SPF-Infused Makeup Is Now a Skincare Essential

By Sophia Green

2025-06-24

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a numerical value that indicates a product's ability to protect against UVB rays. It is an indicator of the ability of sunscreen cosmetics to protect the skin from sunburn and erythema. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The higher the SPF value, the better the protection against sunburn and erythema.

The sun protection efficacy of sunscreen cosmetics refers to their ability to protect against UV rays. Cosmetic labels often use the Sun Protection Factor (SPF)/Sun Protection Rating (PA). The SPF rating for UVA protection is expressed as PA or PPD.

Can cosmetic SPF replace sunscreen?

BB cream, foundation, or primer all contain sunscreen ingredients. Are they sufficient protection when used alone? Doctors point out that cosmetic sunscreen alone is not enough. The amount of sunscreen listed on cosmetics or tinted foundations often does not meet the recommended daily usage amount.
Applying the recommended amount of product to the face can cause a thick, powdery, and white cast, so it often does not provide adequate sun protection. Apply a base before applying sunscreen – Proper makeup habits
It's recommended that women, even if they use day cream or makeup, should use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and a PA++ rating daily. Apply a base before applying makeup. Maintaining good skincare and makeup habits can effectively protect your skin from UV-induced aging.

So what's the best way to protect your skin?

You can still use your favorite foundation and moisturizer with SPF, but you should also use sunscreen. I recommend mineral sunscreens, which use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun's UV rays.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that there are two cosmetics with SPF that are worth using on your face:

lipstick and eyeshadow. Your lips and eyelids are highly sensitive areas and therefore more susceptible to sun damage, but many people forget to use them. In addition to sunscreen, you can also use lipstick and eyeshadow with SPF.

Key point: Don't rely solely on makeup or moisturizer to meet your daily SPF requirements for sun protection. This doesn't mean you can't use your favorite products with SPF, but you'll need to incorporate them into your skincare routine along with sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.