Applying sunscreen is necessary to keep beautiful, healthy skin, even when wearing makeup. But not all sunscreens are created equal. Discovering the best sunscreen to wear under makeup can revolutionize your skincare regimen.

As we enter 2024, we must upgrade our skincare products and protect our skin effectively. The best sunscreens of the year, which are made to shield your skin from harmful UV rays and work well under makeup to enhance your regular beauty routine, are presented in this guide.

The Best Sunscreen To Wear Under Makeup 2024 [Detailed Analysis]

CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30

CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30

In 2024, finding the perfect sunscreen to wear under makeup is essential for skincare enthusiasts. Look no further than CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Sheer Tint lotion. Developed with dermatologists, this lightweight formula provides SPF 30 protection with a universal tint, leaving your skin hydrated and glowing without any white cast.

Specifications:

  • Scent: Fragrance-Free
  • Product Benefits: Hydrating
  • Sun Protection Factor: 30 Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
  • Item Weight: 0.16 Pounds

Reasons To Buy:

  • Sheer-Tinted Mineral Sunscreen: Universal tint suitable for all skin tones, providing a healthy glow without the white-cast.
  • Hydrating Face Sunscreen: Formulated with Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid to calm and moisturize the skin.
  • Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30: Can be used alone or as a tinted primer under makeup, suitable for all skin types.
  • Essential Ceramides: Contains three essential ceramides to restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
  • Safe and Gentle Formula: Oxybenzone, avobenzone, and benzene-free, with only physical filters for Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide. Paraben-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic.

Reasons To Avoid:

  • May not provide sufficient coverage for prolonged sun exposure or intense outdoor activities.
  • Some users may find the tinted formula incompatible with their skin tone or makeup preferences.
  • Limited availability or potential price points may not fit within every budget.
  • While fragrance-free, individuals with sensitivities to certain ingredients should perform a patch test before use.

E.I.F Skin Suntouchable! Invisible SPF 35- Lightweight, Gel-based Sunscreen

E.I.F Skin Suntouchable! Invisible SPF 35- Lightweight, Gel-based Sunscreen

Look no further than e.l.f. SKIN’s Suntouchable Invisible SPF 35. This innovative gel sunscreen provides clean, lightweight protection without leaving a white cast on any skin tone. As a bonus, it doubles as a smoothing primer to enhance the longevity of your makeup. Infused with nourishing ingredients like aloe and meadowfoam seed, it’s suitable for all skin types. Discover why this sunscreen is a must-have addition to your daily beauty routine.

Specifications:

  • Product Benefits: Smoothening
  • Item Form: Gel
  • Skin Type: All
  • Package Information: Tube
  • Sun Protection Factor: SPF 35

Reasons To Buy:

  • Invisible Broad-Spectrum Protection: e.l.f. SKIN’s Suntouchable Invisible SPF 35 provides clean, lightweight gel sunscreen with no white cast on all skin tones.

  • Doubles as Primer: Functions as a blurring face primer to smooth skin and ensure long-lasting makeup wear.
  • Non-Greasy Formula: Offers a non-greasy feel and water-resistant protection.
  • Enriched with Aloe and Meadowfoam Seed: Infused with skin-loving ingredients for added hydration and nourishment.
  • Vegan and Cruelty-Free: All e.l.f. products are 100% cruelty-free and vegan, containing no harmful toxins.

Reasons to Avoid:

  • May not provide sufficient SPF protection for prolonged sun exposure or intense outdoor activities.
  • Some users may prefer a sunscreen with a higher SPF rating for enhanced sun protection.
  • The gel formula may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
  • Limited availability or potential price points may not fit within every budget.

Colorescience Even Up Clinical Pigment Perfector, Mineral Facial Sunscreen

Colorescience Even Up Clinical Pigment Perfector, Mineral Facial Sunscreen

Colorescience offers a solution with their lightly tinted full-spectrum sunblock, clinically tested to diminish the appearance of discoloration and blur stubborn brown spots while providing SPF 50 protection. Ideal for all skin types, this sunscreen is safe for sensitive skin and works to resolve dark spots, smooth pores, and even skin tone, restoring your natural glow.

Specifications:

  • Product Benefits: Safe for sensitive skin. Resolves dark spots, smoothes pores, and evens skin tone, restoring your natural glow.
  • Coverage: Resolves dark spots, smoothes pores, and evens skin tone, restoring your natural glow.
  • Item Form: Creams, Gels, and Lotions
  • Skin Type: All
  • Sun Protection Factor: SPF 50

Reasons To Buy:

  • Clinically Tested Formula: This lightly tinted full-spectrum sunblock is clinically tested to diminish the appearance of discoloration and immediately blur stubborn brown spots.
  • High SPF Protection: Offers SPF 50 protection against harmful UV rays, preventing future sun damage.
  • Safe for Sensitive Skin: Formulated to be safe for sensitive skin, providing gentle care while addressing skin concerns.
  • Multi-Benefit Coverage: Resolves dark spots, smooths pores, and evens skin tone, restoring your natural glow.
  • Versatile Usage: Can be worn alone or under foundation for added sun protection and skin benefits.

Reasons To Avoid:

  • May not provide sufficient coverage for individuals with very fair skin or those prone to severe sunburns.
  • Some users may find the lightly tinted formula incompatible with their skin tone or makeup preferences.
  • Limited availability or potential price points may not fit within every budget.
  • Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients should perform a patch test before use.

