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GLP-1 Side Effects Management | London Drugs

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Tips to reduce side effects and stay healthy while on GLP-1 Medication

GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1) medications are increasingly being used to help manage type 2 diabetes and support medically supervised weight loss.  Often known by their brand names, such as Ozempic®/Wegovy®/Rybelsus® (semaglutide), Victoza®/Saxenda® (liraglutide) and Mounjaro®/Zepbound® (tirzepatide), these prescription medications improve blood sugar control, as well as heart, kidney, and liver health. GLP-1 medications work by mimicking a natural gut hormone that slows how quickly food leaves your stomach. This signals your brain to feel full, reducing appetite and overall food intake.  However, many patients experience side effects from these medications. While each person’s experience is different, most side effects are mild and can often be managed with lifestyle measures.

Stomach-related issues, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, and indigestion, are the most commonly reported side effects of GLP-1 medications.  These side effects usually occur when starting treatment or when the dose is increased.  They happen because the medication changes how the body processes food, and, for most people, they improve or resolve over time. Other possible side effects can include hair loss, fatigue, and weakness.  These side effects are often related to nutrient deficiencies associated with food choices and with eating less food overall. See below for tips to manage each type of side effect.

MANAGING GLP-1 SIDE EFFECTS – PHARMACIST GUIDE FOR PATIENTS
Side effect What you can do?
Nausea
  • Avoid strong smells for at least 30 minutes after taking your medication.
  • Consider eating foods or crackers that contain mint or ginger until nausea subsides.
  • Try going outside for fresh air to ease nausea.
Vomiting
  • Eat smaller sized meals, but eat more frequently.
  • Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Diarrhea
  • Stay hydrated by drinking water.
  • Until diarrhea resolves:
    – Eat easily digestible foods such as broths, carrots, plain crackers, and plain rice.
    – Avoid high fibre foods, as well as dairy, coffee, alcohol, high- sugar or high-fat foods and foods that are very hot or cold.
Constipation
  • Ensure you are staying well hydrated.
  • Consider increasing dietary fibre from food sources (e.g., legumes, whole grains, dark leafy greens) or from supplements (e.g., psyllium husk supplements).
  • Stay physically active (recommend 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity).
Heartburn, acid reflux, bloating and/or indigestion
  • Eat smaller but more frequent meals.
  • Avoid triggers, such as spicy, high-fat, or fried foods.
  • Consider reducing acidic foods, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits.
Hair loss, fatigue
  • Try eating more nutrient-dense foods (e.g., fruits/vegetables, whole grains, beans/legumes, unsalted nuts).
  • Ask your pharmacist for recommendations for multivitamins or supplements.
Muscle weakness
  • Ensure you are consuming enough healthy proteins (e.g., lean meat, beans, legumes, fish, eggs).
  • Consider strength training twice weekly.

While lifestyle measures are helpful for many patients, diet and activity changes may not provide enough relief for patients dealing with more severe side effects. In these cases, you may need to adjust the dose or stop your prescribed medication, but consult your healthcare team before adjusting your medications yourself. Your London Drugs pharmacist can help you communicate with your physician to develop a personalized plan to address your concerns.

Injections

For many people, starting a GLP-1 medication is their first experience with using a self-injected medication. Your pharmacist can help teach you how to properly inject your medication and provide tips to improve comfort and reduce complications. Some of our top suggestions are listed below.

Injection Tips:

  • Ask your pharmacist if your medication can be injected at room temperature. Cold injections tend to sting more.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before you start preparing your dose.
  • Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab.
  • Use a new needle for each injection. Confirm with your pharmacist that the needle is the correct size.
  • Before you inject, take a slow, deep breath in and out to relax your muscles.
  • If injecting to the abdomen, make sure you are injecting at least two inches away from the belly button.
  • Rotate injection sites to prevent scar tissue build-up from injections. (This will help reduce pain and improve efficacy.)
  • Dispose the used needle immediately in a proper sharps disposal container. Each needle is to be used once only. Return full containers to the pharmacy for safe disposal.

