Re-applying sunscreen during the day isn’t easy. Someone recently asked me how I do it. I suspect many of you also find it challenging, so here’s my answer.
The Problem:
– It is yucky applying sunscreen over a face that isn’t clean or has makeup. Adding a layer of sunscreen over a buildup of the day’s oil, sweat, and pollution grime isn’t nice for skin. And it can clog pores.
– It is a hassle to re-apply sunscreen when you wear makeup. I personally don’t like to remove makeup in the middle of the day because it takes a lot of time to remove it, cleanse the face, re-apply skincare and sunscreen, and then re-apply makeup. Plus, I don’t like carrying makeup with me.
– It’s not convenient to cleanse your face if you’re in a public area or nowhere near a sink. I personally don’t like being in a public bathroom very long. Plus, just like with makeup, I don’t want to carry cleanser or skincare with me.
– It is not good for skin to be cleansed too often. My skin is on the dry side, so I don’t want to over-cleanse. Twice a day is enough for me, and for most people, that’s all you should be doing too, except if you work out (after exercise) or are very dirty or sweaty from being outside in a polluted or humid area.
The Solution:
There are a few different ways you can re-apply sunscreen without having to cleanse your face and apply sunscreen all over again. But they require having different types of sunscreens on hand.
1. Sunscreen Brush
Sunscreen doesn’t have to be a cream or lotion. It can be a loose mineral powder that comes packaged in a retractable brush. All you do is brush the powder over your face. A brush is small and lightweight, so it’s easy to carry inside a bag.
Sunscreen powders also have a very high concentration of active ingredients – a combination of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. The legal maximum concentration for either ingredient in the U.S. is 25%. You will often see mineral powders with concentrations close to 25%.
The brush shown in the picture has 23% Zinc Oxide and 19% Titanium Dioxide. It is a prototype (not for sale). But Peter Thomas Roth makes this kind of brush, which you can find in Sephora. There are 2 versions – normal or oily. Colorescience also makes these brushes, but they are more pricey.
Mineral powders may come clear or tinted with a color. In the photo, I have poured some powder into a dish to show you the color of the powder. It’s a tinted one. The other brush in the photo is a white powder, which is clear on skin.
A brush is my preferred method for re-applying sunscreen, and the one I use the most because it’s the most convenient for me.
TIP: If you are sweating or oily, press a tissue or blotting sheet over your face before you apply powder. You don’t want powder mixing with sweat or oil. And it will keep your brush cleaner.
2. Sunscreen Spray
Sunscreen sprays are becoming more common, and you can find many versions by Neutrogena at the drugstore now.
Sprays are great for when you’re at the beach or poolside. It makes re-applying much easier, especially if your body has some sand on it. It’s also great for covering larger areas, such as the back and legs.
Some sprays can be sprayed onto the face. Not all though, so check.
Follow the instructions for how far away to spray from your face – every spray has a different arc and degree of force. Some are more focused sprays, others are more mist-like.
The spray in the picture is by Image Skincare, a professional brand.
3. Cushion Compact
A cushion compact is a form of sheer foundation color and sunscreen in one, with a very light coverage. With a good one, you can’t tell you have anything on.
The product is pre-soaked into a spongy cushion inside the compact. You dab a flat sponge (the blue one in the picture) onto the cushion, which picks up product (it’s wet). Then you press (not rub) the sponge onto your skin and repeat pressing until your face is covered.
The cushion compact is designed for easy touchups during the day. You can re-apply everywhere or just to small areas that need it. The sponge is pre-treated to be bacteria-resistant and can be washed.
By the way, despite marketing claims, I don’t believe anything can ward off or resist bacteria very long (they grow much too fast!). If you use a cushion compact, wash your sponges frequently, especially if you are prone to acne.
The cushion compact in the photo is a sample by AmorePacific. You can find budget-friendly cushions by Laneige (a lower-end brand by Amore Pacific) at Target. Or look in Asian skincare lines.
Do you have a favorite way or product or tip? Please share in the comments below!
Further Reading:
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