15 Best Makeup Products with SPF for Enhanced Skin Protection

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Mar 04, 2024
best makeup with spf
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

While CMS (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen) may be the holy grail triad of skincare basics, for many people, it usually goes as — cleanser, moisturizer, or makeup. However, some of the best makeup products with SPF out there combine the last steps of both these beauty regimes to deliver sun and environmental protection to those who incessantly forget the sunscreen. Personally, I appreciate all kinds of makeup products that are infused with skincare benefits, and those with SPF certainly take the cake! 

Aside from offering a leaner beauty regime for those who simply don’t have the time to keep layering products on their skin, makeup with sunscreen provides numerous other benefits. To begin with, touching up on makeup can be a great way to reapply sunscreen throughout the day — something that even skin care enthusiasts often forget. Not to mention, a less goopy way at that! Further, many tinted sunscreens and mineral-based setting powders comprise iron oxides as the primary pigment, which enhances the properties of sunscreen by also providing blue light protection (study conducted by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology). 

Besides, the products I tested and shortlisted are not the kind of sunscreen products that leave a white cast on the skin, especially considering that they come in a variety of shade options comprising high-quality pigments. However, for those who already have their favorite base makeup with them, consisting of their exact skin shades, I’ve already cherry-picked a few untinted makeup products with sunscreen to suit your needs. Without much ado, let’s scroll away to my product recommendations.

15 Best Makeup Products with SPF

While I was a little skeptical of this product at first, considering it only entails a single “shade” for all skin tones, trying this product out came as a pleasant revelation. Made with pigments such as iron oxide, this tinted moisturizer not only works for all skin tones and types but also enhances and adapts to the skin color, thereby bringing the best out of when once blended completely.

The lightweight formula is creamy, super-hydrating, and seeps into the skin in a way that you won’t even realize you’re wearing any makeup. What’s more — this SPF makeup product is free of nasties such as parabens and fragrances. 

SPF Level: 46

Shades: Universal shade

Quantity: 1.7 ounces

Pros
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Clean and cruelty-free
  • Easy to blend
  • Blue-light protection
  • Air-less pump dispenser
  • Broad-spectrum sun protection
  • Anti-aging benefits
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Unsatisfying coverage
  • Mineral Fusion Brush-on Sun Defense

    Mineral Fusion Brush-on Sun Defense
  • A great product to set the makeup as well as reapply sunscreen, this mineral powder from Mineral Fusion deserves a spot in your beauty stash! The product can be used conveniently on the go — for an additional layer of sun protection — as it comes with a built-in brush. What came to me as a surprise is that despite being a powder-based formula, this product comprises the nourishing goodness of sea kelp and vitamins A and E to keep the skin comforted, without causing dry skin. And, it is also an excellent pick for people who are skeptical of chemical UV filters and prefer physical sunscreens instead. 

    SPF Level: 30

    Shades: 1

    Quantity: 0.14 ounces

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Reef-safe
    • Vegan and cruelty-free
    • Translucent matte finish
    • Antioxidant properties
    • Soft brush bristles
    • Shade options would have been nice
    Cons
    • Poor dispenser
    • Less quantity

    Quick Tip:

    After applying a generous layer of a tinted moisturizer on your skin, seal the base makeup by lightly brushing this powder on. You may do so during your commute itself to save precious time!

  • Great Choice for Mature Skin

    Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-aging Perfector

    Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-aging Perfector
  • When I refer to makeup infused with skincare, this product from Neutrogena tops the chart as sun protection is just one of the many benefits it offers. The nourishing formula features retinol as well as other vitamins that plump up the skin and boost its overall health. They also enhance the properties of sunscreen by safeguarding the skin from other environmental aggressors (study by the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology). 

    Moreover, the formula is nice and hydrating, and I absolutely love how it feels on my skin! To conclude, this is the kind of product one should apply to their skin when there’s absolutely no time for anything else!

    SPF Level: 20

    Shades: 6

    Quantity: 1 fluid ounce

    Pros
    • Has a soothing effect
    • Mature skin-friendly
    • Good shade options
    • Blendable consistency
    • Doesn’t look cakey
    • Lightweight formula
    Cons
    • Not for sensitive skin
    • May make eyes water
  • Best Moisturizing Foundation

    Estée Lauder Futurist Hydra Rescue Moisturizing Foundation

    Estée Lauder Futurist Hydra Rescue Moisturizing Foundation
  • Among the fanciest SPF makeup products out there is this tinted moisturizing foundation from Estée Lauder — and its packaging makes that very apparent. The formulation is a storehouse of exotic skincare goodies such as soothing ion-charged water as well as chia seed extracts to hydrate the skin and maintain a healthy skin function (research by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology). In addition, the formula comprises rich pigments that deliver a buildable, medium coverage for an enhanced base makeup! 

