Do you love wearing makeup but worry about sun protection? It’s a common struggle! Many of us want to look our best with foundation and concealer, but we also know how important it is to shield our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The problem is, finding a sunscreen that works well under makeup can feel like a treasure hunt. Some sunscreens make makeup slide off, others leave a ghostly white cast, and some just feel heavy and greasy. It’s enough to make you want to skip sunscreen altogether, but that’s definitely not the answer!
But what if you could have both? What if your sunscreen actually made your makeup look *better* while keeping your skin safe? In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of sunscreens that play nicely with your makeup bag. We’ll explore what to look for, what to avoid, and share some amazing tips to help you achieve a flawless finish every time. Get ready to say goodbye to makeup meltdowns and hello to protected, radiant skin!
Our Top 5 Sunscreens Under Makeup Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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3 In 1Primer for Face Before Makeup | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen – SPF 40 – Invisible | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Invisible SPF 35 | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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COSRX Vitamin E Vitalizing Face Sunscreen SPF 50 | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Sunscreens Under Makeup Detailed Reviews
1. 3 In 1Primer for Face Before Makeup
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet your new secret weapon for a flawless complexion: the 3-in-1 Primer for Face. This amazing product does it all – it’s a primer, a sunscreen with SPF 50, and a color corrector. It blurs imperfections, controls oil, and moisturizes your skin, leaving you with a radiant glow. Plus, it helps even out your skin tone for a natural look.
What We Like:
- It’s a true 3-in-1! The swirly formula has three color-correcting shades to make your skin tone look even.
- It feels super refreshing and breathable, not sticky at all. Your makeup stays moist and comfy all day.
- The light texture feels natural and not heavy on your skin. It’s great for sensitive skin and works for everyone.
- You can use it alone or under makeup for a perfect finish. It’s easy to apply with just one swipe.
- It’s travel-sized, so you can take it anywhere. It’s a must-have for your makeup bag on the go.
What Could Be Improved:
- The SPF 50 is great, but we wish it offered a bit more broad-spectrum protection for all-day sun exposure.
- While it’s great at color correcting, for very dark spots or significant redness, you might still need a bit of extra concealer.
This primer truly simplifies your makeup routine. It preps, protects, and perfects your skin in one easy step, giving you a beautiful base for any look.
2. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen – SPF 40 – Invisible
Rating: 9.2/10
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 is a truly game-changing product. It’s a totally invisible, weightless, and scentless sunscreen that gives you oil-free protection. It works for all skin types, tones, and lifestyles, making it a must-have for everyone.
What We Like:
- It’s completely invisible. You won’t see any white cast on your skin.
- It feels weightless. You’ll forget you’re even wearing sunscreen.
- It protects your skin. It shields you from UVA, UVB, and even blue light from screens.
- It works as a primer. It creates a smooth base for your makeup and helps control shine.
- It nourishes your skin. Ingredients like frankincense and meadowfoam seed keep your skin happy.
- It’s great for men. Its clear texture is beard-friendly and feels like nothing.
- It’s oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free. This means it uses cleaner ingredients.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.5 fl oz size is quite small. You might go through it quickly if you use it every day.
- The price point might be a bit high for some people, considering the small size.
This sunscreen is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for effective sun protection that also primes their skin. It truly lives up to its name by being unseen and unfelt, offering great benefits for your skin.
3. e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Invisible SPF 35
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet your new favorite sunscreen: e.l.f. SKIN’s Suntouchable Invisible SPF 35. This isn’t just any sunscreen; it’s a lightweight gel that disappears on your skin, offering broad-spectrum SPF 35 protection without leaving any white marks. It’s perfect for all skin tones and feels amazing to wear every single day.
What We Like:
- It’s a super lightweight gel that feels like nothing on your skin.
- It provides SPF 35 protection and doesn’t leave a white cast.
- It works as a makeup primer, smoothing your skin and helping makeup stay put.
- The formula is not greasy and is water-resistant.
- It’s packed with good stuff like aloe and meadowfoam seed, which are great for your skin.
- It’s made with ingredients that are good for you and free from yucky stuff.
- It’s vegan and cruelty-free, which we love!
- It’s a great value for the price.
What Could Be Improved:
- The packaging might look different sometimes.
This sunscreen is a fantastic addition to your daily routine. It protects your skin and makes your makeup look even better.
4. e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to shine with the e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30! This amazing product is a sunscreen and a makeup primer all in one. It protects your skin from the sun and makes your makeup look great. Plus, it gives you a beautiful, dewy glow. It’s made with good stuff like hyaluronic acid, which is great for your skin. This product is also vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it. The packaging might look a little different sometimes, but the product inside is always awesome.
What We Like:
- It’s a lightweight sunscreen and primer. It protects your skin and makes your makeup last longer.
- It gives your skin a radiant glow with a hint of peach shimmer.
- It has hyaluronic acid, aloe, and squalane to hydrate and soothe your skin. It works for all skin types, even oily or dry skin.
- You can use it before makeup or wear it alone for a natural, glowing look.
- It’s made with ingredients that are good for your skin and it’s always vegan and cruelty-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sometimes the packaging can vary, which might be a surprise.
This e.l.f. Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 is a fantastic multi-tasker for your daily routine. It helps you look and feel your best while keeping your skin safe and glowing.
5. COSRX Vitamin E Vitalizing Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Rating: 8.7/10
Protect your skin every day with the COSRX Vitamin E Vitalizing Face Sunscreen SPF 50. This sunscreen is a must-have for anyone who goes outdoors, no matter the weather. It shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. This protection helps fight signs of aging and repair skin damage.
What We Like:
- It has a soft, comfortable texture that feels great on your skin.
