Imagine this: You wake up early, stretch, and slip into your coziest oversized sweater, ready to start your 5-step skincare routine in front of the bathroom mirror. But halfway through, you're faced with a common dilemma: Does sunscreen come before or after moisturizer? Luckily, we've got you covered. We've enlisted Dr. Hadley King, M.D., an NYC-based board-certified dermatologist, to shed light on this SPF conundrum.
Sunscreen vs. Moisturizer: Which Comes First?
Generally, moisturizer is the last step in any skincare routine. It's often the thickest product, helping to lock in any serums and lighter products applied beforehand. However, there's an exception to this rule: sunscreen.
"It may be best to apply a physical sunscreen as the final step after the moisturizer," advises Dr. King. "We don’t want the moisturizer to dilute the sunscreen."
In other words, sunscreen should always be the final step in your skincare routine. Its ingredients work to protect your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays, and applying moisturizer on top of SPF can decrease its effectiveness—something we definitely want to avoid.
So, the verdict is clear: sunscreen after moisturizer, always.
Should You Wear SPF Over Makeup?
After applying sunscreen, you might reach for your foundation or concealer. However, this shouldn't be the last time you apply SPF during the day. Dr. King recommends reapplying sunscreen every two hours.
The golden rule remains the same: Never leave the house without applying one ounce of SPF 30 or higher on your face and body.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your skin is well-protected and your skincare routine is optimized for maximum effectiveness.
Written by Grace Gavilanes for Youth To The People
