Social media beauty trends can be a mixed bag; sometimes clever, sometimes questionable. But the viral ‘Sunscreen Sandwich’ gets one thing absolutely right; anything that encourages better sun protection is worth paying attention to.
And it’s needed, considering only one in six Brits wear SPF daily while a third rely on makeup or moisturiser with SPF instead of a dedicated sunscreen according to a 2026 OnePoll survey. Let’s be clear; makeup with SPF alone is not enough, but used as part of a well-layered routine it can play an excellent supporting role. The ‘sunscreen sandwich’ is all about strategic layering; combining skincare, sunscreen and makeup to maximise both protection and hydration. Like any good sandwich, it comes down to quality ingredients, and the order you stack them.
Order of the day
“The ideal ‘sandwich’ involves applying your active serums first, followed by a moisturiser and finishing with a generous layer of sunscreen,” says consultant dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto. “Sunscreen (two finger lengths) must always be the final step in your skincare routine to ensure it forms an uninterrupted, protective shield. If you apply serums or moisturisers on top, you risk diluting its efficacy, leaving skin vulnerable to UV damage.” Anjali recommends allowing your skincare to fully absorb, waiting a minute or two between your moisturiser and sunscreen to prevent the products from pilling.
Perfect pairings
© Javier DiezSome combinations work harder together. “Vitamin C and sunscreen are a powerful defensive pairing against environmental skin damage,” explains Anjali. “While sunscreen blocks or absorbs the majority of harmful UV rays, a vitamin C serum acts as a backup, neutralising free radicals that slip through. Together, they provide a comprehensive, dual-layered defence system against premature ageing and pigmentation.” And actives to steer clear of? “Retinoids should generally remain in your evening routine, as UV light degrades the active ingredient and renders it ineffective if worn during the day. They can also make skin more photosensitive, increasing your risk of sunburn if your sunscreen application is not absolutely flawless.”
Extra rewards
“Makeup containing UV filters can offer a small bonus layer of defence, but you must always apply a dedicated, primary sunscreen underneath it first,” says Anjali. “When applying foundation over your sunscreen, use a gentle patting or stippling motion with a sponge or brush rather than aggressive rubbing, which can disrupt and displace the protective film you just created.” The reality is simple; no one applies foundation thickly enough to achieve the SPF level listed on the label but adding it into your sandwich? Chef’s kiss.
Build your SPF sandwich according to your skin type:
NORMAL SKIN TYPES
Environ Rad Active Antioxidant Sun Cream SPF20
Alastin C Radical Defence Antoxidant Serum
OILY SKIN TYPES
Eucerin Sun Face Oil Control Daily UV Serum SPF 50+
Naked Sundays BeautyScreen™ SPF50 Peptide Foundation Tint
DRY SKIN TYPES
LANEIGE Water Bank UV Barrier Sunscreen SPF50
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Natural Dewy SPF30
SENSITIVE SKIN TYPES
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+
Beauty of Joseon Light on Serum Centella + Vita C
Merit Beauty The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50,
ACNE PRONE SKIN TYPES
Erborian Super BB FullCoverage BB Cream For Acne-Prone Skin SPF20
MATURE SKIN TYPES
Kay Beauty Hydra Glow Tinted Sunscreen SPF40
