We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. What to Buy Skincare Products The 15 Best SPF Moisturizers for Lightweight Sun Protection, Tested by Our Editors Streamline your morning routine with these double-duty products. By Daley Quinn Daley Quinn Daley Quinn is a freelance beauty and health journalist who has covered the lifestyle space for over ten years. health's editorial guidelines Updated on October 15, 2024 Medically reviewed by Leah Ansell, MD Medically reviewed by Leah Ansell, MD Leah Ansell, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Columbia University. learn more Fact checked by Richard Scherr Fact checked by Richard Scherr Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Dotdash Meredith brands, including Health and Verywell. He is a seasoned financial and technology journalist who served as editor-in-chief of the Potomac Tech Wire for nearly two decades, and is a regular contributor to the sports pages of The Baltimore Sun. He has also been a news editor for America Online and has contributed to the Associated Press and The Washington Post. health's fact checking process In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Our Testing Process Our Experts What to Know About Moisturizers with SPF Who We Are Health / Jhett Thompson Ask any dermatologist, and they'll tell you that the best way to fight aging skin is to apply SPF daily. Unfortunately, sometimes that’s easier said than done. That’s where moisturizers with SPF come in. Rather than using a moisturizer and sunscreen, many products on the market are two-in-one to make life (and your morning skincare routine) easier. If you're using a moisturizer with sunscreen, make sure the SPF is 30 or higher with Broad Spectrum Protection to block both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays, explains Claire Wolinsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan. Also, look for ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which deflect the sun's harmful rays, as well as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide, for hydrating properties. To find the best moisturizers with SPF, we tested over 20 moisturizers with a range of SPF levels, textures, consistencies, and prices. We evaluated each product based on consistency, feel, absorption, and hydration. We also had a dermatologist on our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical and scientific accuracy. Editor's Take As an Editor at Health, I know how important it is to apply SPF every day. So, to make sure I never miss it, I use Cetaphil’s Daily Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 35. This moisturizer has been a staple for me because it’s gentle and safe for my sensitive skin. I love that it doesn’t clog my pores and absorbs quickly, making it easy to wear under makeup or just on its own. It’s truly a go-to for anyone who wants reliable sun protection without irritation. -Lauren Paige Richeson, Commerce Editor Our Top Picks Best Overall: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum at Amazon $16 Jump to Review Best Drugstore: SALE Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer at Amazon $27 $17 Jump to Review Best for Winter: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream at Amazon $39 Jump to Review Best Anti-Aging: Oars + Alps Everyday Face Moisturizer at Amazon $22 Jump to Review Best for Oily Skin: Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Moisturizer at Sephora $36 Jump to Review Best for Combination Skin: Origins A Perfect World Age-Defense Moisturizer at Target $58 Jump to Review Best for Eczema: SALE CeraVe AM Facial Lotion SPF 30 at Amazon $20 $15 Jump to Review Best for Darker Skin Tones: Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer at Amazon $35 Jump to Review Best for Under Makeup: Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer at Amazon $48 Jump to Review Best for Acne- Prone Skin: Dermalogica Clearing Defense SPF30 at Amazon $30 Jump to Review Best Overall Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum PHOTO: Target $16 $14 at Amazon $17 at Target $15 at Walmart Why We Like It Cetaphil's Daily Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum is the ideal multitasker. It combines hydration with SPF 30 sun protection in a single, efficient step, making it our top pick overall. Unlike other SPF moisturizers that can feel greasy or leave a noticeable white cast, this one absorbs seamlessly, leaving our skin smooth and hydrated. The product is packed with beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ensuring long-lasting moisture without the heavy finish. It's easy to use, feels great on the skin, and provides reliable protection—making it a clear standout in our skincare lineup. It's Worth Noting You should reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re outdoors for extended periods. While this is standard for any SPF product, it can be inconvenient for those with busy schedules or who can't reapply as frequently as recommended. Product Details SPF: 50Active Ingredients: Octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone, titanium dioxideSize: 1.7 fluid ouncesSkin Type: Dry, normal, sensitive PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best Drugstore Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer PHOTO: Neutrogena $27 $17 at Amazon $17 at Target $28 at Ulta Why We Like It The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer with SPF is the best moisturizer with SPF for anyone on a budget. We loved how quickly and easily this moisturizer soaked and blended into the skin, making it feel luxurious without the high price tag. It feels lightweight—more like a moisturizer than a sunscreen. Because it blends into the skin so well, it