How to Apply Sunscreen Under Makeup

Discover how to layer sunscreen under makeup for sun-protected skin

What's in this article:

Read Time: 4 minutes

Does Sunscreen Go Before or After Makeup
3 Ways to Apply Sunscreen Under Makeup
Facts Overview
Challenges with SPF and Makeup
Tips to Avoid Clogged Pores with SPF
Summary
FAQs

Does Sunscreen Go Before or After Makeup?

Sunscreen is a must-have in your daily skincare routine and should always be applied before makeup. Layer after your moisturiser but before your primer for maximum UV protection. By regularly renewing the application, this simple step ensures your skin stays protected throughout the day.

3 Key Benefits of Using Sunscreen Under Makeup:

Protects the skin from premature ageing caused by sun damage.
Protects against skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and wrinkles.
Protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term damage.

3 Ways to Apply Sunscreen Under Makeup

There are numerous ways to incorporate sunscreen into your skincare routine, ensuring it works well under makeup. These include serums or moisturisers with SPF in their formula or applying SPF as a separate step.

1. Serum with Sun Protection:

You can opt to start your skincare routine with a hydrating serum enriched with SPF, The NIVEA 2in1 Prime UV Serum not only protects your skin but also helps smoothe skin in seconds creating an ideal base for your makeup.

The serum is SPF50+ providing advanced UV protection to prevent premature skin ageing, while delivering hydration thanks to its formula with Hyaluron. The serum is also enriched with Licochalcone, an antioxidant ingredient that boosts your skin’s natural defense.

For optimum protection, reapply regularly throughout the day. If you use another type of serum, with a lower SPF, it may be necessary to combine it with a higher level of sun protection in case of strong exposure.

NIVEA 2in1 Prime UV Serum

2. Moisturisers with SPF:

While moisturisers with SPF provide some protection, they are not an entire substitute for sunscreen. In fact, the protection you need can vary according to UV levels and the time you spend in the sun. In the event of strong or prolonged exposure, it may be necessary to apply an additional sun cream with an appropriate SPF. To offer consistent, high-level protection against UV rays, it is essential to reapply regularly. For optimal results, use a moisturiser with SPF as part of your routine but layer it with a dedicated sunscreen reapplied regularly during the day for adequate protection.

Look for moisturisers enriched with hydrating ingredients such as Hyaluron to keep your skin soft and supple while ensuring your makeup glides on effortlessly.

Face Moisturisers with SPF

3. Sunscreen

The final option is to use an SPF which is independent of serums and moisturisers. The time to apply is after you have moisturised your skin - apply an SPF 50+ and allow time to absorb. From here apply your primer then move onto makeup. When choosing the right SPF look for a lightweight, non-greasy formula, this is best suited for under makeup.

Discover Invisible Daily Fluid UV Face Specialist SPF 50+ by NIVEA Sun

Protect your skin under make-up with NIVEA Sun Invisible Daily Fluid UV Face Specialist SPF 50+, the ideal solution for high-performance sun protection while providing all-day hydration. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula provides superior broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, shielding your skin from the sun's harmful rays while preventing premature ageing and sun damage.

Formulated for daily use, this sun protection fluid contains essential ingredients such as Licochalcone, which helps strengthen the skin's defences, and Hyaluronic Acid, which provides intense hydration. Available in two tinted versions, as well as an invisible finish, it's the perfect addition to your skincare routine.

Face Sunscreen

Can sunscreen be used under makeup?

Facts Overview

Does Sunscreen Go Before or After Makeup? Apply sunscreen as the final step in skincare, before makeup.

Can you put sunscreen over makeup? Yes, as it is important to reapply sun cream regularly, it is sometimes necessary to apply it over make-up. Even though certain products such as sprays or powders with SPF are easier to apply, they don't always provide even protection, and sprays present an inhalation risk. It's best to use light, fast-absorbing formulas and dab them on with a make-up sponge.

How to use sunscreen under makeup? Ensure the sunscreen is fully absorbed and follow with a primer suited to your skin type. You can also use a 2-in-1 product that acts as both sun protection and primer, such as the NIVEA Daily UV Serum 2in1 Primer.

Common Issues with SPF and Makeup

Many people struggle to combine sunscreen with makeup, often fearing it will make their makeup slide off or look patchy. Common concerns include:

Longevity: Greasy or heavy sunscreens can make makeup slide or look uneven. Use lightweight, non-greasy sunscreens with a matte finish for better compatibility.
Reapplication Challenges: Reapplying sunscreen without disturbing makeup feels impractical. Apply light formulas with a make-up sponge to limit the impact on make-up.
Layering Issues: Using products in the wrong order with sunscreen and foundation can lead to clumping or “pilling”—visible flakes or bumps when layers don’t blend properly.

