I love makeup, but I also love my skin. For years, I ignored sunscreen, thinking my foundation was enough. It wasn’t. My skin started showing signs—dullness, fine lines, and uneven tone.
Now, sunscreen is non-negotiable. The tricky part? Making it work with my makeup. No one wants a greasy mess or a patchy base. I had to find a way to keep my skin protected without ruining my look.
After testing different methods, I finally nailed the perfect routine. Now, my makeup stays flawless, and my skin gets the care it deserves. Here’s how to do makeup steps with sunscreen.
Read More: Makeup Routine: Essential Steps for a Flawless Look
Table of Contents
Makeup Steps with Sunscreen: A Simple Guide for You
She had always struggled to apply makeup with sunscreen. After a quick chat, I showed her how sunscreen should be the first step before makeup. The smooth application and flawless finish amazed her. The right sunscreen prep made her makeup last longer and gave her glowing skin.
Read More: Makeup Guide: Essential Tips for a Flawless Look
Prepping My Canvas – Cleanse and Moisturize
A smooth base makes all the difference. My makeup always looks better when my skin is fresh and hydrated. Before anything else, I start with clean skin.
1. Washing Away the Day (or Night)
- I use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and oil.
- Harsh scrubbing? No way. I stick to soft, circular motions.
- My skin feels fresh but never tight or dry.
2. Locking in the Hydration
- A lightweight moisturizer keeps my skin soft and plump.
- I choose one that suits my skin type—no one-size-fits-all here.
- Hydrated skin means my makeup glides on like a dream.
Shielding My Skin – The Sunscreen Layer
Sunscreen is my daily armor. I’ve learned the hard way that skipping it leads to dull skin and early wrinkles. Now, I never miss this step.
1. Picking the Right Protection
- I use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Chemical or mineral? I go with what feels best on my skin.
- Matte finish for oily days, hydrating formulas for dry ones.
2. Applying It Like I Mean It
- A pea-sized amount? Not enough. I use at least two fingers’ worth.
- Face, neck, and ears—every spot gets covered.
- I wait a minute before rubbing in more to avoid streaks.
3. Letting It Set Before Makeup
- Rushing leads to pilling, so I give it time to absorb.
- Five minutes is all it takes for a smooth, even base.
- Once it’s dry, I’m ready for the next step.
Priming for Perfection – Setting the Stage
A good primer makes everything last longer. I never skip this step because it keeps my makeup from sliding off. Finding the right one took trial and error, but now I know what works.
1. Choosing What Works for Me
- Oily skin? I go for a mattifying primer to control shine.
- Dry skin? A hydrating primer keeps everything smooth.
- Pore-filling primers? Perfect for a blurred, airbrushed effect.
2. Applying It the Right Way
- A pea-sized amount is enough—I don’t overdo it.
- I press, not rub, so it melts into my skin.
- I let it sit for a minute before moving to the next step.
Foundation Fundamentals – Building My Look
The right foundation can transform my face. I make sure it’s smooth and even to create the perfect canvas for everything else. Finding my shade took time, but it was worth it.
1. Applying Evenly and Blending Well
- I start from the center of my face and blend outward.
- A beauty sponge or brush? It depends on the finish I want.
- I build coverage gradually, so it looks natural.
2. Adding Extra Protection with SPF
- I love foundations with built-in SPF—it’s an easy boost.
- Even if I’ve already applied sunscreen, extra protection never hurts.
- My skin feels covered and safe, no matter the weather.
Sealing the Deal – Setting My Masterpiece
I love how my makeup looks when it’s fresh, but I need it to last. Setting powder is my go-to to keep everything in place all day long.
1. Locking Everything In
- I lightly dust a setting powder over my face.
- I focus on areas that tend to get oily, like my T-zone.
- A little goes a long way—no heavy layers.
2. Touching Up with SPF
- I opt for a setting powder with SPF for easy reapplication.
- It’s perfect for mid-day touch-ups without messing up my look.
- My makeup stays matte, and my skin stays protected.
Final Touch – Reapplying Sunscreen Without Ruining My Look
I know I need to reapply sunscreen, but I don’t want to mess up my makeup. Luckily, there are ways to keep my skin protected without starting over.
1. Using SPF-Infused Setting Sprays
- I keep an SPF setting spray in my bag for quick reapplications.
- A few spritzes refresh my makeup and protect my skin.
- It’s light and non-greasy, perfect for midday touch-ups.
2. Choosing SPF Powders for a Matte Finish
- Powder sunscreens are a game-changer for oily skin.
- I apply them over my makeup, and it doesn’t budge.
- I reapply every couple of hours, especially when I’m outside.
