The Best Drugstore Makeup with SPF to Layer Sun Protection

No matter the season or the weather, SPF is a step in your beauty routine you don’t want to skip! SPF ensures you are protecting your skin against sun damage as well as preventing signs of aging that is accelerated by sun exposure.

Two things you have to keep in mind, though: the “sufficient” amount of SPF for the face and neck is 1/2 teaspoon, and SPF needs to be reapplied throughout the day to stay effective. So where does that leave us makeup-wearers?

I typically get the biggest dose of protection in my face moisturizer with SPF, but I do like to use makeup with SPF for additional layers of protection as well as a way to re-up on top of my look throughout the day.

Here are what I consider to be the best SPF makeup at the drugstore in 2022:

1. Milani SPF BFF SPF 30 Face Primer ($12.99)
As someone who just started wearing primer again after swearing off of it 5+ years ago, I’ve really enjoyed the new Milani primers most. This one has a very lightweight lotion texture and a natural finish that helps smooth skin and extend the wear time of your makeup. You get SPF 30 UVA/UVB protection, and it genuinely feels super comfortable under my makeup.

2. L’Oreal Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation SPF 25 ($11.99)
Years later and I still consider this the best drugstore foundation, period. The included sun protection of Broad Spectrum SPF 25 is a cherry on top. This foundation offers medium-full buildable coverage with a natural finish that is transfer and sweat resistant all day long. I put this foundation to the ultimate test during a hot Las Vegas summer day, check out my results below:

@slashedbeauty Testing the @lorealparisusa Infallible Fresh Wear Liquid Foundation for 11 hours in 111* weather! #lorealparispartner #infalliblefreshwear #makeuptok ♬ original sound – slashedbeauty

3. L’Oreal Skin Paradise Water Infused Tinted Moisturizer SPF 19 ($13.99)
If you like lighter coverage and a dewy finish, this tinted moisturizer is definitely for you— and it comes with SPF 19! You can see my full L’Oreal Skin Paradise Tinted Moisturizer review here but essentially it provides a very glowy look and 24 hours of hydration with a formula infused with aloe vera and witch hazel.

4. Revlon Kiss Lip Balm SPF 20 ($5.49)
The lips are often forgotten within discussions of sunscreen, but if you’ve ever experienced sunburnt lips… you’ll never forget again. This medicated lip balm from Revlon is ultra hydrating, infused with natural fruit oils, and has SPF 20 protection. It’s available in four sheer colors and a clear version.

5. Physicians Formula Natural Defense Total Coverage Concealer SPF 30 ($11.99)
This concealer from Physicians Formula is part of their Natural Defense makeup line which combines sun protection with SPF 30, PPF for pollution protection, and RPF for blue light protection. It has a substantial amount of coverage that’s still lightweight and helps blur and conceal dark circles and redness flawlessly.

6. Derma E Sun Protection Mineral Powder SPF 30 ($21.95)
A setting powder with SPF is an excellent way not only to help set your face, but reapply SPF over makeup without jeopardizing your look! I’ve been using the Derma E SPF Powder for years now. I love how light it feels, it helps keep oil at bay, and the built in brush makes it great for on-the-go.

7. Milani Make It Last Sunscreen Setting Spray SF 30 ($13.99)
Dryer skin types may avoid setting powders and opt for setting sprays. This one from Milani helps lock in makeup, and can be used to refresh throughout the day while reapplying SPF 30 with every mist. It has a subtle dewy finish and an ultra fine mist for an even application.