The 8 best moisturizers with SPF I tested to hydrate while protecting skin

Following your perfect skincare routine of a creamy cleanser, tip-top serum (either niacinamide or vitamin C), lightweight eye cream and whipped moisturizer comes a prime essential: SPF.

While we always have our facial sunscreens and body sunscreens at the ready, it’s a kill-two-birds-with-one-stone situation if your moisturizer is pre-infused with SPF (though, dermatologists recommend reapplying throughout the day).

It’s important to note that even though your perfectly whipped moisturizer (or lip balm) may include SPF, it’s not a 100% perfect substitute for your facial sunscreen. In fact, you’ll want to dollop your moisturizer of choice on top of your skin before you apply your skin-protecting sunscreen.

As someone who’s a bit too scientifically obsessed with sun protection and all things lathering and slathering, I put 11 moisturizers with SPF to the test. Yes, there’s a difference between one of these and a full-on facial sunscreen. A moisturizer with SPF will never replace the sun protection a facial SPF provides, though they have the benefit of offering more sun protection to hydrate your skin beforehand.

To help complete your morning skincare routine, we compiled this year’s edit of the best moisturizers with SPF—tinted moisturizers accounted for, too. Aside from the best hyaluronic acid skincare and retinol creams, it’s always in our makeup bags.

Turning to four board-certified dermatologists to give us all their best practices, we also curated an FAQ section for what ingredients to look for, how to apply and more.

Best Overall: Neutrogena Collagen Bank SPF Moisturizer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Amazon

The Neutrogena Collagen Bank SPF Moisturizer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a simply beautiful formulation, seamlessly blending anti-aging benefits with essential sun protection. This lightweight, non-greasy formula is enriched with Neutrogena’s patented micro-peptide technology, which is designed to penetrate over 10 layers deep into the skin. These micro-peptides are twice as small as traditional anti-aging peptides, enabling them to support collagen production more effectively and visibly improve early signs of collagen decline.

I love how this makes my skin feel. It has no trace of fragrance, includes collagen to allow my skin to be bouncy and smooth and is the fastest to absorb into my skin. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Clinical studies have demonstrated that 96% of users experienced firmer-looking skin, 87% noticed improved fine lines and 85% saw enhanced skin texture after consistent use. It’s ideal for any age, and its price point is incredibly reasonable as well.

In addition to its anti-aging properties, this moisturizer offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, shielding the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, which are the primary contributors to collagen breakdown and premature aging. Its formulation includes active ingredients like avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate and octocrylene, which work together to provide effective sun defense.

The product’s lightweight texture is exceptional. It ensures it melts into the skin without leaving a white cast, which is another checkmark in its favor. It’s also fragrance-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free and dye-free, catering to sensitive and acne-prone skin types. It’s the most versatile and the most appealing to a variety of users. It’s one I use on repeat: 24/7, to be exact.

Active ingredients: Collagen, Micro-Peptides | SPF count: 30

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Best Drugstore: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 35

Amazon

​The Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 35 offers a trifecta of hydration, sun protection and skin barrier support. This lightweight, oil-free formula is designed to provide 24-hour hydration, which is a blessing to my sensitive and combination skin.

Aside from broad-spectrum SPF 35, the inclusion of edelweiss flower extract and vitamins B3 and B5 nourishes and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, defending against dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness and a weakened skin barrier. Better yet, the brand is one I trust from the drugstore and has a barely there feel.

The formula is also fragrance-free, paraben-free and noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. These attributes make it suitable for daily use, even for anyone experiencing acne-prone or easily irritated skin. It absorbs quickly with a matte finish, making it an excellent base for makeup. I love how it provides a smooth canvas without leaving a greasy residue.

Active ingredients: Edelweiss Flower Extract | SPF count: 35

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Best Tinted: Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++

Nordstrom

Some may argue that the Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++ already had its time in the spotlight years ago when it was first introduced and exacerbated in popularity on TikTok, but it’s still a goodie in my book. The most illuminating factor about this sunscreen is that it’s tinted and leaves a nongreasy glow, allowing me to use it sans makeup — it’s that flattering.

