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The 13 Best Moisturizers with SPF of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Face Moisturizer SPF
Health / Jhett Thompson

Ask any dermatologist, and they will 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 having to apply a moisturizer and then sunscreen, there are many products on the market that are two-in-one to make life (and your morning skincare routine) easier.  A moisturizer with SPF can also be used during a day at the beach. The important thing to remember is to use it like regular sunscreen—that means reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.

“UV light exposure from the sun is the single biggest contributing factor to premature aging, including the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and brown spots,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, Director of Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.

To find the best moisturizers with SPF, we tested moisturizers in our lab and at home. Twenty-six of our editors tried 15 moisturizers (with each editor trying more than one so we could compare products against each other). We tested moisturizers with different SPF levels, various textures and consistencies, and different prices. Our editors had a range of skin tones and skin types—oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. After using each moisturizer for a two-week period and a minimum of three times per week, 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.

What to Look For in Moisturizers with SPF

  • SPF Level: Aim for SPF 30 or higher
  • Broad Spectrum Protection: These products help to block both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
  • Ingredients: Look for ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as both help to deflect the sun’s harmful rays. When it comes to moisturizing ingredients, opt for hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide.

A Note About Skin Type and SPF

“I always tell my patients that what is best for one person’s skin is not necessarily ideal for another,” says Kim Nichols, MD, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and founder of NicholsMD of Greenwich, CT. “For example, those that struggle with sensitive skin and rosacea can benefit from using a physical SPF as opposed to a chemical SPF, as chemical sunscreens can irritate sensitive skin.”

In addition, it is important to note that skin of color is at a higher risk of hyperpigmentation. It’s best to look for a physical SPF with tint, which helps to protect the skin from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

SALE

 Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer at Amazon $27 $14

Jump to Review

Best Drugstore:

Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion SPF 30 at Amazon $13

Jump to Review

Best Sun Protection:

MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer at Dermstore $76

Jump to Review

Best for Winter:

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream at Amazon $39

Jump to Review

Best for Daily Use:

Oars + Alps Everyday Face Moisturizer at Amazon $22

Jump to Review

Best for Sensitive Skin:

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV at Amazon $25

Jump to Review

Best for Dry Skin:

Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40 at Amazon $48

Jump to Review

Best for Oily Skin:

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Moisturizer at Sephora $40

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 Overall

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50

PHOTO: Neutrogena

$14 at Amazon$17 at Target$21 at Ulta

Why We Like It

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer with SPF is the overall best moisturizer with SPF for multiple reasons. We loved how quickly and easily this moisturizer soaked and blended into the skin. It feels lightweight—more like a moisturizer than a sunscreen, which can oftentimes feel too thick. 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: 50
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
  • Size: 1.7 oz
  • Skin Type: Dry, normal
  • Hand pumping cream out of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person holding a tool on the side of their face while product testing the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person dabbing an oil sheet on the side of their face during product testing of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand holding an oil sheet during product testing of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person spraying water on their face during product testing of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50Health / Jhett Thompson

Best Drugstore

Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion SPF 30

Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion SPF 30

PHOTO: Rite Aid

$13 at Amazon$14 at CVS$14 at Walmart

Why We Like It

If you have dry skin, listen up: This pick from Eucerin is for you. The Daily Protection Face Lotion SPF 30 is a thin formula with a light consistency. But don’t be deceived by the lightweight texture: This moisturizer does a good job of hydrating drier skin types while protecting your face from the sun, too. 

Those with dry skin will flock to this moisturizer, while those with oily skin should probably stay away from this pick. It could leave your skin looking greasy. On the other hand, we appreciated that it didn’t have too strong of a sunscreen scent and didn’t leave a white cast.

It’s Worth Noting

We liked the texture of this formula but weren’t the biggest fans of the film that it leaves behind.
Additionally, we found that this Eucerin option pilled a little bit under makeup.

Product Details:

  • SPF: 30
  • Active Ingredients: Ensulizole, triethoxycaprylylsilane, glyceryl stearate SE, zinc oxide
  • Size: 4 oz
  • Skin Type: Sensitive, dry
  • EuPerson rubbing Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion SPF 30 onto their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person putting Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion SPF 30 on the back of their handHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person rubbing Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion SPF 30 onto their foreheadHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person blotting their forehead after using Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person taking a moisture reading from their foreheadHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best Sun Protection

MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer

MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer

PHOTO: Amazon

$76 at Dermstore$76 at Skinstore.comView on Fsastore.com

Why We Like It

Silky, smooth, and light, the MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer was a winner amongst our tests. We love that this has an SPF 30, but it feels more like a moisturizer than a greasy sunscreen.

