Sunscreen should be applied every day—yes, literally every day. Whether you're staying indoors or heading outside, it's essential. Don't get me wrong, the sun feels amazing, but the side effects of unprotected sun exposure? Not so much.
"Even low levels of UV light that you get from incidental exposure like going for a walk or having lunch outside can add up over a lifetime," says board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD.
But because life can be complicated, why not consolidate steps in your skincare routine by using a moisturizer with sunscreen? There are tons of options out there no matter your skin type or texture.
Still, there are a few things that you should definitely look for in an SPF moisture regardless of the brand. For example, the product should contain "at least SPF 30 protection, as well as the words broad spectrum on the bottle," says Dr. Zeichner. "This means that it'll protect you against UVB rays responsible for sunburn and UV rays that penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging and skin cancers."
Best Moisturizers With SPF
Women's Health asked two dermatologists and multiple editors to test the best, most popular moisturizers with SPF to see if they're really worth the hype. After weeks of testing, they gave their honest feedback. Read on for the 15 best dermatologist-recommended, WH editor-testedmoisturizers with SPF.
Meet the experts: Joshua Zeichner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. Mona Gohara, MD, is a dermatologist and Women's Health advisory board member.
What to consider
There are a few things to think about when it comes to adding SPF into your routine, like whether it has a mineral or chemical makeup, and what the ingredients, format, and SPF number are.
- Mineral or chemical SPF: dermatologist and Women's Health advisory board member Mona Gohara, MD, prefers mineral sunscreens over chemical sunscreens because they work for all skin types (even acne-prone or sensitive skin), aren't as irritating, and create a barrier to block UV rays. Mineral sunscreens reflect the sun's rays off the skin but chemical sunscreens absorb them.
- Ingredients: Sunscreen filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the main players that protect your skin against UV damage, making them the most important ingredients to look for. "They're the most valuable for skin health and cosmetic benefit, seeing as a majority of the signs of aging come from unprotected UV exposure," says Dr. Gohara.
- Formula: Over everything, you'll want to choose a formula that you'll enjoy wearing. So maybe a serum or gel is your jam if you have oily skin or like using more lightweight products. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a more traditional cream formula.
- SPF number: Aside from the ingredients, the next-most important thing is to choose a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher so that the face is protected from all of the sun's rays, says Dr. Gohara.
How we selected
For the past month and a half, Women’s Health editors, including contributor Neha Tandon, assistant editor Addison Aloian, and editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert tested the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated moisturizers with SPF. Our team consulted dermatologists Dr. Zeichner and Dr. Gohara, and then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best 15 moisturizers with SPF for a wide range of skincare needs and preferences.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
Pros
- Won't cause breakouts
- Inexpensive
- Travel-friendly
- Helps you maintain a healthy microbiome
Cons
- Can feel too thick for some
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Ceramide-3, niacinamide, glycerin, silica, dimethicone, and thermal water |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | All |
Have acne-prone skin? Then this moisturizer is for you. "This moisturizer contains thermal spring water to help calm the skin and maintain a healthy microbiome," with its prebiotic blend of ingredients, says Dr. Zeichner. Plus, you’ll get just the right amount of SPF to protect your skin.
"This is a classic, everyday moisturizer with SPF that never breaks me out, keeps my skin hydrated, and doesn't have any sort of white cast," says Women's Health associate commerce editor Lily Wohlner. "The ceramides and niacinamide in it keep my skin protected and give it a smooth feel. I have no notes with this SPF!"
Hydrating Sunscreen
Hydrating Sunscreen
Pros
- Available at mass retailers
- Won't feel greasy on skin
- High SPF
- Hydrating
Cons
- Can leave a white cast if not rubbed in enough
| SPF | 50 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Ceramides and niacinamide |
| Type | Mineral |
| Skin Type | All |
If you're prone to an oily T-zone, this hydrating sunscreen is for you. Ceramides and niacinamide nourish your skin without making it feel greasy, and the mineral SPF ingredients (it contains both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) keep your skin safe. "It provides broad spectrum UV protection in a formula that contains ceramide to keep the skin barrier strong," Dr. Zeichner says.
While this product offers great protection, WH commerce editor Jasmine Gomez notes that it leaves a white cast, which isn't ideal if you need something that goes on quick. "I have no doubt this CeraVe moisturizer offers great protection, but because it leaves an intense white cast, it's not the best for me," she explains. She adds that she likes the semi-lightweight formula, but it requires a bit of time to blend in.
