What to Apply First: Moisturizer, Sunscreen, or Makeup?

If you're wondering about the correct order for applying skincare products like moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup, you are not alone. Many people struggle with whether to apply sunscreen before or after moisturizer or how to layer these products for maximum effectiveness and a flawless finish. This blog will provide you with a clear step-by-step guide and answer common questions like "Can sunscreen be used as a moisturizer?" and "Can I apply sunscreen without moisturizer?"

Let’s break it down!

Why the Order of Application Matters

The order in which you apply skincare and makeup products impacts how well each product performs. If you apply your products in the wrong sequence, you might compromise their effectiveness. So, to protect your skin and enhance the longevity of your makeup, following the right order is crucial.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Face

Before applying anything, ensure your face is clean and free of any dirt, oils, or leftover makeup from the day before. Cleansing your skin properly is the foundation of any effective skincare routine. After cleansing, your skin is ready to absorb the products you're about to apply.

Step 2: Moisturizer Comes First

The first product you should apply after cleansing is your moisturizer. Whether your skin is dry, oily, or combination, using a moisturizer is crucial to keep it hydrated and balanced.

But what about the question: moisturizer before or after sunscreen? To answer this: you should always apply moisturizer before sunscreen. Here's why:

• Moisturizer helps create a barrier that locks in hydration, prepping your skin for further layers.
• Applying moisturizer before sunscreen ensures that your sunscreen sits on the surface of your skin without interference from other products, providing maximum protection.

What If You Skip Moisturizer?

Many people ask: Can I apply sunscreen without moisturizer? The answer depends on your skin type and the kind of sunscreen you use. Some sunscreens come with moisturizing properties, but for those with dry or sensitive skin, skipping moisturizer may lead to dehydration and irritation. So, while you technically can apply sunscreen without moisturizer, doing so might not provide the hydration your skin needs.

Step 3: Apply Sunscreen Next

Now that your skin is moisturized, the next step is to apply your sunscreen. Applying sunscreen is crucial whether or not you plan to wear makeup. Sunscreen shields your skin from harmful UV rays, preventing premature aging and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

There are often questions about whether to apply SPF before or after moisturizer and as mentioned earlier, always apply moisturizer first. This ensures that the sunscreen forms a protective layer on top of your skin.

But can sunscreen be used as a moisturizer? Some sunscreens do double as moisturizers, especially those with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. However, these hybrid products might not provide enough moisture for everyone, especially if your skin is very dry or you're in a particularly harsh climate. Therefore, while sunscreen vs moisturizer may seem like an either/or decision, it's better to use both, especially if your skin needs extra hydration.

Step 4: Can We Apply Moisturizer After Sunscreen?

It's generally recommended to apply sunscreen after moisturizer because sunscreen needs to be the topmost layer to protect your skin effectively. However, if you're using a sunscreen that dries out your skin or doesn’t feel hydrating enough, you may wonder, can we apply moisturizer after sunscreen? It’s not advisable to do this, as it could dilute the sunscreen and reduce its ability to block UV rays.

Instead, opt for a well-formulated face moisturizer and sunscreen combo, or use a hydrating sunscreen that fulfills both roles.

Step 5: Makeup Application Sequence

Once your skincare layers are in place (i.e., cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen), you're ready for your makeup. This is where many people wonder about the correct makeup sequence and how to ensure everything looks flawless.

Here’s a quick makeup sequence to follow:

1. Primer: Apply primer after sunscreen. A good primer smooths your skin and helps makeup last longer.
2. Foundation/BB Cream: Choose a lightweight foundation or BB cream that suits your skin type. These products should sit well on top of sunscreen without causing any pilling.
3. Concealer: Use concealer for areas that need extra coverage, like under the eyes or over blemishes.
4. Setting Powder: Lightly dust a setting powder to lock your makeup in place, ensuring a matte finish that lasts.
5. Blush/Bronzer: Add some color to your cheeks with blush or bronzer.
6. Highlighter: Apply a subtle highlighter to your cheekbones for a healthy glow.
7. Lipstick or Lip Balm: Finish your look with lipstick or a tinted lip balm.

By following this makeup sequence, you’ll ensure that your makeup looks flawless and lasts all day, all while protecting your skin from the sun.

Step 6: Reapply Sunscreen

It’s important to note that sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours to maintain protection, especially if you’re outdoors. But how do you reapply sunscreen over makeup? The solution is simple—use a setting spray or a powder sunscreen that can be easily applied without disturbing your makeup.

Can I Use Moisturizer with Sunscreen?

If you're wondering, can I use a moisturizer with sunscreen? The answer is yes, and it's the best way to hydrate and protect your skin at the same time. Using a lightweight face moisturizer and sunscreen in combination will ensure that your skin is both nourished and shielded from harmful UV rays.

Final Thoughts: What Comes First—Moisturizer, Sunscreen, or Makeup?

To summarize, here’s a quick recap of the ideal application order:

1. Moisturizer before sunscreen: Hydrate your skin first.
2. Sunscreen: Always apply sunscreen after your moisturizer.
3. Makeup: Follow the proper makeup sequence after sunscreen for a flawless finish.