This pick absorbs into the skin well and provides the right amount of moisture without feeling too thick or cakey. It’s a great consistency for makeup application—it almost feels like a moisturizer and a makeup primer in one. The MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer does have a light fragrance (it smells a bit like sunscreen), but it’s not enough to deter anyone from purchasing this pick.

It’s Worth Noting

For those with sensitive skin, this product does sting a bit when you apply it. Remember to always patch test on your wrist or neck before applying it to your face. 

Product Details:

  • SPF: 30
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octocrylene, octisalate
  • Size: 1.7 oz
  • Skin Type: All skin types
  • Person applying the MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer on their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person dabbing their chin with an oil sheet during product testing of the MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting MoisturizerHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person spraying water on their face with a mist bottle during product testing of the MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting MoisturizerHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand pumping cream out of the MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer bottleHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Hands taking the bottle of MDSolar Sciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer out of its boxHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Winter

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30

PHOTO: Sephora

$39 at Amazon$39 at Sephora$67 at Nordstrom

Why We Like It

Kiehl’s beloved Ultra Face Cream is now available with SPF 30. This formula is a thick consistency that feels like Greek yogurt. 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 will provide a dewy finish on the skin. 

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 do believe it’s an ideal pick for colder, harsher winter months, when your skin needs more hydration and sun protection, too.

It’s Worth Noting

Applying too much of this product can leave you feeling a little greasy.

Product Details:

  • SPF: 30
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene 
  • Size: 1.7 oz
  • Skin Type: All skin types
  • Person applying Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30 to their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person rubbing Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30 on their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person blotting their face after applying Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person holding a blotting sheet while testing Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30 being rubbed on the back of a person's handHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Daily Use

Oars + Alps Everyday Face Moisturizer

Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37

PHOTO: Oars + Alps

$22 at Amazon$22 at TargetView 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. This formula is oil-free, feels lightweight on the skin, and absorbs super quickly, too. 

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: 37
  • Active Ingredients: Octocrylene, zinc oxide
  • Size: 2 oz
  • Skin Type: Oily, combination
  • Person rubbing the Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37 on the side of their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Hands holding the Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37 while person reads the product directions and ingredientsHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person using a wipe to test oiliness while product testing the Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37 on a tableHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Sensitive Skin

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV With SPF 30

PHOTO: Walgreens

$23 at Amazon$24 at Target$20 at Walgreens

Why We Like It

Well-known for formulating products for sensitive skin, La Roche-Posay has created a moisturizer with SPF 30 for ample hydration and protection from the sun. We liked this pick because of the relatively lightweight yet moisturizing texture, and the fact that it doesn’t irritate our sensitive skin. 

The most notable aspect of this moisturizer is how well it holds up throughout the day. We spritzed water on our face to see how the moisturizer would react (would it break down or melt off the face?) and were pleasantly surprised to find that it stayed put. It makes us think that this moisturizer would work great in the summer when you’re sweating a lot or surrounded by humid weather. 

It’s Worth Noting

It might leave a slightly greasy feeling, especially on people with oiler skin types. If you use this product, you may want to keep oil-absorbing skin sheets handy. 

Product Details:

  • SPF: 30
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
  • Size: 3.38 oz
  • Skin Type: Sensitive skin, normal, combination, dry
  • Person dabbing an oil sheet on their face during product testing on the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV With SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person holding up tool to their face during product testing of the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV With SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person holding a tool for product testing the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV With SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person holding a bottle of the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV With SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand spreading La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV With SPF 30 into the back of the other handHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Dry Skin

Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40

Ulta Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40

PHOTO: Ulta

$48 at Amazon$44 at Sephora$48 at Nordstrom

Why We Like It

Supergoop is known for its next-level sunscreen formulas, and the Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40 is no different. This pick does a fantastic job of hydrating dry skin, thanks to the ingredients like glycerin and blue-green algae. 

One of the other factors we really love about this moisturizer with SPF is the fact that it offers protection from blue light, too. Cerium is an ingredient in this formulation that helps filter out blue light, which we get plenty of while exposed to the light from our phones and computers every day. While we love how moisturizing this pick feels, people with oilier skin types probably won’t like this formula—it could make your face look greasy if you already have an oily complexion.

It’s Worth Noting

This moisturizer with SPF has a bit of a strange scent. We thought it smelled a little bit like Play-Doh. 

