If My Makeup Has SPF, Do I Still Need Sunscreen? This Dermatologist Says Yes—Here's Why

Just because you see that "SPF 15" written on your makeup doesn't mean you get to skip sunscreen application. Top dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry explains exactly why the SPF in makeup products isn't going to protect you in the same way a regular sunscreen will.  

"When the FDA is testing sunscreens to determine their SPF, they're applying it in a very thick layer evenly over the skin," Dr. Michelle explains. "I think most of us don't apply our makeup that way, so it's not really a reliable way to get SPF." 

"I really prefer that you layer," she adds. "Apply your sunscreen first and then your makeup on top."  

And when it comes to sunscreen, much of it is about using the right SPF for the right amount of time spent outside, Dr. Michelle explains.  

Casually outside: SPF 30 

Outside for an hour or more: SPF 50 

Outside for more than a few hours: SPF 50, applied every 2 hours 

Dr. Michelle shared one of her favorite drugstore sunscreens the La Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk sunscreen. "This is a fantastic sunscreen," Dr. Michelle says. "And just as the name suggests, it melts in beautifully into the skin. It's broad spectrum, and it's formulated for the face and the body—so you can take one with you on vacation to take care of both areas."   

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60

Dermstore

$25

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