4 Tips to Avoid Clogged Pores with SPF

Wearing sunscreen under makeup shouldn’t mean compromising your skin’s comfort.

Lightweight Textures:

For the best face sunscreen before makeup, choose a gel-based or water-based formula that provides protection without feeling heavy on the skin.

Apply the Right Amount of SPF:

Use just enough sunscreen to cover your face evenly without overloading your skin.

Allow Absorption Time:

Let your sunscreen fully absorb before applying makeup to prevent a layered or heavy feeling.

Double Cleanse:

At the end of the day, use a two-step cleansing routine to remove all traces of sunscreen and makeup ensuring your pores aren’t clogged.

Which sunscreen should you use under makeup?

NIVEA offers a range of SPF and sunscreen products for various skin types and needs that you can layer into your skincare routine.

For blemish-prone skin:
Try NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Daily UV, formulated with Carnitine, Glycerin, and Niacinamide, plus SPF 50 for daily sun protection. Its ultralight, non-greasy formula delivers up to 8 hours* of matte finish, making it ideal to wear under makeup.
For aging skin:
Try NIVEA UV Face Anti-Age Q10 Cream SPF50, formulated with Pure Vitamin E to moisturise the skin and Q10 to help prevent signs of ageing. It provides immediate UVA/UVB protection, making it ideal for daily use.
For all skin types:
Try NIVEA UV Face Specialist Invisible Daily Fluid SPF 50+, which provides immediate protection and is quickly absorbed for a comfortable feel. Its invisible formula works on all skin tones, making it ideal for everyday use

Not what you are looking for? Browse the full range of NIVEA face sunscreens to help keep your skin protected on a day to day basis.

NIVEA Face Sunscreens

Summary

Sun protection is essential to prevent premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles caused by daily UV exposure. To integrate SPF correctly before applying makeup, apply SPF after moisturiser and before primer to protect the skin while creating a smooth makeup base. Using the right formula, applying an adequate amount, and reapplying throughout the day ensures adequate and lasting protection. A lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen helps maintain fresh makeup while acting as a barrier against rays.

FAQ's

What labels should I look for when choosing sunscreen for makeup?

Look for products labeled “good for under makeup” or “matte finish.”

What’s a good sunscreen for under makeup?

Look for lightweight options like NIVEA UV FACE SPECIALIST Invisible Daily Fluid SPF 50+, which provides high protection without greasiness.

Can you reapply sunscreen over makeup?

Yes, the application of a light, fast-absorbing formula using a special sponge can protect your skin without disturbing your makeup.

Sunscreen before or after primer?

Apply sunscreen before primer to ensure even coverage and effective UV protection. If you want to make life easier for yourself and limit the steps in your routine, you can also use a 2-in-1 product that acts as both a sun protection and a primer, such as the NIVEA 2in1 Primer Daily UV Serum.

How often should I reapply sunscreen during the day?

Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially in the event of direct exposure. For makeup wearers, opt for ultra-light, fast-absorbing formulas for reapplication without disturbing your look. Gently dab on with a make-up sponge.

Can I use the same sunscreen under makeup in all seasons?

Yes, you can use the same sunscreen, but adjusting the formula based on seasonal needs is ideal. In summer, opt for lightweight, matte sunscreens to reduce shine. In winter, choose more hydrating formulas to combat dryness. However, avoid formulas that are too heavy and don't penetrate completely before applying make-up.

Can I skip sunscreen if my makeup has SPF?

It all depends on the formula of your make-up product, its SPF, your skin type and your exposure to the sun. Although a high SPF is important, it's also essential to apply the product in sufficient quantity to guarantee the SPF indicated on the packaging. The problem is that make-up isn't always applied evenly or in sufficient quantity. For this reason, it's best to use a separate sun protection product. Apply a sunscreen as your base layer to ensure uniformity and effectiveness. However, it can also be used after make-up, particularly to reapply during the day.

Should I apply sunscreen before or after makeup?

Sunscreen should be applied before makeup. It acts as a protective barrier against UV rays, preventing premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage.

How To Apply Sunscreen Over Makeup?

To apply sunscreen over makeup without smudging, gently dab liquid sunscreen with a damp beauty sponge, ensuring reapplication every two hours for optimal protection.