What To Do Instead: A Smarter SPF Strategy
1. Start with real sunscreen (every single morning).
This is your non-negotiable layer. Apply a dedicated, broad-spectrum sunscreen as the final step in your morning skincare routine, before applying your makeup. Be sure to cover your face, neck, ears, and chest, rain or shine.
2. Let makeup be your bonus, not your base.
SPF in foundation or tinted moisturizer can help supplement your coverage, but it shouldn’t be your only line of defense. Think of it as a backup, not your main protection.
3. Reapply if you’re in the sun.
If you're spending time outdoors (or even near a sunny window), reapplication is key. Brush-on powders, mists, or portable sunscreens make touch-ups easy without disrupting your makeup.
4. Don’t forget the “extras.”
Extend your sunscreen beyond the jawline. Your neck, chest, ears, and hairline need just as much protection, and they’re often the first places sun damage shows up.