If you layer sunscreens can you add together the SPF?

Though it might seem logical that when you layer sunscreens you can add the SPF, that doesn’t actually happen.

If you do layer products with SPF – and assuming you are using the correct volume to achieve the stated SPF on the product – the SPF you achieve will be that of the product with the highest SPF. Let me break it down: You first apply your SPF 50 sunscreen which blocks 98% of UVB rays.

Then you apply a foundation with SPF 15 in it which blocks 93% of UVB and then you brush on a SPF 30 powder that blocks 97% of UVB. What’s your final SPF? 50 – blocking 98%. The most protection you will get is blocking 98% of UVB. That won’t increase no matter how many products you put on. Even SPF 100 can’t block 100% of UVB.

But layering sunscreen is not a bad idea because it does increase your chances of putting enough on to cover your whole face just in case you missed a spot somewhere. Just remember that it won’t increase your overall protection. Your best bet is to aim to use the right volume (2.5 ml) to cover your entire face to try and achieve the stated SPF.