Paula's Choice Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30
Paula's Choice Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30
Pros
- Won't cause makeup pilling
- Lightweight formula
- Not greasy
- Niacinamide brightens skin
Cons
- On the more expensive side
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin C, antioxidant blend, niacinamide, licorice root extract, and kiwi extract |
| Type | Mineral |
| Skin Type | Acne-prone, dry, mature, normal, and sensitive |
Whether you're new to adding SPF to your skincare routine or you're a veteran looking to cut your skincare steps down, this moisturizer makes protecting your skin simple. The creamy texture melts into your skin without leaving a greasy feeling behind.
"This moisturizer uses mineral protection against UV light along with a blend of antioxidants to neutralize free radical damage," says Dr. Zeichner. "Niacinamide also helps brighten the complexion." Although it's a mineral-based formula, there is no white cast, which creates a smooth canvas for makeup application.
"My skin tends to be dryer in the morning and after showering, so I really like this sunscreen because it's a little on the oilier side," says Gomez. "It gave me a boost of hydration with no extra moisturizer necessary—my skin was glowing."
Pixi SunMist SPF 50
Pixi SunMist SPF 50
Pros
- Convenient mist applicator
- Portable
- Soothes skin
- Good for dry skin
Cons
- Not ideal to be worn under makeup
| SPF | 50 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Chamomile extract, bamboo extract, and aloe leaf extract |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | All |
For an easy sunscreen refresh midday, try this sun mist from Pixi. "This broad spectrum spray sunscreen delivers chamomile extract and aloe for soothing and antioxidant benefits," Dr. Zeichner says. Not only does it provide your skin with a much needed SPF 50 boost, it also contains ingredients to calm and condition your skin. It's the perfect afternoon moisture and sunscreen mist.
Wohlner says it's the perfect product for a beach day when you don't want to constantly rub on lotion. "There are plenty of hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and avocado oil, which soothes my skin after (and during) a long day in the sun," she explains. Wohlner adds that the spray easily sits on top of makeup and doesn't cause creasing or an oiliness.
Saie Slip Tint
Pros
- Blends seamlessly with skin
- Offers light coverage
- Works for many skin tones
- Makes skin look dewy
Cons
- Not ideal to be worn on top of another moisturizer
| SPF | 35 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, licorice root extract, and pansy flower |
| Type | Mineral |
| Skin Type | Unspecified |
"This product provides both UV protection, cosmetic coverage with a variety of shades, and skin benefits with plumping hyaluronic acid and soothing licorice root extract," Dr. Zeichner explains. If you're looking for a bit of coverage and a dewy finish, this Saie Tinted Moisturizer is the one for you.
WH senior deputy digital editor, Maridel Reyes, likes how lightweight it is, too. She doesn't typically wear foundation, but appreciated that this gave her a "my skin but better" look—her only tip is to make sure not to wear this on top of another moisturizer, but to let it replace that step in your skincare routine.
"My complexion—normally slightly ruddy because of my sensitive skin—was evened out and pleasantly glow-y. (But not greasy.) I noticed during Zoom meetings that I looked more rested, even though Slip Tint was the only swipe of makeup I put on my face," says Reyes.
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Face Moisturizer SPF 30
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Face Moisturizer SPF 30
Pros
- Oil-free
- Lightweight
- Absorbs beautifully into skin
- Hydrates and brightens
Cons
- On the expensive side
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Kalahari melon, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, aloe, and baobab |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | All |
This oil-free moisturizer blends in so fast you'll forget if you even applied it. It "protects the skin from UV light in a formula that also hydrates and brightens with a blend of niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and botanicals," Dr. Zeichner notes.
Just take this page out of Rihanna's book: “You gotta protect your skin from the sun no matter what your skin color is," she says on the Fenty site. "If you have discoloration, guess what, you can get that from the sun. I think a lot of people with darker skin tones think because they’re not burning that they don’t need SPF, but we can still get sun damage."
"The consistency felt like a lightweight lotion that easily melts into the skin," says WH editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert. "One thing to note is that it tends to pill over time and the scent, while pleasant, is long-lasting and can be overbearing." She adds that one major plus is the sustainable packaging that allows for refills if need be.
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting SPF 30
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting SPF 30
Pros
- Moisturizes
- Neutralizes redness in skin
- Infused with calming ingredients
- Works for most skin types
Cons
- Tub packaging can be messy
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Strawberry leaf extract and houttuynia cordata extract |
| Type | Mineral |
| Skin Type | Normal, dry, combination, and oily |
This triple threat corrects redness, moisturizes, and protects your skin from UV damage. Centella asiatica (an herb native to Asia) is the hero ingredient that works to protect the skin from environmental stress that can lead to irritated, inflamed skin. It "helps neutralize redness and calms inflammation with tiger grass extract," Dr. Zeichner notes. While the cream goes on green, it quickly turns into a neutral shade to blend into your skin tone for a more even complexion.
