One of the most troubling and confusing skincare topics is: sunscreen or moisturiser first? If you have ever been in a position where you are standing in front of the mirror and thinking about the right order of application, then you are not alone. Correct layering of skincare products is critical to ensure their effectiveness. In this blog, we’ll explore whether you should apply sunscreen or moisturizer first in the morning, how each product works, and the best practices for maximum protection and hydration.

Understanding Their Roles

Before diving into whether you should apply sunscreen or moisturizer first, it’s crucial to understand what each product does for your skin. 

Moisturizer: What It Does?

A natural moisturizer provides your skin with much-needed hydration and nourishment. It acts as a barrier that locks in moisture and prevents water loss, keeping your skin soft, smooth, and supple. A good moisturizer contains essential ingredients that help maintain the skin’s hydration levels.

Benefits of Using a Moisturizer:

• Keeps skin hydrated and plump

• Strengthens the skin barrier

• Prevents dryness, irritation, and flakiness

• Helps in the better absorption of other skincare products

Using a moisturizer daily is essential, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. However, even oily skin types need hydration to maintain a healthy skin balance.

Sunscreen: What It Does?

Sunscreen is your ultimate shield against harmful UV radiation. Whether you use a vitamin C sunscreen or a mineral-based formula, sunscreen helps prevent premature aging, sunburns, and even skin cancer.

Benefits of Using Sunscreen:

• Protects against UVA and UVB rays

• Prevents sunburn and hyperpigmentation

• Reduces the risk of premature aging (wrinkles, fine lines)

• Lowers the chances of skin cancer

Daily sunscreen application is non-negotiable, regardless of the weather or your skin type. But this leads us to the main question: sunscreen or moisturizer first?

Sunscreen or Moisturizer First?

The answer depends on the type of sunscreen you’re using—chemical or mineral.

1. If you are using a chemical sunscreen (which absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat), Apply it before your moisturizer. Chemical sunscreens need to penetrate the skin to work effectively, and applying a moisturizer first might create a barrier that reduces absorption.

2. If you’re using a mineral sunscreen (which physically blocks UV rays): Apply sunscreen after your moisturizer. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV rays. Applying them last ensures they form an even protective layer.

How to Apply for Maximum Protection

Now that we’ve answered the hottest debate sunscreen or moisturizer first, let’s discuss the correct application technique to ensure you get the best results.

• Start with cleansing your face: Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.

• Apply your moisturizer: Apply moisturizer before sunscreen if you’re using a mineral sunscreen, and let it absorb for a few minutes.

• Apply sunscreen: However, if you are using a chemical sunscreen, apply it before your moisturizer. 

• Wait before applying makeup: Give your sunscreen 5 to 10 minutes to settle before applying makeup to ensure it doesn’t rub off.

Common Myths and Mistakes

1. Avoid sunscreen if my moisturizer has SPF 

Your moisturizer having SPF is like a bonus point, but it's not enough to provide full protection against sunlight. A proper sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is always recommended.

2. You don't need to apply sunscreen indoors

This is one of the biggest myths about sunscreens. Although usually, sunscreens are a means to protect your skin against UV rays, they can penetrate through windows, meaning indoor exposure is still possible. Apply sunscreen daily, even if you’re staying inside.

3. Applying sunscreen once a day is enough

Applying sunscreen at an interval of 2 to 3 hours is a must. This is very critical if you are exposed to sunlight for a long time. If you wear makeup, opt for a spray or powder sunscreen for easy reapplication.

4. People with dark skin don’t need sunscreen

While darker skin tones have more melanin, which provides some natural sun protection, they are still susceptible to UV damage, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.

5. Sunscreen makes my skin oily

If you face this issue, then you need to change your sunscreen. There are many sunscreens that come in lightweight, non-greasy formulations, which can help avoid making your skin oily. Look for oil-free, gel-based, or mattifying sunscreens to keep your skin fresh and shine-free.

Conclusion

The debate over sunscreen or moisturizer ultimately depends on the type of sunscreen you use. If you’re using a chemical sunscreen, apply it before your moisturizer. If you prefer a mineral sunscreen, apply it after moisturizing. Regardless of the order, what truly matters is consistently using both for healthy, protected skin.