Yes, you can (and should) apply SPF over make-up—here's how

Here's the conundrum: we are told by the British Skin Foundation that we have to reapply our SPF every two hours to properly protect our skin from the sun's damaging rays. But when you've applied complexion products, like foundation, bronzer and cream blusher, the idea of rubbing the best sun cream into your skin seems unappealing. Thankfully, there are now clever ways to top up your protection with the best SPF to apply over make-up.

Hopefully, you're already using one of the best facial sunscreens with a high factor on a daily basis throughout autumn and winter. But when the days are longer and the sun is stronger, reapplication is key throughout the day. Ideally, this should be done year-round, but when spring hits, and certainly in summer, this is absolutely crucial.

"We would generally recommend using an SPF of at least 30 day to day, looking to up this to SPF 40 or 50 on those hotter summer days. And you should aim to reapply every 2-3 hours continuously," says Kimberley Hulme, head of the Face the Future Clinic. 

A recent survey of Brits, by Stratumclinics.com, found that 16 per cent confessed to burning because they’d not applied SPF regularly enough for adequate protection throughout the day. We're here to make that a little easier. 

SPF reapplication formulas 

Thanks to clever brands and their chemists, there are more ways to reapply SPF than ever before. You'll find sprays, setting mists, powders, sticks and compacts to help reapplying sunscreen easier—and dare we say, actually enjoyable?

First up (and easiest to use) are mists, simply spritz liberally over your make-up and it won't disrupt your complexion products but will provide enough protection for the next few hours. Then we've got nifty powders, which are great over the top of spray or liquid SPF to act similarly to translucent power taking away excess shine. They're also great for scalps prone to burning. Next up is solid stick SPFs. These are incredibly smart, making application really targeted and precise; perfect for those burnt noses! What's more, it won't count as a liquid so you can easily travel abroad with an SPF stick and know you're protected no matter the occasion. 

Finally, we've got a compact. There still aren't many of these out there and unfortunately they only work for a limited skin tone range. But they're great if you need ample coverage that a mist or powder won't be able to achieve. They're ideal for coverage, in place of foundation touch-ups throughout the day. 

Best suncream to apply over make-up

The best SPFs to apply over make-up are mist and powder formulas. Similar to your best face mists and setting powders, they won't disrupt your make-up, but give you that added layer of protection later on in the day. Just pop one in your handbag for on-the-go top-ups.

We've tested the below formulas and can confirm that they are some of the best you can buy. Keep on scrolling to shop...

1. Garnier Ambre Solaire Over Makeup Super UV Protection Mist SPF50

This is a brilliant, affordable option which means there are no excuses for topping up that protection. It's been specifically designed to be worn over make-up, but can also be worn underneath or on the beach. It's enriched with hyaluronic acid, so again it's the perfect skin refresher too.

2. Decree Day Shield SPF30

This invisible spray goes on beautifully on top of a full face of make-up. It's so lightweight that you won't be able to feel it at all. Not only does it contain UV filter titanium dioxide and sunscreen zinc oxide, but there are also peptides to leave skin feeling super soft and rose water for a boost of hydration. Ideal for those stickier months when it gets really warm.

3. Kate Somerville UncompliKated SPF50 Soft Focus Makeup Setting Spray

This is actually a make-up setting spray, so once you've finished your face in the morning, apply a liberal amount to set you up for the day. It mattifies the skin, so it's ideal if you're on the oilier side. It works just as well for regular application throughout the day too. The brand recommends every two hours, which is easily done.

"There's really only one product I use for SPF top-ups, and that's this from Kate Somerville. I have so much confidence in its results that I don't like to stray." - Shannon Lawlor, Acting Senior Beauty Editor.

4. iS Clinical PerfectTint Powder SPF40

You might be concerned that using a powder SPF won't provide enough protection, but Dr Charlene DeHaven, Clinical Director at iS Clinical, explains that "an overall and consistent dusting of PerfectTint Powder SPF 40 is adequate to provide protection with an SPF of 40 when reapplied throughout the day."

5. Supergoop! (Re)Setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 30 PA+++

Not only will this powder mattify shine and provide extra protection throughout the day, but it's also a great way to set your make-up in place. Our top tip? If you're prone to a sunburnt parting, a powder just like this one is a good way to give your scalp some sun protection without turning roots greasy.

6. Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Mist Skinscreen

This spray can be applied both under and over make-up, and is nice and lightweight on the skin. It gives a gorgeous dewy finish when applied over foundation, and the formula includes a whole heap of vitamins to help protect the skin. Oh, and did I mention that it's SPF 50? What a winner.

7. Sculpted by Aimee Sun Mist SPF 50 Spray

Sculpted by Aimee has come through with an invisible mist that makes SPF reapplication over make-up a total doddle. The mist mechanism is so fine that it feels pleasant to apply with even coverage. It dries down nicely and doesn't leave an overly greasy film, nor does it irritate the delicate eye area. Finally, it smells lovely without being overpowering. A handbag must-have. 

8. Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50

Once you start using an SPF stick you'll wonder what you ever did without one. Supergoop nailed this formula, giving maximum protection with little effort required. Despite its name, it doesn't leave a "glow" per se—it's a little too greasy to call it a glow, so something to bear in mind if you're oily. Either apply this directly to the skin (if you don't already have a base on), or rub into fingers together, then press into the skin over make-up. The tube lasts a surprisingly long time, even with liberal application. 

9. Shisedo Sports BB Compact SPF 50+

If you're someone who tops-up your foundation throughout the day, you'll probably benefit from a coloured SPF compact. Similar to your regular compacts, this provides tinted coverage that feels great on the skin and blurs imperfections—all with added UV protection. The main downside to this product is that it has far from a good shade range (in fact, it's not really passable), which we hope Shiseido adds to soon. 

10. Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Protection Powder Brush SPF 30

For those put off by SPF reapplication due to the greasy residue that is often left over, this one is for you. A dusting of this adds further protection and adds a matte finish if you're prone to oiliness. Again, (sadly this is a running theme in SPF protection) this powder will be too light for many skin tones, which is a huge disappointment. Hopefully more inclusive shades are added soon.