You're sipping your morning coffee, and as you head out the door, you realize you need to reapply your face sunscreen. You've got a busy day ahead, and the last thing you want is to worry about a pesky sunburn. You've heard great things about using face sunscreens under makeup, but with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which one to choose. You want a product that's lightweight, won't clog your pores, and will stay in place all day. You're on the hunt for the best face sunscreens under makeup, and I'm here to help.
Key Takeaways
- When shopping for face sunscreens under makeup, look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that won't clog pores.
- A water-resistant sunscreen can help keep you protected even on the most active days.
- Fragrance-free sunscreens are a great option for sensitive skin.
- Consider a product with built-in moisturizing properties to keep your skin hydrated.
- A sunscreen with a broad spectrum of protection will offer more comprehensive coverage.
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Hawaiian Tropic Weightless Hydration Sunscreen
Perfect Beach Companion
View on AmazonHawaiian Tropic's Weightless Hydration Sunscreen is a top choice for those seeking a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that won't clog pores. Its 12-hour hydration and water-resistant formula up to 80 minutes make it ideal for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. This sunscreen also boasts a refreshing, iconic scent that's a nice bonus.
Its broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection provides excellent sun damage prevention, and its hypoallergenic, oil-free formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin. The travel-sized packaging is also a plus for those who need a convenient sun protection option on-the-go.
One limitation of this product is its relatively lower SPF of 30, which may not provide adequate protection for those who spend extended periods in the sun.
- BRAND:Hawaiian Tropic
- TYPE:Sunscreen lotion
- SIZE/CAPACITY:1.7 fl oz
- MATERIAL:Oil-free
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:N/A
- Additional Feature:Cruelty-free and PETA certified
- Additional Feature:Dermatologist-tested
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen Serum
Hydrating Sun Protection
View on AmazonNeutrogena's Ultra Sheer Sunscreen Serum is a great option for those seeking a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that provides all-day hydration. Its broad-spectrum SPF 60 offers excellent sun damage prevention, and its water-resistant formula up to 80 minutes makes it suitable for outdoor activities.
This sunscreen is also fragrance-free, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin. Its ultra-sheer formula absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth.
One limitation of this product is its relatively higher price point compared to other sunscreens on the market.
- BRAND:Neutrogena
- TYPE:Sunscreen serum
- SIZE/CAPACITY:1.7 fl oz
- MATERIAL:Fragrance-free
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:N/A
- Additional Feature:TSA-compliant
- Additional Feature:Convenient travel size
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Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen
Invisible Sun Protection
View on AmazonSupergoop!'s Unseen Sunscreen is a top choice for those seeking a weightless, scentless sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast. Its oil-free formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin, and its clinically-tested skin-smoothing formula helps improve skin clarity.
This sunscreen is also a great primer for makeup, creating a smooth base and improving the look of makeup for longer wear. One limitation of this product is its relatively higher price point compared to other sunscreens on the market.
- BRAND:Supergoop!
- TYPE:Sunscreen gel
- SIZE/CAPACITY:N/A
- MATERIAL:Oil-free
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:N/A
- Additional Feature:Cruelty-free and PETA certified
- Additional Feature:Dermatologist-tested
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e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen
Lightweight Sunscreen Primer
View on Amazone.l.f.'s SKIN Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen is a great option for those seeking a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast. Its aloe and meadowfoam seed-infused formula helps nourish skin while protecting it.
This sunscreen is also a great primer for makeup, creating a smooth base and improving the look of makeup for longer wear. One limitation of this product is its relatively lower SPF of 35, which may not provide adequate protection for those who spend extended periods in the sun.
- BRAND:e.l.f.
