With Valentine's Day just passing, I want to share with you my new found love...
Being obsessed with beauty, you might be shocked to hear that I actually love NOT wearing any makeup. Yes! I don't enjoy piling on pounds of make-up every time I am about to leave the house. Of course, this is depending on the occasion, but for everyday I usually enjoy putting on a little bit of mascara, sunscreen/moisturizer, blush/bronzer, and a little bit of lip gloss. When I am going out at night, on the other hand, I like to wear a little more, I typically use eyeshadow, eyeliner, foundation, etc.
I am not at all professional when it comes to applying make-up; however, I came across something that I know many of you will recognize, and that's primer. Primer basically evens out your skin tone and makes your makeup last longer. It basically prepares your face before foundation or powder for a more even look. If you use eye primer or lip primer, they also have the same purpose.
At first I thought this was too much, but I did some research and it might be something that could actually be useful when it comes to protecting your skin.
Some of you may have wondered if makeup protects your skin from the sun. Well it can, but only the right cosmetics with the right ingredients actually protect your skin.
On the Skin Cancer Foundation website it states that selecting a moisturizer or primer containing sunscreen to apply before putting on makeup can be a great choice when it comes to protecting your skin under the sun. Many of us just apply our make up alone, or on top of a moisturizer that doesn't contain any SPF. This can be harmful, especially if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or driving.
I decided to go check out a few primers, so I went to Sephora and picked out a sunscreen/primer to apply under my foundation powder to try. At first, I thought that it would make me look "cakey", but actually, it evened out my skin tone and gave me the biggest glow. I instantly fell in love! What's better than having beautiful skin, while staying protected at the same time, right?
The one that I actually purchased was not considered organic, however, I truly love it. Since I use the Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder as foundation, I decided to purchase the Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25. On the Skin Cancer Foundation website, it states how an SPF 15+ is enough for under make-up wear, since makeup itself will add another layer of protection.
This is a lightweight daily sunscreen that provides UVA/UVB sun protection. As stated on the packaging, this daily sunscreen provides the face with broad-spectrum sun protection in a sheer formula. Worn alone or as a primer under makeup, its oil-free formulation helps to absorb excess oil and whisks away perspiration. The best part is that even though it isn't organic or natural, it is formulated without chemical sunscreens. It is also appropriate for sensitive skins and the eye area, which I love.
If you are looking for a new primer or sunscreen I recommend trying it out depending on your skin type. This one actually worked great with my skin type but might not with yours. But if it does, I think you'll love it too. If you are looking for something a little more natural, I found something similar. The Suntegrity Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen & Primer, Broad Spectrum SPF 30.
As seen on their website, this award winning, rich, non-greasy, “UV chemical-free” face sunscreen offers Broad Spectrum Protection against damaging UVA & UVB rays. Infused with youth promoting antioxidants, this 3 in 1 product functions as a face moisturizer, sunscreen and make-up primer all in one. I have not tried this yet, but definitely looking into it as it looks amazing.
Please comment which primer you use, or love. Also, if you try any of these products listed, and have comments I would love to hear about what you think and how they work for you. If you have never tried primer, I highly recommend purchasing one that has an SPF of 15+ as it helps your make up last longer, and protects you throughout the day.
Also, always remember that it it still recommended to wear sun protective clothing even with sunscreen while you are outdoors. Check out: www.sundriven.com for more details on that and some great products!
XOXO
Authors: Nazanin Yashar
Sources: http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/sun-protection-and-makeup