How To Apply and Reapply Sunscreen

Warning: Redheads, ALWAYS wear enough sunscreen

Does the following scenario sound familiar? You choose makeup with SPF, apply it and spend an afternoon outdoors in the sun. By early evening, you feel an intense burn on your forehead, nose and cheeks. You say to yourself, “I don’t get it. Sunscreen is in my makeup.”

Sadly, it just isn’t enough.

The problem is that you did not reapply. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, you should reapply your sunscreen every two hours. In fact, the reapplication of sunscreen is just as important as putting it on in the first place.

READ: Why High SPF’s Are Not Better

Now, here comes the tricky part: reapplying sunscreen over makeup. No one wants to ruin their makeup, especially after a perfectly blended foundation and concealer have been set. And, with redheads being extremely sensitive, no one wants to break out from pores getting clogged with makeup and sunscreen.

This is why it’s important to use the right ‘redhead friendly’ products and techniques below:

1. Always start with a base

After cleansing, apply your sunscreen. We recommend choosing a lightweight sunscreen such as Murad Invisiblur Perfecting Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 30 or Clinique Sun SPF 45 Targeted Protection Stick

Next, apply your foundation with an SPF in it. Some ‘redhead friendly’ options:

If you’re a pressed powder redhead: https://amzn.to/3cwxyA3

If you’re a mineral powder redhead: Colorescience Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder for Sensitive Skin

If you’re a liquid foundation redhead: Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Full Coverage Foundation SPF 15

If you’re a tinted moisturizer redhead: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20

2. Apply sunscreen over makeup

Then, you’ll want to apply a sunscreen OVER makeup (foundation, concealer etc) even if the beauty items contain SPF. The more sun protection, the better.

We recommend choosing a product like COOLA Organic Makeup Setting Spray Organic Sunscreen SPF 30 It’s lightweight, easy to use, great for those with sensitive skin and won’t ruin your makeup. Simply spray on your skin and you’re good to go!

READ: The 6 Best Tinted Moisturizers for Redheads

3. Reapplication should occur two hours later

Now you know, reapplying is key. If you’re looking for a liquid sunscreen, lightly pat and sweep on Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50. Once applied, throw in your purse for easy application throughout the day. You can also use to use as a spot treatment on any freckles you want to extra protect.

4. Don’t forget the lips and scalp

The lips are strongly overlooked and tend to be forgotten during the reapplication process. Always opt for a lip balm containing SPF. Next time you’re in the drugstore, grab Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm. It is super moisturizing and also works as a great base or topper if applying a lipstick.

Choose a hair sunscreen like Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 50‎.