10 BEST FACE MOISTURIZERS WITH SPF THAT WILL MAKE SUN PROTECTION

Sun protection is crucial for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. But finding a moisturizer with SPF that doesn’t feel greasy or heavy can be a challenge.  Here’s the good news: there are a ton of fantastic options out there that offer both hydration and sun protection! Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, there’s a perfect face moisturizer with SPF for you.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SPF MOISTURISER AND FACIAL SUNSCREEN

A moisturizer with SPF typically combines hydration with sun protection. It’s designed to provide moisture to the skin while also offering some level of sun protection factor (SPF). However, the SPF level in moisturizers may not be as high as standalone sunscreens. SPF moisturizers are suitable for daily use, especially for individuals who spend limited time outdoors or are exposed to minimal sunlight during their daily activities.

Facial sunscreens are specifically formulated to provide high levels of sun protection for the face. They often have higher SPF levels compared to moisturizers with SPF. Facial sunscreens may have different formulations tailored to the delicate facial skin, such as being non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and lightweight, making them suitable for wearing under makeup. They provide stronger protection against harmful UV rays, making them more appropriate for extended periods of sun exposure, such as during outdoor activities or when spending time in direct sunlight.

OUR TOP PICKS 

CERAVE AM FACIAL MOISTURISING LOTION SPF50

The effectiveness of your skin’s barrier directly impacts the extent of sun damage it may encounter. Therefore, this moisturizer is essential due to its inclusion of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, SPF, and its affordable price. Whether or not SPF is a factor, this moisturizer unequivocally stands as one of the best options available.

Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor says: “This is my everyday SPF moisturiser. It doesn’t sit on the skin, it hydrates my dehydrated skin and adds nourishment to drier areas. All the while protecting me everyday.”

NEUTROGENA HYDRO BOOST MOISTURIZER

This SPF product combines hyaluronic acid with extra moisture, making it better than our usual moisturizer. It gives our skin a nice glow without leaving any white marks. It also protects from the sun with SPF 50, keeping our skin safe from harm.

However, even though it says it doesn’t have a smell, it does smell a bit like sunscreen. People with oily skin might find it makes them look too shiny. It’s not easy to make a product with SPF because it has to be just right. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer does a great job. It has SPF 50 and sinks into the skin easily, giving even more hydration than our usual moisturizers. The hyaluronic acid makes our skin feel fresh, and it looks nice even with makeup on. Some people with oily skin might find it a bit too much, but the sunscreen smell isn’t too strong, considering all the good things it does.

OARS + ALPS EVERYDAY FACE MOISTURIZER

The Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37 is better than other options because it has a hydrating formula without any smell, and it has a higher SPF. This moisturizer is light and keeps your skin hydrated all day because of hyaluronic acid. It also has vitamins E and B5 to help prevent aging signs.

When we put it on our skin, it felt nice and made our skin look plump and soft, especially around our eyes. It even helped reduce the small lines under our eyes and made our skin feel more hydrated overall. Although it felt a bit thick when we first applied it, it absorbed quickly into our skin without leaving any white marks or stickiness. We could wear it all day and even during workouts comfortably.This product is a bit thick when you first put it on, but it absorbs into your skin within two minutes.

AVÈNE ANTIROUGEURS DAY CREAM SPF30

This product is ideal for those with sensitive skin, particularly if you’re experiencing redness or have rosacea. Avène is known for its expertise in sensitive skin care, even launching a range tailored specifically for rosacea sufferers. The moisturizer has a green tint to help neutralize redness, and its gentle formula is designed to avoid irritating the skin further. While the packaging might not be the most attractive, the effectiveness of this product makes it a worthwhile purchase.

CAY SKIN ISLE GLOW FACE MOISTURIZER

If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution that combines daily sun protection with a dewy glow, Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer with SPF 45 is worth checking out. This lightweight, pearlescent formula is packed with island-inspired ingredients like sea moss for hydration and niacinamide to smooth skin texture. It also contains an illuminating nude pearl blend that flatters all skin tones and leaves you with a natural, radiant finish. Plus, it’s vegan, silicone-free, and reef-friendly, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin and environmental concerns.