    SPF Level: 45

    Shades: 12

    Quantity: 1.18 fluid ounces

    Pros
    • Impressive coverage
    • Doesn’t settle into fine lines
    • Feels good on skin
    • Quite hydrating
    • Long-lasting
    • Smells nice
    • Great winter product
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Makes skin kind of oily
  • Best Sun Protection Primer

    Milani SPF BFF SPF 30 Face Primer

    Milani SPF BFF SPF 30 Face Primer
  • For those who have their favorite foundation, concealer, and powder shades ready and on hand but still need a sunscreen-based product to supplement their makeup must try this SPF primer from Milani. Like other primers from the brand, the consistency of this one, too, is very smooth and lotion-like. 

    Adding to that, this facial sunscreen is drenched in the hydrating goodness of glycerin and vitamin E. What I really like about this product is that its UV filters  are more cosmetically elegant, which assures you that no white cast will ruin your look! 

    SPF Level: 30

    Shades: Not applicable

    Quantity: 1 fluid ounce

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Broad-spectrum sun protection
    • Cruelty-free
    • Oil-free formula
    • Blends really well
    Cons
    • Flakes off
    • A bit sticky
  • Covergirl CG Smoothers BB Cream

    Covergirl CG Smoothers BB Cream
  • One of the best drugstore BB creams with SPF, this Covergirl product is suited to fit every girl’s beauty routine, because it’s so simple yet useful! On trying this product, I really liked its thin, smooth, and blendable formulation which doesn’t give a cakey feel on the skin and delivers a sheer coverage for everyday use. 

    The formula is nice and hydrating, without containing any overly potent ingredients that may be too much for the skin. However, I would like to mention that it contains beta-carotene, which adds an additional layer of protection, so that environmental aggressors can’t do you much harm as long as you’re wearing this (research by Antioxidants - MDPI). 

    SPF Level: 21

    Shades: 3

    Quantity: 1.35 fluid ounces

    Pros
    • Pleasant texture and feel
    • Reduces inflammation
    • Good quantity
    • Antioxidant properties
    • Lightweight formula
    Cons
    • Oxidizes
    • SPF level could be higher
  • Best Mineral Powder

    PÜR Beauty 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup

    PÜR Beauty 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup
  • A very popular luxury makeup product with SPF, this medium-coverage mineral powder can be used as a foundation as well as a light concealer for the skin — for a leaner beauty routine. Besides, diving deep into the ingredients of this product has been an eye-opener for me, as I had underestimated it as an overpriced face powder. 

    The state-of-the-art formula comprises waltheria extracts, which quite noticeably calm inflammations and flare-ups on the skin (study published on NCBI). Further, to replenish the skin barrier, the product entails a rich ceramide complex, powered with the goodness of shea butter and vitamin E. Every time I apply this product, it gives an even tone to my skin and vanishes imperfections like they never existed! Hence, I wholeheartedly recommend it!

    SPF Level: 15

    Shades: 23

    Quantity: 2.18 ounces

    Pros
    • Blends smoothly
    • Buildable coverage
    • Travel-friendly
    • Mattifies without drying
    • Classy packaging
    • Cruelty-free
    • Lightweight and mess-free
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • evel of sun protection could be higher

    Quick Tip:

    Since this product offers multi-faceted benefits, apply nothing but a very thin layer of moisturizer on your face and neck before baking this powder on it. You can customize the kind of coverage you desire based on how much you apply.

  • Best Tinted Lip Product

    MDSolarSciences Hydrating Lip Balm SPF 30

    MDSolarSciences Hydrating Lip Balm SPF 30
  • Now don’t let the term lip balm confuse you, as I’ve incorporated this product in the list because its formula resembles more with lipstick. And why wouldn’t it — the formula is bursting with the richest pigments, which gives you a buildable tint on the lips.

    Fortified with avocado oil and other rich emollients, the formula of this lip makeup with SPF is rich and creamy and feels like a dream over the lips. Besides, the finish of this lip makeup with sunscreen doesn’t look very artificial, and hence, I’d recommend it for daily use!