doesn’t leave any pilling or blending issues when applying makeup on top. Another factor we loved about this pick was the sheen it leaves behind. Not greasy and not too shiny, this moisturizer leaves a luminous sheen on the skin throughout the day, offering a nice effect under your makeup. That being said, we probably wouldn’t recommend this to those with oily skin, as your face might look too shiny by the end of the day. It’s Worth Noting One negative aspect of this moisturizer is its scent. Although it’s marketed as fragrance-free, it still does have a sunscreen scent to it. If you have an aversion to the typical sunscreen smell, you might want to avoid this pick. Product Details SPF: 50Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocryleneSize: 1.7 ozSkin Type: Dry, normal PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Winter Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream PHOTO: Sephora $39 at Amazon $67 at Sephora $67 at Nordstrom Why We Like It Kiehl’s beloved Ultra Face Cream is now available with SPF 30. This formula has a lightweight texture and a pleasant scent that gives it a luxurious feel. We like this pick for winter because its ingredients help skin maintain its natural moisture reserves. It’s formulated with glycerin, squalane, and salicylic acid and provides a dewy finish. If you prefer a matte skin look, this moisturizer is definitely not for you. This pick from Kiehl’s leaves a shiny finish. While we don’t think this moisturizer is a great option for summer months, we believe it’s an ideal pick for colder, harsher winter months, when your skin needs more hydration and sun protection. It’s Worth Noting Applying too much of this product can leave you feeling a little greasy. Product Details SPF: 30Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene Size: 1.7 ozSkin Type: All skin types PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best Anti-Aging Oars + Alps Everyday Face Moisturizer PHOTO: Oars + Alps $22 at Amazon $22 at Target View on Oarsandalps.com Why We Like It The Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37 is loaded with hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, vitamin E, and antioxidants to help fight signs of aging. This formula is oil-free, feels lightweight on the skin, and absorbs super quickly. We love that this formula didn’t give a greasy feeling, and actually appeared more matte on the skin than other moisturizers with SPF that we tested. It doesn’t have a scent and is free of phthalates, sulfates, and parabens. It’s Worth Noting Because this pick leaves more of a matte look and feel, it might be better suited for those with oily or combination skin types—those with dry skin might not find this moisturizer hydrating enough. Product Details SPF: 37Active Ingredients: Octocrylene, zinc oxideSize: 2 ozSkin Type: Oily, combination PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Oily Skin Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Moisturizer PHOTO: Sephora $36 at Sephora View on Fentybeauty.com $34 at Kohls.com Why We Like It Unlike any other moisturizer with SPF on this list, the Fenty Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer doesn't feel like sunscreen. Its lightweight feel, smooth application and pleasant tropical scent set it apart from sunscreens that typically leave a white cast and unpleasant smell. It’s formulated with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and aloe to soothe and hydrate. We appreciated that it makes skin feel softer and adds a bit of dewiness. Some people might like having an added moisture layer sitting on top of their skin, while others might prefer a formula that blends well into the skin. It has a relatively strong scent, so this pick isn't your best option if you prefer your skincare to be fragrance-free. We should note, though, that this formula does come in a fragrance-free version. It’s Worth Noting The formula kind of sits on the skin and doesn’t fully absorb and we noticed it pilled underneath makeup. Product Details SPF: 30Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalateSize: 1.7 ozSkin Type: All skin types PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Combination Skin Origins A Perfect World Age-Defense Moisturizer PHOTO: Ulta $58 at Target $58 at Ulta $58 at Nordstrom Why We Like It The Origins A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer with White Tea is an ideal moisturizer for those who have oilier t-zones and dryer cheeks. We noted that this pick would be ideal for spring and fall months, when the weather isn’t too cold in the winter (and you need a heavier moisturizer), and isn’t too lightweight for summer (when you need something more breathable). We appreciate that this formula is infused with multiple anti-aging ingredients (other than the SPF). Both white tea and a cranberry blend offer strong antioxidant protection against pollution and other environmental factors. It’s Worth Noting This moisturizer does contain a light fragrance. If you are very sensitive to perfumes and scents, you might want to stay away from this pick. Product Details SPF: 40Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocryleneSize: 1.7 ozSkin Type: Normal, combination PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Eczema CeraVe AM Facial Lotion SPF 30 PHOTO: Amazon $20 $15 at Amazon $15 $14 at Target $15 at Ulta Why We Like It Many dermatologists recommend the CeraVe brand for those with eczema because it doesn’t further irritate skin and won’t exacerbate a rash. This pick contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to help calm inflammation and hydrate the skin, too. We loved how well this worked under makeup, and thought it held up pretty well