Sunscreen Before or After Moisturizer? It Makes a Big Difference
To make the most out of your skincare routine, the order in which you cleanse, tone, and apply moisturizer matters: you would never moisturize and then rinse your skin clean, right? That just defeats the purpose of both processes.
However, the lines for correct (or best) order can become blurry when your formulas begin to look similar. Take moisturizer and sunscreen as a key example. Many moisturizers and makeup products advertise as having SPF – does that mean they’re like sunscreen? Should you then layer them above or below your actual dedicated sunscreen? Turns out, once again, the order matters.
Why Would I Need Both Moisturizer and Sunscreen?
Especially if your moisturizer or other skincare products have SPF, you may be wondering why you also need sunscreen in your daily skin care routine. The reason is that moisturizers specifically serve a different physical purpose than sunscreen.
Moisturizers can target specific skin concerns and provide the right amount of hydration for your skin type. Sunscreens can be hydrating formulas you use in addition to your moisturizer. You will need to use a good amount of sunscreen to get adequate coverage. Not using sunscreen can be detrimental to your skin’s health by making it more susceptible to harmful UVA and UVB rays. In addition, using a moisturizer with antioxidants can enhance your sunscreen. Antioxidants have been known to reduce the inflammatory cascade that UV-induced exposure causes.
Sunscreen should be worn daily, even while inside and be reapplied every two hours when possible, especially when you are outdoors.
When Should You Apply Sunscreen: Before or After Moisturizer?
Unfortunately, there’s not a clear answer to when everyone should apply their sunscreen on a daily basis. Some experts suggest, if you’re using a chemical sunscreen, to apply it first so it has time to sink into your skin. As the name suggests, physical sunscreens, or any type of mineral sunscreen, should typically be applied after moisturizing so they can sit on top of your skin providing a “physical” barrier to UV rays..
Ultimately, the choice of which type of sunscreen and when to apply it is up to you; some people prefer the feel of sunscreen before moisturizing and many prefer it after they’re done with that step of their whole routine. The thing to remember is that applying sunscreen at any stage is better than not applying it at all.
Should I Wear Sunscreen Over Makeup?
Again, there’s no direct answer, but generally, mineral sunscreens formulated with active ingredients like zinc oxide should be applied at the very end of your skincare routine. Chemical sunscreens can be applied before makeup or before moisturizing.
Sunscreen Tips For Top Protection
Not all sunscreens and skincare products are made the same. You’ve heard us mention the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens, which is a choice you should make on your own based on your preferences, skin type and lifestyle, but there are even more factors to consider for the best sun protection on your face on a daily basis.
First, depending on your skincare concerns, such as signs of aging, pigmentation, or sensitivity, you may want to shop for sunscreens that are formulated with UV protection and other high quality ingredients like vitamins A,C, and E for antioxidant support.. For example, we created our Defend and Balance Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 for broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection.Also, being consistent with sunscreen use is nearly more important than any way you apply it. Even on cloudy days, ultraviolet radiation reflects all around you, meaning the better coverage you have, the more protected you’ll be from the sun’s rays.
Professional SPF Products From Epicuren Discovery
You want the best for your skin, which is why you agonize over even the specific order for each unique formula in your daily skin care routine. We care just as much about taking care of your skin, which is why our products are sourced from the most proven, potent natural ingredients that give you the appearance of a clear complexion and perfectly tinted protection you deserve. Check out all our options for sunscreens and Sun Care products by browsing our catalog or taking our Skin Quiz online today.