Yes! Wearing SPF is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, which can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Even on cloudy days or when indoors (if near windows), applying sunscreen helps maintain skin health. It’s recommended to use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and to reapply every two hours if you’re outside or after swimming.
Using SPF is one of the best things you can do for maintaining a youthful appearance! Sun exposure is a major factor in premature aging, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Here’s how SPF can help keep you looking younger:
- Prevents Sun Damage: UV rays break down collagen and elastin in your skin, leading to sagging and wrinkles. SPF helps protect these fibers, keeping skin firm and smooth.
- Reduces Hyperpigmentation: Sunscreen helps prevent dark spots and discoloration, which can age the skin prematurely.
- Fights Skin Cancer: Beyond aesthetics, wearing SPF reduces your risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma.
- Prevents Redness and Inflammation: SPF reduces the risk of sunburn, which can lead to inflammation, redness, and lasting skin damage.
To get the most benefit, use SPF daily, even during winter or cloudy days, and reapply throughout the day if you’re outside. And for extra protection, consider a broad-spectrum sunscreen with antioxidants or added hydration!
SPF in makeup can count, but there are a few things to keep in mind for it to be effective:
- Sufficient Coverage: Most makeup products with SPF don’t provide as much protection as you might think. To achieve the full SPF listed on the product, you’d need to apply a generous amount. Many people don’t apply enough makeup to get the full protection.
- Reapplication: SPF in makeup generally doesn’t last as long as sunscreen. If you’re outdoors for long periods or sweating, you’ll need to reapply every 2 hours, and that can be tricky with makeup. Some brands make SPF setting sprays or powders to help with this!
- Broad Spectrum: Check if your makeup has broad-spectrum protection (meaning it shields you from both UVA and UVB rays). Not all SPF in makeup is created equal, and the level of protection can vary.
- Amount of SPF: Makeup products often have SPF 15 or SPF 30, which is fine for daily incidental sun exposure but might not be enough for prolonged outdoor activity.
To make sure you’re fully protected, it’s a good idea to apply a sunscreen first, and then layer your makeup on top. That way, you get the best of both worlds!
There are SPF mists and setting sprays specifically designed to be used on top of makeup. These products are perfect for reapplying sunscreen without disrupting your makeup. They typically have a fine mist that refreshes your SPF protection while keeping your makeup in place.
Some popular options for SPF setting mists include:
- Supergoop! Defense Refresh (Re)setting Mist SPF 40 – This one is lightweight, oil-free, and works well for all skin types.
- Coola Makeup Setting Spray SPF 30 – A refreshing mist that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays, while also keeping your makeup looking fresh.
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen Mist SPF 50 – A mineral-based option that offers high protection and is great for sensitive skin.
- Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Matte Setting Spray SPF 30 – This is a mattifying option that helps control shine while adding sun protection.
These SPF mists are great because they don’t disturb your makeup and are easy to carry for reapplication throughout the day. (we are not affiliated)