We Used Every Last Drop Of These 13 SPF-Packed Face Moisturizers
It’s all about the layering.
I have waxed poetic about the best sunscreen products time and again—I suppose an undying love for UVA and UVB protection comes with the beauty editor territory.
While sunscreen is always the gold standard for sun protection, I can’t help but emphasize that incorporating one of the best face moisturizers with SPF into your morning routine is only going to up the ante. Although you likely won’t use enough product to get a full dose of protection (reminder: you need to apply roughly two fingers-worth of SPF to your face), a sunscreen-infused lotion or cream is the icing on the cake of a solid sun protection regimen.
“Moisturizers with SPF are a great option because at the end of the day, they do contain a level of SPF protection,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Doris Day. “I recommend layering on your regular sunscreen with your SPF moisturizer. It’s really the best and only way to maximize the level of SPF in your products.”
If you were to ~exclusively~ use an SPF-packed moisturizer, just be aware that you would need to use a lot of product on the daily to get the prescribed dose of protection. A pea-size drop isn’t going to cut it. “I liken it to taking a piece of fabric and stretching it thin to get full coverage,” adds Dr. Day, who says you’re only going to get a fraction of the SPF level. It's the same case for any multitasking makeup with SPF.
With that being said, grab your favorite SPF (be it a powder sunscreen, spray sunscreen, or mineral sunscreen) and keep scrolling; we've taken the liberty of rounding up the best face moisturizers with SPF to pair with your go-to sun protection product. From luxe creams that deliver anti-aging benefits to tinted formulas that have an extra layer of blue light protection, these sunscreen-packed moisturizers are the best the skincare world has to offer.
The Best Face Moisturizers With SPF
- The Best Face Moisturizer With SPF Overall: Josh Rosebrook Nutrient Day Cream SPF 30
- The Best Lightweight Face Moisturizer With SPF: Sun Bum Daily Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF
- The Best Tinted Face Moisturizer With SPF: Saie Slip Tint Lightweight Tinted Moisturizer
- The Best Calming Face Moisturizer With SPF: MDSolarSciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer SPF 30
- The Best Face Moisturizer With SPF for Compromised Skin: La Roche-Posay Double Repair Face Moisturizer SPF 30
Behold: the product that got Marie Claire freelance beauty writer Sophia Vilensky to start wearing daily SPF in the first place—she's recycled too many empty bottles to count. A recommendation from her facialist, Josh Rosebrook's Nutrient Day Cream contains SPF 30 and the dreamiest, soak-right-into-your-skin texture. Unscented and suitable for all skin types (dehydrated, sensitive, blemish-prone, and reactive skin conditions included), the dual-action formula (it positions itself as a sunscreen as much as it is a moisturizer) leaves the skin looking clean and feeling fresh. It's also worth noting that this is an approved broad-spectrum sunblock by the FDA and EU that leaves no white cast whatsoever.
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Cream
Type: Physical SPF
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Zinc Oxide, Shea Butter, Olive Fruit Oil
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Hydrating; Lovely texture; Skin-loving ingredients; Expert-approved; Also available in a tinted formula
Cons: None found
Freelance beauty writer Sophia Vilensky first tested Josh Rosebrook Nutrient Day Cream in the Florida sunshine—with another layer of more serious SPF, of course.
Vilensky isn't usually a foundation girl, but she is big on tinted moisturizer. This selection from Saie—Marie Claire's favorite tinted moisturizer with SPF for dry skin—has been in her beauty bag for years due to its wildly hydrating formulation and the fact that it's jam-packed with good-for-you ingredients, leaving skin glowing and dewy. (P.S.—check out our buying guide on tinted moisturizers with SPF)
SPF Level: 35
Texture: Cream
Type: Physical Sunscreen
Size: 1.35 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Hyaluronic Acid, Licorice Root Extract
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Lightweight; Buildable coverage; Brightening; Long-wearing; Nice shade range
Cons: Texture is a little thick for some
A tube of Saie Slip Tint.
Freelance beauty writer Sophia Vilensky with her beloved (fourth or fifth?) tube of Slip Tint.
Don’t sleep on this multitasker—trust me. With antioxidants like vitamins C and E, it helps protect against environmental stressors, which is a fancy way of saying it’s going to help keep the gunk of pollution out of your pores. It also features the brand’s proprietary Rapid Renewal Complex. Essentially, it uses epidermal growth factor to speed up skin resurfacing and restore a little glow to the complexion. If you want to hear me rattle off about how obsessed I am with this specific product, check out its feature in Marie Claire’s “Worth It” column.
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Cream
Type: Chemical Sunscreen
Size: 3.3 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Bio-Renewal Peptide, Thermus Thermophilus Ferment
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Multitasking formula; Skin-loving ingredients
Cons: More expensive than other options
While some people may find that their skin getting oilier in the summer, others, including yours truly, experience extra dryness after a day spent out in the sun. That’s where this intensely hydrating (and newly improved!) formula comes into play. The chemical SPF is packed with ingredients like glycerin to keep skin feeling moisturized. While it’s always best to layer an SPF moisturizer with a regular SPF, consider tossing this in your beach bag for midday reapplication; it’ll give you an extra boost of UVA and UVB protection as well as added hydration.
