What is the best face moisturizer with SPF? This may come as a surprise, but looking for a moisturizer that also has some kind of protection against the harmful rays of the sun can be difficult. The formula can get too greasy or, in worse cases, too ashy.
You already get why it gets greasy, right? Just think about a combination between sunscreen and moisturizer. But moving on to the ashy part, it has a lot to do with the formulation. More often than not, adding an SPF feature can pretty much make the moisturizer look grey.
Of course, this is not great for wearing under makeup.
This is why we’re going to look at three moisturizers that have SPF. Let’s determine which option is the best one.
Do you want to switch to a moisturizer that has a bit of a kick to add to your personal makeup train case? Then keep on reading!
Table of Contents
Best Face Moisturizer with SPF Reviews
Let’s take a look at the features and the pros and cons of each product.
EltaMD UV Daily Facial Sunscreen: Highest SPF
We are starting with a confusing product. Is it just a sunscreen or is it also a moisturizer?
If you’re going to base it on its name, then surely, it is just a sunscreen. But let us take a more in-depth look at its features to see how it can also be a moisturizer.
Features
This product has a daily broad spectrum SPF of 40 which does not only offer sun protection but moisturization as well. It can also help make your face look more youthful and fresh.
RELATED: Best Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin
These claims stem from an added ingredient in the formula which is hyaluronic acid. This ingredient is known to not only add hydration but also as an occlusive that can trap moisture on the face.
As far as the coverage of the sunscreen goes, it is a sheer facial sunscreen. At the same time, it can be worn without makeup or even under makeup.
It has two kinds: the first one is untinted while the other is tinted for days when you need extra coverage.
RELATED: How to Use Tinted Moisturizers
Pros:
- Goes on smoothly
- Does not leave an oily finish
- Dries fast
- Does not look too ashy
- Does not burn eyes
- Does not crumble under makeup
Cons:
- Off-putting scent
- Product leaks out of the pump
- Has a weird consistency
- May separate; no amount of mixing can make it consistent
- Gives a pulling or tight feeling
RELATED: Tinted Moisturizer vs BB Cream
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer Sunscreen with SPF: The Go-To
A well-known company makes the next product that we are going to talk about.
Aveeno is at the forefront of anything that you can put on your face and body. With that said, you are assured that this product is made of high-quality ingredients, but do they have a good moisturizer with SPF?
Features
The main ingredient of this moisturizer is total soy complex, which can help your skin reveal its natural health and beauty. Also, it can help even out uneven skin tone in order for your skin to look more radiant, and it can assist in managing dullness, blotchiness, and dark spots.
On the sunscreen part, it has a broad spectrum SPF 15 and does not have that grey undertone. Accordingly, it has 3% Avobenzone, 7.5% Octinoxate, and 2% Octisalate.
RELATED: Best Foundation for Pale Skin With Pink Undertones
Lastly, its packaging is just like any other Aveeno lotion with a somehow circular body and a secure pump. However, the pump does not have a cover, so just be wary of accidental presses.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Goes on smoothly
- Has a nice and fresh scent
- Does not sting the eye
- Very buildable
- Great under makeup
Cons:
- Prone to accidental pressing
- A lot of product goes out of the pump
- Does not protect fully against the sun
- The finish may be too dewy.
- Does not last all day
Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF: A Twist on a Classic Formula
The last product that we are going to talk about is more popular than the previous one.
Here comes Cetaphil. We are all familiar with its cult product which is the cleanser, but is their moisturizer with SPF a great product too?
RELATED: Does Cetaphil Help Acne
Features
We called this one as a basic having a twist due to the fact that it is not just a moisturizer with SPF, but the formula also has oil absorbing properties. It also provides a broad spectrum SPF 30 of UVA and UVB protection which at the same time can hydrate and control the oil on your face.
You can also forget about that greasy feeling because this dries into a matte finish, thanks to the micro pearl technology. It can also combat roughness, dryness, and flakiness of people who are using acne treatments.
For those who have enlarged pores, this might be your best friend as it does not clog pores. It also does not contain any fragrance and is free from parabens. Lastly, it has a pump which unfortunately does not have a cover.
Pros:
- Effectively mattifies skin
- Goes on smoothly
- Smells nice
- Very lightweight
- Does not have a white cast
- Great under makeup
- Compatible with a lot of skin types
- Dries fast
- Lasts all day; no need to reapply
Cons:
- Can burn eyes (so be careful when applying!)
- Gives a tingling or pulling sensation
- The packaging is not secure.
- Poor customer service
Our Pick: Best Face Moisturizer with SPF
The best face moisturizer with SPF is the Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF.
We chose this one as it is the most versatile and effective in terms of being a moisturizer that can also offer sun protection. In fact, this product pushes the boundaries for a moisturizer as it can also prep the skin for anything that can be put on top of it.
If you’re going to wear this on top of makeup, think of it as being a primer as well since it helps keep your oil at bay, and it mattifies your skin. What more can you ask for in a moisturizer?
However, it is not perfect, especially the issue about it potentially burning your eyes. This has a simple solution and that is to close your eyes while applying it until it dries.
Other than that, what you have here is a definite winner!
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What are your picks for best face moisturizer with SPF? What amazing product did we miss?
Thanks so much for your input, Emily! It’s always great to know the pros and cons of a product to let us make more informed decisions before a purchase.
Nice picks! I like the higher SPF options since they sort of become a one time buy for those who travel a lot too. Having said that, like you pointed out consistency is always an issue with them even the sport variants that some brand offer. They sort of almost pile up around one’s cheeks haha!
You’re most certainly right, Nancy!
You’re welcome, and thanks for stopping by!
It is super important to stay moisturized – there are different products that can affect our skin in certain ways. We need to find one that works best. Thanks for sharing all of these resources!
Nancy ♥ exquisitely.me