Speak to a Pharmacist

If injections are too difficult or intolerable for you, your pharmacist can talk with your healthcare team about whether an oral tablet GLP-1 medication might be right for you.

Whether you are new to GLP-1 medications or have been taking them for a while, speak to your London Drugs pharmacist for personalized advice on managing any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing. Our pharmacists have the expertise and products to help you use your medications safely and effectively. Together, we can create a plan to support your health goals.

For more information on GLP-1 management, please visit your local London Drugs pharmacist for a consultation.

2026 Vanity Fair Red Carpet Looks: Black Excellence on the After-Party Runway

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Photo Credit: Getty Images

If you thought the main event was the peak of fashion, the arrival of our favorite stars at the after-party officially raised the bar. The 2026 Vanity Fair red carpet looks were a masterclass in Black excellence, with icons trading in their ceremony formality for bold, experimental, and high-fashion vibes. Teyana Taylor was a total standout, shutting down the carpet in a sleek, curve-hugging white Chanel satin gown that featured an open back adorned with delicate draped chains. She swapped her feathered Oscars look for this minimalist masterpiece, proving once again that she is one of the most versatile fashion forces in the industry.

The men also showed out in a major way, bringing sophisticated energy to the 2026 Vanity Fair red carpet looks. Colman Domingo continued his reign as a style king, arriving in a meticulous Jacquemus pinstripe suit that shimmered under the lights, complete with his signature brooch detail. Michael B. Jordan also turned heads, looking dapper as ever as he celebrated the night’s wins with a beaming smile that complemented his sharp tailoring. We also couldn’t take our eyes off Rege-Jean Page and the coordinated excellence of Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union-Wadewho proved that couple style is truly an art form.

As we look back at the 2026 Vanity Fair red carpet looksthe ladies truly dominated the trend cycle with vibrant colors and daring silhouettes. Keke Palmer served edgy glam with a moussed pixie cut that perfectly offset her architectural gown, while Tracee Ellis Ross opted for a voluminous skirt paired with a skin-tight bodice for maximum drama. Zendaya made a late but legendary appearance in a chocolate brown custom Louis Vuitton gown, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph embraced the “naked dress” trend in a stunning lace and pleated custom look by Karla Gil. From Ciara‘s sultry plunging neckline to Quinta Brunson‘s sheer black Tom Ford moment, these stars ensured that the night ended on a high note of pure glamour.

6 Best Derma Rollers for Hair Growth 2026, Tested and Reviewed

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  • Pros: Affordable, we love UKLash as a brand already; it works well with the UKLash hair growth serum.
  • Cons: We’re still testing this, so we’ll report back on the downsides.
  • Needle Size: 540 0.25mm mini needles.

UKLash has been a brand that my fellow Glamour editors and I have loved for a really long time. Cast your mind back to 2024; I wrote about the launch of the UKLash LED face mask – which has since held its place as one of my forever-favourites in our guide to the best LED face masks on the market. As such, when we started to sort samples for the testing of derma rollers for hair growth, I was keen to get in on the UKLash action.

I’ve been regularly “slicking” my hair back for the past few years, and I’ve definitely noticed that my hairline has begun to thin – so it felt like perfect timing to really put the brand’s launch to the test. And, hopefully, notice the difference. The UKLash hair tool has been “expertly designed” with 540 0.25mm needles – I outlined in the introduction that needles should be 0.5-mm or shorter, so that’s great – which will penetrate the scalp to boost collagen production, stimulate the hair follicles, revitalise the environment at the root and boost the effectiveness of any topical hair serum.

While I need to report back on my findings, and add before and after photographs to this guide, I so far love that the tool is designed with a premium soft-touch finish, which makes using the tool easy and comfortable, and I love that it fits neatly into a carry case. I can take it away on holiday, and it’ll stay clean in my suitcase. The brand specifies that studies have shown that, when paired with topical solutions such as Hair Serum, microneedling can improve hair growth by up to 50%. So, I am excited to see my results.