SPF Level: 40
Texture: Cream
Type: Chemical Sunscreen
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Ectoin, Ceramides, Algae Extract
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Extremely hydrating; Fragrance-free
Cons: Some customers complain about pilling
If layering products is your MO, Sun Bum is going to be your holy grail. Kick off your routine with this ultra-lightweight moisturizer, which contains SPF 30. The texture on this baby is silky smooth—there’s no white cast, no goopiness, no grease. It’s fortified with niacinamide, an ingredient that protects against environmental stressors (read: pollution) and has been shown to help with acne. Once you let this moisturizer soak in, follow up with one of Sun Bum’s amazing SPFs (they have chemical, mineral, spray, body—anything you could possibly need) and toss their Face Mist in your bag for reapplication throughout the day.
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Cream
Type: Physical Sunscreen
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Banana, Wild Rosella, Niacinamide
Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
Pros: Ultra-lightweight; Under $30; Contains skin-loving ingredients
Cons: None found
Also Recommended
La Roche-Posay makes some of the best sunscreens ever (the Melt-in-Milk is sooooo good), so it only makes sense that their SPF-packed moisturizer is a winner too. This lotion is ideal for anyone who has a compromised skin barrier, flakiness, or irritation—honestly you can’t go wrong. The texture may feel rich at first, but once it’s rubbed in the oil-free formula feels insanely lightweight.
Dr. Castilla also gives this moisturizer her stamp of approval. "It works for most skin types, works well under makeup and leaves a clean finish," she says.
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Cream
Type: Chemical Sunscreen
Size: 2.5 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Ceramide-3, Niacinamide La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Expert-approved; Good for anyone with a compromised skin barrier; Oil-free; Lightweight yet rich; Under $30
Cons: None found
Lightweight, hydrating and nourishing, MDSolarSciences' Daily Perfecting Moisturizer SPF 30 was created to easily add SPF to your daily skincare routine, keeping your complexion hydrated and protected with time-released moisturizers. Safe for any skin types or tones, it includes calming ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, chamomile, caffeine, and macadamia and olive oils.
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Cream
Type: Chemical Sunscreen
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Octocrylene, Octisalate, Niacinamide, Chamomile, Caffeine
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Lightweight; Safe for all skin types and tones
Cons: None found
On a mission to simplify your routine? Allow us to direct your attention to this three-in-one NARS product. It goes above and beyond to take the place of your foundation, vitamin C serum, and moisturizer. A little definitely goes a long way with this guy (seriously, you only need a dot for a tinted glow), so make sure you layer this with a full-blown SPF.
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Cream
Type: Chemical Sunscreen
Size: 1.9 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Octinoxate, Titanium Dioxide, French Polynesian Kopara, Vitamin C
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Three-in-one product; A little goes a long way
Cons: Need additional SPF for proper coverage
While we love that this moisturizer has sun protection, that's not the cream’s biggest selling point. We’re obsessed with this formula’s wild ability to firm—my fine lines look so much smoother after just a few weeks of use. It’s all thanks to an algae extract called Padina Pavonica that tightens the skin. Add hydration (and the accompanying plumpness) to the mix, and skin looks entirely refreshed. Don’t believe us? Try this cream for yourself! We promise, you won’t be disappointed.
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Cream
Type: Chemical Sunscreen
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Octionoxate, Octocrylene, Padina Pavonica, Gilko Binoba
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Plumping and firming
Cons: More expensive than other options
A decent number of moisturizers on this list contain chemical sunscreens. While there’s nothing wrong with that, it's best to opt for a mineral formula if you have sensitive skin or melasma. This lotion, which is Dr. Day’s personal favorite, features a zinc formula that still manages to feel lightweight. An added bonus? It includes plant extracts that protect against blue light, which has been shown to worsen hyperpigmentation.
SPF Level: 50
Texture: Cream
Type: Physical Sunscreen
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Papaya Fruit Extract
Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
Pros: Expert-approved; Under $20; Lightweight; Protects against blue light
Cons: None found
Moisturizer, let alone sunscreen, can be intimidating for anyone with extra oily or acne-prone skin. That said, it’s still a non-negotiable to hydrate and protect. Enter Paula’s Choice Resist Youth Extending Daily Hydrating Cream. The oil-free moisturizer-sunscreen duo won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. Plus, it has a matte finish that will keep your skin shine-free for longer. As an added bonus, the formula includes green tea and oatmeal extracts, both of which help to calm redness and soothe the skin.
SPF Level: 50
Texture: Cream
Type: Chemical Sunscreen
Size: 2 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Green Tea, Oat, Black Elderberry, Goji, and Pomegranate Extracts
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Oil-free; Matte finish; Soothing ingredients
Cons: None found
If you’re dealing with active acne or are prone to breakouts, finding non-comedogenic products that aren’t going to clog up your pores is a no-brainer. This lightweight lotion is one of the best out there. It has all the goods: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide. On the sunscreen front, you’re going to get SPF 30 protection via a non-irritating zinc formula plus chemical protection. It also feels weightless and doesn’t pill when layered with an additional sunscreen.
