I know my friends and family are sick of me asking if they applied sunscreen today—energy better spent encouraging the use of the best moisturizer with SPF instead of trying to shoehorn another step into an already curated skin-care routine. As the old adage says, “Work smarter, not…,” so if your sunscreen isn’t doubling as skin care, it might be time for an upgrade.
Pairing what the best face creams have to offer with what face sunscreens excel at—namely, protecting skin—dermatologists say these multitaskers are remarkably effective at shielding sun rays while nourishing skin with hardworking conditioning agents like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane. Plus newer formulas often blend seamlessly into a wide range of skin tones without leaving behind a white cast.
Vogue’s Favorite Moisturizers With SPF
While the terms are often used interchangeably, a moisturizer with SPF isn’t necessarily the same thing as a hydrating sunscreen. According to board-certified dermatologist Michelle Green, MD, “A hydrating sunscreen is a product that blocks UV rays while moisturizing the skin. A moisturizer containing SPF primarily hydrates the skin, with sun protection as an added benefit.” That’s an important distinction, particularly because most people don’t apply enough product—or reapply often enough throughout the day—to achieve adequate sun protection.
Ahead, board-certified dermatologists answer all your burning questions about moisturizers with SPF, plus Vogue’s edit of the six best formulas to shop now.