How to reapply sunscreen over makeup: the easiest method!

Reapplying sunscreen is tricky, especially if you’re wearing makeup. I tested a very easy method for you, which is quick and foolproof (and you don’t need additional SPF products like powders or sprays).

Reapplying sunscreen: the why

Reapplying sunscreen is important when a) you’re exposed to the sun over a prolonged period of time, or b) when your sunscreen layer has been compromised – either through sweating (exercise etc.) or coming into contact with water.

The official recommendation is to reapply every two hours – but of course, that depends on what you do, where you do it and your sunscreen/skintype. (Here’s the take of Johns Hopkins, for example, and here’s the EU guideline.)

I do like Paula’s Choice’s rather matter-of-fact approach:

“You really do not have to reapply sunscreen every two hours. Sunscreens are broken down by the effects of direct exposure to daylight, not by the passage of time. During an average day – a work day, let’s say – the sunscreen you applied in the morning will still offer enough protection at the end of the day. That is, assuming you have applied enough in the morning and that you will be doing most of your daily activities or your job indoors.
(…)
The question of how often to apply sunscreen has a different answer if you spend the main part of your day outside. In this case we do recommend that you reapply your sunscreen every two hours, especially if you perspire a lot or go swimming.”

Paula’s Choice

Obviously, it gets trickier when you’re wearing a full face of makeup and want to reapply sunscreen. (Thankfully, the chances of wearing makeup AND exercising or swimming outside are rather slim. So, the method I’m describing below is what I’m doing on city trips in summer, or meeting friends for brunch in summer, etc. Remember that I’m living in Western Europe though. What I’m saying is: use your common sense.)

Reapplying sunscreen: the what

Reapplying another layer of sunscreen can always only be the second-best option. The aim of any sun protection is to form an even layer, and reapplication will have slightly patchy layers. It’s just not possible to reapply a second layer as diligently as the first. Still, reapplication methods will also vary in effectiveness. Powders and sprays will only form very thin and/or spotty layers due to their nature with minimal protection.

It’s also important to remember that sunscreen is only one weapon in the arsenal for sun protection. And remember: even powders and sprays are better than nothing if you keep in mind that you won’t reap the full protection.

• More: best sun protection methods (no sunscreen)

• More: fave powders and sprays

Reapplying sunscreen: the how

Now, I absolutely hate reapplying sunscreen when I’m on the go. I not only hate lugging around a bottle of sunscreen, I also hate reapplying with my fingers (am I the only one who hates the weird sticky residue on my fingers?!). And then – What to do when I’m already wearing a full face of makeup (or, at least, some)? It’s back to powder or spray, right? NO!

Here’s what you need:

1. A cushion puff (or any makeup sponge)
2. A sunscreen, the more liquid the better (I like Garnier’s Ambre Solaire super UV fluid – review)

Put some sunscreen on the back of your hand, then apply with the cushion puff – do pat the sunscreen in gently, but diligently. Be VERY generous with your application as the puff will soak up some of the sunscreen.

Conclusion

I find that this way, the liquid texture of the sunscreen makes it easy to both apply and blend without leaving any annoying white cast, strange texture or smudging the makeup majorly.

I also find that the sunscreen’s texture is important: this doesn’t really work when you’re working with a thick cream. On top of that, I find that a cushion puff is the way to go, because it’s not as absorbent as regular sponges.

Give it a try and let me know how this hack worked for you!