SPF Level: 30
Texture: Cream
Type: Hybrid Sunscreen
Size: 2 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Homosalate, Octinoxate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Zinc Oxide, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Oil-free; Feels weightless; No pilling
Cons: None found
As someone who is always on the hunt for the most glow-giving products in the beautyverse, I can confirm that this moisturizer is what dewy dreams are made of. The hyaluronic acid-packed formula leaves the prettiest, mirror-like sheen on the skin, offering a glow that shines through makeup. That said, you only need about two pearl-sized dollops, so make sure to layer on an SPF. My fave from the brand? The Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion.
SPF Level: 20
Texture: Cream
Type: Chemical Sunscreen
Size: 2 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Hyaluronic Acid, Ginseng Root Extract
Water Resistant: No
Pros: Supplies a gorgeous, glowy finish
Cons: Contains a lower SPF factor than other products
What to Look For in a Face Moisturizer With SPF
- SPF Level
While you're (ideally) going to be pairing your SPF moisturizer with a regular facial sunscreen, you still want your moisturizer to boast proper sun protection. Dr. Castilla says to look for products with SPF 30 or above.
"I tend to recommend moisturizer with SPF as a great daily form of sun protection throughout the year," adds Dr. Nicole Lee, M.D. MPH FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist who owns Epoch Dermatology. "However, when truly outdoors at the beach or playing tennis or at a BBQ, I do recommend proper sunscreen as they tend to stay on better when more active and expecting to profusely sweat. During those moments some of my favorites are La Roche-Posay Melt In Milk SPF 100 and EltaMD UV Sheer.
- Skin Type
Like many beauty products that go on your face, the right moisturizer with SPF for you is largely dependent on your skin type. Dr. Castilla recommends you look for fragrance-free products if your skin is sensitive, oil-free products if you have acne-prone skin, and products with a water/gel texture for oily skin.
If going for a physical SPF, you can also test the moisturizer on the back of your hand to make sure it doesn't leave a white cast—an absolute must if you have a darker skin tone.
- Hydrating Ingredients
"Good moisturizing ingredients should be included: ceramides to support the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid to draw in moisture, and niacinamide for acne-prone skin or those with redness," says Dr. Castilla.
She also notes that lotion-like formulas work best in summer while cream-based, thicker selections are great in the the colder months.
How to Ensure Proper SPF Coverage
Remember: Layering your moisturizer with another more serious SPF is the best way to ensure proper coverage. But that doesn't mean you should skimp on application.
"The SPF factor is determined by applying a certain concentration of the product on the skin," explains Dr. Castilla. "A good method is applying two finger lengths of cream onto your face. Be aware it is not waterproof or sweat-proof, so remember to use a different waterproof-specific sunscreen if going to the beach or sweating."
And always, always reapply throughout the day.
What Is a Face Moisturizer With SPF?
For all intents and purposes, a face moisturizer with SPF is exactly what it sounds like: a skincare product that boasts both the hydrating properties of a moisturizer and the UV protection of an SPF. Face moisturizers with SPF were created to simplify your skincare routine; if you apply enough for proper coverage, they're a one-step wonder.
How Is Moisturizer With SPF Different From Regular Sunscreen?
A face moisturizer with SPF is different from a regular sunscreen because of its formulation focus on hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. They're also generally lighter and made for daily use, while a regular ol' SPF is best for when you know you're going to be basking in the sun's rays (they contain higher concentrations of UV-blocking ingredients to keep you better protected).
Meet the Experts
Dr. Day is a clinical associate professor of dermatology at the New York University Langone Medical Center. Her success in this role has been recognized with the award for Dedication and Excellence in the Teaching of Dermatology. This honor, along with her continued affiliation with Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, demonstrates that Dr. Day is dedicated to lifelong learning. She shares her knowledge by regularly lecturing nationally and internationally, both to her peers and to the public on the latest in aesthetic dermatology techniques. Her patients consistently experience the benefit of her commitment to maintaining both her academic and media influence.
Carmen Castilla, M.D. is a Manhattan-based, board-certified dermatologist specializing in personalized treatment plans in both cosmetic and medical dermatology. Dr. Castilla graduated cumme laude from New York University, and then completed medical school at the University of New Jersey Medical School, where she was a member of the highest honor society, Alpha Omega Alpha.
As voluntary faculty at Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Castilla remains committed to advancing the field of dermatology through the use of advanced technology and current techniques that enhance treatment outcomes. She has published numerous papers and textbook chapters, and is nationally recognized.
Dr. Nicole Y Lee is a board-certified dermatologist with advanced fellowship training in cosmetic and procedural dermatology. She completed her undergraduate at Georgetown University and then pursued her Doctorate in Medicine at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, where she also obtained a Master of Public Health degree. Upon completing her medical education, Dr. Lee returned to Georgetown University for her internship in internal medicine, followed by her dermatology residency at the University of Alabama in Birmingham where she served as chief resident in her final year.
