Sunscreen Pilling: Why It Happens and 4 Tips to Avoid It

You’re moving through your morning routine, feeling good about prioritizing SPF. But as you start blending it in, little flakes appear, almost like your sunscreen is rolling up into tiny pieces. Instead of the smooth, protected finish you were expecting, you’re left wondering why your skincare suddenly doesn’t want to cooperate. Sound familiar?

If you’ve ever experienced sunscreen pilling, you know how annoying it can be. But don’t worry — it’s not your skin’s fault, and it’s definitely not a reason to skip SPF. With a few simple tweaks, you can get all the benefits of sun protection without the dreaded product buildup. Let’s break down what sunscreen pilling is, why it happens and how to prevent it.

The Science of Sunscreen Pilling

So, what exactly is sunscreen pilling? Think of it like this: When a product doesn’t fully absorb into your skin, it can start to clump together, forming those little flakes or balls that roll off your face. It can be caused by the products you use and how you apply them. Here are a few common culprits:

Too many layers of product. If your skincare routine is packed with serums, moisturizers and primers, your sunscreen might not have enough room to settle in.
Ingredient incompatibility. Using a face sunscreen that doesn’t blend well with your moisturizer or makeup can lead to product buildup and pilling.
Applying products too quickly. If you rush through your routine without giving each product time to settle, your sunscreen may not have a chance to absorb or sit properly.
Using too much product. Yes, you should be generous with your SPF, but overloading your skin can cause excess product to roll off instead of absorbing or sitting properly.

4 Tips to Prevent Sunscreen Pilling

Luckily, sunscreen pilling isn’t inevitable. A few simple adjustments can help your SPF blend seamlessly so you can stay protected without the flakes.

1. Select a Face Sunscreen that Complements Your Skincare Routine

Not all sunscreens are created equal. Choosing a facial SPF that works well with your other skincare products can make all the difference. Luckily, Supergoop! has your back... or, make that face.

For a weightless, invisible finish, Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 is a dream. It’s completely scentless and weightless, and even doubles as a makeup primer², so you’re getting more than just SPF protection.

Prefer a mineral option? Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 has the same lightweight feel and primer benefits, but with mineral SPF protection. Its cloud-like formula glides onto your skin effortlessly, blending in for a natural, non-greasy finish.

Both options layer beautifully, helping you avoid pilling from the start.

2. Apply Sunscreen on Clean Skin

One of the easiest ways to prevent pilling? Make sure your body sunscreen isn't competing with leftover residue or dirt by applying on clean, dry skin.

If you’re using multiple skincare products on your face, avoid layering too many thick or heavy formulas underneath your SPF. The lighter and more breathable your base, the better your sunscreen will blend in.

3. Apply Your Skincare Products in the Correct Order

How you layer your skincare products can make a difference in how well your sunscreen applies.

Mineral face sunscreens (like Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40) should be applied last in your routine — after moisturizer. Since mineral SPF sits on top of the skin to physically block UV rays, applying it as the final step ensures the protective barrier stays intact. Chemical sunscreens (like Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50) are typically applied after moisturizer as well. While chemical filters absorb into the skin to work, they can still be effective when layered over a lightweight, water-based moisturizer. Following this order helps your SPF sit smoothly on the skin, reducing the chances of pilling.

4. Leave Enough Time Between Applying Sunscreen and Other Products

Patience is key! If you apply sunscreen immediately after your moisturizer (or any other skincare product), you may experience pilling. Giving your skincare routine at least 30 seconds to a minute between steps allows each layer to absorb fully settle before adding the next.

Think of it like letting your nail polish dry between coats: It helps prevent smudging, streaking and, in this case, pilling.

Put an End to Pilling with Supergoop!

Sunscreen pilling might be frustrating, but it can be avoided. By choosing the right SPF, applying it on clean skin, layering your skincare correctly and giving each product time to settle, you can keep your skin protected and pill-free.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you wear sunscreen every day, whether the sun is shining bright in the summer or hiding behind clouds during the winter. With these tips, you can enjoy all the benefits of SPF — without the flakes.

²Based on an independent clinical study with 33 women 8 hours after one application as compared to foundation alone