Many think that there is not much of a difference between regular sunscreen and a moisturiser that contains SPF. Some would even question whether a face moisturizer with SPF is needed.
Prior to answering the question, we should be aware of the function and main goal of these two formulas.
So, a moisturizer usually works to penetrate the skin by adding moisture and hydration to skin. For more info check this article here. In contrast, sunscreens (SPF) work differently because they do not penetrate nor enter the skin, thus blocking the sun’s UV rays. Check here.
Despite the fact that these two formulas achieve very different goals, on the market they are being marketed together ‘like crazy’. This must mean that they should be working effectively together, right?
Well guys some of the answers have been given by dermatologists and skin experts. And there are also some controversies regarding the use of moisturisers with SPF.
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Moisturizer with or without SPF?
According to dermatologists, sunscreen is not an ingredient. Instead, it is advised to be used as a layer after completing your ‘morning’ skincare routine. This is before of course applying makeup.
Sunscreen is not there to restore moisture balance or diffuse the ingredients into the skin (like a moisturizer would) but rather to protect the top of the skin. 
According to Ulli Haslacher, founder and CEO of German-inspired Pour Moi Skincare, sunscreen is not an ingredient to be added to a moisturiser, but it possesses its own layer, and people need to be aware of this.
The reason dermatologists like Nava Greenfield, from Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC, would not recommend using a moisturiser with SPF has to do with the moisture’s ability to penetrate the skin and the sunscreen’s ability to shield the skin.
A sunscreen becomes ineffective after some time (about 90 mins) and you need to reapply it several times a day to fully protect the skin against sun exposure. So given the fact that you should apply sunscreen at least 3 times throughout the day, it would not be as ideal to do it with a moisturiser with SPF on it.
Furthermore, it is important to note that SPF has had a somewhat negative reputation throughout the years due to the formula being too greasy, thick, or whitening the skin. Because of it, many people admit that instead of using a separate SPF they rely on what’s already built-in their daily moisturiser to protect their skin
Moisturizers with SPFs are tested and regulated by the FDA to prove that they provide Broad-Spectrum protection to protect you against UVA and UVB rays. And experts often recommend a moisturiser that has at least a 15 or 30 Broad Spectrum protection.
Sunscreen should then always be regulated by the FDA as a drug. This also means that an amount of SPF is required for the sunscreen to be effective, leaving a small room for other ingredients in a formula.
How should you use it?
Some experts say using a moisturiser with SPF is sufficient; particularly in winter.
Indeed, according to dermatologists, when using a moisturiser that has SPF on your face, instead of applying 1 tablespoon you should be aiming to use at least two tablespoons of sunscreen. Some would argue that as long as you use it correctly and at low temperatures (where there is little to no sun) it should be effective and sufficient in protecting your skin.
Many however would argue that using a face moisturizer with SPF is not as effective as a regular sunscreen for mainly two reasons. People do not apply enough sunscreen because sunscreen should be applied multiple times throughout the day.
When people claim that using a moisturizer with SPF is insufficient, it has to do with the fact that they do not apply it correctly. It’s common for people to blame a product when in reality it’s being applied incorrectly.
Furthermore, there are two famous studies one from the University of Liverpool and the other in the journal Plos One. In these studies, they state that using a moisturizer with SPF is not enough. However, what the studies found was that people were not applying the cream correctly thus missing some vital spots on their face.
Like any other product, it is essential to use it properly. Apply as much sunscreen as you would with a regular product.
There’s nothing wrong with applying a face moisturizer with SPF in the morning! On the contrary! It should just be used correctly and in the right season. And although it has not been dermatologically proven using a moisturizer with SPF is better than having no SPF at all!
You should just be aware that sunscreen needs to be applied multiple times a day to guarantee protection to the skin. This means that you will need more SPF throughout the day.
Should we apply it then?
According to Consultant Dermatologist Dr Emma Wedgeworth, people do not apply enough of the moisturizer to give the full labelled SPF, especially in hot seasons. For that reason, experts recommend using a daily SPF during spring and summer.
In winter, wearing sunscreen becomes less relevant and crucial, which is why moisturizers with SPF may be adequate (as mentioned earlier). However, the rule can vary depending on your location and circumstances.
For instance, if you live in the UK like I do where there’s less sun and therefore get UVB rays, then a moisturiser with SPF will be just fine.
However, you should be mindful of these factors:
You will be better off with a regular sunscreen if: you use skincare acids such as AHAs & BHA’s in winter, participate regularly in outdoor activities and are more likely to be outside for more than 20 mins. Or if you live in a sunny climate and applying moisturizer (with regular sunscreen on top) is highly recommended.
Having said that, now that you know some facts, let’s see the best face moisturizer with SPF for dry and sensitive skin recommended by skin experts and dermatologists.
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Facial Moisturizer Spf 30
- The product moisturise, hydrate and brighten the skin while protecting you from both UVA and UVB rays which means that it provides broad spectrum protection.
- Oil free and noncomedogenic, it works for all types of skin complexions
Good for sensitive skin: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF30
- It’s oil free non-comedogenic and contains anti-inflammatory antioxidants and ceramides to help retain moisture while protecting your skin from the sun.
You should also check out : Kiehl-s-Ultra-Facial-Cream-SPF30 & Paula’s Choice Calm Hydrating Moisturiser SPF 30
If you have any questions drop them down below!
