Best Sunblock To Wear Under Makeup – Top Picks & Guide

Imagine a world where your skin stays protected from the sun’s harmful rays, even under your favorite foundation. Sounds like a dream, right? Unfortunately, many of us have faced the frustrating reality of sunblock that feels greasy, causes our makeup to pill, or leaves a ghostly white cast. Finding the perfect sunblock that works seamlessly with makeup can feel like a treasure hunt, and often, we end up with products that just don’t cut it.

But what if you could have both flawless-looking makeup and powerful sun protection? In this post, we’re diving deep into the world of sunblocks designed specifically to be worn under makeup. We’ll explore what makes a sunblock “makeup-friendly” and share tips to help you avoid common pitfalls. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to choose a sunblock that not only shields your skin but also enhances your makeup application, giving you that radiant, protected glow all day long.

Top Sunblock To Wear Under Makeup Recommendations

SaleNo. 1
e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Invisible SPF 35 Sunscreen
  • INVISIBLE GEL SUNSCREEN: Lightweight gel-based facial sunscreen delivers invisible broad-spectrum high SPF sunscreen protection (SPF 35) with zero white cast on all skin tones for a non-greasy, all-day wear.
  • DOUBLES AS MAKEUP PRIMER: This makeup primer and light face sunscreen layers seamlessly under makeup all day long, all year round. Works as a blurring sunscreen primer to smooth skin and grip makeup for long-lasting wear.
  • ALOE & MEADOWFOAM SEED INFUSED: Infused with skin-loving ingredients to nourish skin while protecting it making this sunscreen ideal for normal, dry, oily, and combination skin types.
  • WATER-RESISTANT & FAST-ABSORBING: The water-resistant formula works as a lightweight SPF moisturizer for the face, absorbING quickly with no heaviness or residue.
  • VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA. e.l.f. brushes are synthetic, vegan & cruelty-free.
No. 2
3 In 1Primer for Face Before Makeup,Sunscreen Color Corrector Primer,SPF 50
  • One Step Color Corrector: 3-in-1 color corrector makeup primer that corrects color, smoothes skin. The swirly spiral formula contains 3 color-correcting pigments to even out skin tone
  • Moisturizing Makeup Primer: The face skin tone correcting and makeup primerhas moisturizing effect.It feels refreshing, breathable after use. It won't make the skin feel sticky, making the makeup moist, comfortable and radiant
  • Natural Makeup: The makeup primer for face has a light texture, It is comfortable to use, not heavy, and fits naturally.facial corrector is ideal for sensitive skin, takes care of your skin, and is suitable for all skin types
  • Easy to use : Instantly prime and tone with just one swipe, this dark circle color corrector can be used alone or under makeup for a flawless face
  • Travel Size: This primer can not only meet your daily use, but its compact size is also suitable for carrying during travel, making this face primer a must-have item for your travels
SaleNo. 3
e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Invisi-Stick Face Sunscreen SPF 50, Clear, Lightweight with Sunflower Seed Oil, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
  • SPF 50 FACE STICK SUNSCREEN: Lightweight UV face sunscreen that goes wherever you go for reliable skin sun protection. This portable sunblock face stick delivers broad spectrum SPF 50 protection and is water resistant for 80 minutes.
  • NO WHITE CAST: Applies clear on all skin tones for a natural finish. Convenient stick format glides on smoothly with no tugging and a non-greasy feel. Works as body sunscreen or face sun screen, over and under makeup.
  • MOISTURIZING & SOOTHING: Infused with moisturizing sunflower seed oil and soothing bisabolol this clean UV face sunscreen formula won't clog pores and is safe for use around the eye area. Ideal for dry, oily and combination skin.
  • HOW TO APPLY: Apply evenly and generously 15 minutes prior to sun exposure as a last step in your skincare routine. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying and at least every two hours.
  • VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA. e.l.f. brushes are synthetic, vegan & cruelty-free.
No. 4
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen - SPF 50 - Clear & Invisible Face Sunscreen + Broad Spectrum + Makeup-Gripping Primer - Weightless, Scentless, Oil Free - For All Skin Types & Tones - 1.7 fl oz
  • 100% INVISIBLE SUNSCREEN – Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 is an iconic, weightless, scentless sunscreen that delivers broad spectrum protection with a completely clear finish.
  • MAKEUP-GRIPPING PRIMER – This innovative gel doubles as a primer to help create a smooth base and improve the look of makeup for longer wear.
  • SKIN-SMOOTHING FORMULA – Clinically tested to help improve skin clarity while visibly blurring pores with a natural finish and no white cast.
