For those who will be exposed to the sun and do not want to give up aesthetics, makeup containing sun protection factor (SPF) appears as an alternative. Despite the appeal of high protection, experts warn that it is not enough to use these products in isolation.
They are offered as sticky foundations or multi-functional shades for use as blush, eye shadow and lipstick, and some makeup products feature a sun protection factor (SPF) on the label. Brazilian brands, such as Ollie and Pink Cheeks, have become a reference in “multi-purpose products” that promise to protect the skin from the sun, and are gaining popularity especially among those who exercise.
Although it can be complementary, such makeup does not replace the use of traditional sunscreen, says biomedical expert Emeline Pinheiro.
According to her, this happens because makeup focuses on aesthetics and finish, and tends to use physical filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which help give color and coverage to the product. Traditional facial sunscreens combine physical and chemical filters to increase protection and prioritize performance and resistance.
Another point why cosmetics containing SPF are insufficient in protection is the optimal amount to reach the recommended sun protection factor (SPF). “The desired amount of sun protection is large, equivalent to a full coffee spoon for the face and neck. With makeup, it creates an exaggerated and unaesthetic effect,” explains dermatologist Marina Cintra, member of the Brazilian Dermatology Society of São Paulo Region.
The doctor recommends using cosmetics with sunscreen in specific cases, as an additional reapplication to enhance protection. “But it also doesn’t replace reapplying your sunscreen,” he says. For patients with melasma, she recommends, in addition to using a good sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF), supplementing it with physical barriers, such as tinted products.
The positive difference of this type of makeup is the addition of a supplement for sun protection and defense against UV and visible light, says Pinheiro. “Makeup without SPF does not provide this additional benefit, although it does not harm pre-applied sunscreen.”
He adds that in order for it not to hurt to apply traditional sunscreen to the bottom layer, it is necessary to wait for the cosmetic to dry on the skin before starting the other layers.
Sintra recommends following your morning skin care routine as follows: cleanse properly and lightly, use a moisturizer according to your skin type, apply sunscreen and then, if desired, apply make-up products.
When purchasing sun protection products, the dermatologist remembers that the ideal is to register with Anvisa as a sunscreen, a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and a UVA (PPD) above 10, and also containing iron oxide and titanium dioxide, which indicates physical protection.
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