Informatie
Should you use sunscreen before or after primer?
While it may seem like a relatively minor detail, how you layer primer and sunscreen can have a significant impact.
Not only can it affect how well your make-up wears, but it can also influence the effectiveness of your skincare.
Getting the order wrong could lead to foundation that slips and slides or even compromise the protection your sunscreen offers.
Understanding how to use sunscreen and primer together can make all the difference in achieving a flawless makeup look while maintaining your skin’s healthy appearance.
Keep reading to discover the answer to your most pressing beauty question.
Understanding the Roles of Sunscreen and Primer
Before we dig into whether you should apply primer before or after sunscreen, let’s take a moment to go over the roles of both products.
Understanding what sunscreen and primer do makes it easier to see exactly how each one should slot into your routine.
Sunscreen helps protect your skin from sun damage. It can help prevent sunburns, visible signs of premature aging, and even certain types of skin cancer.
How sunscreen protects your skin depends on the type—chemical or mineral. Chemical sunscreens work by creating a shield against the sun’s rays, while mineral sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays.
Face primer, meanwhile, is a product that bridges the gap between skincare and make-up
It’s designed to prep your skin for your face makeup. The right formula can visibly smooth skin texture, make your pores look less noticeable, and help makeup last longer.
Sunscreen vs. Primer: Which Comes First?
To properly protect your skin and prep for makeup, you should use sunscreen before primer.
Sunscreen is most effective when applied after cleansing and moisturizing your face, but before layering on any makeup products. It’s the final step in any good daytime skincare routine
After you apply your SPF, give it a few minutes to absorb, and then you can move on to priming your skin. Primer should be the first step in your long-lasting makeup routine.
It works best when layered directly under the rest of your makeup, allowing it to better grip to your foundation and other products.
4 Tips for a Seamless Application
Now that you know whether to apply sunscreen before or after primer, you can focus on how to perfect your application of both products. Here are a few tips to try:
- Match sunscreen and primer formulas. Not every product will pair well together. Consider your desired finish when picking your primer and sunscreen.
- If you want a matte make-up look, for example, match a velvety primer with a mattifying sunscreen.
- For a glowy look, choose products with a radiant finish instead. Think about the texture and consistency of your products, too. Picking ones that are similar (like two lotions or two gels) will make for a more flawless application.
- Opt for lightweight products. Heavy primers and sunscreens can be prone to pilling. Look for lightweight formulas that will layer well and feel weightless on your skin.
- Wait between steps. If you immediately start smoothing primer on top of sunscreen, your SPF might rub off. Take your time and let your sunscreen absorb for three to five minutes before applying primer.
- Try a combo primer and sunscreen. Sunscreens that are designed to also prime your skin can help streamline your routine. W