Your dermaroller for hair growth questions, answered:


Which derma roller size is best for hair growth?

“Over-the-counter derma rollers are made with tiny needles that are no longer than 0.5 mm,” says Dr Zeichner. “Anything longer can increase the likelihood of scarring if not properly performed, so deeper needling procedures should be performed only by your doctor.”

Can derma rolling regrow hair?

Yes, dermarolling helps support hair growth by creating tiny micro-injuries in the scalp that boost collagen production, encourage blood flow, and enhance the absorption of hair-growth products. This can help reactivate dormant hair follicles and support healthier, thicker hair over time, according to Dr Zeichner.

How often should I use a derma roller for hair growth?

Most experts recommend dermarolling twice per week at first, then increasing to three times per week over the next few weeks if your scalp can tolerate it.

What products should you use after derma rolling?

After using the derma roller at home, you can apply your hair growth serum or minoxidil. “The derma roller can help enhance penetration of the growth serum through the outer skin layer for optimal benefits,” says Dr Zeichner.

Meet the experts:

  • Dr Zeichner – a NYC-based dermatologist specialising in both hair loss and unwanted hair removal.

L Catterton Targets ¥50 Billion in Japanese Consumer Investments

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THE WHAT? LVMH-backed private equity firm L Catterton plans to invest around ¥50 billion (US$313 million) in Japanese consumer businesses over the next three years.

THE DETAILS The firm aims to complete around five investments across sectors including cosmetics, food, pet care and restaurants, according to Japan head Toshitaka Shimizu. L Catterton has approximately ¥50 billion in deal capacity through a mix of equity and debt financing.

The firm focuses primarily on family-owned businesses facing succession challenges as well as emerging companies seeking support for expansion. Since opening its Japan office in 2017, L Catterton has invested in nine companies, with its portfolio including brands such as denim label Kapital and restaurant operator HUGE, known for its premium wine bars and Kobe beef restaurants.

Japan’s private equity market has been particularly active, with deal value rising 81% to US$33.4 billion last year, despite a broader slowdown in dealmaking across Asia.

THE WHY? L Catterton is targeting Japan because of strong private equity activity and opportunities to scale consumer brands using its sector expertise and global network.

Source: Bloomberg

Demi Lovato’s Black-Tip French Manicure Is Just the Right Amount of Rebellious — See Photos

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Nothing says easy elegance quite like a French manicure. It goes with absolutely everything, from casual looks to formalwear. After a little early-2000s time on a downswing, the combo of a pink, translucent base and white tips has become a beautiful no-brainer for so many of us. But when you want the concept of a French manicure but with a little more edge, nothing balances sophistication and subversion quite like swapping in black tips—just like Demi Lovato did.

Lovato made an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallonpromoting her new book, One Plate at a Time: Recipes for Finding Freedom with Foodand her tour, It’s Not That Deep. Yeah, she’s definitely been keeping busy. But she always makes time to sit down with nail artist Natalie Minerva, most recently to get a black-tipped French manicure.

Photo: Getty Images

“For Demi’s black French, we did a base color combination, or what I call ‘nail foundation,’” Minerva tells Allure, explaining that she can customize the hue with two shades of polish for a more seamless look. “I used one coat of OPI Bare My Soul, which is a lighter-toned milky nude, and one coat of Put It in Airplane Mode to give it a warmer hue. This made the base feel more accurately matched to her skin tone.”

From there, Minerva switched to one of the most iconic black polishes on the market. “I used OPI Black Onyx to create a medium-thickness French that matched the free edge of her round-shaped natural nails.”

Image may contain Body Part Finger Hand Person Accessories Diamond Gemstone Jewelry Skin Tattoo and Nail

Sweetpea season 2, starring Ella Purnell, has just dropped a suitably bloody first-look pic

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The show’s executive producer and star and has been really vocal about what Sweetpea means to her. Ella added in a statement: “Being part of Rhiannon’s coming-of-rage journey has been a career highlight for me, and to see fans engage with and relate to our oddball Rhiannon, in all her complexity, feels truly special.  I cannot wait for audiences to see what she does next. Stay tuned.”

