Vanicream moisturizer with SPF

What is a moisturizer with SPF?

A moisturizer with SPF combines moisturizing ingredients with sunscreen protection. For Vanicream's SPF 30 facial moisturizer, that means a moisturizing formula containing ceramides alongside mineral sun protection. Use the product as sunscreen: cover exposed skin thoroughly and reapply when outdoors. The moisturizing part does not replace the sunscreen application requirements.12

What is Vanicream SPF 30 moisturizer?

Look for the full name, Vanicream Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30. Vanicream sells both an SPF facial moisturizer and a Daily Facial Moisturizer, so 'daily' is not the part of the name doing sun protection duty. The Daily Facial Moisturizer is a rich but lightweight lotion with hyaluronic acid and five ceramides, intended for hydration by day or night and suitable under makeup. Choose the Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 when you want the product with sun protection.3

What should you expect from the formula?

Vanicream describes the SPF moisturizer as lightweight and noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. The face range is free of dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens and formaldehyde releasers. Choose it for moisturizing sun protection rather than as a treatment for an existing skin concern. Whether the finish suits you under makeup, leaves a visible cast or pills with your other products needs to be judged in your own routine.3

What protection does SPF 30 give you?

SPF means sun protection factor and describes protection against sunburn, mainly from UVB rays. SPF 30 filters out about 97% of UVB rays. Broad spectrum adds protection against UVA rays, which contribute to early skin aging. No sunscreen filters out all UVB rays, so also use shade, protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses. Used as directed with other sun protection measures, Vanicream's SPF moisturizer helps reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun.14

SPF 30 is not a promise of 30 hours outdoors or permission to stay in the sun 30 times longer. Sun exposure depends on the strength of the sunlight as well as time outside. The sun's intensity changes with the time of day and your location. Reapplication still matters, whatever number is on the bottle.5

How do you use Vanicream moisturizer with SPF?

Use these general sunscreen application steps, and follow the Drug Facts directions on your bottle. Apply before daytime outdoor exposure, including on cloudy days and in winter. Do not treat the amount you normally use for moisturizer as the measure of adequate sunscreen coverage.25

1. 1Apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before going outdoors.
2. 2Use enough to cover your face thoroughly. General dermatology guidance recommends at least one teaspoon for the face, about the amount covering the length of your index and middle fingers.
3. 3Rub the sunscreen thoroughly into your skin. Protect other exposed areas too, including your neck, ears and hairline. Use an SPF lip balm for your lips.
4. 4Reapply every two hours while outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating. Reapply after toweling off.

Is it a sensible choice for sensitive skin?

Yes, it fits the general preference for mineral sunscreen in sensitive skin: dermatologists recommend sunscreens containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both for this group. Vanicream formulates its sunscreens for sensitive skin. 'Sensitive skin' is not an FDA defined sunscreen category, so the wording alone is not a performance standard. The ingredient panel tells you more than the adjective, which has considerably less paperwork to complete.14

Can you use it for swimming or exercise?

Check your bottle for a water resistance claim before choosing it for swimming or sweaty exercise. SPF and broad spectrum coverage do not tell you whether a sunscreen stays effective on wet skin. Choose a sunscreen labeled water resistant for those activities. A water resistance label specifies either 40 or 80 minutes during swimming or sweating; follow that interval and the reapplication directions. No sunscreen is waterproof.25

How should you store it, and when should you replace it?

Keep the container out of excessive heat and direct sunlight. Outdoors, keep it in the shade or wrap the container in a towel. Do not use sunscreen past its expiration date. If there is no expiration date, replace it three years after purchase. Discard it if you do not know how old it is, because expired sunscreen can lose its safety and effectiveness.5