MDSOLAR SCIENCES DAILY PERFECTING MOISTURIZER

MDSolarSciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer with SPF 30 is a great option for daily use, especially if you have sensitive skin. This fragrance-free, chemical sunscreen  boasts broad spectrum protection to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. It also packs a hydrating punch with hyaluronic acid, leaving your skin feeling dewy and nourished.  While not advertised specifically for a radiant finish, some users report a subtle glow.  This moisturizer is particularly appealing because it’s gentle enough for all skin types, including those prone to acne and rosacea.

ULTRA VIOLETTE SUPREME SCREEN HYDRATING FACIAL SKINSCREEN SPF50+

The Ultra Violette Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Sunscreen with SPF50+ is a one of top-notch products for keeping your skin protected from the sun. This sunscreen provides superior sun protection with its high SPF 50+ rating, shielding your skin from harmful UV rays. Not only does it offer excellent protection, but it also hydrates your skin, keeping it moisturized and healthy throughout the day. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy or sticky residue, making it comfortable to wear under makeup or on its own. With its hydrating properties and powerful sun protection, the Ultra Violette Supreme Screen is a must-have for anyone looking to maintain healthy, glowing skin while staying protected from the sun’s harmful effects.

SHISEIDO ESSENTIAL ENERGY HYDRATING DAY CREAM

This fancy moisturizer works wonders for naturally dry skin. Even a small amount leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth, without making it oily or leaving white marks. It’s like your skin drinks up its special formula of hyaluronic acid and ginseng root extract, which also has SPF 20 to protect you from the sun. While it’s not the highest SPF, experts suggest SPF 30 or more for the best protection. But because of its broad-spectrum protection and how good it is for your skin, it’s worth the higher price. Some people like the light, flowery smell, but others don’t. Either way, this Shiseido SPF moisturizer is a winner, especially because you only need a little bit each time you use it.

THE BODY SHOP SKIN DEFENCE MULTI- PROTECTION LIGHT ESSENCE SPF 50 PA +++

The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion with SPF 50+ PA++++ is a great choice to keep your skin safe from the sun. It has a high SPF 50+ and PA++++ rating, which means it gives really good protection against the sun’s harmful rays that can cause sunburn and aging. This lotion feels light on your skin and soaks in quickly, without leaving it oily or sticky. It’s also full of good stuff like antioxidants that protect your skin from pollution and keep it hydrated, so it feels soft and smooth all day long.

ORIGINS A PERFECT WORLD AGE-DEFENSE MOISTURIZER

The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion with SPF 50+ PA++++ is a great choice to keep your skin safe from the sun. It has a high SPF 50+ and PA++++ rating, which means it gives really good protection against the sun’s harmful rays that can cause sunburn and aging. This lotion feels light on your skin and soaks in quickly, without leaving it oily or sticky. It’s also full of good stuff like antioxidants that protect your skin from pollution and keep it hydrated, so it feels soft and smooth all day long.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING MOISTURIZERS WITH SPF

Before buying moisturizers with SPF, there are a few things to think about. First, consider your skin type. Some moisturizers might be too heavy for oily skin, while others might not be moisturizing enough for dry skin. Make sure to pick one that suits your skin type.

Next, look at the SPF level. SPF measures how well the moisturizer protects you from the sun’s harmful rays. Higher SPF numbers mean more protection, but SPF 30 is usually a good choice for everyday use.

Check if the moisturizer offers broad-spectrum protection. This means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Both types of rays can harm your skin, so it’s important to have protection against both.

Consider the ingredients in the moisturizer. Some may contain chemicals that could irritate your skin, so it’s a good idea to test a small amount on your skin before using it regularly.

Lastly, think about how the moisturizer feels on your skin. You want something that absorbs well and doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy or sticky. Finding a moisturizer with SPF that feels comfortable to wear every day is key to protecting your skin while keeping it healthy and hydrated.

CONCLUSION

Finding the right face moisturizer with SPF is important for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider factors like your skin type, SPF level, broad-spectrum protection, ingredients, and how the moisturizer feels on your skin. By choosing one of the top 10 best face moisturizers with SPF, you can ensure that you’re not only keeping your skin hydrated but also safeguarding it against sun damage. With proper sun protection, you can enjoy healthier and more radiant skin for years to come.

WHAT DOES AXIT GLYCOLIC DO FOR YOUR SKIN? 