    SPF Level: 30

    Shades: 8

    Quantity: 0.15 ounces

    Pros
    • Prevents dryness
    • Keeps lips moisturized
    • Has a satin finish
    • Dermatologist-developed
    • Vegan and cruelty-free
    • Reef-safe
    • Hypoallergenic formula
    Cons
    • May split very easily
    • Expensive
  • Best Serum Foundation

    ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

    ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
  • People who can afford high-end makeup would probably replace their foundation for this SPF skin tint immediately and never go back — because it’s hella good! Instead of primitive and cakey base makeup, this skin tint from ILIA comes in a rich serum formulation, which beautifully seeps into the skin and miraculously smoothes its tone and feel. 

    The formula is highly pigmented, so there’s no compromise on the coverage. And, when I tried it out, it left my skin with smooth, dewy goodness! The best part is that this sunscreen makeup doesn’t just cover imperfections but resolves them from within for better skin health.

    SPF Level: 40

    Shades: 28

    Quantity: 1 ounce

    Pros
    • Luxuriously hydrating
    • Calms flare-ups
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Blue light protection
    • Suits every skin
    • Clean formula
    • Antioxidant-rich
    • Vegan and cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best Tinted Moisturizer

    IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Full-coverage Foundation

    IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Full-coverage Foundation
  • Compared to the other tinted moisturizers on the list, the SPF level of this product from IT Cosmetics impresses me the most, as it pays off a lot in the long run! The richly pigmented formulation blurs the lines between a CC cream and a foundation and outruns others as the only base makeup you may need. 

    The product is relatively pocket-friendly (compared to the high-end products on the list) and doesn’t disappoint as it nourishes the skin and covers imperfections just like one would expect! But yes — its full-coverage finish is quite a USP!

    SPF Level: 50

    Shades: 10

    Quantity: 0.32 ounces

    Pros
    • Boosts hydration
    • Plumps up the skin
    • Antioxidant benefits
    • Fades discoloration and pigmentation
    • Broad-spectrum protection
    • Developed by experts
    Cons
    • The quantity is very less
    • Not long-lasting
  • Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Blurring Face Primer

    Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Blurring Face Primer
  • This SPF primer from Elizabeth Mott not only acts as a protective barrier between your skin and the makeup but also rejuvenates the skin and improves its quality in multiple ways. It is made with plant-derived ingredients such as shea butter, green tea, cucumber, and linseed extracts to soothe and pamper the skin. 

    This lightweight primer not only protects the skin from the sun but also from blue light and other environmental aggressors such as pollution. Besides, you can use it liberally every time your skin needs some quenchin’!

    SPF Level: 30

    Shades: Not applicable

    Quantity: 30 grams

    Pros
    • Hydrating
    • Not too expensive
    • Reef-safe
    • No white cast
    • Minimizes pores
    • Alleviates inflammation
    • Reduces oily sheens
    Cons
    • Not very mattifying
    • The finish is a tad bit blotchy
  • Best Full-coverage Product

    Twenties Beauty Age 20’s Signature Intense Cover Pact

    Twenties Beauty Age 20’s Signature Intense Cover Pact
  • When testing products, this little K-beauty gem from Twenties Beauty was the most indulgent one to try out. The reason is quite evident — its rich, velvety texture that went on smoothly over my skin, giving it a gorgeous, light-reflecting glass finish.

    Infused with 71% hydrating essence, including goodies such as hyaluronic acid, squalene, and other plant extracts, this SPF makeup product felt more nourishing to my skin than a moisturizer! Besides, it delivered a smooth, dewy finish, boosting my radiance and panache!

    SPF Level: 50+

    Shades: 5

    Quantity: 0.49 ounces

    Pros
    • Buildable
    • Natural coverage
    • Replenishes the skin
    • Evens out skin texture
    • Covers pores and blemishes
    • Boosts skin luminosity
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • The product is a bit messy
  • Best Toning Product

    A'PIEU Pure Block Tone Up Sunscreen Base

    A'PIEU Pure Block Tone Up Sunscreen Base
  • Every primer you have ever used before may seem subpar when compared to this delicious, pink-colored makeup base from A'PIEU due to its state-of-the-art toning prowess that lightly neutralizes discolorations on the skin for a luminous, pearly complexion. The product has a smooth, water-drenched, velvety texture that blends a lot, which is why you don’t need too much of it when applying makeup. Plus, its broad-spectrum protection is unbeatable and it harnesses the nourishing properties of berry extracts, papaya extracts, and vanilla, which rejuvenate your skin further! 

