Everywhere I go, I’ve always flaunted never having a tanned face, and somewhere in between applying two fingers of sunscreen or re-applying it every two hours, I realised that maybe I can just skip the process, because it began to feel like a task. And as it turns out, it isn’t just me who feels this way, although SPF is the most important step in everyday routine, but it feels exhausting sometimes, doesn’t it?
And much like me, some people end up skipping sunscreen just because it doesn’t align with everyone’s routines like the internet wants it to, but well, there are always ways to make things better, isn’t it?
Why is everyone getting tired of SPF (even when it is so important)
Pexels
As a ‘beauty editor’ in a lot of people’s eyes, I fear admitting it out loud that I chose not to wear sunscreen on a certain day, and well, that pressure is a lot. There’s also an added moral pressure because you not only are supposed to wear it every day, but you should reapply it diligently and have the right formula, because if that’s not the case, are you even doing it right?
And honestly, anyone who is mildly into skincare knows about it, but it is still a problem because, on paper, it sounds so much more aspirational than habitual. For example, the white cast may not always go away, the particular sunscreen doesn’t sit right with makeup, and all the other times, it is the weather that becomes problematic.
If all that’s not enough, there’s always this checklist that doesn’t seem as practical, because how am I supposed to work with a full face of makeup and reapply sunscreen? Or who is to say one has the time to reapply it in the middle of the day at work or even outdoors?
Making SPF effortless (and easy again)
All we can do here is talk about making SPF feel a little easier to use and reapply on an everyday basis, even if it isn’t perfect. Sure, there has to be some sort of consistency, but it need not feel like a chore, and that means you can pick out better textures, formulas, or even how you choose to apply it.
So, we’ve got some options for you to pick from, including product suggestions, so bookmark away!
1. Opt for invisible sunscreens that don’t interfere with makeup
Tira, Nykaa, Kindlife
This is obviously the very first option that everyone turns to, and they have to be lightweight, non-greasy, and proven to be good with makeup. Choose sunscreens that are gel-based or totally fluid, and you’ll see how they disappear into the skin, while working just like skincare.
iDiva recommends:
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen
• Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
• Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sunscreen Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++
2. Sunscreen sticks for the win
Tira, Nykaa
I cannot reapply sunscreen to save my life, TBH; however, if you need to get your way around it, sunscreen sticks are a good option. They are easy to carry, don’t create a mess, and if your base is done well, it won’t even spoil the makeup. Look out for SPF sticks that are smooth to apply and work well with makeup.
iDiva recommends:
• Dr.Jart+ Every Sun Day Ultra-Sheer Priming Sunscreen Stick
• Thank You Farmer Sun Project Silky Calming Sun Stick
• SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-Fit Sun Stick
3. Spray SPF Mists
Tira, Nykaa
Now, if I absolutely have to carry a sunscreen with me for reapplication, then sunscreen sprays are my go-to. Also, in humid weather, it is great how they also add a feel-good vibe during application. Of course, they aren’t the ideal replacements, but they are practical, and right now, that’s all we are looking for. Just make sure to pick mists that don’t leave any trace behind and are lightweight.
iDiva recommends:
• Inde Wild Rose Sun Mist SPF 50 PA ++++
• 52 Sundaze SPF 50+ Rosewater Sun Mist
4. Tinted sunscreens are the way to go
Tira, Nykaa
Tinted sunscreens have been a go-to for most people who have to ensure their makeup looks good at all times, and they don’t want to layer too many products. They are great pick during summer, obviously. Just make sure to choose formulas that are breathable and have a wide shade range.
iDiva recommends:
• FENTY SKIN Hydra Vizor Huez Tinted Moisturizer Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen
• Kay Beauty Hydra Glow Tinted Sunscreen SPF 40 PA++
• Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 25
Make SPF about consistency and less about perfection
Pexels
As I mentioned above, everyone continues to make sunscreen application a bigger issue than it is, and that’s mostly because everyone wants it to be done to the T, but what we need to do is simply look at working with it around everyday routine, and instead of skipping it, it’s better used with imperfection.
SPF fatigue has nothing to do with not caring about skin; it’s just being buried under so many dos and don’ts of applying it. So, make your sun protection smarter and adaptable instead of making it more complicated!
Social and lead image credits: Maddock Films, Instagram/aliaabhatt, Amazon, Tira
Read iDiva for the latest in Bollywood, fashion looks, beauty and lifestyle news.