Can you mix sunscreen and lotion?

Why keep sunscreen and lotion separate?

SPF, or sun protection factor, measures a sunscreen product's protection against sunburn. That number comes from testing the sunscreen product, so do not assign the same SPF to a homemade mixture. Keeping the products separate also makes it easier to judge how much sunscreen you are actually applying: the amount of lotion does not count toward the amount of sunscreen needed.3

How to apply lotion and sunscreen

1. 1Apply your moisturizer first. Keep it as a separate application rather than blending it with sunscreen in your hand.
2. 2Choose sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum protection, which covers both UVA and UVB rays. Choose water resistance if you expect to swim or sweat.
3. 3Apply sunscreen generously and evenly to all exposed skin. Include your face, neck, ears, hands and tops of your feet, rather than stopping where your skincare routine usually stops.
4. 4Apply before sun exposure and follow the bottle's directions. General FDA directions specify 15 minutes before exposure; NHS advice for a longer outing is an application 30 minutes before leaving and another just before going out.
5. 5Reapply sunscreen every two hours outdoors, and straight after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Reapplication is still needed when the bottle says water resistant.

For an adult's whole body, NHS guidance gives roughly 6 to 8 teaspoons of sunscreen. Use the amount for the skin you are covering, not a smaller amount stretched with lotion. Most people already apply too little sunscreen; a generous application matters more than making the two products feel like one.2

What about a moisturizer that already contains SPF?

A daily moisturizer with sunscreen can be a useful starting point, with one bottle doing two jobs instead of recruiting a second bottle. Check its SPF and UVA protection, apply enough, and follow its sunscreen directions. A morning application does not replace reapplication during time outdoors. Shade, protective clothing and a hat still belong in your sun protection plan.45

Is sunscreen lotion different from ordinary lotion?

Lotion is a sunscreen format, not a declaration that the bottle has retired from sun protection. A sunscreen lotion has sunscreen labeling, including an SPF; the word lotion alone does not tell you its protection. Lotion sunscreen makes it easier to see the amount applied and spots you have missed. If you prefer a spray, apply until the skin looks wet and shiny, then rub it in evenly before it dries. Never spray sunscreen directly onto your face; spray into your hands first.346

What if you use a prescription cream or tanning lotion?

For people being treated for a daylight allergy, the Northern Care Alliance advises applying moisturizer or steroid cream first, then waiting 20 to 30 minutes before sunscreen. Follow your own treatment instructions if you have a prescribed routine.1

Self tanning lotion does not remove the need for daily sunscreen, even if the tanning product has an SPF. Use sunscreen offering SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum protection and water resistance.7