The One Product You Can’t Skip This Summer, According to a NYC Makeup Artist

Every summer, the number one skin mistake I see — after 15+ years as a makeup artist in New York City — is the same one: skipping SPF. And not just on beach days. Every single day.

I get it. SPF has a reputation for being greasy, pore-clogging, or impossible to layer under makeup without looking like a ghost. But that was the old formula. Mineral sunscreen has come a long way, and if you’re not wearing it this summer, you’re skipping the most important step in your whole routine.

Why Mineral Sunscreen?

There are two types of sunscreen: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them to heat in the skin. Mineral sunscreens — formulated with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide — sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays before they penetrate.

For makeup wearers, mineral is almost always the better choice. It’s gentler on skin, less likely to cause irritation or breakouts, and it plays much nicer with the rest of your products. As a makeup artist and licensed esthetician, it’s what I recommend to every single client.

The Myths I’m Officially Putting to Rest

“SPF breaks me out.” — Chemical SPF might. Mineral SPF is far less likely to clog pores, especially formulas that are non-comedogenic and scent-free.

“I can’t wear it under makeup.” — Wrong. Apply mineral sunscreen after moisturizer and before primer. Let it absorb for a minute, then build your routine on top. It actually creates a smooth base.

“I don’t need it in the city.” — UV rays don’t care if you’re in the Hamptons or on the Upper East Side. If you’re outside — or sitting near a window — you’re being exposed.

How to Layer It Under Makeup

This is exactly the kind of thing we cover in makeup lessons in New York at our Manhattan studio — how to build your full routine in the right order so every product performs at its best. For SPF, the sequence is:

Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Mineral Sunscreen → Primer → Foundation

Let each layer absorb before adding the next. And yes — if you’re spending extended time outdoors, reapply SPF every two hours, even over makeup. A setting spray with SPF or a powder SPF makes touch-ups easy without disturbing your look.

Memorial Day Weekend Is Your Sign

The unofficial start of summer is the perfect moment to reset your routine. Stock up, build the habit now, and your skin will thank you by September. Sun damage is cumulative — which means every day you protect it counts.

→ Shop our mineral sunscreen at sharacosmetics.com.

→ And if you’ve been dealing with winter dryness or dullness, book a facial at our NYC studio before summer kicks in — your skin will be glowing and ready.

xo, Shara