What’s the Deal with Sunscreen Mixing?

Regular and proper sunscreen use is one of the best ways to protect your skin against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. The ideal product is a broad-spectrum formula with an SPF rating of 30 or higher. It is also recommended to use regular sunscreen instead of solely relying on makeup with SPF.

But what about mixing two different types of sunscreens? Does doing so increase the SPF rating? Can it provide you with the adequate protection you need against the sun? What does science or the research say about it? Continue reading as we dive a little deeper into mixing sunscreens and if it does have benefits.

Is two better than one?

Not always. Experts recommend sticking to one type of sunscreen at a time, as mixing two types can cause the formulas to be less effective against the UV rays. The two types of sunscreens, chemical and mineral, both offer sun protection to your skin, but have a few key differences. 

• Chemical sunscreens – these use chemical formulas such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate to protect the skin. These allow UV light to get absorbed in the skin and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
• Mineral sunscreens (also referred to as physical sunscreens) – block out UV rays physically using certain ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. The ingredients in the formula create a barrier that reflects UV light, so it doesn’t get absorbed into the skin. 

Each type has its own pros and cons, but mixing doesn’t necessarily mean more SPF or maximum sun protection. The best sunscreen, of course, is the one that you’ll apply on your face every day or a formula that you’ll be willing to slather on all exposed skin areas regardless of the weather. 

Just make sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Dr. Sylvia Skin Care offers a variety of sunscreen that provides protection against UVA and UVB rays. They are also lightweight and non-greasy, as well as offer hydration and skin-soothing benefits. Visit https://drsylviaskincare.com/collections/sunscreen for more information.

What does the research say?

A 2021 study published in Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences found that combining chemical sunscreens with mineral ones (that contain zinc oxide) decreased the barrier or protection they offer by up to 91%. The chemical reactions between the two types may also cause the product to become infective after only two hours of UV exposure. 

The study also found that zinc oxide degrades the UVA protection by other sunscreen ingredients. This can be damaging as people may think they’re receiving double protection and stay out much in the sun longer. In reality, however, they are getting less sun protection and are harmed by the UV rays. 

Does wearing a double layer of sunscreen work?

To get adequate protection, experts recommend applying a nickel-sized dollop of the product on the face alone or 2 tablespoons for all exposed areas of the face and body. The reality, however, is that people often apply less of this amount and thus do not get the full protection their sunscreen promises.

Double application can help remedy this issue by making sure that every area is effectively covered. A 2018 study tested this on 31 participants who were asked to apply the product two consecutive times. After the first application, the researchers found that the participants missed 20% of their body area.

With a second layer of sunscreen, the participants only missed 9% of their body area. This only makes sense to apply a double layer of sunscreen, which helps distribute the product more evenly. This also ensures that you get the protection your sunscreen promises and reduce your risk of getting sunburned. 

For further reading: 9 Ways to Up Your Sunscreen and Sun Protection Game

What about SPF cocktailing? 

SPF or sunscreen cocktailing refers to mixing other cosmetic products like concealer, foundation, or highlighter with your sunscreen. Applying this concoction directly onto the skin is said to reduce the white cast that certain sunscreens leave behind, improve the sun protection efficacy of other products, and even create a lightweight skin tint. 

TikTok content creators show how to do SPF cocktailing while praising its benefits for your complexion. It is also said to cut down on some steps in your regimen and help you get ready faster in the morning. It sounds like a good idea, but experts don’t actually recommend this trend. 

What SPF cocktailing does is change the chemical component of your sunscreen, which may then reduce its effectiveness. Do take note that in order to get adequate protection from your sunscreen, you need to apply it liberally on your face and other exposed skin. And when you mix it with makeup, it is likely that you aren’t getting enough SPF to protect your skin. 

For further reading: Less Effective Sunscreen? Stop Doing These Things When Applying SPF

For more skincare tips and product recommendations, browse through our blog. You can also contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore and book a consultation with our aesthetic doctor to find out how we can help you achieve your beauty and skincare goals.