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The Best SPF Makeup of 2023
When your makeup has SPF in it, it’s the cherry on top of a wonderful routine. If you're already applying foundation anyway, there's no reason not to go ahead and use it as an excuse to take your sun protection to the next level. Considering that 90 percent of visible signs of skin aging are caused by UV damage, more is definitely more when it comes to SPF. And really, who doesn't love a two-for-one product?
Experts in This Article
board-certified dermatologist in New York City
board-certified dermatologist, vice president of the Skin Cancer Foundation, and clinical associate professor of dermatology at New York University Langone Medical Center
board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Medical College of Cornell University
director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital
board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Russak Dermatology Clinic
board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in New York
It's worth noting: Foundation isn't the only way you can work SPF makeup into your routine. These days, there are so many options to choose from. We're talking lip gloss, setting spray, primer, skin tints—the list goes on. What's more, you can choose from formulas with varying tints, textures, formats, and skin benefits, which means that anyone and everyone can find their best option.
To boost your sun protection with makeup that's got baked-in SPF, browse our 15 favorites below.
How to use SPF makeup
When wearing SPF makeup, you'll want to be sure you apply it alongside another sun-protective products. That's because in order to get the amount of SPF a foundation (or any other complexion product) promises, you need to apply enough product to cover two fingers. And that's a lot of product, especially if you're going for a no-makeup makeup look.
“According to a recent survey, the majority of the 2,000 people who respondedmissed applying sunscreen to their ears, lips, and scalp/hairline, which aren't areas a foundation or tinted moisturizer would likely be applied to,” Elizabeth K. Hale, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and spokesperson for theSun Regrets Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Awarenesscampaign, previously told Well+Good. “Additionally, the issue with foundations and tinted moisturizers is not necessarily that the SPF is not high enough, but that people do not apply enough to achieve the recommended [amount required] to actually obtain the SPF stated on the bottle.”
It may sound redundant to layer your SPF products, but it's necessary. Think of it as an excuse to stock up on multiple formulas that will keep your skin safe all summer (and year) long.
Shop award-winning SPF Makeup
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