The 13 Best Face Moisturizers With SPF That Skin Experts Love
Double-duty formulas that won't break the bank.
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
You’ve heard it time and time again, and we’ll say it once more (but definitely not the last time): Sun protection is the most important rule of skin care. Think of all the signs of aging—dullness, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity—and dermatologists and skin experts alike will agree that a proper suncare routine can help delay or reduce the appearance of aging. The type of sunscreen you use is entirely up to you. Here at ELLE.com, we take sun care very seriously and favor all kinds of formulas, from drugstore sunscreens to Korean favorites to SPF-packed body lotions. However, if you’re trying to work more sun protection into your routine and don’t know where to look, a moisturizer with SPF is a great starting point.
Unlike a standalone sunscreen, a face moisturizer with SPF is packed with nourishing ingredients that supply your skin with moisture while protecting it from the sun. “A face moisturizer with SPF can offer adequate sun protection as long
as the product provides at least SPF 30 protection. While some may prefer to use a face moisturizer first, followed by a separate
sunscreen product, a combination product may save you time and money, and be more environmentally friendly,” explains Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, an NYC-based double board-certified dermatologist.
Best Tinted Sunscreen
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Sheer Tint Moisturizer
Read more
To ensure you’re getting the most out of your money, Dr. Madhu Shetti, California-based oncologist and founder of Balmere, advises paying close attention to the label. “If the label says SPF 30 or higher, the product was tested to show that level of protection. Look for ‘broad spectrum’ on the label so you know it provides both UVA and UVB protection,” she says. Of course, re-application is non-negotiable, no matter the formula. “You will need to apply product to your whole face and neck—not just your dry spots! Remember, the SPF protection is for a maximum of two hours, so whether you use standalone sunscreen or moisturizer with SPF, you need to reapply a product with SPF every two hours,” Dr. Shetti adds.
We sifted through dozens of sunscreen formulas culled from ELLE editors’ stashes, scoured top-rated ones online shoppers adore, and even consulted dermatologists to learn how to find suitable options for all skin types. Ahead, shop the 13 best face moisturizers with SPF we discovered.
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Sheer Tint Moisturizer
Pros
- Super hydrating
Cons
- May not be best under makeup
The Water Drench line was tailored for parched skin, and now, there's an SPF moisturizer to extend hydration to the very last step of your routine. Not only does this moisturizer deliver a surge of moisture via pentavitin—a plant extract with hydrating properties— and hyaluronic acid, but it also comes tinted to skip the dreadful white cast some sunscreen leaves behind.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, pentavitin
SPF: 45
Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I am obsessed with sunscreen, especially ones that dry clear on my dark skin tone. This formula from Peter Thomas Roth is one of my favorite daytime sunscreens because it rubs into my skin seamlessly, offers a slight even tone, and feels super hydrating instead of making me look like a greasy mess.”—Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36
Pros
- Soothing properties
Cons
- Some users dislike the smell
Summer skin needs moisture, too, no matter how oily you are or how sweaty it gets. Here’s a formula that feels almost too good to be true. Sunflower oil, green tea, and cica are the big three in this composition, offering a soothing, nourishing blanket of protection and a subtle, glowy dry-down.
Key ingredients: Green tea extract, cica, sunflower oil
SPF: 36
Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Forget New York heat—even Miami heat was no match for this dewy sunscreen. With the sea breeze blowing against my face and the sweltering heat causing sweat droplets to fall down my face, the Daily UV Defense Sunscreen held its ground. Under makeup, it created a smooth, plump base with no pilling; on its own, it’s a great glowy moisturizing SPF that melts away and leaves no evidence.”—Nerisha Penrose
Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50, UVA & UVB Protection
Pros
- Nourishing ingredients
Cons
- May not be best for acne-prone skin
Even the driest skin can find reprieve in this formula. Creamy and lightweight, this moisturizing sunscreen gains its power from niacinamide and shea butter, which restores moisture and promotes anti-aging benefits all at once.
Key ingredients: Niacinamide, shea butter,
SPF: 50
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I’ve been using Paula’s Choice items for decades. And this product is one of my favorites. It’s the final stage of my skin prep before I put on makeup. Wearing sunscreen daily is so important! I’m outside all the time, and this product helps to minimize the damaging and deadly effects of the sun. The RESIST Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50 soaks in quickly and doesn’t leave a cast on your face. Highly highly recommend!”
