Redheads: The One Time NOT To Wear SPF

By: Jessie Harbin

I know, I know. Spare me the sermons. If you follow the redhead sunscreen rules all the time, good for you. For me, there are certain instances that are worth breaking a few guidelines–my wedding being one of them. Basically, makeup with SPF and professional photography do not mix. The ingredients in SPF are made to reflect light, and in doing so, reflect flash photography and give you the white face you’ve undoubtedly seen in so many wedding photos.

After a few hours of research, the photographer community seems divided on the issue. Some say it depends on the makeup while most agree that it is only “direct flash” that causes the white out.

So, how do you avoid it?

1. Check with your photographer. My wedding photographer said she only uses natural light and doesn’t use a flash.

2. Do a test run with your cell phone flash. A Practical Wedding writes that this is the best way to see how your makeup will be photographed.

3. No shimmer. I love glitter. I am a product of the Limited Too generation. However, makeup blogs all seem to agree that shimmer doesn’t photograph well. Remember all those photos with the white eye shadow from middle school?

The bottom line:

If you’re going to be outside all day, you’re good. Natural light will not cause flashback. If you’re going to be at an indoor wedding or reception at night, it might be best to consider a no-SPF makeup. Personally, I plan on doing a trial run and then using my camera to take photos with a flash to make sure it doesn’t make me look too pale.

READ: Before & After, A Redhead’s Trial Wedding Makeup Routine 

What do you think? Would you skip SPF for photos?

Photo via Tumblr