- It doesn’t leave a white cast, so it looks good on all skin tones.
- The semi-matte finish gives a natural glow without looking greasy.
- It helps control extra oil on your skin.
- SPF 50 offers strong protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- Vitamin E helps protect and strengthen your skin.
- Cacao and Cotton are included to help with aging signs and redness.
- It’s a lightweight moisturizer that works well under makeup.
- It’s perfect for your travel bag and essential for summer.
- This is a fantastic Korean skincare product and Korean sunscreen for your face.
- It’s formulated with skin-friendly ingredients and is hypoallergenic.
- It’s dermatologist tested, cruelty-free, and free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is best suited for oily and combination skin types.
This sunscreen is your daily defense against sun damage. It’s a great addition to your Korean skincare routine.
Your Guide to Sunscreens That Play Nicely with Makeup
Finding the right sunscreen is super important for protecting your skin. But what about when you want to wear makeup too? You need a sunscreen that works well under your foundation, concealer, and blush. This guide will help you pick the best sunscreen for a flawless, protected look.
Why Sunscreen Under Makeup Matters
Sunscreen is your skin’s best friend against harmful UV rays. These rays can cause sunburn, premature aging (like wrinkles and dark spots), and even skin cancer. Wearing sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days, is a must. When you layer makeup on top, you want a sunscreen that won’t mess up your makeup’s finish or feel.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these things in mind:
- SPF Level: Aim for SPF 30 or higher. This blocks about 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. Higher SPFs block a little more, but no sunscreen blocks 100%.
- Broad Spectrum Protection: This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause aging, and UVB rays cause sunburn. You need protection from both!
- Non-Comedogenic: This is a fancy term that means the sunscreen won’t clog your pores. Clogged pores can lead to pimples.
- Lightweight Formula: You don’t want a sunscreen that feels heavy or sticky. A light formula blends easily into your skin.
- Matte or Natural Finish: Some sunscreens leave a dewy shine, which might not be ideal if you want a matte makeup look. Others offer a matte finish that helps control oil.
- Hydrating Ingredients: If your skin is dry, look for sunscreens with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These keep your skin moisturized.
Important Materials (Ingredients)
Sunscreen ingredients fall into two main categories:
- Mineral Sunscreens: These use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They sit on top of your skin and physically block UV rays. They are often good for sensitive skin.
- Chemical Sunscreens: These use ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. They work by absorbing UV rays and turning them into heat.
For wearing under makeup, mineral sunscreens can sometimes leave a white cast, but many newer formulas are sheer. Chemical sunscreens tend to blend in more easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Texture: A smooth, spreadable texture is best. It makes application easy. A gritty or thick sunscreen can be hard to blend and might show under makeup.
- White Cast: Some sunscreens, especially mineral ones, can leave a white residue on your skin. This can make your foundation look patchy or ashy. Look for “sheer” or “tinted” formulas if this is a concern.
- Pilling: This happens when sunscreen balls up on your skin, especially when you apply makeup over it. It’s a sign the sunscreen isn’t playing well with your other products. Using a primer can sometimes help prevent this.
- Fragrance: Some people are sensitive to fragrances. If you have sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free sunscreens.
User Experience and Use Cases
- Everyday Protection: The most common use is for daily wear to protect your skin from the sun. It’s perfect for your morning routine before applying makeup.
- Sensitive Skin: If your skin easily gets red or irritated, look for mineral sunscreens or those specifically labeled for sensitive skin.
- Oily Skin: People with oily skin often prefer lightweight, matte-finish sunscreens. These can also help your makeup last longer by controlling shine.
- Dry Skin: Hydrating formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid are great for dry skin. They add moisture and prevent makeup from looking cakey.
- Beach Days or Outdoor Activities: Even when you’re wearing makeup, you still need strong sun protection. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen if you’ll be sweating or swimming.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will sunscreen make my makeup slide off?
A: Not if you choose the right one! Lightweight, non-greasy sunscreens blend well and create a good base for makeup. Sometimes using a primer first can help your makeup stay put.
Q: Can I use any sunscreen under my makeup?
A: While you can technically use any sunscreen, some formulas work better than others. You’ll get the best results with sunscreens that are lightweight, non-comedogenic, and don’t leave a greasy feel or a strong white cast.
Q: What does SPF 30 mean?
A: SPF 30 means the sunscreen will protect your skin from about 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. It’s a good level of protection for everyday use.
Q: How much sunscreen should I use?
A: You should use about a nickel-sized amount for your face and neck. Make sure to cover all exposed areas evenly.
Q: Do I need sunscreen if I wear foundation with SPF?
A: It’s a good idea to wear a separate sunscreen underneath. Foundations with SPF often don’t provide enough protection because you usually don’t apply enough of the product to get the full SPF benefit.
Q: Will mineral sunscreens leave a white cast under my makeup?
A: Some mineral sunscreens can. However, many brands now offer micronized mineral formulas or tinted versions that blend in much better and don’t leave a noticeable white cast.
Q: What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens?
A: Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block UV rays. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays. Both protect your skin effectively.
Q: Can I reapply sunscreen over my makeup?
A: Yes! There are spray or powder sunscreens designed for reapplication over makeup. This is an easy way to stay protected throughout the day.
Q: How do I know if a sunscreen is non-comedogenic?
A: Look for the words “non-comedogenic” on the product label. This means it’s less likely to clog your pores.
Q: Should I worry about UVA rays if my sunscreen says SPF 50?
A: SPF only measures protection against UVB rays. You need to look for “broad spectrum” protection on the label to ensure you’re protected from both UVA and UVB rays.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.