Does foundation with SPF really protect against sun protection?

Many foundations now include SPF, but can they really protect your skin from the sun?

The short answer is yes, foundation with SPF may provide some additional sun protection. However, it should not automatically be considered a complete replacement for sunscreen. The level of protection depends on the formula, testing, application amount, and how evenly the product is applied.

It’s no secret that sun protection is very important, and many people even use many methods to really achieve sun protection, even physical sun protection. They use it as the last step in their morning skincare routine.
In order to attract consumers, some cosmetic brands will claim to add SPF formula to liquid foundation or primer to achieve daily sun protection. But is that enough to actually protect your skin from the sun?
We reached out to a series of dermatologists and makeup artists to get a professional look at whether SPF in foundation is actually safe for your skin, or if you need to stick to a separate sunscreen.

What does SPF do for makeup?

In fact, adding SPF to liquid foundation will have different effects. Traditionally, it changes the texture of the foundation and can cause it to be thicker, whiter or oilier. For a lot of people, this will change their foundation shades, because foundation with SPF will look completely different than before.

Do foundations with SPF provide enough sun protection?

It is now clear that foundation with SPF will not protect your skin from the sun. In theory, liquid foundation can provide some sun protection, but if you want to be fully protected, you actually need to use a lot more than usual, that is, apply layer after layer, which is obviously unrealistic.

Should You Use a Primer with SPF?

In addition to SPF in foundation, many brands have also started adding SPF to primers for added protection. Many consumers prefer to choose this kind of SPF primer for convenience.
SPF in your primer does help protect your skin, but if you’re super prone to sun damage, NARS National Senior Makeup Artist Rebecca Moore recommends using SPF alone.
“Sunscreen should be the last step in your skincare routine and first before makeup,” says Granite. You should always use SPF on its own, not in combination with foundation or moisturizer, as they won’t provide full protection.
Some people think that SPF is only for summer, but in reality SPF should be worn all year round. “SPF in makeup is better than no SPF at all, but it’s still best to start with SPF alone throughout the year,” says Granite.

What Should Beauty Brands Consider When Developing Foundation with SPF?

For beauty brands, developing foundation with SPF involves more than simply adding sun-protection ingredients. The product also needs to maintain the desired coverage, texture, finish, shade appearance and wearing experience.

Before starting development, brands should define the target market, desired SPF claim, coverage level, finish, shade range, packaging and estimated order quantity. These details can help manufacturers evaluate the formula direction, sampling process and production requirements more efficiently.

If your brand is planning to develop a private label foundation, explore our custom face makeup solutions or contact our team to discuss your formula, shades, packaging and production requirements.