What To Apply First Moisturizer Or Sunscreen? Learn The Right Skincare Order – Plum

what to apply first moisturizer or sunscreen

What is a moisturizer, and why do you need one in your skincare routine? What are sunscreens, and why do you need one? What is the right skincare order? What should you apply first? What are moisturizers and makeup with SPF? Are they enough for sun protection? Should you apply makeup before or after sunscreen? The right skincare routine order FAQs

Ever stared at your dressing mirror, wondering what should be applied first—sunscreen, moisturizer, or makeup?

If yes, you’re not alone. Navigating through makeup and skincare routines can feel like solving a complex puzzle without a manual, especially when it comes to getting the order right. And rightly so—using the wrong order can impact both the effectiveness of your products and your routine!

But not anymore!

If you’ve always been confused about the skincare routine order and wondered what to apply first moisturizer or sunscreen? Here's a simple guide. But first, let’s start with the basics.

What is a moisturizer, and why do you need one in your skincare routine?

Moisturizers are oil- or water-based creams, lotions, balms, or ointments that contain emollients and are specifically formulated to hydrate your skin by increasing its water content. They help prevent moisture loss while forming a protective layer against environmental stressors. Let’s explore some key benefits of moisturizers that make them an essential part of your skincare routine.

Locks in hydration: Moisturizer helps your skin retain and hold moisture. It boosts skin hydration, keeps your skin plump, and improves its resilience.

Reinforces the skin barrier: Your skin barrier acts like a shield, protecting your skin from environmental aggressors and pollution. Moisturizer strengthens this barrier, making your skin less prone to irritation and damage caused by external factors.

Relieves dryness: Dryness can make your skin appear dull, flaky, and rough, often leading to irritation and itchiness. A moisturizer for dry skin combats dryness, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy.

Maintains elasticity: Applying moisturizer twice daily helps preserve your skin's natural elasticity and radiance. It also fights signs of aging, keeping your skin youthful and vibrant.

However, it’s essential to choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and adapts to the weather. Explore these moisturizers for all skin types, designed to address a range of skin concerns.

What are sunscreens, and why do you need one?

Sunscreens are topical products designed to shield your skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. It’s crucial to apply sunscreen every day, no matter the season or weather, to protect your skin effectively. Here are some key benefits of sunscreen:

Blocks harmful rays: Sunscreen acts as a barrier, protecting your skin from the damaging UV rays. It helps prevent issues like sunburn, tanning, uneven pigmentation, and redness.
Maintains youthful skin: Consistent sunscreen application slows the visible signs of aging by helping prevent the development of wrinkles and fine lines. It’s an easy and effective way to preserve your skin’s youthful glow.
Protects your health: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the DNA in your skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer. Regular use of sunscreen reduces this risk by preventing harmful rays from penetrating the skin layers.

However, it’s essential to choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type and adapts to the weather. Explore these sunscreen for all skin types, designed to address a range of skin concerns.

However, it's crucial to know how to apply sunscreen on your face the right way.

Look for sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher, PA+++, and a lightweight, non-sticky formula that doesn’t leave a white cast. Explore the following sunscreens for your skin.

Now that you understand the importance of sunscreen and moisturizer for your skin, let’s explore the correct skincare order.

What is the right skincare order? what to apply first moisturizer or sunscreen?

The correct skincare order is to apply moisturizer first and sunscreen last. Sunscreen creates a protective barrier between your skin and the sun, so it should always be the final step. Start by applying your moisturizer and allow it to absorb for about 2 minutes. Then, follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Make sure to apply the appropriate amount on your face and neck, and reapply every 3-4 hours for continuous protection, especially if you're active outdoors.

What are moisturizers and makeup with spf? are they enough for sun protection?

SPF moisturizers offer the benefits of both hydration and sun protection, but they are not as effective as dedicated sunscreens. The moisturizing ingredients can dilute the SPF, making it less potent. Therefore, relying solely on SPF moisturizers for sun protection is not recommended, especially during prolonged outdoor exposure.

Similarly, makeup with SPF is not a substitute for sunscreen. Always apply sunscreen first, allowing it to fully absorb into your skin, and then proceed with your makeup.

Should you apply makeup before or after sunscreen?

Sunscreen should always be the last step in your skincare routine, but before applying makeup. Start by completing your skincare routine with face wash, toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Allow each product, especially sunscreen, to fully absorb into your skin before moving on to makeup. This ensures your skin is protected and nourished before makeup application.

The right skincare routine order

When discussing the your skincare routine order, it’s important to look at the process as a whole. There are many products, apart from sunscreen and moisturizer, that can help you achieve healthy, flawless skin—provided they are applied in the right manner and order. Here is the correct order for layering your skincare products:

Cleansing balm / Cleansing oil / Micellar water – Whether you wear makeup or not, double cleansing can significantly transform your skin. Start by removing dirt, grime, and pollution with a cleansing balm or oil-based emulsion.
Face cleanser – Follow up with a non-drying, gentle face wash suitable for your skin type. Massage it in a circular motion for at least 60 seconds to thoroughly cleanse your skin.
Toner – Balance your skin's pH level by applying a hydrating toner.
Serum – Use a serum with active ingredients best suited to your skin concerns, such as acne, dryness, dehydration, blemishes, etc.
Face oil – Massage face oil into your skin for extra hydration, especially if you have dry skin.
Moisturizer – Follow up with a moisturizer. For your PM routine, you can replace this with a night mask for overnight hydration.
Sunscreen – In the morning routine, protect your skin with sunscreen.

Once your sunscreen or moisturizer is completely absorbed, you can proceed with your base foundation. Now that you know the correct skincare routine for applying your skincare and makeup products, you can create a routine that works best for you. Remember to be consistent with your routine and use products that are suitable for your skin type. With a little effort, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin!

FAQs

Q1. What to put on first sunscreen or moisturizer?

The question: what to apply first moisturizer or sunscreen? or what to put on first sunscreen or moisturizer? is common, and the answer is simple: Moisturizer should be applied first to hydrate your skin, followed by sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine. Sunscreen creates a protective layer over your skin, blocking harmful UV rays. Applying it after moisturizer ensures your skin is properly hydrated before being shielded from the sun.

Q2. What to apply sunscreen or moisturizer first before makeup?

Sunscreen works best when it is applied to a clean, moisturized face. Therefore, it is suggested to cleanse your face, apply moisturizer and sunscreen, and then proceed with your base makeup for the best results.

Q3. Can i apply sunscreen without moisturizer?

Nowadays, this question seems redundant: Can we apply sunscreen without moisturizer? or Can we use sunscreen without moisturizer? The answer is no. It's important to apply moisturizer before sunscreen. While sunscreen can be hydrating, it’s best to lock in moisture with a moisturizer first, ensuring your skin is properly hydrated before applying sunscreen.

Q4. How long after sunscreen application should you apply makeup?

Allow sunscreen to absorb into your skin for 2-5 minutes before applying your base makeup. For optimal sun protection, apply sunscreen 15-20 minutes before going outdoors.