Not All SPF Face Creams Are Created Equal

The first step in any skincare routine is a moisturizer, so it only makes sense to include one with SPF. Look for a formula that contains hydrating ingredients, antioxidants and other skincare staples in addition to broad-spectrum sun protection.

This cream is a great option for those with oily skin, as it absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue. It’s also formulated with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and ceramides to hydrate and nourish the complexion.

Antioxidants

A moisturizer with SPF is an excellent addition to your daily skincare routine, and one that helps to protect the delicate skin on the face. But not all SPF face creams are created equal — look for one that contains antioxidants to help defend against damaging UV rays and prevent premature signs of aging.

For example, a face moisturizer with SPF from No7 includes protective ingredients like ferulic acid and kojic acid, which helps to neutralize free radicals, while peptides and glycerin help boost elasticity and keep skin smooth. Plus, the formula is lightweight and won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.

The best SPF face creams contain broad spectrum protection that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. That’s especially important for the eyelids, lips and ears (which are often forgotten when applying sunscreen). Stull suggests choosing an SPF of at least 30 and reapplying regularly.

Another antioxidant-rich option is this mineral SPF face cream. It contains skin-nourishing vitamin E, as well as anti-aging retinol and hyaluronic acid. It also provides light coverage and a natural-looking tint that blends easily with all skin tones. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic and doesn’t contain any sunscreen ingredients that are harmful to coral reefs. The formula is also water-resistant and comes in a convenient pump bottle. For best results, apply a quarter-sized amount to slightly damp skin each morning and massage it into the skin.

Hydration

Your face needs hydration and sun protection, so a moisturizer with SPF is a great addition to your morning routine. Look for formulas that are lightweight and won’t leave your skin greasy or shiny. This moisturizer with SPF from Eucerin hydrates and protects against the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, plus UVA and UVB rays. It’s also enriched with hyaluronic acid and Alpine Caribou Moss to keep the complexion smooth, soft, and radiant.

Another great option is this moisturizer from Cay Skin. It’s oil-free and infused with niacinamide to help balance the complexion. It’s also great for all skin types, especially those naturium sunscreen with a darker tone since it contains NeoGlucosamin, which helps prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

This moisturizer with SPF from Exuviance is another excellent choice for those with a dark complexion, thanks to its inclusion of retinol to firm the complexion and reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It also features thermal spring water to calm the complexion, as well as prebiotics to support a healthy microbiome. The formula is lightweight, and it’s infused with niacinamide, which makes it suitable for all skin types. Just remember that the best SPF is one that is applied regularly, so make sure to apply a quarter-sized amount (or the equivalent of two finger-lengths worth) and reapply often.

Sun Protection

Sun protection isn’t just about avoiding sunburn; it also cuts down on the risk of developing skin cancer and pre-cancerous skin cells. Applying sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher reduces your melanoma risk by up to 50 percent, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Whether you’re going outside or just need to shield your face from light, a moisturizer with SPF is a convenient way to get some extra UVA and UVB protection.

Fortunately, there are lots of options out there, from a physical zinc formula like Coppertone’s Pure & Simple Face SPF 50 Sunscreen to this clear chemical sunscreen that our testers found nearly invisible once applied. It might be too shiny for those who want a matte finish, though, and it can leave the face tingly.

This is a lightweight, fast-absorbing SPF that’s easy to layer over makeup. It uses a low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid and organic cucumber extract to hydrate, improve skin elasticity, and limit oxidative damage for a brighter complexion. It’s non-greasy and has a fresh, light scent.

One thing to keep in mind: A moisturizer with SPF does not replace a daily sunscreen; you need to use at least a quarter teaspoon for adequate protection. It’s important to rub it in well, too; otherwise it will not be absorbed.

Coverage

Face moisturizers with SPF help prevent the buildup of oil on the skin’s surface, which can contribute to breakouts. They also protect the face from the sun’s harmful UV rays. This is especially important for those with acne prone skin as overexposure to the sun’s UVA and UVB rays can trigger or worsen existing breakouts. A facial moisturizer with SPF can also help prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles by maintaining the skin’s ability to create collagen.

When shopping for a face moisturizer with SPF, make sure the product is labeled as broad spectrum and contains either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Look for an SPF number that is 30 or higher, as these will provide the best protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Aside from nourishing the skin with shea butter and hydrating nectar, this moisturizer with SPF from Cay Skin leaves a gorgeous glow that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy on the face. The formula is great for all skin types, but we sunscreen lotion recommend it to those with dry and sensitive skin as it can be a little too rich for oily or acne-prone complexions.

This lightweight, mineral sunscreen moisturizer is formulated with ceramides and non-nano zinc oxide to provide SPF 30 coverage against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula is gentle and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. It also contains tiger grass (centella asiatica) to calm redness and inflammation.