SPF 50 moisturizer for the face: how to choose and use one

What should you look for on the label?

Look for both SPF 50 and broad spectrum protection. SPF measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn; broad spectrum protection covers UVA rays as well. UVA contributes to wrinkles and other signs of sun aging. A higher SPF offers only a modest improvement over lower ratings, so the number cannot compensate for applying too little.2

Water resistance is a separate feature to check, particularly for swimming or sweating. Do not assume that an SPF 50 moisturizer is water resistant simply because it has a high SPF. Choose a water resistant sunscreen for those activities and follow its application directions.1

One SPF 50 facial moisturizer to consider

CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight lotion marketed for normal to dry skin. It offers broad spectrum SPF 50 protection and contains ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Ceramides help support the skin's protective barrier, while hyaluronic acid helps maintain moisture. CeraVe describes the SPF 50 lotion as blending easily into all skin tones.1

Its listed sunscreen ingredients are homosalate 8%, zinc oxide 7%, octisalate 5% and octocrylene 5%. The formula also lists glycerin, dimethicone and three ceramides. Check the ingredients on your own package because CeraVe updates its formulas. The AM SPF 30 and SPF 50 lotions have different sunscreen ingredient combinations, so directions and features for one version should not automatically be applied to the other.5

How do you apply an SPF 50 moisturizer?

1. 1Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water, then pat dry rather than rubbing.
2. 2If you need extra moisture, apply a separate moisturizer before the sunscreen layer.
3. 3Apply the SPF moisturizer generously. Follow your exact product's label for the amount and how long before sun exposure to apply it.
4. 4Protect other exposed areas, including your neck and ears. Facial application alone leaves those areas uncovered.
5. 5Let the sunscreen layer dry and settle before applying makeup.
6. 6Reapply sunscreen about every two hours, and more often after swimming or sweating.

Do you need it in winter or on cloudy days?

Wear sunscreen year round on skin not covered by clothing, including your face, neck, ears and hands. Cloudy days still call for sun protection, and sitting beside a window can expose you to sunlight indoors. Use shade, protective clothing and sunglasses alongside sunscreen rather than treating the moisturizer as your entire sun protection plan.24

What if your face still feels dry?

A light lotion can be insufficient in cold, dry weather. Choose a more moisturizing sunscreen cream, or use your usual moisturizer underneath sunscreen. Hyaluronic acid is a moisturizing ingredient, not an exfoliating acid like glycolic or salicylic acid. For dry skin, glycerin, petrolatum and shea butter are other moisturizing ingredients to look for.4

Can SPF makeup replace your moisturizer or sunscreen?

Do not rely on foundation or concealer with SPF as your only sun protection. People generally apply less makeup than the amount used in SPF testing. Apply your sunscreen layer before makeup and give it a few minutes to dry. Makeup with SPF can add protection, but it does not remove the need to reapply sunscreen.2

If you prefer to keep hydration and sun protection separate, use a moisturizer followed by a facial sunscreen. That approach is particularly useful when you want to change your moisturizer's richness without changing your sunscreen. An SPF moisturizer remains an option when it offers broad spectrum protection of at least SPF 30 and is used as directed.36

What results should you expect?

Moisturizer traps water in the skin and can immediately make some fine lines look plumper. Daily sun protection helps limit the sun exposure that accelerates signs of aging. Those are different benefits: the quick change from hydration is not the same as reversing established wrinkles. Other skincare products aimed at signs of aging often take at least six weeks, and sometimes three months, to work.3

A more expensive moisturizer is not necessarily more effective, so the receipt is not a skincare credential. Prioritize the protection on the label, a formula that meets your moisture needs, and directions you can follow.4

The Skin Cancer Foundation's product finder lists sun protection products reviewed for its Seal of Recommendation. Its facial SPF 50 listings include Aestura Invisible Radiance Sunscreen SPF50. The list covers products worldwide, so check local availability with the manufacturer; a listed product does not have to display the seal on its packaging.7

What if you have sensitive skin?

Introduce new products one at a time so you can identify a reaction. Before using a new SPF moisturizer over your whole face, test a small amount on your inner forearm twice daily for four to five days. Test products labeled hypoallergenic too. A product described as natural can still cause an allergic reaction.36

Stop using a new moisturizer that stings or burns. If a prescribed skincare treatment causes those sensations, follow your dermatologist's advice rather than changing the treatment yourself. Seek medical advice for unusual skin symptoms or persistent problems with your routine.36