throughout the day. And we didn’t notice any white cast after application, which is crucial for those with darker skin tones. It’s Worth Noting This formula does leave a greasy look on the skin, so if you’re prone to oiliness, you might want to stay away. Additionally, people with acne might find this pick too thick and potentially cloggy. Product Details SPF: 30Active Ingredients: Homosalate, menthyl anthranilate, octinoxate, octocrylene, zinc oxideSize: 3 ozSkin Type: Dry, combination PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Darker Skin Tones Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer PHOTO: Sephora $35 at Amazon $36 at Sephora View on Cayskin.com Why We Like It If you’re not a fan of thicker moisturizers with SPF, this pick from Cay Skin is your best bet. Formulated with niacinamide and hydrating nectar, this moisturizer with SPF is very lightweight and feels airy. This pick is great for all skin types, as it does a good job of hydrating dry skin while not leaving oily skin even greasier. The biggest wow-factor with the Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Lotion SPF 45 was the gorgeous sheen it leaves, especially if you have darker skin. Not greasy-looking, but also not matte either, this pick left a soft, beautiful glow like no other. It worked really well as a glowy primer underneath makeup, too. It’s Worth Noting The formula does have a slight tint to it, and we did notice that it does rub off on towels and linens if you’re not careful. Product Details SPF: 45Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocryleneSize: 1.5 ozSkin Type: All skin types PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Under Makeup Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer PHOTO: Ulta $48 at Amazon $60 $48 at Sephora $48 at Ulta Why We Like It The Lancome UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer is another pick we love for under makeup. This 3-in-1 sunscreen, primer, and moisturizer will add the most beautiful glow to your skin and provide a really nice base for liquid, cream, or powder foundations. We really loved how well the product blended into the skin and didn’t leave any sort of white cast. While the product description promises a “weightless texture,” we found that the formula felt a bit heavier than expected. It’s Worth Noting It does feel a bit greasier than some of the other products we’ve tested. Because of this, it might not work well for those with oily skin. Product Details SPF: 50+Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocryleneSize: 1 ozSkin Type: Combination, dry PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Acne- Prone Skin Dermalogica Clearing Defense SPF30 PHOTO: Dermalogica $30 at Amazon $30 at Ulta $30 at Dermstore Why We Like It Ideal for acne-prone skin, Dermalogica Clear Start Clearing Defense SPF30 offers non-comedogenic protection, hydration and contains acne-fighting ingredients to help manage breakouts. It had a lightweight, non-greasy texture, perfect for makeup layering, without causing itching or burning upon application. It leans more towards sunscreen, demanding extra rubbing to absorb.The scent-free formula dried down nicely, keeping our skin hydrated throughout the day. Though it didn't transform our skin, it maintained its moisture level. It's a good, lightweight option for daytime use for those sensitive acne-prone skin. It's Worth Noting It can cause a stinging sensation in the eyes if accidentally applied near them, particularly when putting on makeup. Product Details SPF: 30Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocryleneSize: 2 ozSkin Type: All skin types PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Eno PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Eno PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Eno Best for Dry Skin Clinique Moisture Surge Broad Spectrum Sheer Hydrator Face Moisturizer PHOTO: Amazon $31 at Amazon Why We Like It Clinique Moisture Surge Broad Spectrum Sheer Hydrator stood out for its ability to deliver intense hydration while providing reliable sun protection, making it the ideal choice for dry skin. The creamy, lightweight texture absorbs quickly, leaving our skin feeling refreshed and soft. We loved how it blends seamlessly into the skin and doesn't leave a white cast, a common issue with mineral sunscreens. It also doesn't interfere with makeup application, making it a versatile option for everyday use and special occasions. While it's on the pricier side, the quality of hydration and protection it offers makes it worth the investment. It's Worth Noting This product is pricer than others we tested. For those on a budget, it may be best to look for sales or use it with other sunscreens on days when higher SPF or longer sun exposure is planned. Product Details SPF: 28Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, avobenzone, octisalate, octocryleneSize: 1.6 fluid ouncesSkin Type: All skin types PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best Sun Protection Paula's Choice Skincare Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer PHOTO: Amazon $39 at Amazon $15 at Paulaschoice.com Why We Like It For those wanting a simple, unscented, and effective moisturizer with sun protection that won’t irritate your skin or eyes, Paula's Choice Skin Restoring Moisturizer is your best bet. This product contains avobenzone, an ingredient known for its ability to defend against sun exposure. Our skin felt fully protected even after spending time outdoors in direct sunlight, with no new tanning or freckles. The formula is lightweight and non-greasy, leaving a dewy finish without feeling heavy or sticky. It also doesn't leave a white cast—often found in other sunscreens—making it ideal for daily use. Plus, it absorbs quickly and layers well over makeup, a significant advantage for people on the go. It's Worth Noting While it performs well in terms of sun protection and hydration, the cost is pricier than other we tried with fewer frills. Product Details SPF: 50Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalateSkin Type: Dry, normal, combination PHOTO: Amazon PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson Best for Sensitive Skin RoC Barrier Renew AM Moisturizer SPF 30 PHOTO: Ulta $19 at Amazon $19 at Target $25 at Ulta Why We Like It Designed specifically for sensitive skin types, RoC Barrier Renew AM Moisturizer offers SPF 30, a key feature for protecting skin prone to irritation and conditions like rosacea. