SPF should be a part of your daily skincare routine, even if you’re not wearing foundation. It’s also a good idea to choose a foundation with SPF for an added layer of protection. Choose a foundation that works well with your skin type and doesn’t cause any irritation or breakouts. Similarly, you should also choose an SPF that suits your skin type and provides the level of protection you need. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts, it’s a good idea to choose an SPF that’s labelled as non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. You should also look for a foundation that is hypoallergenic or non-irritating, and avoid ingredients that can irritate your skin, such as fragrances or alcohol.

How to Apply SPF Before Foundation

1 Apply SPF: Ultimately, the most important thing is to use an SPF that provides adequate protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Even in the UK and Ireland, where the sun doesn’t always seem that strong, you should choose an SPF with at least 30 protection. Apply it evenly all over your (clean) face, including your neck and any other exposed skin, and then wait a few minutes for the SPF to absorb into your skin before moving on to the next step. If you find that your foundation is sliding around or separating on top of your SPF, it could be because the SPF hasn’t fully absorbed into your skin yet.

2 Apply primer (optional): If you usually wear primer before your foundation, you should apply it at this stage. Using a primer before your foundation can help create a smooth base and prevent your foundation from separating or sliding around. This will also make your overall look last longer. Opt for a primer that is specifically designed to work well with both SPF and foundation.

3 Apply foundation: Once you have your SPF (and primer) base, now apply your foundation as you normally would, using a brush, sponge or your fingers. Make sure to blend it well, especially around the hairline and jawline. Not all SPFs are created equal, and some may not work well with your skin type, or the foundation you’re using. If your SPF isn’t work well under your foundation, try switching to a different formula, for a better combination.

Staying Protected

4 Reapply SPF: If you’ll be spending time outdoors, make sure to reapply your SPF every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. To do this on top of your foundation, it’s best to use a spray or powder SPF rather than a lotion or cream. This will help prevent your make-up from smudging or moving around. Hold the spray or powder SPF at least six inches away from your face to ensure that it is evenly distributed and doesn’t cause any clumps or patches. If you’re using a powder SPF, use a clean brush to pat it gently onto your skin, to help it blend in. Avoid rubbing or swiping the SPF over your makeup, as this can cause your makeup to shift and create patches.

See our pick of five facial sunscreens that are easy to wear HERE.

Meet The Expert:

Kildare based Suzie O’Neill is a renowned makeup artist and founder of beauty brand Ayu.

Main featured image: Etro via Jason Lloyd Evans.