Here’s everything else we know so far about Sweetpea season 2.

Sweetpea season 2 plot

A synopsis for the new season reads: “Killer wallflower Rhiannon Lewis is back in season 2 of the iconically brazen and darkly comic thriller. Navigating a new promotion, an irresistible rebound, Marina still hot on her trail, her sister selling her family home and a copycat killer threatening to expose her, the kill list is mounting. But now that she’s harnessed her rage and found her power, Rhiannon is forced to question whether her perfect ex AJ, was right: is she a monster?”

We’ve recently got an updated teaser for what to expect for season 2, which reads: “Navigating a new promotion, an irresistible rebound, and a copycat killer threatening to expose her, the kill list is mounting. And Rhiannon is forced to question whether her perfect ex AJ, was right: is she a monster?”

Samuel Dore/SKY

Sweetpea season 2 cast

Of course, we know that Ella Purnell is returning, but it has now been confirmed that we can expect many others to join for season 2, including season 1 stars Jon Pointing, Jeremy Swift (Ted Lasso, Downton Abbey), Leah Harvey, Ingrid Oliver (Thursday Murder Club), Nitin Ganatra and Alexandra Dowling (Emily, Game of Thrones).

Joining the cast will be Overcompensating star Rish Shah and Riot Women‘s Tamsin Greig. Rish will play Rhiannon’s romantic interest Gabriel, while Tamsin plays AJ’s mother, Liv. Taj Atwal will play Freya, Rhiannon’s formidable new boss at the Carnsham Gazette, and Heartstopper star Jenny Walser will portray an adoring new friend Daisy.

18 Best Night Creams for Mature Skin in 2026

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If you’ve started to see changes in your complexion with each passing birthday, you might also have noticed that the skin care products you relied on in your 20s have lost their magic touch. As you get older, the texture of your skin changes, and the products you use often need to evolve along with it. A great place to start? Adding a night cream formulated for mature skin to your arsenal.

But first, let’s talk about what we mean by products that are suitable for “mature skin” or “aging skin.” These terms are often thrown around to position products as anti-aging cure-alls, but that’s not how we’re using them. Here, “mature skin” simply refers to skin that has started to age—something that happens to all of us. Beginning in your 30s, then onward into your 40s, the collagen in your skin decreases (which can make your skin look thinner or saggier), Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist at Premier Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, tells SELF. When that happens, you might notice more visible fine lines and dark spots or a loss of firmness, Brendan Camp, MD, a dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York, tells SELF.

The passage of time isn’t the only thing that contributes to signs of aging—genetics, the environment, and your lifestyle also factor in, Lauren Penzi, MD, a dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York, tells SELF. For example, someone who regularly spends long periods of time in the sun without adequate protection may show earlier signs of sun damage than someone who slathers on sunscreen every day.

Night creams can’t reverse years of tanning or turn back the clock, but they can be beneficial for people whose skin is starting to show the effects of such things. To help you reap all the benefits, we spoke with dermatologists about the top products for aging or mature skin and which ingredients you should look for while shopping.

Our top picks

  1. Best Overall: SkinCeuticals Renew Overnight Dry
  2. Runner-Up: Summer Fridays Rich Cushion Cream Ultra Plumping Moisturizer
  3. Best Budget Pick: Olay Regenerist Retinol 24
  4. Best for Uneven Texture: Paula’s Choice Intensive Repair Cream
  5. Best for Dry Skin: La Roche-Posay’s Double Repair Moisturizer
  6. Best for Sensitive Skin: Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream
  7. Best Balm: Naturium Intense Overnight Sleeping Cream
  8. Best for Oily Skin: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow AHA Night Treatment
  9. Best Brightening Formula: Caudalíe Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Night Cream
  10. Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Kiehl’s Expertly Clear Acne-Treating & Preventing Lotion

Waterless topical NAD+: inside Niagen’s NanoCloud launch

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Key takeaways

  • Niagen Bioscience has launched its Skincare Innovation Lab to translate supplement science into topical innovations.
  • Its first product, NanoCloud, is a waterless, precision‑dose NAD+ treatment designed for maximum stability.
  • The formula contains patented Niagen (NR), hyaluronic acid, pullulan, squalane and vitamin E.
  • The powder activates when mixed with a water-based serum or moisturiser to form a fresh, potent treatment.
  • The brand says benefits include improved texture, hydration, radiance and barrier strength.
  • The launch supports a combined “inside-out” skin health approach alongside Tru Niagen supplements.

