Can you use SPF as moisturizer?

Does every sunscreen moisturize?

SPF describes sunburn protection, not how moisturizing a product is. A moisturizer with SPF combines two functions; a sunscreen needs to be judged separately for whether it meets your moisturizing needs. As general routine guidance, one combination product is enough when it covers both jobs. A combination product can cut one step from your routine, which is a rare occasion when skincare offers to take something off the agenda.14

Moisturizers help keep water in the skin. Some contain humectants, ingredients that bind water to skin, and creams and lotions can soothe dryness. That benefit is separate from UV protection. Moisturizing can immediately make some fine lines look fuller, but the smoothing effect is temporary; it is not the same job as preventing damage from sunlight.56

When should you use a separate moisturizer?

If your sunscreen leaves your skin feeling dry, use a separate moisturizer before sunscreen. A separate moisturizer belongs in the routine when you need more moisture, not because two bottles look more committed than one. For dry skin, a cream sunscreen is a useful starting point; gels are an option for oily complexions. The texture helps you choose, but the SPF number does not tell you whether you can skip moisturizer.12

How to use SPF as your morning moisturizer

1. 1Wash with a gentle cleanser. If you need extra moisture, apply a separate moisturizer before sunscreen; otherwise, use your combination product for both steps.
2. 2Check for broad spectrum protection, which covers UVA and UVB rays, and SPF 30 or higher. Choose water resistance, particularly for swimming or outdoor exercise.
3. 3Apply sunscreen to dry skin before going outdoors. Allow 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and follow the product's directions.
4. 4Use enough for protection. For the face, use at least 1 teaspoon. Cover other exposed areas too, including your ears and neck; a face application does not cover those automatically.
5. 5When outdoors, reapply approximately every two hours and after swimming or sweating, following the label. A moisturizer with SPF needs reapplication just like a sunscreen.

Even a short trip outside calls for sun protection. For swimming or sweaty exercise, check whether the label specifies 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance. Neither means waterproof. Use shade and clothing as well: sunscreen and protective clothing do not block all UV radiation.347

What should you use at night?

Use a moisturizer for the moisturizing step in your evening routine. SPF belongs in the morning sun protection step; it does not replace the need for moisture at night. If your daytime combination product is your only moisturizer, a separate evening moisturizer lets you meet that need without making sunscreen part of the evening routine.1

What if your skin is sensitive?

Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both are recommended for sensitive skin. Test a new product on your inner forearm twice daily for 4 to 5 days before applying it to your face. Stop using a product that stings or burns unless your dermatologist has prescribed it and advised you about that reaction. If you still cannot find a routine that meets your needs, a dermatologist can help.25