Many individuals believe they are completely protected from UV damage by simply applying makeup because SPF is now incorporated to everything from moisturizers to foundations. However, multitasking products shouldn’t be used in place of adequate sunscreen, according to Dr. Kasim Usmani, a practicing general practitioner and aesthetician.
“Foundations and SPF moisturizers do help, but they’re not enough on their own,” he claims. “The protection you actually receive is frequently far lower than the label suggests because they are tested in lab conditions using a much thicker layer than people apply in real life.” Consider them a supplementary layer instead of your primary defense.
Dr. Usmani advises searching for broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation, a minimum SPF of 30 (preferably SPF 50), and a high UVA rating, such as PA++++ or a high UK star rating, if you are depending on a multitasking product.
Usmani, Dr.
Heavy-duty sunscreen is not always necessary, though. UVB levels drastically decrease in the winter, especially in the UK, although UVA rays are still prevalent even on cloudy days.
According to Dr. Usmani, “an SPF moisturizer is reasonable on low-exposure days, such as short commutes or mostly indoor days.” However, you still need appropriate sunscreen for extended outdoor exposure, such as long walks, driving, or skiing. Winter just means being proportionate to your exposure; it doesn’t mean “no SPF.”
Because they are designed to generate a uniform protective layer over the skin, standalone sunscreens continue to be the gold standard. After moisturizer but before makeup, they should be used as the last skincare step. It is best to give them five to ten minutes to settle before applying foundation.
Reapplying SPF throughout the day can seem nearly impossible for makeup wearers (you don’t want to damage that flawless base!), but Dr. Usmani says there are doable ways to boost protection without detracting from your appearance. Cushion compacts, powders, and SPF mists can all be beneficial, but he warns that sprays should be applied liberally rather than quickly.
“Perfect reapplication is uncommon,” he claims. Dermatologists themselves will acknowledge that. Taking action is preferable to doing nothing.
Additionally, he cautions that when applying SPF, certain parts of the face are frequently overlooked. Among the most frequently under-protected areas he observes in the clinic are the lips, neck, ears, and under-eye area.
On sunny days, the most frequently under-protected areas are the lips, ears, neck, and under-eye area.
Regarding the current discussion over whether sunscreen is required all year round, Dr. Usmani thinks it has gotten oversimplified.
“Daily SPF is still a sensible habit because UVA damage is cumulative all year round, but you don’t need to be obsessive with SPF in winter,” he explains.
He is also unambiguous when it comes to kids: in the warmer months, sunscreen should unquestionably be a part of the morning ritual. “Apply SPF 30 to 50 before school, especially on the arms, neck, ears, and face,” he suggests. “One of the most crucial things you can do is to develop those habits early on.”