Yes, in my spare time, I listen to podcasts about hyperpigmentation, which seems to track with what I do day-in and day-out: test the best of beauty products. In an older episode produced by Allure, a dermatologist noted how using a tinted sunscreen helps really protect against UV. Melanin is the chief pigment in the skin that protects us from UV rays, and fair skin has less of them. Because of that, little skin factories called melanocytes produce more melanin (therefore, producing a tan) to protect the skin when exposed to UV rays. If using a tinted sunscreen, it aids a bit more in standard sun protection for lighter skin tones that naturally come with less pigmented melanin, which I appreciate in Supergoop!’s formulation.

Miniature science lesson aside, the “Glow Screen” in its name makes it exceed the quality of standard tinted moisturizers for its naturally luminous finish. But, don’t worry, it won’t make you look like a disco ball. Because of its JLO-glow factor, it’s one of my favorites to reapply every 2 hours.

For its ability to make me feel sun-kissed, I constantly toss this in my beach bag, though I find myself applying it on mornings when I have a bit less time to succumb to a full makeup routine. Additionally, all four of Glowscreen’s shades are flexible on a wide range of skin tones; “Dawn” provides a pink pearl glow, “Sunrise” (our original shade!) provides a champagne glow, “Golden Hour” provides a bronze glow and “Sunset” provides a deep bronze glow, per its product description. I’m a user of “Sunrise,” and continue to swear by its original, cruelty free formula.

Active ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Cocoa Peptides | SPF count: 40

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Best Anti-Aging: RéVive Perfectif Even Skin Tone Cream Dark Spot Corrector Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

Revolve

The RéVive Perfectif Even Skin Tone Cream Dark Spot Corrector Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a luxe formula that offers a comprehensive approach to skincare. It addresses multiple concerns simultaneously, including dark spots, but has the dreamiest consistency.

This luxurious cream not only provides broad-spectrum sun protection but also targets dark spots, uneven skin tone and signs of aging. Its formulation includes a Dark Spot Correcting Complex, which has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of dark spots and improve skin clarity in as little as two weeks.

Beyond its brightening effects, this moisturizer boasts anti-aging benefits. Clinical studies have demonstrated that 100% of participants experienced improved skin moisturization after just one use, with continued improvements in fine lines and wrinkles after eight weeks. I’ve noticed an improvement to the softness of my skin, and the inclusion of ingredients like oligopeptides and tocopheryl acetate — I’ve learned — enhances skin texture and provides antioxidant protection. This helps create an even more youthful appearance.

Its dual-action formula that combines skincare and sun protection makes it worth the splurge, if willing. With SPF 30, it shields the skin from harmful UV rays and, in turn, helps prevent further pigmentation and aging signs. It’s an excellent, all-in-one solution to help brighten, combat signs of aging and protect.

Active ingredients: Dark Spot Correcting Complex | SPF count: 30

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Best for Sensitive Skin: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Amazon

When it comes to skincare brands sold at the drugstore, there’s nothing quite like CeraVe. The dermatologist-surrounding formulation protects against UVA and UVB rays per its broad-spectrum classification and it’s incredibly moisturizing. It blends fairly easily and is my go-to gentle moisturizer for the mornings.

Sun protection aside, it features a blend of three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which are all known for their ability to restore the skin’s natural barrier, retain moisture and soothe irritation. It even boasts proprietary InVisibleZinc Technology ensures that the mineral sunscreen provides effective protection without leaving a white cast.

Additionally, its noncomedogenic and fragrance-free formulation reduces the risk of breakouts and allergic reactions, which is all the more reason to grab this SPF-infused moisturizer for your sensitive skin. It’s a no-frills moisturizer and while it doesn’t offer a natural glow like some other options on this list, it’s a reliable favorite of mine.​ I also love how it’s oil-free so as not to leave a shiny finish on my skin.

