SPF in Your Foundation Just Isn’t Enough!
Whether it's sheer, buildable, or full-coverage, so many foundations now have some level of SPF in their formulas. But does that mean you should stop reaching for your trusty sunscreen? Well, let’s just say, there's a reason why 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner is looked down upon. When it comes to beauty, a product that can do two things at once sounds amazing in theory, but more often than not they don't live up to the hype. Let's break down exactly why having SPF in your foundation just isn't enough on it's own.
When it comes to applying SPF, it's not just the thought that counts. Skin experts say that in order to achieve the level of sun protection that is specified on the label, we need to apply 2mg of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin. Unfortunately, most of us aren’t applying this much product when we pop on our SPF in the morning. So when it comes to makeup, more times than not our foundation is applied even more sparingly. That means despite a foundation saying it has SPF30+, if you're not applying enough of it, then your face is not as protected as you might think.
Should I be Reapplying SPF throughout the day?
Sunscreen also works best when it is applied every two hours. Thinking of it as a drink of water for your skin, you don't just have one glass in the morning and call it a day! If your only sun protection comes in the form of foundation, chances are you won't be jumping at the chance to repeat your entire makeup routine multiple times a day to keep your skin protected. That's why trying to figure out the best way to reapply your SPF on top of makeup can be tricky. But the Hunter Lab SPF50+ Facial Sunscreen is a great option for this exact dilemma. It comes in roll-on form with a semi-matte finish, making it easy to reapply gently over your makeup and put back in your handbag.
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How to incorporate SPF into your routine
If you're serious about sun protection (like we all should be), then your morning skincare routine should be ending with a high-level SPF every day. If your skin type leans towards oily or combination skin and the idea of a shiny sunscreen makes you want to run in the opposite direction, it doesn't have to be that way! Layer the Dermalogica Oil Free Matte SPF30 after your morning skincare and before any makeup will give your skin the protection it deserves (without looking greasy). For anyone with dry or dehydrated skin, opt for a formula that gives you an extra moisture boost like the Aspect Sun Hydrating Face SPF 50+ And for those really hot days, the Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Melan 130 Pigment Control SPF50+ is 4 hours water resistant so make sure to pack this one in your beach bag.
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SPF + Foundation is a Great Combination
With all that being said, having SPF in your foundation is not a bad thing at all! In fact, dermatologists say that having a foundation like the Inika Organic Loose Mineral Foundation with SPF25 on your face as a backup can be great for an extra layer of protection. Just make sure it doesn't completely take the place of a stand-alone sunscreen, and that your foundation has broad-spectrum sun coverage. And when it comes to sunscreen and makeup products, your sun protection is only as high as the highest SPF on your face. So don't try to play maths games with your sunscreen because wearing the Wotnot Natural Sunscreen SPF30 and the Lancome Teint Miracle SPF15 foundation does not give you SPF45 sun protection!
Sunscreen is one of the most important steps in anyone’s skincare routine, regardless of skin type. It is one of the most effective and affordable preventative skincare products to help fight the signs of ageing. But most importantly, it provides a barrier between your skin and the harmful UV rays that can lead to skin cancer. So when it comes to how and where you get your SPF coverage from, you shouldn't be relying on your foundation alone.
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With Graphic Design qualifications in one hand and e-commerce experience in the other, Lilly applies a wealth of industry knowledge with a keen eye on trending beauty products that really deliver. Writing from experience with the connection between a healthy gut and healthy skin, Lilly puts her 10 years at Activeskin to good use through her beautiful blogs that equip and empower you with great know-how, to transform your beauty regime at home. A true picture of health with youthful elegance, she also knows coffee comes first!