Supergoop Triple Prep Weightless Multitasking Moisturizer
Pros
- Blends out seamlessly
Cons
- May not be best for oily skin
Supergoop’s SPF moisturizer goes beyond sun protection by protecting against blue light and pollution. With ceramides and plant extracts, your skin is treated to a splash of moisture that seeps into the dermis, so re-application doesn’t make your skin feel weighed down.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, algae extract
SPF: 40
Nordstrom rating: 4.1/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “As if I didn’t have enough Supergoop products in my arsenal, the Multitasking Moisturizer soared to the top of my brand favorites. I feel good knowing I’m getting adequate protection with SPF 40, but I feel even better when I see how plump and hydrated my skin looks throughout the day. An added bonus is how well this formula pairs with my makeup—anything that disturbs my makeup routine has to go. This sunscreen is here to stay.” —Danielle James, digital beauty director
Pros
- Hydrates
Cons
- May not be best for sensitive skin
If you’re a fan of the brand’s cult-favorite True Cream moisturizer, you will surely be a fan of the sunscreen equivalent. Marrying the same hydrating benefits of its predecessor with high SPF coverage, this sunscreen restores the skin’s barrier while protecting against harmful UV rays.
Key ingredients: Marigold and noni extracts, antioxidants
SPF: 45
Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “On my 4th or 5th bottle of this product, and I love it so much! I love that I can get high SPF and a moisturizer in one product and not have to buy two! It doesn’t leave you with any white residue or looking greasy! I love it:)”
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Facial Moisturi
Pros
- Layers well under makeup
Cons
- Some users note it can feel greasy
It’s not that you needed another reason to love Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost line, but here’s one more formula to obsess over. You don’t have to break the bank to get proper coverage and moisture, which are both found in this radiance-inducing, lightweight moisturizer packed with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
SPF: 50
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I have tried so many different sunscreens, and this is the best out of all of them so far. It’s clear and very lightweight on the skin. Also absorbs easily into the skin.”
Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
Pros
- Moisture-binding ingredients
Cons
- Leaves a slight cast on deeper tones
Mineral sunscreens don’t have the best reputation, but allow Biossance’s iteration to sway you. Though you can find squalane in every Biossance formula, in this tube, it works with ectoin and ginger extract to bind moisture to the skin as it protects.
Key ingredients: Ectoin, butterfly ginger extract
SPF: 30
Sephora rating: 4/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “My sensitive skin loves this sunscreen! This sunscreen does not cause my skin to burn or breakout. It layers and blends perfectly with makeup. I also love that there is not a strong fragrance because I am super sensitive to fragrances as well. Another great product from Biossance!”
Pros
- No white cast
Cons
- Pricey for the size
Another mineral option, this sunscreen was created with sensitive skin in mind. Dr. Shetti was the mastermind behind this sunscreen and loves its “multi-tasking skincare ingredients for even skin tone, anti-inflammatory, and hydration benefits. The non-nano zinc formula rubs in quickly with no white caste or piling. Bonus: the silicone-free primer benefits look great under makeup,” she explains.
Key ingredients: Aloe, squalane
SPF: 50
Balmere rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Balmere reviewer said: “Feels light and smooth on skin and rubs in clear. Huge upgrade from other mineral sunscreens I have tried which feel heavy, chalky, and leave me looking ghostly.”
Pros
- Sheer coverage for evening out tone
Cons
- Not suitable for darker skin tones
If you’re looking for a formula that corrects your tone and offers high sun protection, the Intellishade packs a punch. Great for mature or aging skin, the formula uses peptides, vitamin C, and extracts to improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin tone.
