1 minute read
Beauty spot
How toLayer your sunscreen
FIND WHERE SUN PROTECTION FITS INTO YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE WITH THESE EXPERT TIPS
WORDS BIANCA CARMONA
Start with antioxidant serums
D ermatologist Shyamalar Gunatheesan suggests starting with a clean face followed by serums.
“Serums are a lightweight product, they penetrate better so they should be applied fi rst,” Dr Gunatheesan says.
Beauty therapist Adie Robertson, from Sydney’s Wonderland Skin Spa, agrees.
“The general rule for best results is thinnest product to the thickest, so you’re ending up with a barrier when you fi nish,” Adie says.
What type of sunscreen are you using?
The next step depends on the kind of sunscreen you are using.
“With a chemical-based sunscreen, the general rule of thumb is serum, moisturiser, chemical sunscreen and then your make-up,” Dr Gunatheesan says.
“With a physical blocker, it’s more of a refl ecting agent, so you want to apply it after your make-up.
“Zinc-based sunscreens are generally the best because they’re anti-infl ammatory and they off er very good sun protection.”
Use an SPF face sunscreen
While some moisturisers and cosmetics contain SPF ingredients, Adie recommends including a stand-alone sunblock in your routine.
She prefers physical sunscreens because the zinc oxide defl ects damaging UVA and UVB rays.
Adie says chemical sunscreens can be an irritant, so are not good for sensitive skin.
Dr Gunatheesan agrees a standalone sunscreen is essential.
“With technology evolving there are now zinc-based sunscreens that are more micronised, they’ve got all the tint in it so you don’t look like a cricket player,” Dr Gunatheesan says.
How to apply SPF over make-up
Dr Gunatheesan says cosmetic brushes can be used to apply sunscreen over make-up without ruining your look.
“Try putting sunscreen on a good kabuki brush, and dab and blend it,” she says.
“That way it doesn’t destroy your existing make-up, but it sits as a top layer and gives you that dewy look.”
Remember, it is important to top up through the day
Dr Gunatheesan says our natural sebum can break down sunscreen and make-up, so reapplying is key.
She recommends keeping a tube of tinted physical blocker or tinted chemical sunscreen and brush in your handbag for top-ups.
“Using a brush doesn’t destroy your existing make-up and you don’t look all greasy.” Dr Gunatheesan says.
SPF-infused powders and fi nishing sprays with SPF are also available.