As the global NAD+ skincare market continues to grow, biotech firm Niagen Bioscience has launched its Skincare Innovation Lab, a new programme designed to translate the science from its supplement line into new innovations for skin.

Each product launch will be released in small batches. Once these are gone, the team will use feedback from these to refine future formulations.

The first skin care product it plans to release is NanoCloud, in a waterless, precision‑dose sachet. According to Niagen, this ensures the formula is delivered at peak potency, avoiding degradation challenges often associated with traditional serums.

The powder formula contains Niagen – a patented nicotinamide riboside (NR), a high‑quality NAD+ precursor – as well as squalane, sodium hyaluronate and vitamin E. The precision‑dosed, water‑activated treatment can be mixed with a water‑based serum or moisturiser to create a potent serum.

The topical product is designed to work alongside the brand’s supplements Tru Niagen and Tru Niagen Beauty for an inside‑out approach. According to the brand, benefits include smoother texture, deep hydration, improved radiance and a stronger skin barrier.

We spoke to Dr Andrew Shao, PhD, who is SVP of Regulatory & Scientific Affairs at Niagen Bioscience, to find out more about the innovation.

Cosmetics Design-Europe: Hi Dr Shao, why did you choose to work with these specific ingredients?

Dr Andrew Shao (AS): At the heart of Niagen NanoCloud is Niagen (patented nicotinamide riboside, NR), the most scientifically validated NAD+ precursor available. Niagen is the same ingredient in Tru Niagen supplements and is backed by 40+ human clinical trials, 500+ peer-reviewed publications, and 300+ academic research partnerships. It was chosen for topical formulation because it supports cellular processes critical to skin health, such as energy production, repair, and resilience, helping the skin look smoother, more radiant, and healthier over time.

Complementing Niagen, each ingredient was carefully selected to enhance the overall efficacy of the treatment:

Hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate) – deep hydration that helps skin look plumper, smoother, and more refreshed

Pullulan – instantly smooths and refines the look of skin for a soft, lifted appearance

Squalane – a form of vitamin E known for its antioxidant properties. Lightweight nourishment that leaves skin soft, hydrated, and never greasy

Vitamin E – antioxidant protection that helps support healthy, radiant-looking skin.

CDE: We hear a lot about ingestible NAD+ supplements, but can you tell us more about the science of how NAD+ works topically?

AS: NAD+ is a critical molecule for cellular energy and repair, processes that are essential for healthy-looking skin. Niagen NanoCloud brings Niagen (nicotinamide riboside, a NAD+ precursor) into a topical, waterless format, preserving its potency until use and introducing emerging NAD+ science into a skincare routine designed to support healthy-looking skin at the cellular level.

CDE: Can you explain more about the format of the product? Why does it need to be mixed with water?

AS: Niagen NanoCloud was designed to address one of the biggest challenges in NAD+ skincare: ingredient stability. NAD+ precursors like Niagen can degrade in traditional water-based formulas, reducing potency over time. NanoCloud sachets solve this with a waterless nanofibre delivery system made from pullulan and hyaluronic acid, keeping Niagen protected until the moment of use.

When a sachet is mixed with a small amount of a water-based serum or moisturiser, the system activates instantly, releasing a fresh, precision-dosed treatment. This approach preserves potency, allows users to customise the texture and concentration of their treatment, and supports a skincare routine designed to promote improved skin texture, hydration, and radiance while supporting healthy-looking skin over time.