  • MADE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES – Non-acnegenic, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating formula is suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
  • HOW TO APPLY – Apply generously and evenly as the last step in your skincare routine and before makeup; reapply at least every two hours.
SaleNo. 5
e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30, Sunlight
  • SUNSCREEN & MAKEUP PRIMER: Lightweight sunscreen and facial primer for makeup delivers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection while gripping makeup for long-lasting wear and a radiant, glowy primer finish all day.
  • SHEER PEACH SHIMMER: Imparts a hint of sheer peach shimmer for a natural, radiant glow. This glowy sunscreen doubles as a hydrating skin primer before makeup to grip and extend wear all day long with a luminous finish.
  • HYDRATING FORMULA: Formulated with hyaluronic acid, squalane, and aloe to soothe and hydrate, the non-greasy, lightweight texture absorbs quickly. Great for oily, normal, dry and combination skin types.
  • MULTI-USE APPLICATION: Use as the last step in your skincare routine as a face primer before makeup, or wear alone for a natural, shimmer glow. Works as sunscreen under makeup or solo for sun protection with radiance.
  • VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA. e.l.f. brushes are synthetic, vegan & cruelty-free.
SaleNo. 6
IT Cosmetics Hello Sunshine Invisible Sunscreen for Face SPF 50 - Sunscreen, Hydrating Serum & Makeup Primer - 1% Pro-Vitamin B5 & Hyaluronic Acid - HSA/FSA Eligible - No White Cast - 0.5 fl oz
  • 3-IN-1 SUNSCREEN -Your daily, skincare-powered, 3-in-1 sunscreen with clear SPF 50, hydrating serum and skin-perfecting makeup primer from the #1 SPF foundation brand*. IT's great for sun protection, priming, hydration, and normal to dry skin types. *Source: Circana/US Prestige Beauty Total Measured Market, Makeup Product Sales, January-December 2023.
  • SPF SKINCARE -This clear sunscreen (no white cast) is a face moisturizer with SPF and makeup primer in one. It protects against UVA/UVB rays and pollution as it works to plump skin with moisture.
  • SKIN-LOVING INGREDIENTS - Non-comedogenic sunscreen serum is formulated without oxybenzone. It’s infused with 1% pro-vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid to soothe skin and provide lasting hydration.
  • REAL RESULTS - Dermatologist and allergy-tested face sunscreen helps to prevent sun damage, dark spots, hyperpigmentation and signs of photoaging like fine lines and wrinkles.
  • HOW TO APPLY - On bare skin, apply generously and evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours. When layered under makeup, this hydrating facial sunscreen acts as the perfect makeup primer.
SaleNo. 7
3 In 1 Primer for Face Before Makeup, SPF 50,Sunscreen Isolation Cream Face Tinted Moisturizer, One Step Color Corrector, Makeup Primer Oil Control & Concealer Skin Tone Correcting,Radiance Skin
  • One Step Color Corrector Primer: 3 In 1primer for face before makeup, face moisturizing sunscreen isolation cream. The swirly spiral formula contains 3 color-correcting pigments to even out skin tone
  • Lightweight Formula: The face skin tone correcting and makeup primer has moisturizing effect, light texture and comfortable to use, non-greasy and fits naturally
  • Longlasting Oil Control Makeup: Our face primer is long-wearing, effectively conceals enlarged pores, acne marks, fine lines and dark circles for enhances skin radiance
  • Easy to Use: Instantly prime and tone with just one swipe, redness corrector for face, brightens and smooths skin, create a flawless face. This primer face makeup can be used alone or under makeup
  • Travel Size: The compact size of the isolation cream is perfect for traveling with. Color corrector primer perfector creates a radiant canvas for your look
SaleNo. 8
e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable! Whoa Glow SPF 30, Lightweight Sunscreen & Makeup Primer For A Glowy Finish, Infused w/Hyaluronic Acid, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
  • SUNSCREEN & MAKEUP PRIMER: Lightweight sunscreen and facial primer for makeup delivers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection while gripping makeup for long-lasting wear and a radiant, glowy primer finish all day.
  • SHEER PEACH SHIMMER: Imparts a hint of sheer peach shimmer for a natural, radiant glow. This glowy sunscreen doubles as a hydrating skin primer before makeup to grip and extend wear all day long with a luminous finish.
  • HYDRATING FORMULA: Formulated with hyaluronic acid, squalane, and aloe to soothe and hydrate, the non-greasy, lightweight texture absorbs quickly. Great for oily, normal, dry and combination skin types.
  • MULTI-USE APPLICATION: Use as the last step in your skincare routine as a face primer before makeup, or wear alone for a natural, shimmer glow. Works as sunscreen under makeup or solo for sun protection with radiance.
  • VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA. e.l.f. brushes are synthetic, vegan & cruelty-free.

