It’s officially Summer which means it’s HOT!! Most of us avoid layering product after product on our skin because, let’s be honest, when we end up sweating it off it’s not a cute look. So, although we totally understand why makeup with SPF is appealing (seems like a no brainer right?), it should not be used as a replacement for your daily SPF. There is a common misconception that if your makeup has SPF in it, it’s enough to protect you from UV rays. In reality, that’s simply not the case.

First of all, you have to consider how much product you would need to apply in order to get the proper amount of coverage. The rule of thumb (or in the case, finger) for sunscreen is two lines of product on your fingers. You’d likely have to put several layers of foundation on your skin for it to even be effective. In which case, say a prayer for your pores! You would never apply that much liquid foundation on your skin, particularly during the summer when you really want to let your skin breathe. Not to mention that the FDA has some concerns about the effectiveness of powder sunscreens (although they are all currently still approved by the FDA). They likely don’t give enough coverage to provide the amount of protection needed for your skin.

When you’re looking at your makeup with SPF, it’s important to recognize how much SPF protection you’re getting from the product. For example, many makeup-based SPF products are around an SPF 15, which only provides about 93% protection from damaging UV rays. When using the dermatologist recommended SPF 30, however, you’re getting 96.7% protection. It really makes a difference!

Many makeup products with SPF have chemical sunscreens only! It can be difficult finding an all-mineral foundation. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UVA and UVB rays in the skin and converting it to heat. They also may penetrate the skin and could cause irritation. On the other hand, mineral sunscreens work by reflecting harmful UVA and UVB rays away from your skin (like a mirror). Mineral sunscreens do not penetrate the skin and are gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. Hands down – mineral sunscreens are the safer, more effective option.

Also, not all foundations, powders, etc. with SPF provide broad spectrum protection. That means that the SPF in those makeup products will only protect you from UVB rays, not UVA rays. It is important that your skin stays protected from UVA rays because they can cause pre-mature aging and even worse, they are the primary cause of skin cancer! It is crucial that you wear broad spectrum sun protection every day because UVA rays will penetrate through glass and clouds. That means even when it’s rainy or you’re inside curled up on the couch all day beating the heat, your skin is still not entirely protected.

Now, before you get upset because you think we ruined your hot human summer, we have a solution! Our best seller, Face Prime & Protect Tinted SPF 40 is about to become your new holy grail. Not only is it an all-mineral sunscreen but it was also formulated to wear beautifully underneath makeup (or alone for an all-natural look)! See – you still get that two-in-one product, but now you don’t have to worry that it isn’t effective! Apply 2 fingers worth of Face Prime & Protect Tinted SPF 40 to your face and neck before makeup and you will be protected from both UVA and UVB rays while having a flawlessly smooth base for your makeup application!

Cheers to having an amazing fun-filled summer while keeping your skin healthy and protected!

Xoxo -the CoTZ Team