SPF in Makeup vs Sunscreen: Key Differences Explained

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Makeup with SPF is a smart addition to your routine—but it isn’t a substitute for sunscreen. Here’s the short answer: sunscreen is designed to deliver reliable, broad-spectrum UV protection when applied generously and reapplied, while SPF makeup adds cosmetic benefits and a helpful UV boost. The best approach is both: start with a dedicated sunscreen, then layer bareMinerals mineral SPF makeup and use powder SPF for touch-ups. In this guide, we explain how SPF works, where makeup and sunscreen differ, and exactly how to layer bareMinerals mineral formulas for real-world protection and a beautiful finish.

Understanding SPF and How It Works

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) estimates how well a product filters UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn. SPF values are determined under strict lab conditions at a generous application dose of 2 mg per cm² of skin—much more than most people apply with everyday makeup. Broad-spectrum protection refers to defense against both UVB (burning) and UVA (aging) rays, which is critical for long-term skin health. SPF ratings aren’t linear: higher numbers block slightly more UVB, but not double.

Explore our Mineral SPF dictionary

Key Differences Between SPF in Makeup and Sunscreen

Makeup with SPF is a valuable supplement—but on its own, it rarely delivers full, consistent protection. Why? Real-world application amounts are lighter than lab-tested doses; makeup formulas prioritize coverage and finish over high concentrations of UV filters; and people don’t usually reapply makeup as often as sunscreen. In contrast, sunscreen is engineered first and foremost for protection.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature

Makeup with SPF

Dedicated Sunscreen

Primary purpose

Coverage, tone, finish—with added UV protection

Reliable, broad-spectrum UV protection

Typical labeled SPF

Commonly SPF 15–30

SPF 30+ for daily wear

Real-world effective SPF

Often lower than the label due to lighter application

Closer to labeled SPF when applied at 2 mg/cm²

UVA coverage

Varies by formula; may be incomplete

Typically broad-spectrum and clearly labeled

Reapplication

Impractical to reapply like-for-like

Designed to reapply every 2 hours

Cosmetic effect

Skin-evening, luminous or matte finish

Minimal cosmetic tint/finish (unless tinted)

Application Amount and Its Impact on Protection

Labeled SPF assumes a full 2 mg per cm² application—roughly 1/4–1/2 teaspoon for face and neck. Most people apply foundation at a fraction of that amount. In practice, makeup with SPF is often applied at around 25–50% of the required dose, which can reduce effective SPF dramatically. Thin, selective application can also leave “gaps” along the hairline, jawline, and around the eyes. To close those gaps, start with sunscreen, then layer SPF makeup for added coverage and a protection boost.

For practical dosing visuals, techniques, and reapplication tips, see our SPF makeup & sun protection guide.

Read our SPF makeup & sun protection guide

Types of UV Filters in Makeup and Sunscreen

  • Mineral (physical) filters: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sit on skin’s surface to reflect and scatter UV. They’re a go-to for sensitive skin and clean formulas, and they work immediately upon application.
  • Chemical filters: absorb UV energy and are often recommended to be applied 15–30 minutes before sun exposure. They can enable very thin textures.

BareMinerals exclusively uses mineral SPF filters (zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide) across our SPF makeup, supporting non-comedogenic, gentle wear in talc-free, vegan formulas. Mineral filters are also ideal for layering—first with sunscreen, then with mineral foundations, tints, and powders—without added irritation.

Learn more mineral vs. chemical differences in our Mineral SPF dictionary.

Formulation Goals and Concentration of Actives

Makeup is crafted for coverage, blendability, and a seamless shade match. SPF is integrated where possible, but often at lower active levels than a dedicated sunscreen. Sunscreens, by contrast, prioritize high, even UV coverage and may include features like water/sweat resistance.

  • Makeup priorities: shade range, finish (luminous/matte), buildability, skin-evening benefits.
  • Sunscreen priorities: consistent UV coverage at the intended dose, ease of reapplication, and long-wear defense in varied conditions.

