SPF
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Layering Your SPF is a Big No, Here’s Why

Finding the right sunscreen is essential, but are you already applying it like a pro?
Finding the right sunscreen is essential, but are you already applying it like a pro?

It’s a product revolution: every beauty product packs a little something extra nowadays that we can’t just ignore!

Let’s take SPF products, for example. You’ve probably noticed that every other primer, foundation, moisturizer, and even eyeshadow, contains SPF. So, that means applying your favorite sunscreen, and one of these products should give you extra protection, right?

Well, that’s a big misunderstanding. Mixing beauty products and expecting more it’s just a big no.

Here is what you need to know.

Why Layering Isn’t Actually a Thing

Thinking extra is better, it just won’t work. We’ve compiled a list of reasons why layering your SPF is inefficient if you want to be extra protected from sun damage.

Different SPF levels

Layering your SPF products will never block more rays. Dr. Caroline Robinson, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology, explains:

“Unfortunately, the protection you get when layering SPF products such as primer, moisturizer, sunscreen, and foundation is not additive.”

Keeping that in mind, you should also know that if you choose to layer 3 beauty products with SPF 30, it’s actually similar to applying just one layer of SPF 30 sunscreen.

Source: Unsplash

All beauty products have different SPF levels. You’ll get the protection level of the product you used the most!

Adequate protection

Of course, many of us tend to apply less makeup in the summer, leaving some areas, including the chest or ears, uncovered. That’s the perfect reason why we shouldn’t rely on makeup for sun protection, says Dr. Robinson.

SPF should be applied adequately so that all areas will stay safe from any sun damage!

Moreover, if you apply the same amount of all the beauty products you layer, it’s still not enough. It’s about the SPF levels, as previously said. Dr. Robinson recommends:

“[…] one product should provide you with adequate protection independent of the other layers you apply.”

Remember that it’s best to discuss with a specialist what SPF best suits your skin and how to apply it correctly.