    SPF Level: 50+, PA+++

    Shades: Not applicable 

    Quantity: 15 ml

    Pros
    • Spreads evenly
    • Mattifying effect
    • Smells delightful
    • Boosts skin luminosity
    • Non-sticky formula
    Cons
    • Feels heavy
    • May leave a subtle residue
  • Almay SPF 15 Smart Shade Skintone Matching Makeup

    Almay SPF 15 Smart Shade Skintone Matching Makeup
  • Featuring Almay’s Tonemimic technology, the tiny particles in this foundation break open and release a pigment on application, which adapts to your unique natural skin tone. Hence, when I tried it out, the end result didn’t make it seem like I was wearing makeup at all. 

    Due to the same feature, while you can get sublime coverage out of this product, you don’t need to apply too much and can have a layer of low-key, non-cakey film of sunscreen-infused makeup and call it a day! Besides, the texture and consistency of this product are quite smooth and even out the makeup base really well. 

    SPF Level: 15

    Shades: 6

    Quantity: 1 fluid ounce

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Fragrance-free
    • Mattifying finish
    • Clean formula
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Has a yellow undertone
    • The SPF level could be higher
  • purlisse Perfect Glow BB Cream SPF 30

    purlisse Perfect Glow BB Cream SPF 30
  • Those who like having a luminous, light coverage on their skin without layering up on strobe creams should give a try to this BB cream from Purlisse. The product formula is highly pigmented, hence, its coverage never disappoints and works fine in even-toning the skin. It is fortified with the skincare benefits of goji berry, hawthorn berry, and jasmine flower extracts, which makes it a nourishing choice for your skin. Plus, the formula is smooth and hydrating, which ticks about all the boxes that one looks for in an SPF makeup product.

    SPF Level: 30

    Shades: 10

    Quantity: 1.4 ounces

    Pros
    • Improves skin texture
    • Velvety consistency
    • Suits all skin types
    • Rich in antioxidants
    • Reduces dark spots
    Cons
    • Greasy finish
    • The coverage may get slightly cakey

    Now that you’ve seen my product recommendations for the best makeup with SPF, check out the below-mentioned buying guide to make the best of your buck!

    How to Select the Right Makeup Products with SPF?

    1. SPF Level

    If you’re a skincare enthusiast, you must already know that an SPF between 30 to 50 is ideal for effective sun protection. However, a lot of makeup products that offer great features consist of fairly low SPF (between 15 to 30). Now, while these cannot provide sun protection as one may expect, they are still good product choices for touch-ups or re-application of sunscreens.

    2. Pigment And Coverage

    Since these are makeup products we’re looking at, taking the pigment and coverage into account is a must, except in the case of primers and setting sprays. This feature depends heavily on your personal requirements — whether you need something with sheer coverage or buildable full coverage. Similarly, you can look for products that blur out imperfections such as dark spots, pimples, etc. to get results that cater to your unique needs.

    3. Miscellaneous Skincare Benefits

    Many makeup products offer other skincare benefits in addition to sun protection, such as hydration, antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory and calming properties, collagen stimulation, oil balance, and overall skin rejuvenation. Hence, look for necessary ingredients for the same, such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, green tea, cucumber, squalene, fruit extracts, botanical oils, butters, etc. 

    A lot of SPF makeup products contain iron oxides, in addition to zinc oxide and titanium dioxides, which offer blue light protection. If you are someone who’s exposed to screens a lot, it is an essential feature to look for. 

    4. Lasting Power

    Just like the sun protection, the makeup shouldn’t just fizzle out or melt away. It should stay resilient on your skin for a good few hours. Hence, always prioritize long-lasting products over those that oxidize very easily, transfer, melt away with sweat, or come off in a single swipe. 

    5. Formulation

    The overall formulation of the product determines the texture, consistency, skin feel, longevity, as well as the effects of the product on your skin. A creamy, smooth, or velvety textured product must always be given priority over a blotchy, poorly emulsified one. In addition, you should avoid allergens or irritants such as mineral oil, phthalates, excess talc, strong fragrances, comedogenic substances, etc. in your makeup products to prevent skin reactions.

    How to Apply Makeup with SPF?