WH contributor, Neha Tandon, tested this trendy product out (read her review here), but Wohlner is a big fan of this moisturizer as well. "I've been using this color correcting treatment for years, and it amazes me every single time," she says. "It doesn't make me look pale, and it cancels out any blotchiness on my skin, making it look so even and smooth."
Glossier Invisible Shield
Pros
- Gel formula is extremely lightweight
- Won't leave skin greasy
- Absorbs quickly
- Hydrating
Cons
- Small bottle for the money
| SPF | 35 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Active microcapsules, antioxidant complex, fermented yeast and vegetal extract, and sweet orange peel oil |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | All |
Does your skin start looking greasy at the mere thought of applying sunscreen? This one is for you. "This ultra-light water gel formula contains broad spectrum sunscreen in a hydrating serum that contains fermented yeast to neutralize environmental aggressors," Dr. Zeichner says. The clear, gel formula absorbs fast and blends in without leaving behind any white cast or weighing your skin down. Dare we say it almost even mattifies the skin?
"When I'm shopping for a sunscreen, I want a product that isn't masked with extra fragrance," says Talbert. "The scent of this doesn't bother my sensitive skin, and it's easily the most lightweight formula I've ever tried." She adds that while the bottle is on the smaller side, a little bit goes a long way.
Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 Moisturizer
Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 Moisturizer
Pros
- Advanced technology is activated by the sun
- Lightweight formula
- Smoothes the skin
- Gives you skin a glow
Cons
- Extremely expensive
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Matcha |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | Normal, dry, combination, and oily |
If you love the sun but love your skin more, give this high-tech moisturizer a try. The light activates the moisturizer to engage the intelligent drone technology in the formula to give your skin a subtle glow. You’ll also find sage in the formula that evens and smoothes the skin. "This broad spectrum sunscreen delivers matcha extract, a potent form of green tea with antioxidant effects to protect against free radical damage," Dr. Zeicher adds.
WH assistant love and life editor, Addison Aloian, is a huge fan, too—even though she has super sensitive, acne-prone skin. "It felt great on my face. It was really easy to apply and had no fragrance, which I really liked. I have super sensitive skin, and it didn't get irritated, which was amazing!"
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
Pros
- Water resistant
- Works well on all skin tones
- Doesn't leave a white cast
- Hydrating but won't clog pores
Cons
- May feel too heavy for some
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Avocado, jojoba, cacao, carrot juice, and sunflower oil |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | Unspecified |
Made by Black women for Black women, you can trust that this sunscreen/moisturizer hybrid isn't going to leave any white streaks behind. "It fully rubs in without leaving behind a white cast or an ashy appearance, so it is ideal for those with darker skin types," Dr. Zeichner says. Avocado, jojoba, and sunflower oil all contribute to the rich, hydrating texture that sinks in without clogging pores or leading to breakouts.
"While I didn't love the smell of this sunscreen, others may enjoy it," says Talbert. "I really appreciated how soft and glowy this left my skin. Plus, it doesn't pill!" She adds that the product was lightweight, white cast-free, and easy to blend.
Unsun Most Editor-Loved Tinted Moisturizer With SPF
Unsun Most Editor-Loved Tinted Moisturizer With SPF
Pros
- Tinted so won't leave a white cast
- Adaptable coverage
- Travel-friendly
- Protects skin barrier
Cons
- Can be drying on some skin
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Shea butter, vitamin E, coconut oil, and fruit extracts |
| Type | Mineral |
| Skin Type | All |
Specially formulated for those with darker skin tones, this mineral-based tinted moisturizer does leave a bit of a white cast at first. But, that'll go away once the formula sets for a bit, according to Gomez.
Loved by several Women's Health staffers, Wohlner is a huge fan, too. "I love that this rubs into the skin so nicely, leaving behind solid coverage without looking like there's anything sitting on your skin," she says. Pro tip? She'll even pop it underneath her foundation for added production and a boost of glow sometimes.
The tinted sunscreen multitasks by adding protection against harmful rays and color-correcting hyperpigmentation. "It invisibly blends into the skin with a light tint to even skin tone," Dr. Zeichner says. "Shea butter, Vitamin E, and coconut oil hydrate, soften and protect the skin barrier."