Product Details:

  • SPF: 40
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate
  • Size: 1.7 oz
  • Skin Type: Dry, combination
  • Person rubbing Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40 into their cheeksHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person blotting their face while testing Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand holding a blotting sheet while testing Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person misting water onto their face while testing Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40 being rubbed into the back of a person's handHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Oily Skin

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Moisturizer

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

PHOTO: Sephora

$36 at SephoraView 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 is a very lightweight, light cream that doesn’t really feel like sunscreen. It’s formulated with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and aloe to soothe and hydrate the skin, and contains SPF 30 for sun protection, too. 

We really loved that this formula felt more like a lightweight moisturizer than a goopy sunscreen. We also appreciated that it makes skin feel softer and adds a bit of dewiness to the skin without leaving a white cast, either. Some people might like the feeling of having an added moisture layer sitting on top of their skin, while others might prefer a formula that blends really well into the skin. 

It has a relatively strong scent, so if you prefer your skincare to be fragrance-free, this pick isn’t your best option. 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: 30
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate
  • Size: 1.7 oz
  • Skin Type: All skin types
  • Person applying Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen with Niacinamide on their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand holding the Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen bottleHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person dabbing an oil sheet on their face during product testing of the Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 SunscreenHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen on a table next to a towelHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Combination Skin

Origins A Perfect World Age-Defense Moisturizer

Origins A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer With White Tea

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: 40
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octinoxate, Octisalate, Octocrylene
  • Size: 1.7 oz
  • Skin Type: Normal, combination
  • Person spraying water mist on their face during product testing of the Origins A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer With White TeaHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person dabbing their chin with an oil sheet while testing the Origins A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer With White TeaHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand holding an oil sheet during product testing of the Origins A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer With White TeaHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand holding up box of the Origins A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer With White TeaHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand spreading the Origins A Perfect World SPF 40 Age-Defense Moisturizer With White Tea on the back of the other handHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Eczema

CeraVe AM Facial Lotion SPF 30

CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

PHOTO: Amazon

$15 at Amazon$14 at Target$20 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: 30
  • Active Ingredients: Homosalate, menthyl anthranilate, octinoxate, octocrylene, zinc oxide
  • Size: 3 oz
  • Skin Type: Dry, combination
  • Person applying CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 on their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person applying the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 on their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person putting the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 on the back on their handHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person holding a tool on their cheek during product testing of the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person spraying water mist on their face while testing the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30Health / Jhett Thompson

Best Lightweight

Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer

Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer SPF 45

PHOTO: Sephora

$35 at Amazon$36 at SephoraView on Cayskin.com

Why We Like It

If you’re not a fan of thicker moisturizers with SPF, this pick from Cay Skin will be 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. 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: 45
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene
  • Size: 1.5 oz
  • Skin Type: All skin types
  • Finger dabbing Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer SPF 45 on the back of the other handHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person dabbing an oil sheet on their chin during product testing the Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer SPF 45Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand holding out an oil sheet during product testing the Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer SPF 45Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Person holding out a tool on their forehead during product testing of the Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer SPF 45Health / Jhett Thompson
  • Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer SPF 45 on a table next to a towelHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Under Makeup

Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer

Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer

PHOTO: Ulta

$48 at Amazon$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, octocrylene
  • Size: 1 oz
  • Skin Type: Combination, dry
  • Person applying Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer on their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person applying Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer on their faceHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Hand squeezing Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & Moisturizer into the back of the other handHealth / Jhett Thompson
  • Person spraying a mist on their face during product testing of the Lancôme UV Expert Defense SPF 50+ Primer & MoisturizerHealth / Jhett Thompson

Best for Acne- Prone Skin

Dermalogica Clearing Defense SPF30

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: 30
  • Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
  • Size: 2 oz
  • Skin Type: All skin types

Our Testing Process

To find the best moisturizers with SPF, the Health team tested moisturizers in our lab, as well as at home. Twenty-six of our editors tested a total of 15 moisturizers with different SPF levels, various textures and consistencies, and different prices. Our editors had a range of skin types, including oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin, as well as a range of various skin tones, too. 

Before testing, our editors started with a cleansed face. We applied the product as our last step (before makeup) at least three times per week for two weeks. We took pictures of our skin throughout the process and also recorded all of our findings. To determine the products to include on this list, we evaluated the moisturizers based on consistency, absorption, hydration, and appearance. We also interviewed dermatologists to understand what to look for when selecting the best moisturizers with SPF.

The Experts

  • Kim Nichols, MD, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and founder of NicholsMD of Greenwich, CT
  • 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.

Sunscreens 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 that 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.

Who We Are

Daley Quinn is a freelance journalist, specializing in beauty and health, who has contributed to numerous publications, such as ElleReal SimpleAllureThe Cut, WWD, and more. She used thorough editor insights to determine the best moisturizers with SPF on the market.

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