Active ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide | SPF count: 30

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Best for Dry Skin: Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Facial Moisturizer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Kiehl's

Your hydrating, lightweight moisturizer awaits, thanks to the Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Facial Moisturizer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30. It’s a fast-absorbing moisturizer enriched with squalane, a botanical lipid derived from olives, known for its ability to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier. It leaves my skin ultra-soft every time.

It’s featherlight and comfortable to wear, layering well over makeup. Additionally, it contains Antarcticine, a glycoprotein that helps skin retain moisture, making it particularly beneficial for combating dryness in harsh climates. It’s outstanding and, when used routinely, makes my skin its softest.

It’s quite a good value with its 8,.4-ounce bottle size and is simple to travel with. For anyone looking for a fragrance-free yet moisturizing cream that also offers sun protection, this one has that it-factor.

Active ingredients: Glycerin, Squalane | SPF count: 30

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Best for Oily Skin: DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46

Amazon

​The DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 is like your makeup — but better. It creates a luminous, natural finish, thanks to its lightweight, oil-free formula ensures that it won’t clog pores or contribute to excess shine. This is imperative for oily skin, and it does justice on my combination skin.

The inclusion of niacinamide helps regulate sebum production, reducing the risk of breakouts and promoting a smoother complexion. Beyond its oil-controlling properties, this tinted moisturizer offers broad-spectrum SPF 46 protection, shielding the skin a bit more than the dermatologist standard of SPF 30.

It also holds antioxidant-rich ingredients in its formulation, such as vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. So, even though hyaluronic acid is more commonly recommended for dry skin, you’ll still reap additional hydration benefits — all without the greasy residue.

It truly delivers a radiant yet matte finish, effectively evening out my skin tone without causing excess shine. Its versatility allows it to serve as both a sunscreen and a lightweight foundation, so it’s a staple in my makeup bag. With its combination of sun protection, oil control and skin-enhancing ingredients, it’s worth the just-shy-of-$30 price tag.

Active ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E | SPF count: 46

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Best for Under Makeup: e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! Face Cream SPF 30

Amazon

​After reviewing nearly every e.l.f. product, I’m completely obsessed with eyes, lips, face. The brand’s Holy Hydration! Face Cream SPF 30 stands out as an exceptional moisturizer with SPF, especially when used under makeup. It has a glow-infused, lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly into the skin, and for less than $15, too.

It offers a smooth and hydrated base without leaving any residue. In essence, it doubles as a fabulous makeup primer and even helps my makeup last longer throughout the day. Check yes, Juliet.

Formulated with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides, this face cream boasts the trifecta of brightening, hydrating ingredients. Synergistically, they help improve skin texture and provide a supple, radiant complexion that enhances the appearance of my natural makeup.

I can’t stop recommending this value-driven moisturizer. In basic terms, it contains the good stuff, and it’s worth every penny if you want a do-it-all product: a makeup primer, a sun protector, a dreamy moisturizer and a formula that’ll create that lit-from-within finish.

Active ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Peptides | SPF count: 30

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How I tested

After swatching and slathering on the best moisturizers with SPF for four years, I quickly learned that *plenty* of creams contain SPF, but not all are created equal. Here’s the rigorous set of testing criteria I kept in mind while reviewing each face sunscreen:

• Broad-spectrum: Each face moisturizer should be broad-spectrum, meaning that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays help prevent aging, while UVB rays help prevent physical sunburns.
• Ingredients: Aside from SPF, the quality of the ingredients makes an impact. For instance, dermatologists love an SPF-infused moisturizer with antioxidants mixed in to help protect against environmental stressors, while an ingredient like hyaluronic acid is your best bet for dry skin.
• Scent: Plenty of SPF-infused moisturizers are fragrance-free as to appeal to many people, though some have a pleasing, subtle scent that makes you want to use the product ten times over. As someone with sensitive skin, I paid careful attention to any signs of irritation.
• Cosmetic elegance with makeup: You surely can wear a moisturizer with SPF sans makeup, but many people (including myself) apply SPF before face makeup to protect before enhancing the skin. Many are now marketed as primers but, regardless, I assessed each formulation with and without foundation to see how it fared on the skin.

