For better or worse, I’ve amassed quite a collection of base products that have some degree of SPF in, and one of the ways in which I rationalize these seemingly endless purchases is that I can share them here on the blog!
First up, I wanted to feature those that have more of a light-to-light/medium coverage. I’d say that all of these are buildable to add coverage. I tend to be looking for a bit of skin tone evening and brightening from my base, and then I followup with a dab of concealer over any particularly dark spots. Also, for all of these “after” photos, I used my hands to apply the product. Another sure way, I think, to get a fuller coverage out of any base would be to use a dampened beauty sponge. That way, you’re not working the product into the skin as much. Finally, even though I have oily skin, I try to steer clear of anything too mattifying, as that tends to settle into (hence enhance) my fine lines. Aahh, the joys of 30-something skin.
So, without further ado, here are my picks, in order of lowest to highest SPF.
First up, my Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation with a reported SPF of 15. I ordered this online (I think from Haute Look) a while back and really had to take a flier on guessing my color. But, I ended up with what I think was the right one for my skin tone, OC-1. This has the most liquidy consistency of the the group, so I used 2 pumps of product for my whole face.
Next up, a throwback to one you’ve seen before, in my custom cover post. The Yes to Grapefruit CC Cream with SPF 18. As I’ve mentioned, I really like the glow this one gives me on its own, but I have to be having a really good skin day to wear it on it’s own. So, for days when I want a touch more coverage, I like to add some of my Ardency Inn drops. Keep in mind that adding anything into a product with SPF may dilute the amount of sun protection of the product.
Next, one that I’ve had in my collection for while now, the ELF Studio BB Cream (in Fair) with a reported SPF of 20. I used one full pump for my whole face.
Last, but definitely not least, my Pur Minerals CC Cream (in Light), which has a reported SPF of 40. I’m on my 2nd tube of this, and I swear my last tube had a pump, rather than just being a squirt bottle. I had to guesstimate ~ 1 pump’s worth for my whole face… Pur Minerals, if you’re reading, PLEASE bring back the pump!
A tip and a point…
- With all of these products, I also like to use 1/2 a pump or so on the back of my hands as extra sun protection. A few years back, I actually started noticing sun spots on the back of my hands. Not cute.
- All of these “after” shots are immediately after application. If anyone is interested in a follow-up post showing wear-time photos, just let me know!
Stay tuned for Part 2, featuring medium coverages, coming this Friday!
*These are only my opinions, formed through my personal experience as a consumer. I am not a medical doctor, an aesthetician, or a health/beauty professional. There is no guarantee what effect, positive or negative, these products may have on anyone else.
**All products were purchased by me from brands that, to the best of my knowledge, are cruelty-free.
Beauty, for good. 
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