Kim’s Worried About Sunscreen Under Make Up:
I have a face lotion with sunscreen in it, but then I put on make-up over it (my foundation also has SPF15) - but I can’t reapply every 2 hours because I have makeup on - does that mean that I am unprotected after two hours on my face? Is there a way to renew my protection without having to reapply my makeup? Thanks!
And Mimi Adds…
I have the same question as Kim. Thank you for bringing this question up. I hope you will tell us more about about reapplying sunscreen under makeup more. I know that by going to shopping or work does not involve a lot of sun exposure as you said. But I still want to protect my skin from sun exposure, are there any ways to reapply sunscreen without ruining my makeup. Maybe there’s some new technology?

The Right Brain Responds:
You ladies have raised an excellent question - if only there was an equally excellent answer. The sad truth is, there really is no way to renew your sunscreen protection without reapplying your make up. You’re not the only ones to raise this issue, we found a post by the University Of Florida’s College of Health and Human Performance that addressed this same topic. And we quote:
“What to do? Perhaps the best advice is to continue applying your morning sunscreen, being sure to lather on enough of it. This will provide sun protection if you are outside for one reason or another in the morning. Also, of course, you are taking advantage of the lotion`s moisturizing effect. Before your noon walk, you should reapply the sunscreen. This may be inconvenient, but it`s a must if you are relying on it for protection. The only real alternative is to wear a broad brimmed hat, which is a good idea, sunscreen or not. Also, don`t forget to cover your arms and shoulders either with a sunscreen or clothing.
In contrast to sunscreens, sunblocks physically reflect all the UVR. Sunblocks contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, kaolin, talc or iron oxide. And they are opaque, like the white stuff lifeguards put on their noses. Because sunblocks reflect all the UVR, they do not carry an SPF rating. The disadvantages of these products are that they wash off easily, and they are messy and sticky. Some cosmetics and sunscreens, including Oil of Olay, now have added a reformulated, clear sunblock to their sunscreen lotions to provide more protection. Check the labels.”
So there you have it. I wonder how the Left Brain will look in a wide brimmed hat?
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Kim Says:
Thanks so much for the information - I use the Bare Minerals foundation, which contains both iron oxide and titanium dioxide - so if I reapply a bit before I go out at lunch (I always do make-up touch ups anyway), I should be OK? I feel better now - this site is great!
Lucky Says:
You know how women use Evian water to spritz their faces after applying makeup? Wouldn’t it be great if they formulated a spritzer with SPF protection? That way, it’d be so easy to reapply sun protection again and again!
thebeautybrains Says:
That’s an interesting product idea Lucky. We just might have to try and invent that one. Kim, you should be ok if you reapply before you go out.
Cay Says:
They do make sunscreen in spray bottles. I use it all the time over my make-up and it works great! Look for it at drug stores where you would purchase regular sunscreen.
Shayanne Says:
You could also try the Colorscience Sunforgettable SPF30 powder. I have it in clear, and I also keep a Neutrogena spray for my body.
And, yeah I have a parasol and hats, otherwise my Irish-French skin turns lobster red.
Energy Says:
“Sunblocks contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, kaolin, talc or iron oxide. And they are opaque, like the white stuff lifeguards put on their noses.”
not if they are micronized.
EcoMom Says:
Energy - micronized ingredients, especially in mineral makeups, can be harmful b/c your skin absorbs it into your bloodstream.