Wearing sunscreen under makeup is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays and preventing premature aging and skin damage. However, finding the right sunscreen that works well under makeup can be a challenge. In this blog post, I’ll share some of the best sunscreens for under makeup.
Whether you prefer Korean sunscreens, my personal favorite known for their lightweight textures, or mineral sunscreens for sensitive skin, I’ve got you covered with top recommendations and tips for flawless application.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.
Related: 10 Best Tinted Sunscreens For Beautiful, Protected Skin
What Type of Sunscreen is Best for Under Makeup?
When choosing sunscreen for under makeup, consider:
- Lightweight texture that absorbs quickly.
- Non-comedogenic formulas to avoid clogged pores.
- Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- Compatibility with makeup, featuring a moisturizing, matte, or priming effect.
- Korean, mineral, or chemical sunscreens based on skin type.
- Opt for SPF 30 or higher for adequate protection.
Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin and makeup needs while providing effective sun protection.
Best Sunscreens For Under Makeup
1. Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen
CREDIT: SEPHORA
The Tatcha Silk Sunscreen is a luxurious choice for those seeking a high-end sunscreen. Formulated with zinc oxide, it provides mineral-based sun protection. Infused with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it hydrates the skin and evens out skin tone. Silk extract boosts radiance and smooths texture. Its lightweight liquid formula looks amazing under makeup.
• Type: Mineral
• SPF: 50
• Size: 1.7 oz
• Consistency: Liquid
2. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen
CREDIT: SKINSTORE
The EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is an excellent choice, especially for acne-prone or sensitive skin. Unlike many sunscreens, it doesn’t sting the eyes. Infused with niacinamide, it aids in reducing the appearance of blemishes and discoloration, while hyaluronic acid offers hydration. Its lightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly without clogging pores. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, it suits all skin types, ensuring a smooth, matte finish that’s ideal for makeup application.
• Type: Mineral
• SPF: 46
• Size: 1.7 oz
• Consistency: Creamy lotion
3. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral
CREDIT: ULTA
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen is another excellent choice for sensitive skin. This mineral sunscreen is gentle, as it is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Enriched with antioxidants, it provides protection against environmental damage. It leaves a beautiful matte finish and layers well under makeup, especially if you have oily skin.
• Type: Mineral
• SPF: 50
• Size: 1.7 oz
• Consistency: Lotion
4. Supergoop Mineral Unseen Sunscreen
CREDIT: SEPHORA
The Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen has a nice gel consistency and doubles as a makeup primer. This formula is clear and truly invisible, hence the name “unseen.” Suitable for all skin tones, as it leaves no white residue upon application. Its gel-like texture absorbs quickly into the skin and leaves a smooth, natural finish. It makes an excellent base for makeup application.
• Type: Chemical
• SPF: 40
• Size: 1.7 oz
• Consistency: Gel
5. E.L.F. Cosmetics Suntouchable Invisible
CREDIT: ULTA
If you’re seeking an affordable alternative to the Supergoop Unseen, the E.L.F. Suntouchable Invisible sunscreen is an excellent dupe. It’s a clear gel formula that doubles as a smoothing makeup primer. Its lightweight formula absorbs instantly into the skin, making it a great base for makeup.
• Type: Chemical
• SPF: 35
• Size: 1.7 oz
• Consistency: Gel
Best Korean Sunscreens For Under Makeup
6. Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun
CREDIT: YESSTYLE
The Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun is my ultimate choice for wearing under makeup. Its lightweight cream texture doubles as a hydrating primer, providing the perfect canvas for flawless makeup application. Infused with niacinamide and rice extract, it brightens and hydrates the skin while offering broad-spectrum protection against UV rays. Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types, this sunscreen ensures a smooth makeup finish.
• Type: Chemical
• SPF: 50
• Size: 50 ml
• Consistency: Cream
7. ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
CREDIT: YESSTYLE
The ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel is a lightweight Korean sunscreen ideal for under makeup. Its quick-absorbing gel texture deeply hydrates without greasiness. Infused with 8 types of hyaluronic acid, it offers intense hydration, while ceramides strengthen the skin barrier and centella asiatica soothes. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it provides reliable sun protection while nourishing and soothing the skin.
• Type: Chemical
• SPF: 50
• Size: 50 ml
• Consistency: Gel
8. ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
CREDIT: STYLEVANA
I’m currently loving the ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen. It feels like a moisturizer and is perfect for under makeup. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly, providing essential moisture without feeling oily. Enriched with birch juice, it hydrates and nourishes the skin while offering broad-spectrum sun protection against UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, it contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to leave the skin glowing. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it leaves a smooth base for flawless makeup application.
• Type: Chemical
• SPF: 50
• Size: 50 ml
• Consistency: Cream
9. MISSHA – All-Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk
CREDIT: YESSTYLE
The Missha Soft Finish Sun Milk was my introduction to Korean sunscreen, sparking my love for it. This lightweight cream blends seamlessly into the skin without leaving a white cast. Ideal for all skin types, especially oily or combination skin, it offers a powdery matte finish that is perfect for under makeup. Its soft texture provides a smooth canvas for flawless makeup application.
• Type: Chemical
• SPF: 50
• Size: 70 ml
• Consistency: Cream
10. SCINIC – Enjoy Super Mild Sun Essence
CREDIT: YESSTYLE
Another one of my go-to sunscreens for under makeup is the SCINIC Enjoy Super Mild Sun Essence. It has a lightweight, essence-like texture that absorbs quickly. It contains niacinamide and panthenol for brightening and hydration. If you have oily or combination skin, this sunscreen is perfect for you. This sunscreen ensures a smooth and matte finish, making it perfect for under makeup.
• Type: Chemical
• SPF: 50
• Size: 50 ml
• Consistency: Essence
How Long to Wait After Sunscreen to Apply Makeup?
After applying sunscreen, it’s essential to allow it to fully absorb into the skin before applying makeup. Ideally, you should wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before starting your makeup routine. This allows the sunscreen to form a protective barrier on the skin and ensures that your makeup will go on smoothly without interfering with the effectiveness of the sunscreen.
Additionally, waiting a few minutes allows the sunscreen to dry down, reducing the likelihood of your makeup sliding off or becoming patchy throughout the day. Taking this extra step can help maximize the benefits of both your sunscreen and makeup, ensuring protection and a flawless finish.
These ten sunscreens are some of the best options for wearing under makeup. By incorporating sunscreens like these mentioned in this blog post into your daily routine, you can enjoy both sun protection and a seamless makeup look.
What about you? Do you have a favorite sunscreen for under makeup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
