Shape's Top 9 Tested Moisturizers with SPF

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Sunscreen is essential to protect skin cells from the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, according to Brendan Camp, MD, a dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. The harmful rays of the sun can cause mutations in cellular DNA, leading to skin cancer if left unchecked. Sunscreen also reduces the effects of UV radiation on photoaging, which results in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. 

Whether you are looking to switch up your routine or start using a moisturizer with SPF, we have you covered. After testing 15 different SPF moisturizers for over two weeks, we have compiled a list of the best nine moisturizers with SPF for every skin type.

At $16, this fast-absorbing and lightweight moisturizer is perfect for everyday use. The formula contains hyaluronic acid, a super-hydrating ingredient that provides a silky-smooth base for makeup while giving your skin a subtle glow. However, it may not be suitable for those who prefer fragrance-free products.

Active ingredients: Avobenzone 3% Homosalate 15% Octisalate 5% Octocrylene 10% Purpose Sunscreen | SPF Level: 50 | Broad spectrum: Yes | Size: 1.7 oz.

The La Roche-Posay moisturizer is perfect for all skin types, including those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. With its quick absorption and oil-free formula, it leaves your skin soft and nourished all day. The probiotics in this moisturizer also protect the skin's microbiome. However, it may leave your skin feeling greasy over time and has a citrusy scent that may not appeal to everyone.

Active ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 5%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7% | SPF Level: 30 | Broad Spectrum: Yes | Size: 2.5 oz. 

Lancôme Renergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Face Cream SPF 30 is perfect for those looking for an even texture and a cast-free application. With vitamin E as a powerful ingredient, this moisturizer protects the skin against free radical damage caused by the sun and environmental pollution. However, the thick and oily formula may not be suitable for oily skin and may sit on top of the skin instead of being absorbed.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 15%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7% | SPF Level: 50 | Broad Spectrum: Yes | Size: 1.0 oz. 

If you're in a rush and want to use just one product, Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer SPF 45 is perfect for you. This illuminating moisturizer is not oily and contains niacinamide, which makes the skin brighter, smoother, and stronger. However, it may not provide sufficient hydration, and the pearlescent finish may transfer onto clothes.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Sunscreen Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10% | SPF Level: 45 | Broad Spectrum: Yes | Size: 1.5 oz

This product offers great value for its broad-spectrum protection, but it is more expensive than other SPFs on the list. Users unanimously enjoyed the application, texture, and long-lasting protection. It also contains niacinamide, which can even out skin tone, as well as antioxidants to fight against free radicals.

However, the price is quite high for only 1.7 ounces of product, and some people found that it had a faint smell.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Octocrylene 2.75%, Octisalate 5% Water, and more | SPF Level: 30 | Broad Spectrum: Yes | Size: 1.7 oz.

The Supergoop! product is excellent for dry skin and has a full-spectrum, algae-infused formula that is very thick. Users only need a tiny amount of the product to protect their entire face, so the small jar lasts for a long time. Additionally, it blocks blue light, which is a useful feature for those who spend a lot of time in front of computer screens.

That being said, people with normal, combination, or oily skin might find the product to be too heavy. After a few hours, it might also make their skin feel oily.

Active ingredients: Avobenzone 2.5%, Homosalate 8%, Octisalate 5% | SPF Level: 40 | Broad spectrum: Yes | Size: 1.7 oz.

The Fenty Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer makes skin appear even and hydrated without looking streaky or cakey. It has a pleasant lavender hue and ergonomic packaging that is easy to carry around. Furthermore, the item is refillable, so it is an environmentally friendly option.

While the moisturizer has some great features, it does need to be reapplied often. Its thinner texture means that the hydration benefits do not last as long. However, this may make it a suitable product for people with oily skin.

Active ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 9%, Octisalate 4.5% | SPF Level: 30 | Broad spectrum: Yes | Size: 1.7 oz.

The Origins moisturizer has an unusual texture that feels like whipped cream. It is lightweight and glides easily on the skin. For individuals with combination skin, it softens the texture without making it oily.

However, the moisturizer might not be the right choice for those with naturally dry or oily skin. It may dry up the dryer portions of their skin or make oilier sections more oily.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3.0%, Homosalate 8.0%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 4.5%, Octocrylene 5.0% | SPF Level: 40 | Broad Spectrum: Yes | Size: 1.7 oz.

The moisturizer is moisturizing and works seamlessly on the face. While it is a bit greasy at first, it quickly becomes non-greasy and provides moisture even in tricky-to-hydrate areas such as the chin and under the eyes.

On the downside, the product feels more like sunscreen than moisturizer. It is thick and requires a bit more effort to apply.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 5%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7% | SPF Level: 30 | Broad Spectrum: Yes | Size: 1.7 oz.

The moisturizer was well-liked by all the testers. It is non-greasy and hydrating. However, some people found that it needed to be reapplied throughout the day.

The only way to test a moisturizer with sunscreen is to use it and see how it works. After selecting 14 moisturizers with the assistance of dermatologist insight, internet reviews, and editor favorites, we had a group of testers with diverse skin types try them. We evaluated their skin’s moisture levels before and after applying the moisturizer and used blotting paper to measure product residue.

We also tested the products at home for two weeks before rendering an opinion.

And, oh, did we take notes. During that 14-day trial period, we wrote down how the product felt going on the skin, how it transformed our complexions, and whether the moisturizer held up as the day went on. We sniffed, dabbed, smeared, and came together to determine which nine products deserve that coveted medicine cabinet real estate. 

SPF products should really come with their own dictionaries—seriously. With terms like “SPF,” “broad spectrum,” and “UVB” flying around, it’s hard to know what moisturizers with SPF deserve a place in the summer beach bag and which ones are better left on the shelf. 

“The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a minimum SPF of 30,” says Dr. Camp. “A sunscreen product with SPF 30 protection protects the skin from 97 percent of UV rays.” 

Broad spectrum is one of those jargony, sunscreen words that may make you pause in the drugstore aisle. But all it really means is that the product provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. “UVA rays penetrate more deeply in the skin and are associated with premature aging,” says Dr. Camp. “UVB rays penetrate more superficially and are associated with the formation of sunburns.” In short, yes, you want to add that “broad spectrum” sunscreen moisturizer to your cart. 

“Tinted SPF moisturizers help even out skin tone, and may be helpful in reducing the impact of UV and visible light on the formation of melasma, a condition in which hyperpigmented patches develop on the face,” says Dr. Camp. They also contain iron oxide, a pigment that protects the skin against visible light. 

Kells McPhillips is a health and wellness writer living in Los Angeles. Her journalism has appeared in The New York Times, Well+Good, Shape, Fortune, Runner’s World, Outside, Yoga Journal, and others. 

Brendan Camp, MD, is double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology and sees patients at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, which has locations in Upper East Side, Hampton Bays, Commack, Smithtown, Plainview, and Midtown East of Manhattan, New York. Patients have been coming to him for his expertise managing medical conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, warts, psoriasis, moles, and skin cancer, as well as cosmetic concerns and treatments with Botox®, fillers, lasers, and other skin rejuvenation devices.