Performance Comparison: Makeup with SPF vs. Dedicated Sunscreen

Both have a place—just not the same job. Dedicated sunscreen is the most consistent, clinically supported way to meet daily protection goals. SPF makeup adds meaningful, real-world coverage and cosmetic benefits on top. The winning strategy: use both.

Consideration

Makeup with SPF

Dedicated Sunscreen

Protection consistency

Supplemental; depends on application thickness and coverage

Primary; designed to meet labeled SPF at proper dose

Broad-spectrum coverage

Varies

Common and clearly stated

Ease of reapplication

Hard to reapply in full amounts

Intended for frequent, liberal reapplication

Finish/cosmetic effect

Skin-evening, glow or soft-matte

Minimal; some tinted options exist

Protection Consistency and Broad-Spectrum Coverage

Broad-spectrum means protection against both UVB (burning) and UVA (aging and deeper damage).

Find daily SPF best practices in our SPF makeup & sun protection guide.

Reapplication Needs and Practicality

To maintain protection, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours (and after swimming/sweating). Because most people won’t redo a full face midday, a powder or brush-on mineral SPF—like bareMinerals Mineral Veil SPF—is a practical way to top up over makeup. Use soft, circular motions and apply liberally to cover the forehead, nose, cheeks, chin, jawline, hairline, and ears.

A practical routine:

  • Apply sunscreen as your base.
  • Layer SPF makeup for coverage and an added UV boost.
  • Reapply with a mineral powder SPF midday and before extended outdoor time.

Cosmetic Benefits and Limitations

SPF makeup pulls double duty: it evens tone and adds sun protection—ideal for simplified routines and on-the-go touch-ups. Limitations remain: it shouldn’t be your only protection for prolonged exposure, and full reapplication is impractical with most liquid or cream complexion products.

bareMinerals mineral SPF options for different needs:

How to Use SPF Makeup and Sunscreen Together

For reliable protection and a polished finish, pair a dedicated sunscreen with mineral SPF makeup—and make powder SPF your reapplication MVP. Our mineral formulas are designed to layer comfortably without pilling or clogging pores.

@bareminerals Did you know? NEW ORIGINAL MINERAL VEIL® Set + Protect Brush features a retractable vegan brush making on-the-go application as easy as pop, twist, buff. ✨ Get yours today at our TikTok Shop. 🤍 #SetToPureProtection #TravelMakeup #SettingPowder #SPFMakeup ♬ Chill Vibes – Febri Handika

Applying Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen as a Base

  • Apply about 1/4–1/2 teaspoon to face and neck (don’t forget hairline, ears, jaw, and under the chin).
  • Allow sunscreen to absorb and set before makeup.
  • This base step consistently outperforms relying on makeup SPF alone in real-world wear.

For application amounts, missed-spot reminders, and timing tips, see our SPF makeup & sun protection guide (linked above).

Using SPF Makeup for Midday Touch-Ups

  • When reapplying creams isn’t practical, lightly brush a mineral powder SPF over makeup.
  • Don’t just dust the T-zone—use liberal, even coverage with circular motions across all exposed areas.
  • Reapply every two hours during daylight if you’re outdoors or near windows.

Layering Tips for Optimal Protection

  • 3-step routine: (1) Sunscreen base, (2) Mineral SPF makeup (tints, foundations), (3) Powder SPF reapplication.
  • Do: Let layers set, cover frequently missed zones, and choose mineral filters for immediate protection and sensitive-skin comfort.
  • Don’t: Rely on a thin veil of foundation as your only sun defense or skip midday top-ups.

Shop mineral options to build your routine in our mineral SPF makeup collection.

Shop our mineral SPF makeup collection

Mineral Makeup Sun Protection and Benefits

Mineral SPF uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect and scatter UVA/UVB at the skin’s surface rather than being absorbed. Key benefits with bareMinerals:

  • Talc-free, vegan, non-comedogenic; gentle for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin.
  • Immediate protection upon application—no wait time.
  • Clean, minimalist formulas designed to play well with skincare and reapply seamlessly.