Your Guide to Sunblock Under Makeup

Sunblock is super important for healthy skin. It protects your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. When you wear makeup, you still need that protection. Finding the right sunblock to wear under makeup can be tricky. This guide will help you choose the best one.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop for sunblock to wear under makeup, keep these things in mind:

Lightweight Formula

You want a sunblock that feels light on your skin. Heavy sunblock can make your makeup look cakey. A lightweight formula won’t feel greasy or sticky.

Non-Greasy Finish

A greasy sunblock can make your foundation slide off. Look for sunblocks that dry to a matte or natural finish. This helps your makeup stay put all day.

Broad Spectrum Protection

This means the sunblock protects against two types of sun rays: UVA and UVB. UVA rays cause aging. UVB rays cause sunburn. You need both kinds of protection.

SPF 30 or Higher

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. An SPF of 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPFs block a little more. For daily use, SPF 30 is a good choice.

No White Cast

Some sunblocks leave a white residue on your skin. This can look bad under makeup. Mineral sunscreens sometimes do this. Many newer formulas are sheer.

Hydrating Ingredients

Your skin needs moisture. Sunblock can sometimes dry out your skin. Look for sunblocks with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These keep your skin soft and smooth.

Ingredients to Consider

The ingredients in your sunblock matter. Here are some common ones:

  • Chemical Sunscreens: These absorb UV rays. Examples include oxybenzone and avobenzone. They are usually sheer and don’t leave a white cast.
  • Mineral Sunscreens: These sit on top of your skin and block UV rays. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are common. They are good for sensitive skin but can sometimes leave a white cast.
  • Antioxidants: Ingredients like Vitamin C or Vitamin E help protect your skin from damage.
Factors That Affect Quality

What makes a sunblock good or not so good?

Good Quality Factors:
  • It blends easily into your skin.
  • It doesn’t pill (form little balls) when you apply makeup over it.
  • It doesn’t irritate your skin.
  • It provides reliable sun protection.
Lower Quality Factors:
  • It feels heavy or sticky.
  • It makes your makeup look patchy.
  • It causes breakouts.
  • It leaves a noticeable white cast.
User Experience and Use Cases

How do people use sunblock under makeup?

Most people apply sunblock after their skincare routine and before their makeup. It acts like a primer. It creates a smooth base for foundation. It also ensures your skin is protected throughout the day. This is important for everyone, even on cloudy days. People with oily skin might prefer oil-free formulas. Those with dry skin will like hydrating ones. People with acne-prone skin should look for non-comedogenic options.

Using sunblock under makeup is a simple step that makes a big difference for your skin’s health and appearance.


Sunblock Under Makeup: Your Top 10 Questions Answered

Q1: What is the most important thing to look for in sunblock for under makeup?

A1: The most important thing is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher protection.

Q2: Will sunblock make my makeup feel heavy?

A2: A good sunblock for under makeup should feel light and not add heaviness. Heavy formulas might.

Q3: Can I use any sunblock under my makeup?

A3: It’s best to use sunblocks specifically designed for the face. They are usually formulated to work well with makeup.

Q4: What does “broad spectrum” mean?

A4: Broad spectrum means it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays from the sun.

Q5: Does SPF 30 provide enough protection?

A5: Yes, SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, which is considered effective for daily use.

Q6: What is a “white cast”?

A6: A white cast is a white residue left on the skin after applying some sunscreens, especially mineral ones.

Q7: Which type of sunblock is better for sensitive skin: chemical or mineral?

A7: Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are often recommended for sensitive skin.

Q8: Can sunblock help my makeup last longer?

A8: Yes, some sunblocks can act like a primer, creating a smooth surface that helps makeup adhere better.

Q9: Should I reapply sunblock if I’m wearing makeup?

A9: Reapplication can be tricky with makeup. Consider using a powder sunscreen or a spray over your makeup if you need extra protection.

Q10: How do I apply sunblock before makeup?

A10: Apply it after your skincare routine and before your foundation or other makeup products. Let it sink in for a few minutes.