Makeup Steps with Sunscreen: My Essential Beauty Routine

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 I do it.

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.