Aveeno Absolutely Ageless SPF 30 Sunscreen
Aveeno Absolutely Ageless SPF 30 Sunscreen
Pros
- Evens out skin discoloration
- Good on mature skin
- Contains protective antioxidants
- Brightens skin
Cons
- Needs to be reapplied
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Blackberry complex, vitamin C, and vitamin E |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | Unspecified |
Most derms recommend a combination of sunscreen and an antioxidant product (to fight aging free radical damage from UV exposure) for the best daily protection. This lightweight lotion has it all in one. It hydrates, has SPF 30, and "the combination of blackberry and dill extracts help even discoloration and brighten the complexion," Dr. Zeichner says.
Neutrogena Water Gel Lotion SPF 50
Neutrogena Water Gel Lotion SPF 50
Pros
- Available at mass retailers
- Lightweight formula
- Water-resistant
- Hydrates
Cons
- May leave behind a sunscreen smell
| SPF | 50 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | Unspecified |
Hate the feeling of thick, greasy sunscreen? Meet the complete opposite. This gel sunscreen hydrates (thanks to hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and vitamin E) and protects (thanks to a combo of proven chemical sunscreen ingredients) all while feeling like nothing on your skin. "Hyaluronic acid acts like a sponge to pull in hydration and moisturize the outer skin layer," Dr. Zeichner explains.
"It's so incredibly lightweight but still makes me feel super protected and moisturized for the day ahead," says WH features editor Currie Engle. "I'll usually put it on in the morning after I wash my face—It smells really fresh and lovely, too!" While she's always been a big fan of Neutrogena products, she notes that this one definitely hits the mark.
Murad Oil and Pore Control SPF 45
Murad Oil and Pore Control SPF 45
Pros
- Guards against greasiness
- Leaves skin feeling refreshing
- High SPF
- Will mattify skin
Cons
- May be too drying on dry skin
| SPF | 45 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Oil-trapping microspheres and avocado and African yellow wood bark extracts |
| Type | Chemical |
| Skin Type | Normal, dry, combination, and oily |
Ever feel like your sunscreen is leaving your skin looking like an oil slick? Meet your new SPF BFF. WH lifestyle director Lindsay Geller is totally hooked on the product. "I love that this offers quality sun protection with a lightweight, non-greasy, feel and mattifying look," she says. "I usually look super shiny after putting on sunscreen, but this actually improves the texture of my skin—it instantly feels smoother." She adds that she doesn't need to wear makeup with this moisturizer, but when she does, it goes on seamlessly with zero creases or flakes.
Not only does it protect your skin from UVA (what causes aging) and UVB (what causes your skin to burn) rays, it also claims to minimize pores by 54 percent and keeps your skin matte for up to 10 hours. That's because it "contains mattifying ingredients to reduce shine along with willowbark to balance oil production," Dr. Zeichner says.
L'Oréal Paris RevitaLift® Bright Reveal Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30
L'Oréal Paris RevitaLift® Bright Reveal Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30
Pros
- Reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation
- Available at drugstores
- Prevents dark spots from forming
- Brightens skin
Cons
- May be too harsh on sensitive skin
| SPF | 30 |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin C, pro-retinol, and glycolic acid |
| Type | Unspecified |
| Skin Type | Unspecified |
If you're starting to see hyperpigmentation, then you need to up your SPF game. Start with a brightening product like L'Oréal's. This sunscreen lotion contains SPF 30 to stop new dark spots from forming and a combination of glycolic acid, vitamin C, and retinol to treat any existing discoloration and brighten your complexion, Dr. Zeichner says. Plus, "broad spectrum UV filters protect the skin from sunlight," he adds.
Is a moisturizer with sunscreen good enough for providing apt sun protection?
To get the protective benefits of SPF, you have to make sure you're wearing it correctly and that you're using enough product. “You need at least a nickel-size drop of sunscreen or SPF moisturizer to cover your face every morning," Dr. Gohara says.
Shop other skincare products
Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers | Moisturizers For Acne-Prone Skin | Moisturizers For Mature Skin | Moisturizers For Combination Skin | Moisturizers For Dry Skin | Oil-Free Moisturizers
Neha Tandon is the former senior commerce editor of Women's Health. She has written for New York Magazine, Cosmopolitan, BRIDES, Harper's Bazaar, Business Insider, Byrdie, and Well+Good.
Addison Aloian (she/her) is the assistant love & life editor at Women’s Health. Outside of topics related to lifestyle, relationships, and dating, she also loves covering fitness and style. In her free time, she enjoys lifting weights at the gym, reading mystery and romance novels, watching (and critiquing!) the latest movies that have garnered Oscars buzz, and wandering around the West Village in New York City. In addition to Women's Health, her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, L'Officiel USA, V Magazine, VMAN, and more.
Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.
