How Oil-Based Products Fit into Your Sun Protection Routine
- LaSonya Lopez
- Nov 14, 2024
- 4 min read
by Dr. LaSonya Lopez, MD
November 14, 2024

If you’re using a facial oil cleanser and oil-based moisturizer, you might wonder how these work with sunscreen. Here’s the good news: oils and SPF can be a perfect pair. Oils provide intense hydration, creating a soft, smooth surface that preps the skin for SPF application. When you layer sunscreen over a hydrating oil, it helps lock in moisture, keeping skin supple while providing a barrier against environmental damage.
Our Facial Oil Cleanser and Moisturizing Face Oil work harmoniously with sunscreen to enhance your skin’s hydration, so you’re not only protected but also glowing all day long. Here’s how to make it work.
Building Your Sun-Protection Routine with Oil-Based Products
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to incorporate your oil-based products with sunscreen for a well-rounded, hydrating sun-protection routine:
Step 1: Cleanse with Facial Oil Cleanser
Starting with a clean canvas is essential. Our Facial Oil Cleanser gently lifts away impurities, excess oils, and even sunscreen residue from the night before. Oil cleansing is particularly effective because it maintains your skin’s natural moisture balance without stripping it, ensuring your skin stays hydrated from the first step.
How To Use: Apply a small amount of the Facial Oil Cleanser to dry skin, massaging
gently in circular motions. Rinse with warm water or remove with a soft, damp cloth.
Step 2: Hydrate and Nourish with a Moisturizing Face Oil
After cleansing, apply a few drops of our Moisturizing Face Oil to keep skin hydrated and smooth. This oil serves as both a moisturizer and a primer for SPF, creating a perfectly prepped base. When skin is properly hydrated, it holds onto sunscreen better and maintains that dewy, fresh look without feeling greasy.
How To Use: Apply 2–3 drops of the face oil to your palms, then gently press into your face and neck. Wait a minute or two for the oil to absorb before moving on to SPF. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Step 3: Apply Sunscreen Generously
Now that your skin is hydrated, it’s time for sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Layering sunscreen over a facial oil keeps your skin moisturized and protects it from sun damage. It’s important to apply enough sunscreen—most people don’t use nearly enough!
How To Use: Apply a nickel-sized amount of sunscreen to your face and neck, and reapply every two hours if you’re spending time outdoors. Use a gentle patting motion to apply it over your face oil, helping it absorb without moving the oil layer underneath.
Step 4: Reapply SPF Throughout the Day
Reapplying sunscreen is key, especially if you’re outdoors. Consider using a powder or mist SPF for easy reapplication that won’t disrupt your makeup or oil base. Reapplying keeps your skin protected and refreshed throughout the day, helping to maintain hydration levels as well.
Tips for Layering Oil and Sunscreen for Optimal Hydration and Protection
Let Each Layer Absorb: To ensure a smooth application, give each layer—especially the oil and sunscreen—a minute to absorb before moving to the next. This prevents products from pilling and ensures maximum effectiveness.
Use Lightweight Oils Under SPF: Our Moisturizing Face Oil is designed to be lightweight, making it ideal for layering under sunscreen. Heavy oils may not absorb as well under SPF, so choosing a light formula ensures that your skin feels hydrated but not greasy.
Avoid Mixing Oils Directly into Sunscreen: It can be tempting to mix a drop of oil into your SPF for extra glow, but this can dilute the effectiveness of your sunscreen. Instead, apply your oil first, allow it to absorb, and then layer SPF on top.
Consider Your Environment: If you’re in a dry climate or spending time in an air-conditioned space, using an oil under your SPF can help prevent skin dehydration. In more humid climates, you may prefer just a small amount of oil to avoid feeling too dewy.
Be Generous with SPF: Many people underestimate how much sunscreen is needed to cover the face adequately. After applying your oil, make sure to use enough sunscreen to create an even layer of protection.
Sunscreen-Friendly Ingredients in Our Facial Oil Cleanser and Moisturizing Face Oil
Our oil-based products are crafted to support your skin without interfering with sun protection:
Antioxidants: Our Moisturizing Face Oil includes antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental stressors and work well with SPF to combat oxidative stress.
Soothing Botanicals: Ingredients in facial oil cleansers help calm the skin, making it an ideal prep for sunscreen, especially for sensitive skin types.
Non-Comedogenic Oils: We carefully select oils that won’t clog pores, ensuring a lightweight feel that’s suitable for layering under SPF.
Sun Protection Year-Round: Why It’s Non-Negotiable
No matter the season, your skin is exposed to UV rays that can cause damage over time. Here’s how to adjust your routine as the seasons change:
Winter: UV rays are still present! The cold air can dry out the skin, so using a rich oil under your SPF helps to combat dryness and keep your skin comfortable.
Spring: With fluctuating temperatures, you may want to keep both a lightweight oil and your SPF in rotation, especially if spending more time outdoors.
Summer: Sunscreen is a must in summer, especially if you’re in the sun often. Use a lightweight oil to hydrate, as the warmth may increase oil production on its own.
Fall: Cooler air and wind can leave skin feeling dry. Use an oil for a moisture boost, layered with SPF to keep skin protected from lingering sun exposure.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Year-Round Protection with the Right Layers
With the right layering technique, sun protection can fit seamlessly into your skincare routine, even with oil-based products. At Sheandis, we believe in skin health that looks good and feels great. Our Facial Oil Cleanser and Moisturizing Face Oil are the perfect pair to prep, hydrate, and nourish your skin, so it’s ready for sunscreen and all the elements—any time of year.
Here’s to hydrated, sun-protected skin that radiates health and vitality, from winter to summer and every day in between!
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