SPF 101: Everything You Need To Know About Applying Sunscreen To Your Face The Right Way!

By now, we have already established how important it is to slather on sunscreen not just before heading outdoors, but also when you’re stuck indoors. You might have read a lot about the benefits of applying sunscreen, but rarely do we read about how to apply sunscreen on face correctly. It seems simple enough, right? Just apply some sunscreen to your face, and boom, you’re protected from the harsh UV rays! While yes, it is as simple as that, what you need to know is that if you don’t use enough, or don’t apply it correctly, it just won’t be as effective.

We are sure you have had questions about how much sunscreen to apply to your face, and whether you should apply moisturizer before or after sunscreen. Take notes, ‘cos we are telling you how to apply sunscreen on your face the right way! 

How To Apply Sunscreen On Face Daily 

Before we tell you how to apply sunscreen on face daily, let’s get some basic things out of the way. Firstly, it is important to wear sunscreen regardless of the weather. Secondly, make sure you reapply sunscreen every 2 hours for consistent protection, in case of prolonged sun exposure. Figure out which is the best sunscreen for your skin type, and apply sunscreen 15-20 minutes before stepping outside so that there’s enough time for the product to sink in before sun exposure.

Below are some steps to follow to make sure you’re applying sunscreen the right way. Check them out!

• Begin by washing your face with a cleanser to remove any makeup or oil. Then pat your skin dry.
• Next, squeeze out a dollop of sunscreen on your index and middle fingers (two-finger lengths). Remember, unless you slather on a thick layer of sunscreen, it won’t be completely effective. When it comes to sunscreen, it’s always better to apply too much than not enough.
• Instead of slathering the sunscreen directly, start by dotting the sunscreen onto your face. This step will help you apply the sunscreen more evenly, without missing any area. Make sure you also cover the front and back of your neck, as well as the tops of the ears.
• Massage the sunscreen gently over your face until the sunscreen has permeated the skin. Now, wait for 15 to 20 minutes for the sunscreen to sink in before you head out.

Pro Tip: Your lips are susceptible to sun damage too, which is why using an SPF-infused lip balm is a good idea! Our pick? POPxo First Kiss Lip Balm SPF 15, which has shea butter and vitamin E enriched formula. 

Sunscreen Benefits

How To Apply Sunscreen On The Face With Moisturizer

There are plenty of SPF-infused moisturizers available in the market that simplify your beauty routine and do the job of a moisturizer and a sunscreen both in one step. However, if you use them both separately, you must have wondered at least once, “what goes on first- sunscreen or moisturizer?” The answer is simple! Apply moisturizer first and then layer sunscreen over it.

That’s because sunscreen can form a physical or chemical barrier over your skin, and may not allow the moisturizer to absorb properly into your skin. If you have been wondering how to apply sunscreen on the face with moisturizer, just follow the simple steps mentioned below:

• Begin by washing your face, and then patting it dry.
• Use a moisturizer, and allow it to be fully absorbed into your skin.
• Next, take two fingers length of sunscreen, and dot onto your face and neck.
• Massage the sunscreen until it has permeated the skin. Wait for 15-20 minutes before you step out! 

How To Remove Sunscreen From Face Naturally

How To Apply Sunscreen On Face With Makeup

When you think about applying sunscreen and makeup both, a lot of questions come to mind. What goes on first? Do I need to apply sunscreen even if my makeup has SPF? Do I layer foundation over sunscreen? Will sunscreen still be effective if applied under the makeup?

Well, we are here to set the record straight and help you figure out how to apply sunscreen on your face with makeup! Even if your makeup products contain SPF, you still need to wear sunscreen. Why? That’s because you don’t apply enough of it for full protection from the harsh UV rays. Besides, they are unreliable and can easily be worn off. Now, how do you layer products correctly? It’s a good idea to apply sunscreen before applying your foundation. So ideally, moisturizer comes first, SPF forms the second layer, and then makeup can be applied over the sunscreen. Follow the steps below to apply sunscreen before makeup.  

• Wash your face with a cleanser to remove any impurities or residual makeup. Pat it dry.
• Use a moisturizer on your face, and allow it to be fully absorbed into your skin.
• Apply sunscreen generously and spread it over your face, neck and ears.
• Layer it up with a primer, and then a foundation.
• Apply makeup over the foundation.
• After you’re done with the makeup, use a setting spray to ensure your makeup stays for a longer time.

We hope this article helped you figure out how to apply sunscreen on the face correctly! 

POPxo Recommends Best Sunscreens

Looking for some fabulous yet affordable sunscreens available in India? Below are some of the best sunscreens that will protect you from the harsh rays of the sun without burning a hole in your wallet! 

St. Botanica Vitamin C SPF 75 Dry Touch Sunscreen

If you have been looking for a zinc oxide sunscreen, St. Botanica Vitamin C SPF Dry Touch Sunscreen is an excellent option! It contains the most stable and effective form of vitamin C, making it stand out among all other sunscreens. Not only does it offer superior sun protection, but also helps preserve your natural complexion. It’s non-greasy, water-resistant and free of paraben, phthalate, silicone, and sulfates. What’s not to love?  

Organic Harvest Sunscreen – SPF 60

This sunscreen by Organic Harvest is non-greasy and gets quickly absorbed into your skin. Apart from offering sun protection, it also helps keep your skin hydrated and nourished.

Related Topics

Sunscreens For Dry Skin: Here are some of the best sunscreens for dry skin with nourishing and hydrating properties that you can incorporate into your beauty regimen right away!

How To Make Your Own Sunscreen: Did you know you can make a natural, chemical-free sunscreen at home? Find out how! 

Featured Image: Pexels