Shop
Pay BillThe Best Sunscreens to Wear Under Makeup
It’s essential to wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher under your makeup—even in the fall and winter. Makeup that has SPF does not typically provide enough sun protection, so in order to fully protect your skin, we recommend applying sunscreen under your makeup. We asked some of our providers to share their thoughts on the best sunscreens to wear under makeup.
Aveeno Active Natural Positively Radiant SPF 30
“This sunscreen dries as a semi-matte finish which is great for under foundation. It has soy extract, an antioxidant. It helps fade scars and discoloration over time so using this SPF helps tackle more than one issue! You can fade dark spots along with protecting your skin.” – Learn more about spot removal treatments at Schweiger Dermatology here.
Elta MD Sunscreen SPF 45
“Most dermatologists love Elta MD and for good reason. It is safe for acne/rosacea prone skin and also has a tiny bit of lactic acid. This helps keep pores clear. It has mattifying ingredients that will keep your makeup from sliding off when you apply it on top of this SPF.”
Color Science Sunforgetable Powder SPF
“My absolute favorite ON TOP of makeup, and great for reapplication, is Color Science Sunforgetable Powder SPF. Easy to reapply without messing up your makeup, and since you need to reapply sunscreen every two hours, this is a great option.”
Aveeno Positively Radiant & Elta MD UV Clear
“I always recommend for patients to use a moisturizer with SPF 30 (or higher) incorporated into it. I love Aveeno Positively Radiant moisturizer with SPF 30 and Elta MD UV Clear. Both are an easy step to incorporate into your daily skin care routine and provide effective sun protection. They absorb into your skin well and are great to wear under makeup!” -Suzanne Cohen, PA-C of SDG Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Intellishade TruPhysical
“My absolute favorite SPF to wear under makeup is the one and only Intellishade TruPhysical sunscreen by Revision Skincare. This new 100% mineral based, anti-aging formula leaves the perfect dewy glow under makeup. It also is a moisturizer as well. Perfect to use before applying your favorite primer or foundation.” -Cristina Monaco, PA-C of SDG Smithtown, NY
Schweiger Dermatology Group’s Physical Sunscreen SPF 50
“Schweiger Dermatology Group’s Physical Sunscreen SPF 50 with Zinc is my favorite SPF for under makeup. It goes on light and smooth and you can easily apply makeup over it!” – Karyn Pagano, PA-C of SDG Mattituck, NY
EltaMD UV & Revision Intellishade
“EltaMD UV Clear is my lighter everyday sunscreen and Revision Intellishade is my sunscreen and foundation in one, providing a little more makeup coverage. Both have zinc oxide providing excellent sunscreen safety.” – Brittney Danberry, PA-C of SDG Midtown & Flatiron
Replenix UltiMATTE Perfection SPF 50+
“Replenix UltiMATTE Perfection SPF 50+ is a great tinted hydrating sunscreen that seconds as a light concealer and contains anti-aging and anti-oxidant properties.” – Sari Katz, PA-C of SDG Upper East Side & Financial District. Learn more about anti-aging solutions at Schweiger Dermatology here.