Julep No Excuses SPF 40 Clear Facial Sunscreen

Julep No Excuses SPF 40 Clear Facial Sunscreen

Look no further than this broad-spectrum SPF 40 gel formula, offering invisible protection that absorbs fast and leaves a non-chalky finish. Made with Rosehip Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Aloe Leaf Extract, this sunscreen not only shields you from harmful UVA/UVB rays but also improves and hydrates your skin.

Specifications:

  • Scent: Aloe
  • Product Benefits: Aloe Leaf Extract soothes and hydrates skin, Lightweight, Completely Clear Formula
  • Sun Protection Factor: 50 Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
  • Item Weight: 0.1 Pounds

Reasons To Buy:

  • Invisible Sunscreen: Provides broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection with an invisible gel formula that absorbs quickly and feels weightless on the skin.
  • Moisturizing Benefits: Contains Aloe Leaf Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Rosehip Oil to soothe, hydrate, and repair skin while protecting it from the sun.
  • Clear SPF Protection: Nourishing ingredients work together to soothe, hydrate, and repair skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
  • UVA/UVB Broad-Spectrum Protection: Offers powerful protection against UVA/UVB rays, and environmental damage, and helps even out skin tone.
  • Versatile Usage: Can be worn alone or under makeup, and suitable for use on both face and body.

Reasons To Avoid:

  • May not provide sufficient protection for prolonged sun exposure or intense outdoor activities.
  • Some users may prefer a higher SPF rating for enhanced sun protection.
  • Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients should perform a patch test before use.
  • Limited availability or potential price points may not fit within every budget.

Bondi Sands Fragrance-Free Daily Sunscreen

Bondi Sands Fragrance-Free Daily Sunscreen

Look no further than this Fragrance-Free Daily Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 50. Formulated with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, this dermatologically tested sunscreen provides UVA & UVB protection while being gentle on sensitive skin. With a non-greasy finish and 72-hour hydration, it’s perfect for wearing alone or under makeup.

Specifications:

  • Scent: Aloe Vera, Fragrance-Free
  • Product Benefits: Formulated with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E. Dermatologically Tested. Suitable for sensitive skin. Paraben + Sulfate Free.
  • Sun Protection Factor: 50 Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
  • Item Weight: 2.53 Ounces

Reasons To Buy:

  • Effective Protection: Provides UVA & UVB protection with SPF 50, ensuring your skin stays safe from sun damage.

  • Gentle Formula: Formulated with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, suitable for sensitive skin and free from parabens and sulfates.
  • Fast-Absorbing: Absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for wearing under makeup.
  • Long-Lasting Hydration: Provides 72-hour hydration, keeping your skin moisturized and nourished throughout the day.
  • Water-Resistant: Resistant to water for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for outdoor activities and swimming.

Reasons To Avoid:

  • Potential Reef Impact: While labeled as “Reef Friendly,” it’s essential to note that the term is not regulated by the FDA, and further research may be needed to understand its environmental impact fully.

Should You Put Sunscreen on Under Makeup?

Yes, applying sunscreen under makeup is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. The best sunscreen to wear under makeup should be used after your moisturizer and before your foundation or other makeup products. It ensures that the sunscreen directly absorbs into your skin and provides an effective shield against sun damage.

What Kind of Sunscreen is Best Under Makeup?

The best sunscreen to wear under makeup should blend seamlessly with your beauty routine. Specific characteristics make sunscreen more suitable for wearing under makeup:

  • Lightweight  Formula: The best sunscreen to wear under makeup should be light and non-greasy to prevent any interference with applying your foundation or concealer.
  • Broad-Spectrum  Protection: It’s essential to choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection to guard your skin against both UVA and UVB rays.
  • High  SPF Rating: A sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is ideal for daily use, but consider a higher SPF if exposed to the sun for extended periods.
  • Invisible Finish: Sunscreens that leave a white cast on the skin are not ideal for wearing under makeup. Look for sunscreens labeled ‘invisible’ or ‘sheer’ for a more seamless finish.

How We Tested the Best Sunscreen for Face

We established a rigorous and comprehensive testing process to identify the best sunscreen to wear under makeup:

  • Product  Selection: We hand-picked a wide range of sunscreens based on their ingredients, formula type, SPF rating, and brand reputation.
  • Application and Fit with Makeup: Each sunscreen was tested under various types of makeup to assess its compatibility. We checked for any white cast, pilling, or interaction with the makeup.
  • Skin Reaction: We monitored closely how each sunscreen reacted with the skin, being mindful of any irritation or discomfort.
  • Texture and Consistency: The feel of the sunscreen on the skin was also evaluated, especially under makeup. We favored lightweight and non-greasy formulas.
  • Customer  Reviews: We also took into account reviews from diverse users with different skin types to get a comprehensive understanding of each product’s performance.
  • Cost Evaluation: Lastly, we assessed the cost of each product to ensure it offers good value for the price.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best sunscreen to wear under makeup can significantly enhance your beauty routine while providing crucial protection against harmful UV radiation. It should be a lightweight, non-greasy formula offering broad-spectrum protection and leaving an invisible finish on the skin.

Prioritizing these aspects will ensure that your sunscreen seamlessly integrates into your makeup routine without compromising the health of your skin. Remember, the best skincare is preventive, and using the best sunscreen under your makeup is a proactive measure to maintain your skin’s health and vitality.