How to wear sunscreen under makeup

Sunscreen and makeup can work well together. The key is the order, the amount and a little patience between the layers.

The order

1. Skincare. Cleanse, serum (if you use one) and moisturizer.
2. Sunscreen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, as the last skincare step.
3. Wait. Give it a few minutes to settle, until the surface no longer feels wet or slippery.
4. Primer (optional), then makeup.

Why SPF makeup is not enough on its own

The SPF on a foundation or powder is measured with a thick layer, much more than most people wear. A normal layer of makeup gives much less protection than the label. SPF makeup is a nice extra, but use a separate sunscreen under it.

How to stop pilling

Pilling is when products roll into small flakes on the skin. It usually happens when layers do not mix well or do not have time to settle.

1. Use less product under the sunscreen. A heavy moisturizer and a heavy sunscreen often pill together.
2. Wait between layers.
3. Press and pat makeup on, rather than rubbing.
4. Some formulas just do not go together. If one combination pills every time, try a different sunscreen texture, such as a fluid or a gel.

Choose a texture you like

1. Oily skin: light fluids or gels, often labeled matte or oil-free.
2. Dry skin: creamy or hydrating sunscreens can double as your moisturizer.
3. Deeper skin tones: some mineral sunscreens leave a white cast. Tinted or chemical-filter formulas often look more natural.
4. Sensitive skin: mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) are often more comfortable.

Topping up over makeup

Outdoors, sunscreen should be reapplied about every two hours, and after swimming or sweating. Over makeup, you have a few options:

1. A sunscreen spray or mist held at a distance, applied in several passes.
2. A sunscreen stick or cushion, pressed on gently.
3. An SPF powder. It is easy to carry, but it is hard to apply enough of it, so use it as a top-up, not as your only sun protection.

If you spend the day indoors away from windows, one careful morning layer may be enough. On days outdoors, top up and use shade, a hat and sunglasses too.

How Glowinout helps

In the Glowinout app, sunscreen is always the last step of your morning routine, and you can see the sunscreen picked for your skin type. See how it works.

Glowinout gives cosmetic guidance, not medical advice. If you have a skin condition, persistent irritation or anything that worries you, talk to a dermatologist.