Frequently asked questions
Is SPF in primer enough? Do you still need to double up on sunscreen?
“Many primers contain SPF 15 or 20, but a primer with SPF 15 or 20 is likely not sufficient for proper sun protection and should be applied after using sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher,” says Dr. Green. Even if you have a primer with SPF 50, the dermatologists we spoke with recommend doubling down and layering it over a regular sunscreen. “My philosophy is that SPF-infused makeup is an excellent bonus, but should not be a substitute for daily sunscreen use,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon.
Do you have to reapply sunscreen even if you use an SPF primer?
In short, yes.“Since SPF degrades throughout the day with UV exposure, sweat, oil production, and touching the face, you always need to reapply,” says Kseniya Kobets, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care. SPF testing is based on a generous application, and most primers or makeup are applied too thinly to reach the labeled SPF, so a dedicated sunscreen underneath and reapplication are still important.
Do you put primer on before or after moisturizer?
“The purpose of moisturizer is to hydrate and nourish the skin, which is why we want it to soak in first. Primer prepares the skin for makeup by creating a smoother, more even “canvas” that cosmetics—like foundation, concealer, etc—sit on top of,” says Dr. Engelman.
What should you look for in an SPF primer?
When shopping for a makeup primer with SPF, look for ones that have an SPF 30 or higher and your desired final finish, whether that’s dewy, matte, or satin, says Spickard. Dr. Engelman also recommends looking for ingredients that nourish the skin in addition to a high SPF. “Look for hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides, and antioxidants,” she says. Here’s a breakdown of what each ingredient does:
- Hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates skin and encourages it to retain moisture. You’ll be left with a more supple complexion that’s free of dry patches and flaking.
- Niacinamide helps calm irritated and inflamed skin. It can also help even out skin tone and texture for a more clarified, smooth look.
- Peptides work to stimulate collagen production in the skin and give your complexion a bouncy, youthful glow and finish.
- Antioxidants like vitamin C and E will help brighten dark spots, brighten skin, and minimize dullness and discoloration over time. These ingredients are often paired with SPF because they also protect against free radical damage caused by UV.
There are two general types of makeup primers: ones that are water-based and ones that are silicone-based. Water-based primers pair better with water-based makeup products, while silicone-based primers pair better with silicone-based makeup. Sticking to the same base ingredient in your primer and foundation will ensure that it doesn’t pill, smudge or run throughout the day.
After polling dermatologists for their favorites, we tested SPF primers by evaluating texture (whether they had a gel consistency or something creamier), finish (matte or dewy) and how well they kept our makeup in place during the day (for up to 12 hours of wear). All facial primers had a minimum of SPF 30 and skin-boosting ingredients.. Our testers with a variety of skin types (dry, oily, mature and more), wore them for a full day, from running errands on the weekend to work. We checked if they pilled or if they kept makeup locked in throughout the day.
- Michele Green, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC
- Kseniya Kobets, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care
- Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon.
- Kasey Spickard, a celebrity makeup artist based in NYC