    1. BB Cream/Tinted Sunscreen

    After cleansing and moisturizing, dot your face and neck with the product. Then, in upward-circular motions, massage the product into your skin. Be gentle but firm, and do this uniformly using both your hands. After you’re done, you may call it a day or set the product in place with some loose powder.

    2. Foundation with SPF

    Start by using a moisturizer and primer on your skin. Wait for a good 5 minutes before applying anything on your skin. Then, dot the foundation evenly on your face and neck. Take a moist beauty blender (sponge) or a large foundation brush and even the product out gently, ensuring there’s no blotchiness in the end result. Bake your makeup with a good setting powder, and top it off with a setting spray.

    3. Primer with SPF

    Start by cleansing the skin, and follow up with a moisturizer. Then, take a pea-sized amount of the primer and dot it on the high points of your face and neck — forehead, tip of the nose, cheekbones, chin, jaw, etc. Just like a moisturizer, smoothen it all out using your fingers. Allow the primer to settle onto your skin for a good 3 to 5 minutes before layering up.

    4. Powder with SPF

    You may choose to use a mineral powder as a setting product on your foundation or over the moisturizer. Refer to the above points to understand how to apply those the right way. Once done, dust a very small amount of the powder evenly on the skin through its built-in brush. If there’s no built-in applicator as such, dip a large and fluffy powder brush into the product first and then gently bake it on your skin.

    5. Setting Spray with SPF

    After your makeup is done, hold the setting spray about six to eight inches away from your face and spray it while making a cross-shape on your face. This way, you’ll cover all the necessary skin areas without wasting any product.

    Conclusion

    By using the best makeup products with SPF as mentioned above, you can add an additional layer of sun protection to your traditional sunscreen as well as reap other skincare benefits while rocking a face full of makeup. These products cater to unique makeup and skin needs, owing to their individual prowess. For example, the DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 is great for blue light protection, the Covergirl CG Smoothers BB Cream provides antioxidant protection, and the ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint is the richest, most indulgent skin hydrant. I hope you liked my product recommendations. Happy shopping!

    FAQ's

    Do makeup products with SPF offer adequate sun protection?
    That depends on the product’s SPF level. If the product’s SPF is 30, 50, or anywhere in between, then its sun protection would be adequate. However, if the SPF level is less than 30, then the protection might fall short. However, such products can indeed be used when the sunscreen has to be reapplied.
    Should I wear sunscreen under makeup that includes SPF?
    The answer to this is tricky. As a matter of fact, most people use an inadequate amount of sunscreen on a daily basis. Hence, wearing a little bit of sunscreen underneath even when you’re using makeup with SPF would be a great idea for enhanced sun protection. However, you can customize how much sunscreen you wear depending on the weather, the SPF levels of the products, and how long you’ll be outdoors for.
    What is the optimal SPF level one should look for in a product?
    An optimal SPF level would be 30, 50, or anything in between. Investing in a product that contains a higher level of SPF than 50 would be unnecessary, as there isn’t much difference in the UV protection of SPF 50 and SPF 100. More than looking for a product with higher SPF levels, the amount of product used and the frequency of application matter more.
    How much sunscreen is it ideal to use on the face and neck?
    When applying sunscreen on the face and neck, one should follow the two-finger rule; dispense the sunscreen on the index and middle fingers comprising thick vertical strokes. That would be an adequate product quantity.
    What are some of the best makeup products with SPF?
    The A'PIEU Pure Block Tone Up Sunscreen Base, the IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Full-coverage Foundation, the ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint, and the DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 are some of the best SPF makeup products out there.
    Is it okay to use SPF makeup on sensitive skin?
    Sensitive skin requires more sun protection than any other skin type, and it always helps if their makeup products contain SPF. However, to be sure that the particular product is safe for sensitive skin, one must look for product labels mentioning it explicitly. Also, products that are hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, mineral-based, fragrance-free, and dye-free are better options than ones that do not check these boxes.
    How often should one re-apply makeup with SPF?
    Depends on one’s individual needs, sun exposure, makeup requirements, etc. Instead of using pigment-based products such as foundations, skin tints, etc. more often, I’d recommend reapplying sunscreen using products such as mineral-based setting powders and setting sprays.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Sayantani, the author of this article and our in-house makeup expert, loves makeup products that are infused with skincare benefits — sun protection being one of the most essential ones! Hence, she put together all the SPF-based makeup products she used and liked in the past, while also exploring newer products that are popular in the market. Her reviews have been backed by in-depth ingredient research as well as customer testimonials.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More