An FAQ on Moisturizers with SPF

Ahead, our team of board-certified dermatologists gave us the 411 on moisturizers with SPF — including what ingredients to look for — for every skin type.

Why is it important to wear SPF on your face?

Much like protecting your body from the UV rays in the summertime, your face is another prime area that should be lathered up.

“While it’s important to protect your entire body, the face is especially vulnerable to sun damage — it’s rarely covered by clothing and is exposed to the sun year-round,” Jesse M. Lewin, MD, a Mohs Micrographic and Dermatologic Surgeon practicing in New York and a spokesperson for The Skin Cancer Foundation, told the New York Post. “Daily sunscreen use is an important part of a complete sun protection strategy that includes seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm) and covering up with UPF clothing, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.”

What’s more, one study found that regular daily use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces the risk of developing melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer, by 50 percent.

Should I apply a moisturizer with SPF before facial sunscreen?

“A moisturizer with SPF and good UVA filtering ingredients should provide adequate coverage on its own if applied correctly,” Marie V. Hayag, MD, board-certified dermatologist said. “However, I do recommend another SPF, preferably a physical block sunscreen, on top if you will be outdoors for more than two hours or if you’re in the intense sun such as sunny vacations, high altitude skiing and hiking or outdoor sports.”

Applying a moisturizer before your facial SPF is absolutely fine, too, as long as you aren’t decreasing the application of the volume of facial SPF. “To achieve the SPF level marketed on the bottle, the product needs to be applied appropriately, about ‘two-finger lengths’ of sunscreen for your entire face,” Nazarian noted. “You can apply moisturizer before or after, but make sure you’re applying the minimum required sunscreen in between.”

What amount of SPF is best?

While any type of sunscreen can be deemed “good,” it’s important to follow the baseline recommendations for using SPF on your face.

“If your facial moisturizer contains an SPF that’s at least 30 and titanium dioxide or zinc oxide as an active ingredient, that’s really all you need,” Mudgil advised. “Anything that doesn’t would require an additional sunscreen that meets my minimum criteria (namely, a minimum SPF 30 containing titanium or zinc).”

What other ingredients in a moisturizer should I look for besides SPF?

According to Hayag, look for ingredients that protect against blue light such as iron oxides and also antioxidant ingredients like vitamins C and E. “Formulations that contain HEV (high energy visible) blue light photons have higher energy than other wavelengths of light in the visible spectrum and penetrate deeper into the skin than UVA and UVB rays,” Hayag added.

Titanium dioxide or zinc oxide — physical blockers of the sun’s rays — also provide protection against skin cancer and photoaging, Mudgil notes.

The best ingredients for sensitive or acne-prone skin

“If you’re aiming to use a hydrating SPF, look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, squalane, and niacinamide,” Rachel Nazarian, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group, highlighted. “Sensitive skin does well with ingredients such as glycerin and squalane — which are hydrating and calming — and sensitive skin tolerates mineral blockers such as zinc and titanium better than chemical sunscreen ingredients”

Moreover, acne-prone skin “works well with sunscreens containing lactic acid, niacinamide, and those that are labeled ‘noncomedogenic,’ ensuring other ingredients in the product don’t clog pores,” she explained.

The best ingredients for dry or oily skin

If you have naturally dry skin or it’s wintertime, consider choosing a moisturizing sunscreen with ingredients like lanolin or glycerin to combat dryness, per Dr. Lewin. An oil-free or mattifying moisturizer might be better for humid summer days or those with oily skin, too.

“Many moisturizing sunscreens on the market today include different combinations of skincare ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides and peptides,” Lewin noted. “Depending on your skincare concerns, you can choose a moisturizer that will address both sun protection and issues like uneven skin tone or acne, but it can be helpful to discuss this with your dermatologist.”

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Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.

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Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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