It seems that every time we turn around, there’s a new fad in beauty care products. Lasers, needles, creams, lotions, lights and peels can begin to feel overwhelming and while most of us what to look younger and protect our skin, these new fads can come with a high price and inconsistent results. But one thing every dermatologist agrees on is that moisturizing your face and protecting it with SPF is a must. There’s a reason that sunscreen hasn’t gone out of fashion. Sun damage is real and the best way to keep skin looking and feeling healthy is to stop the harmful effects of UV rays before they wreak havoc on your face.
When it comes to a grooming routine, we want fast, affordable, and effective, three things that aren’t easy to get in one product. But with face moisturizers that have SPF built-in, there’s no requirement of a second to add sunscreen. Plus, we’re all guilty of thinking that cold weather means we don’t need sun protection, which is not true. With a daily face moisturizer that contains SPF, there’s no more thinking about whether you should take the extra step to put on sunscreen.
To find a face moisturizer with built-in SPF that won’t clog your pores and will help to protect your skin from the elements, check out our list of favorite products below.
1. CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
CeraVe is one of the worst-kept secrets in the skincare game; the brand delivers premium results at drugstore prices — it’s no wonder this moisturizer is as popular as it is. This formula is designed to work for all skin types, and it delivers 30 SPF broad-spectrum without the slick feeling that can come from sunscreen.
Pros: Economical option. SPF 30 protection. Moisturizes and protects. Doesn’t leave a slick sheen.
Cons: Would be nice if a larger size was more widely available.
2. Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer
The Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer is made with organic ingredients, including sea parsley, to help the appearance of the skin and blue algae to help smooth the skin and make it appear more youthful. The moisturizer is also a Broad Spectrum SPF 20 sunscreen and protects against UV light, Blue light and pollution. Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, the moisturizer both lessens the effects of sun damage and helps prevent further damage. The moisturizer includes Rosemary, a natural bacteria fighter, making this a great option to use after shaving. The moisturizer is available in three sizes, including an 8.5-fluid-ounce bottle.
Pros: The Jack Black moisturizer is fragrance-free, paraben-free, colorant-free, cruelty-free and vegan.
Cons: The Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer is one of the most expensive options on our list for its size.
3. Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Daily Facial Moisturizer
If you want a product that protects against sun damage and nourishes your skin while also making it appear younger, we recommend the Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Daily Facial Moisturizer. The Aveeno is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while also smoothing and evening skin tone and texture. Using an antioxidant-rich formula that contains blackberry complex infused with vitamins C and E, the Aveeno hydrates the skin, plumping it and filling lines while also improving the elasticity, making skin look and feel younger. The non-greasy moisturizer is hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic, which means its safe for users with sensitive skin and won’t clog pores and cause breakouts.
Pros: The Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Daily Facial Moisturizer is also a Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen, but it has the added benefit of acting as an anti-aging product as well.
Cons: The Aveeno is the most expensive moisturizer on our list.
4. Olivina Men Hydrating Facial Moisturizer
Sunscreen should do more than just block the sun. At least, that’s what the people over at Olivina Men think and we’re inclined to agree. Their version of daily sunscreen packs SPF 15 sun-blocking powers with zinc AND some hydrating moisturizer to make sure your face doesn’t dry out, no matter how much sun exposure you get. The sunscreen is free of just about all that other gross junk you see in goopy sunscreens these days (phthalates, petroleum, propylene , glycol, etc). In other words, much more of the good, much less of the bad and it’ll still protect your mug from harsh rays.
Pros: UV-blocking power plus moisturizer to keep your face feeling fresh.
Cons: SPF rating is fairly low for a regular sunscreen.