SPF makeup instead of using actual SPF lotions that are meant to protect our skin in the harsh sunlight. So we’re asking an important question: is makeup with SPF the same as pure SPF lotion?
UVB & UVA
Experts at McLean Dermatology and Skincare Center say that makeup with SPF protects our skin against UVB rays but not UVA rays. That means that while makeup protects against UVB rays, our skin is still exposed to damaging UVA rays. No matter how much coverage our makeup provides, it is still not enough to protect our skin against the intense UVA rays that cause aging.
Chemical composition
SPF makeup makes use of chemicals instead of naturally occurring sunscreen agents such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. The latter is harder to incorporate into various makeup formulas since they’re more difficult to spread.
How do we protect ourselves from UV rays then?
Most people wear a quarter of the amount of sunscreen they should be wearing daily. Moreover, our ways of applying sunscreen are unsatisfactory. According to expert advice, you should apply sunblock and wait for it to absorb into your skin, and then reapply it once more to ensure complete coverage.
Regretting not wearing sunscreen more often in the past? It’s never too late to start the routine and prevent further damage. Apply a liberal amount of SPF 30 lotion in the mornings and do touch-ups throughout the day. If you have already applied your makeup, you can mist a SPF spray on top – just make sure its a lightweight, clear formula.