The specific application directions below are for the US Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50; if your tube is SPF 40 or Mineral Unseen, follow that product's label for timing and reapplication.12

What order should you apply everything in?

  1. 1Cleanse your face, then apply any morning serum you already use.
  2. 2Apply moisturizer before sunscreen.
  3. 3Apply Unseen generously and evenly across your face and neck.
  4. 4Let the sunscreen absorb before adding a separate primer, if you want one, and then makeup.
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Serum is optional: a basic morning routine is cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen. A simpler routine can mean fewer products to layer, which is a rare skincare upgrade that requires buying less.3

How long should you wait before primer?

Supergoop tells you to allow 30 seconds for Unseen SPF 50 to absorb before applying makeup. General sunscreen guidance is to give sunscreen a few minutes to dry before makeup, because starting too soon can undermine protection. If the layer has not dried, give it more time rather than immediately adding primer.24

The makeup wait and the outdoor wait are different: apply Unseen SPF 50 at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Being ready for foundation does not mean you are ready to step into the sun.2

Do you need another primer?

No separate primer is required: Unseen SPF 50 is a weightless gel with a natural finish that visibly blurs pores and grips makeup. Unseen already has a primer job, despite sunscreen being the occupation printed in its name. You can wear Unseen alone or put makeup over it.12

How much should you use?

Use a sunscreen amount, not just enough to smooth your makeup base. General face application guidance is at least 1 teaspoon, roughly the amount covering the length of your index and middle fingers. Spread sunscreen thoroughly and protect exposed areas beyond your face, including your neck and ears.5

Foundation or primer with SPF does not replace that sunscreen layer. Makeup is commonly applied too sparingly to deliver its labeled protection, and using too little sunscreen creates the same problem. Keep sunscreen as the base layer even when your makeup also carries an SPF number.4

What happens once your makeup is on?

Makeup does not remove the need to reapply sunscreen. Unseen SPF 50's label directs reapplication at least every 2 hours, after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating, and immediately after towel drying. General outdoor guidance is to reapply every two hours and immediately after swimming or sweating. Plan for reapplication rather than treating your morning makeup routine as protection for the whole day.25

What should make you stop using it?

Do not apply Unseen SPF 50 to damaged or broken skin. Keep it out of your eyes, rinse with water if it gets in them, and stop use and ask a doctor if a rash occurs.2

Check the sunscreen's expiration date before using it. Replace sunscreen that changes color, develops a different or foul smell, separates into layers, or becomes dry and flaky, even before its expiry date. Store sunscreen away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Use clean makeup tools over your sunscreen: wash sponges after every use and brushes every 7 to 10 days.6

Where this answer comes from

  1. 1Should You Apply Primer Before or After Sunscreen?supergoop.com
  2. 2Supergoop! New Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50supergoop.com
  3. 3The Correct Order for Skin Care Productshealth.clevelandclinic.org
  4. 4Should You Put Sunscreen on Before Makeup?health.clevelandclinic.org
  5. 5How to apply sunscreenaad.org
  6. 6When to toss your makeup and sunscreenaad.org