SPF Before or After Moisturizer? We Asked a Derm

The Correct Order to Apply Sunscreen 

It turns out, it depends on what type of sunscreen you’re using. Yep, your SPF isn’t one-size-fits-all. “If you’re using a chemical sunscreen, it should be applied before the moisturizer, since the sunscreen needs to get absorbed into the skin,” says Dr. Turegano. In other words, if you layer it over moisturizer, it might not sink in properly—and your protection won’t be as strong. But if your SPF is a physical (or mineral) sunscreen, it’s a different story. Physical sunscreens act like a shield. They should be applied after your skincare, but before your makeup.

Still confused about where sunscreen fits into your morning routine? Start from your lightest to heaviest skincare products: cleanser first, followed by toner or essence, then antioxidant serums such as vitamin C (which should be given time to absorb), and then, depending on your sunscreen type, either moisturizer or sunscreen (or vice versa).

Why Sunscreen (Usually!) Goes Last

Let’s talk science for a sec. Sunscreen’s whole job is to sit on top of your skin and act as a protective barrier against UV rays. If you put it on before your moisturizer, you risk rubbing it off while applying your next step—or worse, making it less effective.

That said, if you’re using a chemical sunscreen, it needs to absorb into your skin to do its job. So you’ll want to apply it on clean skin first, then moisturize once it’s settled in. For mineral sunscreens that physically block the sun’s rays, layering it after your routine works just fine.

It’s a small difference, but it makes a huge impact on how well your SPF works—and your skin will thank you later.

Can You Use SPF-Infused Moisturizers?

If your dream product is one that moisturizes and offers sun protection in a single step, you’re not alone. SPF-infused moisturizers sound like a skincare jackpot—and they can be! But, they’re only effective if they meet two key requirements.

“As long as it’s SPF 30 or higher and has broad spectrum coverage, it is safe,”” says Dr. Turegano. “SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 blocks around 98%.” And broad-spectrum? That just means you’re covered against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. So if your fave moisturizer meets those standards, you’re good to go. Just don’t forget to use enough (most people don’t!), and reapply every two hours if you’re spending time outdoors.

Thinking about going into DIY mode and mixing your fave moisturizer with your fave sunscreen? Don’t do it. “There can be properties in the moisturizer that could inactivate ingredients in the sunscreen,” warns Dr. Turegano. Plus, you run the risk of diluting the formula or messing with how it sits on the skin—which can mean less protection overall. So, stick to layering your products one at a time, and let each one absorb before moving on to the next step in your routine.