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Out of all the sunny day essentials—sandals, shades, smudge proof mascara—sunscreen is the biggest non-negotiable. For Nadia Paglia, the director of education at Dermalogica, this sentiment holds especially true. “I had skin cancer (melanoma) because I wasn’t using any sun protection,” she recalls. “Now, I make sure I have the utmost defense.”
Skin cancer is alarmingly common across the nation: Over 80,000 cases are diagnosed annually in Canada, including more than 5,000 cases of melanoma, the most fatal form. It’s precisely the reason Paglia recommends slathering on sunscreen year-round: “SPF should be worn throughout all four seasons—cloudy days included,” she emphasizes. Yet, despite such staggering statistics, why do so many neglect their daily SPF?
“People want multitaskers,” observes Dr. Ally Frankel, co-founder and skincare director of Nudestix. Life is busy (and costly!), so investing in products that can ‘do it all’ without compromising any current skincare progress is key. And despite the growing discourse around sunscreen on social media, Frankel notes that many still prioritize makeup over sun care.
Enter SPF-infused makeup, the *ultimate* multitasker. From skin-loving blushes to protective lip balms and beyond, these sunproof formulas may not replace your daily sunscreen, but they’re an effortless way to weave skin care into your routine. “I would encourage it, especially in the summer,” says Frankel. “Every summer is getting hotter, so we need to protect our skin a little bit more.”
Read on for products and tips to help navigate the sun-kissed season ahead.
But first: Why is SPF so important?
“SPF, or sun protection factor, is one of the most accessible and effective ways to prevent skin cancer, skin aging and other skin concerns,” says Frankel.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun may be invisible, but they have potential to wreak serious havoc. While sunscreen is often highlighted for its anti-aging benefits, it is equally crucial for overall skin health. In fact, UV rays can weaken our immune system, leading to changes in skin cells that may develop into skin cancer.
Paglia and Frankel both recommend applying a minimum of SPF 30 daily, especially given our increased exposure to skin-damaging blue light from technology. Using about two teaspoons of product ensures adequate coverage, providing enough to apply without having to stretch it thin.
Incorporating SPF into your daily routine can foster good habits, making it easier to use consistently rather than sporadically. The key is finding an SPF that works for your skin and fits seamlessly into your routine. “At the end of the day, any SPF is better than none,” says Frankel.
Here are some sunscreens we’re loving.
The tried-and-true mineral skin tint
The lightweight sunscreen serum
The glow-y sunscreen stick
The protective scalp and hair mist
So, why use makeup containing SPF?
More like, why not?
“Everyone wants to apply sunscreen, but no one actually does,” says Frankel. Products that save time while offering multiple benefits are particularly alluring. Even if it’s not the first thing that comes to mind, makeup containing SPF is an attractive incentive. “I know I’m always looking for quick ways to get ready in the morning,” shares the doctor.
SPF-infused makeup is the perfect two-for-one—you know it’s benefiting your skin while beautifying your face. That said, it’s not to be used as a substitute for your everyday sunscreen unless it’s an SPF-first formula, like tinted sunscreen, for example. Most SPF-infused makeup products are designed to provide an added dose of protection rather than serve as your primary defense.
Read on for some of the best SPF makeup finds on the market.
The pore-blurring primer
The sun-kissed blush
The coveted colour corrector
The lightweight foundation
The flawless finishing powder
The tinted lip balm
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