Mineral vs. chemical at a glance:

  • How they work: Mineral reflects/scatters; chemical absorbs UV energy.
  • Onset: Mineral protects immediately; chemical is often recommended 15–30 minutes before exposure.
  • Sensitivity: Mineral filters are commonly better tolerated by sensitive skin.
  • Layering: Mineral powders are ideal for on-top reapplication without disturbing makeup.

The Importance of Daily Sunscreen for Skin Health

Daily UV exposure drives the majority of visible skin aging—often cited at 80–90%—and contributes to sunburn and skin cancer risk. Dermatology guidance recommends wearing broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, year-round, on all skin tones. Pairing sunscreen with mineral SPF makeup empowers you to protect skin health and maintain your preferred finish. bareMinerals mineral formulas make layering comfortable, inclusive, and easy to maintain throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does makeup with SPF replace the need for sunscreen?

No. SPF makeup adds supplemental protection but rarely reaches labeled SPF in real-world use, so it should not replace a dedicated sunscreen.

Why is the SPF number on makeup often misleading?

SPF is tested at a thicker dose than most people apply with foundation or tint, so the actual protection you get is usually much lower.

How much sunscreen should I apply for effective protection?

Use about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon for face and neck to approach the labeled SPF and cover commonly missed spots.

Can I reapply powder SPF over makeup during the day?

Yes—brush on a liberal, even layer of mineral powder SPF over makeup, and reapply about every two hours when exposed.

What does broad-spectrum sunscreen mean and why is it important?

It defends against both UVB (burning) and UVA (aging) rays, helping prevent sunburn, premature aging, and long-term skin damage.

Half of Women Will Develop Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Here Are the Signs

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Your pelvic floor muscles undergo many changes throughout life, such as after childbirth and during menopause. In some cases, these muscles and surrounding connective tissues can weaken so much that the organs in your pelvis—including the uterus or bladder—start to sag. This is known as pelvic organ prolapse, or POP.

About 50% of women will develop POP at some point in their lives, and it’s more likely as you get older.

“It’s super, super common, but in a lot of the cases, it doesn’t actually affect the patient at all,” Whitney Horner, MD, a urogynecologist at the University of Washington Medicine in Seattle, tells SELF.

Even though POP can cause symptoms, like feeling a fullness in the vagina, pelvic pain or pressure, or bowel or urinary changes, POP isn’t always bothersome, Dr. Horner says. Just 3% to 6% of women say they have vaginal bulge symptoms, survey data shows. Many live with the condition, with mild or no symptoms.

Still, doctors say you should be aware of the possibility of POP, understand its risk factors and symptoms, and know what to do when it starts affecting your life.

What is pelvic organ prolapse?

The pelvic floor is made up of muscles, ligaments, connective tissues, and nerves that support your pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, vagina, small intestine, and rectum. This system keeps the organs in their proper places, according to Yale Medicine.

When the pelvic floor is weakened or damaged, pelvic organs can drop from their normal positions, causing POP, Shaun Adair, MD, a urogynecologist at Atlantic Health in Morristown, New Jersey, tells SELF.

“The vaginal tissues collapse downward, almost like the roof of a house caving in, and it can pull on the front wall, the back wall, or the top wall of the vagina,” Julia Geynisman-Tan, MD, a urogynecologist and reconstructive pelvic surgeon at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, tells SELF.

Sometimes, the organs descend into the vagina, and, in advanced cases, protrude out of the vaginal opening, Dr. Horner says. This process typically happens gradually, Dr. Geynisman-Tan adds.

Who’s most at risk?

Age is the most common risk factor. As you get older, estrogen levels decline, which weakens tissues in the pelvis, Dr. Horner says. So POP can be common during perimenopause and menopause.

Another risk factor is pregnancy and vaginal delivery (comprising about 65% of childbirths), which can damage the pelvic floor, Dr. Adair says. “Multiple studies demonstrate that vaginal delivery, high number of pregnancies, and larger birthweight babies significantly increase the risk of prolapse.”