How to choose a simple moisturizer with SPF

What should the label say?

Look for both SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum protection. SPF describes protection against sunburn, mainly from ultraviolet B rays, or UVB. Broad spectrum means protection against UVB and ultraviolet A rays, or UVA. An SPF number alone does not tell you the product's UVA protection. On UK products, look for at least four star UVA protection; a UVA symbol inside a circle indicates that the product meets the EU standard.34

A combined moisturizer and sunscreen puts two jobs in one bottle, which is a useful place for skincare to stop multiplying. Daily SPF moisturizers are often formulated to leave less of a film than heavier beach sunscreens. That makes them a practical option for everyday use, but the product still needs to be applied as directed.1

Does it need to be mineral sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreens commonly contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Chemical sunscreens use other filters, often in combinations to cover UVA and UVB. Both types protect primarily by absorbing ultraviolet radiation; mineral sunscreen is not simply a reflective shield. Smaller mineral particles can make a formula easier to apply and reduce white residue. Choose by the finished product's protection rating and directions, rather than assuming that one filter name tells you everything about the formula.5

How do you use an SPF moisturizer?

1. 1Cleanse gently if you are washing your face. Avoid harsh scrubbing. For dry or sensitive skin, washing only in the evening can be sufficient.
2. 2Apply the SPF moisturizer in the morning, following its label. General sunscreen directions call for application 15 minutes before sun exposure.
3. 3Cover exposed skin evenly, including the face, neck and ears, while avoiding the eyes and mouth. Protect other uncovered areas with sunscreen too.
4. 4Reapply during sun exposure at least every two hours, and sooner after swimming, sweating or towel drying.

Do not spread the product so thinly that it becomes a token layer. Too little sunscreen reduces its protection. A whole body amount is not a face only dose: adults covering their entire body need around six to eight teaspoons. For your face, use the product's directions and cover every exposed area evenly. If you expect enough sun exposure to risk burning, UK guidance calls for application 30 minutes before going out and again just before leaving.3

Is it enough for swimming or exercise?

Choose water resistant sunscreen if you will swim or sweat. If your moisturizer does not carry that claim, choose a water resistant sunscreen for those activities instead. US water resistance labels specify either 40 or 80 minutes of protection during swimming or sweating. No sunscreen is waterproof. Reapply after leaving the water and after towel drying, even with a water resistant formula. Reapply when rubbing or sweating has removed the product, rather than waiting for the next two hour interval.34

Do you need it on cloudy days or indoors?

Use sun protection daily, including cloudy days and winter. Everyday errands can expose you to more sun than planned. UVA passes through clouds and window glass, so sitting near a window or driving does not remove all exposure. The UV index describes the strength of ultraviolet radiation; a forecast of three or higher is a clear prompt to protect your skin.15

Makeup with SPF can add protection, but it should not replace sunscreen. It also does not usually cover the neck and ears. Apply sunscreen to other exposed areas, including hands, arms and the tops of feet, rather than treating a protected face as protection for the rest of you.1

Sunscreen works alongside shade, clothing, a hat and sunglasses, not instead of them. Do not extend your time in the sun because you have applied it. All skin tones need to avoid burning. Take extra care if you burn easily, have many moles or have a family history of skin cancer.3

What if your skin is sensitive?

Prefer a fragrance free moisturizer, because added fragrance can trigger irritation or allergic reactions. Introduce one new product at a time so you can identify what your skin tolerates. A gentle moisturizer is also useful alongside acne treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can cause dryness and irritation. That does not mean every SPF moisturizer will suit skin using those treatments.6

Test a new product on your inner forearm twice daily for four to five days before applying it to your face, including products labeled hypoallergenic. Stop using a nonprescription product that stings or burns. If a prescribed treatment causes those sensations, follow your dermatologist's instructions rather than applying the same stop rule yourself.2

For tweens and teens, keep the routine focused on gentle cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection. Avoid adding retinol or exfoliating products for adult aging concerns. A teenager whose sensitive skin reacts to shop bought products should see a dermatologist for help choosing suitable care. For babies under six months, keep them out of direct sunlight and ask a doctor before applying sunscreen.46

What results should you expect?

Moisturizing traps water in the skin and can immediately soften the appearance of some fine lines. Regular moisturizing also helps relieve dryness and itchiness. Sun protection has a different job: reducing ultraviolet exposure that contributes to sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer. No sunscreen blocks every ultraviolet ray. A more expensive moisturizer is not automatically more effective, even if the packaging looks ready to chair a meeting.256

When should you replace the bottle?

Keep sunscreen away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Replace it after its expiry date. For a US sunscreen without an expiry date, discard it three years after purchase; discard it sooner if you do not know how old it is. On UK packaging, an open jar symbol with a number and M shows how many months the product lasts after opening.34