. She says, “There are sprays and powder sunscreens that could be applied on top of the makeup. Not only do they protect you from the sun, but they also increase the longevity of the makeup.”

Vishnoi concludes with a piece of advice, “Sun damage can cause hyperpigmentation, i.e., tanning, which is hard to get rid of; therefore, take sun protection seriously with or without makeup.”