Glycolic acid is a type of acid found in sugar cane that dissolves in water. It’s commonly used in skin care products to make the skin look better. AHAs, which are natural acids from plants, are the ingredients in glycolic acid. These tiny molecules are easily absorbed by your skin, making them great for reducing wrinkles, enhancing skin texture, and other anti-aging purposes. This article will explain what glycolic acid is and how it benefits your skin. It also provides advice on selecting the right product for you and using it safely.

HOW GLYCOLIC ACID WORKS

Glycolic acid has really tiny molecules compared to other AHAs. This helps it soak into the skin and remove dead skin cells better than other AHAs.

It works by making your skin renew itself faster. In simple terms, it breaks the bonds between skin cells, allowing your skin to get rid of dead cells more quickly.

Glycolic acid also encourages your skin to produce more collagen. Collagen is like the protein that keeps your skin tight, bouncy, and firm. It’s also what gives strength to your bones and connective tissues.

As you get older, your skin makes less collagen, and too much sun can break it down. Using glycolic acid every day can help stop collagen from breaking down and keep your skin looking fresh.

BENEFITS OF ACID GLYCOLIC FOR YOUR SKIN

EXFOLIATION

As a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid has small molecules that penetrate the skin effectively. Once applied, it works by breaking down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This process of exfoliation is crucial for promoting cell turnover, allowing newer and healthier skin cells to emerge.

ANTI-AGING

Glycolic acid effectively dissolves the bonds that tether dead skin cells to the surface, facilitating their removal and unveiling a fresher, more youthful layer of skin beneath. By encouraging the shedding of older skin cells, glycolic acid stimulates the generation of new, healthier cells, visibly reducing the signs of aging.

COLLAGEN PRODUCTION

Glycolic acid plays a pivotal role in supporting skin health by actively stimulating collagen production, a crucial protein responsible for maintaining skin firmness, elasticity, and overall structural integrity. Glycolic acid promotes collagen synthesis by triggering a biological response in the skin cells. This stimulation prompts fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen, to increase their activity.

IMPROVES SKIN SURFACE

Glycolic Acid also clears away oil and dirt deep in your pores, making sure they don’t get all clogged up. This stops acne from showing up on your skin. Plus, when your pores are clean, your skin looks better too. It becomes smooth and bright, and you won’t have that yucky feeling from too much oil anymore.

ACNE TREATMENT

Glycolic acid is awesome for skincare, especially if you have acne. It works extra well when your skin is acting up, helping to tackle acne issues and irritations. If you deal with stubborn cystic acne, glycolic acid is super helpful. It clears out deep blockages of dead skin cells and oil, which is great. When you use it along with other skincare stuff, glycolic acid is one of the best picks to stop the pain from acne.

SUN DAMAGE REPAIR

Glycolic Acid has been proven by doctors to help fix skin damage from the sun. It can go deep into your skin to get rid of dead skin, which helps a lot. It makes dark spots from the sun go away, and your skin gets shiny and smooth. Any marks or redness start to get better too.

RISKS OF GLYCOLIC ACID

UV DAMAGE

While glycolic acid can have positive effects on the skin, it comes with certain risks, particularly related to increased sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays. The exfoliating nature of glycolic acid can make the skin more susceptible to sun damage. Without adequate sun protection, such as sunscreen, prolonged sun exposure may lead to sunburn and other harmful effects on the skin. 

IRRITATION

Certain individuals may encounter reactions to products containing glycolic acid, leading to symptoms such as redness, inflammation, itching, swelling, or a burning sensation. It’s important to note that experiencing burning does not indicate the product is effective. If any of these reactions occur, it is advisable to wash the product off and stop using it.

Symptoms like redness, swelling, and itching may occur if glycolic acid is too strong, used too often, or applied near the eyes. In case of eye contact, rinse thoroughly with clean running water without delay.

HYPERPIGMENTATION

In some cases, individuals may experience an increase in skin pigmentation, leading to darker spots or patches. This risk is higher when using strong concentrations of glycolic acid or when it is not used as directed. To mitigate the possibility of hyperpigmentation, it’s crucial to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase use, following recommended guidelines. If any unusual pigmentation occurs, it’s advisable to discontinue use and consult with a dermatologist to assess the best course of action for your skin.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ACID GLYCOLIC

Glycolic acid is often found in skincare products, like face cleansers, toners, and creams. Many beauty brands include glycolic acid because it’s really good for your skin. You can look for it on the labels when you’re buying skincare stuff – it might be listed as an ingredient. You’ll find these products in places that sell skincare items, like drugstores, beauty stores, or even some supermarkets. So, next time you’re shopping for skincare, keep an eye out for glycolic acid to give your skin a boost.

