Reapplying Sunscreen: Yeah, you need to do that
Sunscreen will provide you with the advertised SPF for 2 hours of sun exposure. After those 2 hours, you need to reapply your sunscreen to keep your skin protected.
So, how do you reapply sunscreen during the day? Layering on more sunscreen throughout the day may make you cringe. At least to me, it sounds a bit unsanitary without fully cleansing your skin first. Let alone if you’re wearing makeup. You can imagine how pleasant layering foundation (even one with SPF) can be.
Thankfully, there are several methods of reapplying your sunscreen during the day that keep things mess-free, your makeup intact, and your skin safe.
First, in the morning, make sure you apply a layer of dedicated sunscreen. Consider this step non-negotiable. This initial and most thorough layer will provide your base of protection throughout the day. Over this, you can apply your makeup.
Ex. Australian Gold Botanics Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 50, Make P:Rem Blue Ray Sun Fluid SPF 50, Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Sunscreen SPF 30
Sunscreen Powder
This is my most highly recommended method, especially during the Summertime or for those with oily skin. Sunscreen powders are loaded with physical UV filters, providing gentle protection while mattifying the skin.
Ex. Colorescience Sunforgettable Loose Mineral Powder Brush SPF 30, Catrin Natural 100 Mineral Sunkill RX SPF 46, Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF 45
Sunscreen Cushion
That’s right; all the convince of a cushion compact, filled with sunscreen! Using a cushion puff, sunscreen can be easily reapplied throughout the day. The only downside is that most are physical sunscreens, as they are intended for use on children. Physical sunscreens often mean white cast. Simply avoid the ones branded “mild” or “baby” if you have darker skin.
Also, consider carrying around a cushion puff and your usual base sunscreen. Dispense some sunscreen on the back of your hand and apply it directly to your face with the puff. The puff should make reapplication less disruptive to your makeup.
You could also opt for a bb cushion with light coverage and a high SPF. You’re layering foundation, but that could prove to be an inoffensive option, especially for those with darker skin.
Ex. LANEIGE Marshmallow Sun Cushion SPF 50, andLAB Xylitol Mild Sun Cushion SPF 50, The Face Shop Natural Sun Eco Baby Sun Cushion SPF 34
Sunscreen Spray
Think setting spray, but with added SPF! There is debate about the level of coverage a spray can provide. To be on the safe side, make sure you apply a generous amount and cover your whole face. Oh, and definitely close your eyes.
Ex. Kate Sommerville UncompliKated SPF 50 Setting Spray, PRIVACY UV Face Mist SPF 50, L'oreal Paris UV Perfect Face Mist SPF 50
What if I don’t wear makeup?
If you don’t wear makeup, any of the above methods would work for you. You also have the option of carrying around some makeup wipes/micellar water soaked cotton pads and reapplying your base sunscreen.
Hell, skip the cleansing and apply the base sunscreen over your morning layer, you heathen. Whatever works for you, as long as you reapply that sunscreen!