In recent years, SPF cosmetics have soared in popularity as interest in sun safety and dermatological health grows among the general public. Sales of SPF foundations, bronzers and primers are on the rise, but do they offer real protection?
The major selling point for UV cosmetics is their claims to replace regular sunscreens. And as many of us have come to learn, applying SPF lotions on top of your foundation (and still look good) is practically impossible! Smudging and streaking are problems, so lots of ladies go looking for cosmetics that have SPF integrated into them. Seems like a logical solution, right?
Sorry, glowbunnies! Unfortunately, dermatologists are skeptical about the claims made by SPF cosmetics. They want consumers to know there’s no substitute for real actual dedicated sunscreen.
Why SPF Foundation Isn’t Enough
First off, let us start by saying that SPF cosmetics are better protection for your skin than wearing no sunscreen at all. Nobody claims these products are devoid of UV protection. The problem is, there’s not enough of it. According to dermatologist Lily Talakoub, a person would need to apply fifteen layers of SPF foundation to get the protection described on the label. Crazy, right?!
Obviously, nobody wants hideously thick and cakey makeup. So, some makeup brands behave a little sneaky and say they’re providing SPF protection. Which, technically they are – but not how much SPF makeup you’d need to get it!
The other big problem is these cosmetics offer partial protection. The majority of products safeguard against UVB rays but not UVA radiation. UVA rays are known to cause the highest rate of cancer. They are unimpeded by glass so move through windscreens and windows with ease. If you’re regularly swapping SPF protection in sunscreens for SPF in makeup, your skin is still exposed.
“You’re failing yourself if you think you’re protecting yourself against all UV rays, especially since UVAs cause more aging and skin cancers than UVBs.”
Lily Talakoub, M.D
How to Make Sure Your Skin Is Protected
It’s worth noting the preferred choice of sunscreen for dermatologists is one with a mineral base. The experts tend to choose products containing titanium oxide and zinc oxide as they form a protective barrier over the skin. They safeguard against both UVA and UVB rays and start delivering this protection immediately.
It’s less common for SPF foundations to contain these key minerals because they’re harder to blend into cosmetic formulations. So, most SPF makeup is chemical-based and, therefore, less effective and more dangerous. San Diego based dermatologist Melanie D. Palm recommends mineral-based sunscreens as the best way to stay safe in the sun.
Palm also stresses the need for generous applications. She advises people to apply sunscreen liberally and repeat every two hours. So lets recap! Your makeup SPF isn't enough and even if you apply a lotion before your makeup, what about reapplication? This is where ZINC IT OVER shines!
ZINC IT OVER Sunscreen Facial Mist is a convenient, effective, and fun way to reapply sunscreen the recommended every two hours. The fact that it can be applied Over Makeup is another huge bonus! It's the perfect travel companion for your skin when you’re on the go and in a hurry.
Additionally, our vegan and cruelty-free formula is packed with nourishing ingredients for your skin and leaves no white cast like traditional sunscreens. And yes, it's made with the number one most effective ingredient in skin protection, zinc oxide!
The Final Word on SPF Cosmetics
SPF makeup provides some protection but not nearly enough. This makes it the perfect companion to ZINC IT OVER. So, if you do like using SPF cosmetics, there’s no reason you shouldn’t continue to enjoy them! Just remember to boost their power with a high-quality sunscreen that provides UVA and UVB protection.