HOW DO I START USING GLYCOLIC ACID?

Choosing the right glycolic acid product for your skincare routine is important for achieving the best results. Firstly, consider the product’s concentration – glycolic acid comes in different strengths, and it’s a good idea to start with a lower concentration if you’re new to using it. This helps your skin get used to it without irritation. Additionally, you should check the product’s formulation. Some glycolic acid products come in cleansers, toners, or serums, so choose one that fits well into your existing routine. If you’re unsure about glycolic acid, a cleanser is a gentler way to test the waters. Choose one with some hydration built-in, so your skin gets the benefits without the potential sting.

Pay attention to your skin type; if you have sensitive skin, choose a gentler formulation. Remember to read reviews or consult with a skincare professional to get insights into how a particular glycolic acid product has worked for others. 

HOW TO USE GLYCOLIC ACID SAFELY

Overall, glycolic acid is generally safe and effective for your skin. However, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind to ensure the safety and well-being of your skin before incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine.

Foremost, it’s essential to apply sunscreen whenever you’re using glycolic acid treatments. Similar to other AHAs, glycolic acid can heighten your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Ensuring sun protection is crucial to preserve the positive effects of glycolic acid and to prevent the risk of sunburn.

Let your skin get used to glycolic acid. If you’re using a product you can buy without a prescription, start by using it only three times a week for about a week. If your skin doesn’t get red or irritated, you can try using it four times a week for a week or two.

Gradually increase usage until you can use it every day. If your skin gets irritated at any point, take a break before trying again.

When getting peels done at a clinic or salon, they’ll probably start you with a lower amount of glycolic acid. If your skin handles it okay, they might increase the strength for your next sessions.After your initial treatments, your skin might feel a bit rough. Don’t worry, this is normal and shows that the glycolic acid is doing its job. As long as your skin isn’t irritated, continue using your glycolic acid product. Over time, you should notice your skin becoming smoother and healthier.

IS GLYCOLIC ACID GOOD FOR ALL SKIN TYPES? 

Dermatologists affirm that glycolic acid is generally safe for all skin types, but its optimal benefits are observed in individuals with oily and acne-prone skin. If you have dry or sensitive skin, incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine should be approached cautiously, particularly if you have conditions like rosacea or eczema, advises Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, a board-certified dermatologist based in Pittsburgh. However, it’s not ruled out entirely. Dr. Hope Mitchell, Ohio-based board-certified dermatologist, M.D notes that fortunately, there are products available that combine glycolic acid with hydrating ingredients such as urea, glycerin, and triglycerides, addressing concerns related to dryness or sensitivity.

FAQ

1. Is it OK to use glycolic acid everyday?

Yes. Daily use of glycolic acid, particularly in 1-2% concentrations, is generally suitable. However, for higher concentrations (10% and above), it’s recommended to limit usage to once or twice a week to avoid potential skin irritation. 

2. Which is better, retinol or glycolic acid?

Depends on your purpose. For smoother texture, reduced oiliness, and unclogged pores, opt for glycolic acid. To address fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage, choose retinol.

3. What cannot be mixed with glycolic acid?

Vitamin C. Combining AHAs/BHAs like salicylic or glycolic acid with vitamin C can disturb the skin’s pH, leading to peeling, discomfort, redness, and irritation.

4. Can I use retinol if I use glycolic acid?

Yes, you can use retinol alongside glycolic acid, but it’s essential to introduce them gradually to prevent potential irritation, starting with lower concentrations and monitoring your skin’s response. 

5. Can I use niacinamide and glycolic acid together?

Yes, niacinamide and glycolic acid can generally be used together in a skincare routine, as they complement each other. However, it’s advisable to introduce them gradually and monitor your skin.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), offers a range of benefits for the skin, including exfoliation, improved texture, and addressing concerns like hyperpigmentation and fine lines. When incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine, start with lower concentrations, gradually increasing as your skin builds tolerance, and always follow product instructions. You also consult with a dermatologist who can provide personalized guidance for optimal results.