Key ingredients: Peptides, vitamin C
SPF: 45
Our expert says: “This one is literally magic. The price is a little higher, but you get a five-in-one daily anti-aging tinted moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF 45 formulated to correct, protect, conceal, brighten, and hydrate skin. It’s hydrating, has an impressive SPF45, and is great for your skin. It also has a great tint that matches everyone.”—Kristin Gunn, celebrity esthetician and founder of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa
EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
Pros
- Weightless formula
Cons
- Leaves a slight cast
This EltaMD formula feels comfortable and light on the skin, making it an ideal sunscreen for daily use. Hyaluronic acid boosts hydration, and its slight tint corrects and evens tone.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
SPF: 40
Dermstore rating: 4.7/5 stars
Our expert says: “Elta Daily Tinted SPF is a lightweight moisturizing sunscreen (SPF40) with a sheer tint to help even skin tone. It’s loaded with hyaluronic acid to draw water to your skin and help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This is a huge seller at our medspa. It’s wonderful.”—Kristin Gunn
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- May not be suitable for super sensitive skin
The ultimate moisturizing sunscreen, this La Roche-Posay favorite packages ceramides, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water to splash your skin with hydration and nourishment. Offering SPF 30, it also protects against UV rays while imparting a hint of radiance.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, niacinamide, thermal water
SPF: 30
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Before I run out, I’m already online purchasing a new one—that’s just how good this sunscreen is. I adore how weightless this formula feels, how it doesn’t have a white cast, and the slight sheen it gives my skin. Of course, it’s super nourishing, thanks to La Roche-Posay’s signature thermal water, ceramides, and niacinamide.”—Nerisha Penrose
COLORESCIENCE\u003CSUP\u003E\u003C\u002FSUP\u003E Sunforgettable® Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50 Sunscreen
Pros
- Tinted formula offers sheer coverage
Cons
- Not best for dark skin tones
As its name suggests, this sunscreen provides a well-rounded film of protection against UVA/UVB light, blue light, pollution, and more. “The lightweight formula includes antioxidants and is water-resistant, making it suitable for daily use and various skin types,” says Jackie Spagnuolo, an NYC-based aesthetic nurse practitioner.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide
SPF: 50
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “This is one of my favorite tinted mineral sunscreens! I have been using it for one year, and it gives the most beautiful glow. I definitely would recommend it!”
Pros
- Derm-formulated
Cons
- Can be too dewy for some
When you want a touch of pigment and sun protection, reach for this derm-formulated SPF moisturizer. The three-in-one formula plumps the skin with glycerin and hyaluronic acid, offers high sun protection, and delivers a sheer foundation-like coverage.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin
SPF: 44
Our expert says: “Hydrating and lightweight, this three-in-one SPF moisturizer gives my skin a filter-like appearance. The multitasking formula has hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and 100 percent mineral-based UV filters, providing long-lasting hydration while giving the skin even coverage, blending into all skin tones. The Iron Oxide helps protect against High Energy Visible Light (HEVL).”—Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, MD
What should you look for in a moisturizer with SPF?
Beyond sun protection, you want to ensure your skin is being treated with ingredients that will be beneficial instead of causing further damage. “You can’t just look at the label and see ‘SPF’ or ‘sunscreen’ and assume you’re all set. Companies use these terms to sell products, and many of these items are SPF 15 or lower. You will still need a real SPF of 30+. The most ideal moisturizer with SPF will also say ‘broad spectrum,’ which means the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays. While exposure to both of these rays can contribute to skin cancer, the UVA rays are the ones that speak to my vanity! We don’t want the UV-aging rays! These break down your collagen and elastin, which contributes to premature aging, wrinkles, and laxity,” says Gunn.
Spagnuolo shares that you should also look for non-comedogenic formulas, aka formulas that won’t clog pores, and understand the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens. “Mineral (or physical) sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays; chemical sunscreens contain organic (carbon-based) compounds like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat,” she shares.
What ingredients should you stay away from?
Experts agree that it’s best to avoid acids or potent ingredients that could work against the effects of sunscreen. “Using vitamin C serum underneath a face moisturizer with SPF may help
protect skin from the effects of free radicals. However, mixing SPF
products with retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids, and benzoyl peroxide
could affect the efficacy of the sunscreen because of the impact these ingredients have on UV filters,” says Dr. Camp.
Meet the Experts
Kristin Gunn is a celebrity esthetician and owner of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa.
Dr. Madhu Shetti, MD, MBA is an oncologist and founder of Balmere.
Jackie Spagnuolo, AG-NP is an aesthetic nurse practitioner.
Dr. Brendan Camp, MD is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS.
Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare.
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