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The Cast Index

Protection comes first.

Choose sunscreen by its protection label and whether you can comfortably apply enough. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 or higher, with reapplication every two hours outdoors and after swimming or sweating. Shade and protective clothing also matter.

Illustrative texture study accompanying the spf guide
Editorial texture study · AI illustration

Start with the job

Which one fits?

Where it fits in your routine

Apply according to the local product label before going outdoors. Cover exposed areas and reapply during outdoor time. Makeup should not prevent you from following sun-protection directions.

Before you buy

SPF values do not add together. A small tint or foundation application may not deliver the labelled protection. Regional products with similar names can use different filters and carry different directions.

American Academy of Dermatology — sunscreen application ↗

The spf edit

Explore the options.

3 product guides

Compare the role, finish and limitations. Each guide links to its original source and review date. Selection is editorial; no hands-on testing is implied. Product art, where shown, is illustrative.

Useful answers

SPF, explained.

Can I add the SPF numbers from two products?

No. Layering SPF 30 and SPF 50 does not make SPF 80. Follow the application amount and reapplication directions of your sunscreen.

Is SPF foundation enough on its own?

It depends on applying the tested amount evenly and reapplying as directed. Many people apply makeup more thinly. A dedicated sunscreen makes it easier to treat protection as its own step.