Makeup – SPF in Your Foundation?

Dr. Irwin
November 4, 2010

Here’s the problem with SPF in foundation.  If you read the ingredients, other than mineral makeups, they don’t contain UVA blockers.  You absolutely need both UVA and UVB protection every day, especially if you are in a car for your job.  Remember that UVA but not UVB goes through window glass!  

So please put your sunscreen on first (make sure it has a UVA blocker), then your makeup with SPF.  It’s a win/win then.  

I love mineral makeups like the Jane Iredale or Bare Minerals because they protect against both UVA and UVB and look great on the skin.  They might be reasonable to use alone as long as you don’t work outside or live in a sunny climate like LA , Florida, Arizona, etc.

I’ll be back next week for more questions on my Q & A Blog.  Dr. I.

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

Ask me your skincare question!

Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

  • All our content is written and researched by myself.
  • My medical office in Seattle has treated thousands of patients for 15+ years.
  • This site is not affiliated or financially tied to any product, treatment or device.
Ask Me Something
SkinTour Skincare
One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!
Browse Shop