- TYPE:Sunscreen gel
- SIZE/CAPACITY:N/A
- MATERIAL:Vegan and cruelty-free
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:N/A
- Additional Feature:Water-resistant and fast-absorbing
- Additional Feature:Suitable for normal, dry, oily, and combination skin types
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Invisible Gel Sunscreen
Invisible Sun Protection 2
View on AmazonNeutrogena's Ultra Sheer Invisible Gel Sunscreen is a great option for those seeking a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast. Its broad-spectrum SPF 40 offers excellent sun damage prevention, and its water-resistant formula up to 80 minutes makes it suitable for outdoor activities.
This sunscreen is also fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin. Its Helioplex technology provides superior daily sun protection.
- BRAND:Neutrogena
- TYPE:Sunscreen gel
- SIZE/CAPACITY:1.7 fl oz
- MATERIAL:Fragrance-free
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:N/A
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Contains vitamin E and Helioplex technology
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medicube Sunscreen No Cast Just Glow Collagen
Hydrating Sun Protection 2
View on Amazonmedicube's Sunscreen No Cast Just Glow Collagen is a great option for those seeking a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast. Its peptide and cica-infused formula helps firm and soothe sun-exposed skin.
This sunscreen is also a great primer for makeup, creating a smooth base and improving the look of makeup for longer wear. One limitation of this product is its relatively higher price point compared to other sunscreens on the market.
- BRAND:medicube
- TYPE:Sunscreen gel
- SIZE/CAPACITY:N/A
- MATERIAL:Cruelty-free and PETA certified
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:N/A
- Additional Feature:Suitable for normal, dry, oily, and combination skin types
- Additional Feature:Contains hyaluronic acid and ceramide
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3 In 1 Primer for Face Before Makeup
Multi-Functional Primer
View on Amazon3 In 1 Primer's Face Before Makeup is a great option for those seeking a multi-functional primer that corrects color, smoothes skin, and provides sun protection. Its swirly spiral formula contains 3 color-correcting pigments to even out skin tone, and its moisturizing effect leaves skin feeling refreshing and breathable.
This primer is also a great primer for makeup, creating a smooth base and improving the look of makeup for longer wear. One limitation of this product is its relatively lower SPF of 50, which may not provide adequate protection for those who spend extended periods in the sun.
- BRAND:3 In 1 Primer
- TYPE:Primer
- SIZE/CAPACITY:N/A
- MATERIAL:Suitable for sensitive skin
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:N/A
- Additional Feature:Easy to use and apply
- Additional Feature:Travel-sized and compact
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a sunscreen suitable for use under makeup?
When shopping for a sunscreen to wear under your makeup, look for a product that is lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic. These characteristics will help the sunscreen blend seamlessly into your skin without clogging pores or causing acne. A physical sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is also a good choice, as it provides a physical barrier against UV rays and is less likely to irritate your skin.
Will a tinted sunscreen work as a foundation?
Tinted sunscreens can offer some light coverage, but they are not a replacement for a traditional foundation. If you're looking for a full-coverage foundation, a tinted sunscreen is unlikely to provide the level of coverage you need. However, if you're looking for a light, natural-looking base that also offers sun protection, a tinted sunscreen can be a great option.
Can I use a water-resistant sunscreen under my makeup?
Yes, you can use a water-resistant sunscreen under your makeup, but make sure to choose a product that is also non-greasy and oil-free. A water-resistant sunscreen will help your makeup stay in place even when you sweat or expose your skin to water. Just be aware that some water-resistant sunscreens may leave a residue on your skin that can affect the wear of your makeup.
Will a sunscreen with a high SPF protect my skin from wrinkles?
While a high SPF is essential for preventing sunburn and skin cancer, it does not directly prevent wrinkles. To reduce the appearance of wrinkles, you'll also want to look for a product that contains antioxidants, such as vitamin C or retinol, which can help protect your skin from environmental stressors and promote collagen production.
Can I use a spray sunscreen under my makeup?
Spray sunscreens can be convenient, but they may not be the best choice for use under your makeup. Sprays can be messy and may not provide even coverage, which can lead to a patchy or streaky appearance under your makeup. Instead, opt for a cream or gel sunscreen that is easy to apply and blend into your skin.