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly and doesn’t sit heavily on the skin, which can be a concern for those with reactive skin. The RoC moisturizer contains ingredients with barrier-renewal properties. Sensitive skin often needs more than just hydration—it needs protection and support to restore and strengthen its natural barrier. We also found it did a fantastic job of soothing our skin and keeping it hydrated throughout the day, even during dryness flare-ups. It's Worth Noting While the SPF 30 is adequate for daily use, we would have preferred a higher SPF, especially for sensitive skin that can be more vulnerable to sun damage. Product Details SPF: 30Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocryleneSize: 2.5 fluid ouncesSkin Type: All skin types PHOTO: Ulta PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best Everyday Supergoop! Triple Prep Weightless Multitasking Moisturizer SPF 40 PHOTO: Supergoop! $48 at Sephora $48 at Ulta View on Supergoop.com Why We Like It Designed for daily wear, Supergoop Superscreen Hydrating Daily Cream combines hydration and sun protection in a single step, perfect for streamlining your skincare routine. This cream also layers well with makeup, making it ideal for busy people who want their skin to stay protected without interfering with the rest of their skincare or beauty products. Though the formula is slightly on the heavier side, particularly for combination or oily skin types, it's hydrating enough for people with normal to dry skin, especially during colder months or in drier climates. It’s also easy to reapply throughout the day, which is a key factor when choosing a daily SPF. It's Worth Noting The heavy, slightly greasy formula may not be suitable for all skin types. Product Details SPF: 40Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene Size: 1.7 fluid ouncesSkin Type: Normal, combination, oily PHOTO: InStyle / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Health / Jhett Thompson Best with Zinc Oxide The Outset Hydrasheer 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 PHOTO: Outset View on Theoutset.com Why We Like It The Outset Hydrasheer™ 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 uses zinc oxide, a natural, mineral-based sunscreen ingredient known for providing reliable broad-spectrum protection. If you're prone to breakouts or reactions from skin care products, you'll love that this product is non-irritating. Though this mineral sunscreen appears thick and tacky when first applied, it absorbs quickly, leaving a subtle glow without any greasy or sticky residue. Importantly, it doesn't leave a white cast, even on darker skin tones. The formulation feels smooth, lightweight, and is comfortable for everyday wear, making it easy to layer under makeup. It's Worth Noting The product can feel tacky and sticky when applied over makeup, Product Details SPF: 30Active Ingredients: Zinc oxideSize: 1.7 fluid ouncesSkin Type: All skin types PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Moisturizers with Sunscreen that Didn't Make Our List We considered a few other moisturizers with SPF, but these did not make it to our top picks. The Shiseido Hydrating Day Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 20 had a lovely texture and sat beautifully under makeup. However, this formula's fragrance was so strong that we thought it could double as your perfume. This formula would not be good for anyone with a sensitivity to fragrance. The Paula’s Choice Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30 was another contender we tested but found some faults with. This pick was difficult to rub in and had a rather thick consistency. It also leaves a bit of a white cast, which isn’t ideal for people with darker skin tones. We loved that it was fragrance-free and seemed to last on the skin for a while.Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40 layered well with makeup and didn't leave a white cast like some moisturizers. Yet, we found this moisturizer difficult to absorb, which can be a problem for oily skin. We also didn't like the fragrance and found the container's design not-so-user-friendly. Our Testing Process In order to discover the top moisturizers with SPF, we conducted testing on 23 different moisturizing products with a range of textures, consistencies, and prices in both our lab and at home. Our testing included individuals with various skin tones and skin types, such as oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin. After using each moisturizer for a minimum of three times per week over a two-week period, we evaluated and rated each product based on the following attributes: Consistency: We rated whether the moisturizer felt creamy, lightweight, or greasy and whether its texture made it easy or difficult to spread.Absorption: We noted how quickly the product absorbed into our skin and if we could layer it with other skincare or makeup products.Effectiveness: We noted whether we experienced any sunburn while wearing the product and how long our skin felt hydrated after applying it.Value: After using the product for several weeks, we noted the price and whether we thought it was worth the amount. Our Experts We consulted with the following dermatology experts for their advice on the important things to look for and how to properly use a moisturizer with SPF: Christina Lee Chung, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist Michele S. Green, MD, an NYC-based dermatologist Kim Nichols, MD, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and founder of NicholsMD of Greenwich, CT Claire Wolinsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan. Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, Director of Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, and medical advisor for JORI Skincare. What to Know About Moisturizers with SPF Active Ingredients When choosing a moisturizer with SPF, look for ingredients that provide sun protection, benefit your skin type, and address specific concerns. Here are some essential ingredients to consider:Sunscreen Ingredients Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide: These are mineral (or physical) sunscreens that sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. They’re often recommended for sensitive skin, as they’re less likely to cause irritation.Avobenzone, Octocrylene, and Homosalate: These are common chemical sunscreen agents that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, preventing skin damage. They’re often more lightweight and blend well into the skin, making them ideal for those who dislike the thicker feel of mineral sunscreens. Moisturizing Ingredients Hyaluronic Acid: A humectant that draws moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated throughout the day. It’s great for all skin types, especially dry or dehydrated skin.Glycerin: Another humectant that helps maintain skin hydration. It’s commonly found in many moisturizers for its ability to keep skin soft and supple.Ceramides: These help strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and improving overall skin health. They’re especially useful for sensitive or dry skin types.Niacinamide: Also known as Vitamin B3, this ingredient helps reduce redness, minimize pores, and improve overall skin tone. It’s particularly beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin.Aloe Vera and Green Tea Extract: Both of these ingredients are known for their calming and soothing properties. They’re great for reducing inflammation and irritation, especially for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin. Chemical vs. Physical (mineral) Sunscreens Chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. Dr. Green explains they’re often lightweight and blend easily but may cause irritation for sensitive skin types.Physical (mineral) sunscreens use minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays away from it. They’re typically less irritating and ideal for sensitive skin but can feel thicker and sometimes leave a visible white cast. Skin Types and Conditions SPF moisturizers work well for most people, but the best one for one person may not be the best for another, according to Dr. Nichols. It's important to choose the right product for your skin type and circumstances. For conditions like acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and rosacea SPF moisturizers can help by providing hydration and sun protection. However, it's important to note that individuals with darker skin are at a higher risk of hyperpigmentation, so it's best to choose a physical SPF with tint to help prevent this. Additionally, those with sensitive or reactive skin should opt for simpler, mineral-based formulations whenever possible and be mindful of the ingredients in their SPF moisturizers. SPF Moisturizers and Other Skincare Products SPF moisturizers should generally be applied after other skincare products, such as serums or acne treatments, advises Dr. Chung. This ensures that the skin can properly absorb the active ingredients in the serum. Chemical sunscreens should be applied directly to clean skin before other products, as they need to be absorbed into the skin. Mineral sunscreens can be applied as the last layer, as they sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays. Application Frequency Sunscreen and SPF moisturizers often seem thick, leading people to believe a small amount will spread far enough to cover their skin, when in fact, they need more to achieve the labeled SPF protection, explains Dr. Green. To get the full benefit of the SPF listed on the product, Dr. Green says to use about two finger-lengths of product for the face. It's important not to forget key areas such as the neck and ears, which are often neglected but still vulnerable to sun damage. Reapply SPF throughout the day, especially if you're sweating or outdoors for long periods. Even if you're using an SPF moisturizer, it should be reapplied every two hours when exposed to the sun. Who We Are Daley Quinn is a freelance journalist, specializing in beauty and health, who has contributed to numerous publications, such as Elle, Real Simple, Allure, The Cut, WWD, and more. She used thorough editor insights to determine the best moisturizers with SPF on the market. Suzie Glassman is a freelance journalist and die-hard skin care fan who is constantly on the search for products to relieve her dry skin. She has a tween daughter who only occasionally listens to her advice and may be more obsessed with skincare than she is. She's an avid runner and gym-goer. I love lifting weights and trying new fitness crazes. Was this page helpful? 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