Sunscreen Belongs Above Skin Care and Below Makeup

Sun protection remains important throughout the year because cooler temperatures and cloudy skies do not eliminate UV exposure, sunburn or photoaging. Dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum sunscreen with a rating of at least SPF 30. Under standardized conditions, SPF compares how much UVB is needed to burn protected versus bare skin. SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent of UVB, SPF 50 about 98 percent, and SPF 100 about 99 percent. Proper quantity matters, along with reapplication every two hours and after swimming or perspiration.

For a morning routine, arrange products from lighter to heavier and put protection last. Cleanse before toner or essence, then apply water-based serums and other treatments. Moisturizer follows when needed, with sunscreen forming an even layer above it and makeup added afterward. A sufficiently hydrating sunscreen may replace moisturizer for normal, combination or oily skin. Dry, dehydrated or sensitive skin may benefit from moisturizer beneath it. Sunscreen and moisturizer should remain separate because mixing can dilute protection. Depending on the occasion and preferred finish, tinted sunscreen may also take the place of primer or foundation.

Two sunscreen layers can reduce missed spots, but their labeled values do not combine: SPF 30 paired with SPF 50 is not SPF 80. Anyone seeking SPF 50 coverage should apply the recommended amount of one broad-spectrum SPF 50 product. When using two formulas, put the lighter one on first and wait until it forms a stable film. Add the second gently without excessive rubbing. Chemical or mineral products can occupy either position. If the combination pills or spreads unevenly, one sunscreen that can be applied generously and consistently is preferable.