Best Men's Moisturizer with SPF
Written by Jackson Peters |
Last updated April 21, 2023
Medically reviewed by Enrizza Factor, M.D.
Using a moisturizer with SPF for men's skin is crucial for maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause damage to the skin, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. Using a moisturizer with SPF provides a double benefit of not only hydrating the skin but also protecting it from harmful UV rays. Moisturizer helps to keep the skin hydrated and supple, while SPF acts as a barrier against the sun's rays, reducing the risk of sun damage and skin cancer.
Men need to use a moisturizer with SPF as they are more prone to skin cancer than women. It's a simple step that can make a big difference in the long-term health and appearance of the skin.
Our Top Picks
Best overall men's moisturizer with SPF: Kiehl's Facial Fuel Men’s SPF 20 Moisturizer
Best all day moisturizer + sun protection: Geologie Moisturizing Face Cream with SPF15
Best for outdoor activities or sports: Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20
Best for anti-aging: Neutrogena Triple Protect Face Lotion for Men
Best for morning: Tiege Hanley Morning Facial Moisturizer for Men (AM)
Best overall men's moisturizer with SPF: Kiehl's Facial Fuel Men’s SPF 20 Moisturizer
Kiehl’s SPF 20 Moisturizer is a perfectly hydrating, no-fuss revitalizing moisturizer that does double-duty as a daily sunscreen. It goes on smoothly and provides non-greasy protection without clogging pores.
The "Good"
- Invigorating formula gives skin a brighter appearance
- Paraben- and Sulfate-free
The "Could Be Better"
- Recent formula changes haven't met some consumers’ expectations
Active Ingredients
Best all day moisturizer + sun protection: Geologie Moisturizing Face Cream with SPF15
Geologie Moisturizing Face Cream with SPF15 is a perfect addition to your daily skincare routine. This nourishing and hydrating moisturizer helps keep skin looking and feeling healthy while protecting against the sun's harmful rays. Made with Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide, it’s the right mix of active ingredients to do the job.
The "Good"
- Ocean Friendly SPF15
- Smooth application
The "Could Be Better"
- Price tag
Active Ingredients
Best for outdoor activities or sports: Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20
You know you need to protect your skin from the sun, but that can mean using a lot of different products. Wouldn't it be great if one product could do the job of two? Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 does just that, providing hydration and sun protection in one easy step. Plus, its blue algae extract and sea parsley provide an extra boost of antioxidants to help keep your skin looking young and healthy. So ditch the separate sunscreen and moisturizer and consider switching to Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer today.
The "Good"
- SPF 20 sun protection
- All day hydration
The "Could Be Better"
- Not great for sensitive skin
Active Ingredients
Best for anti-aging: Neutrogena Triple Protect Face Lotion for Men
Achieve fresh, hydrated skin with Neutrogena Triple Protect Men's Daily Face Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen. Formulated specifically for mens' skin, this anti-aging facial moisturizer helps to soothe razor irritation while protecting your skin against sun damage. A good addition to any daily skin care routine for men.
The "Good"
- Sun Protection from SPF20
- Great everyday use
The "Could Be Better"
- Subtle scent
Active Ingredients
Best for morning: Tiege Hanley Morning Facial Moisturizer for Men (AM)
Tiege Hanley Morning Facial Moisturizer for Men (AM) is the perfect way to start your day. It's light and refreshing, and it will help keep your skin hydrated all day long. The SPF 20 makes it a good choice for everyday use, whether you're going to the beach or the golf course.
The "Good"
- SPF 20 sun protection
- Great for sensitive skin
The "Could Be Better"
- Doesn’t offer all day protection
Active Ingredients
Benefits of using a moisturizer with SPF
There are several benefits of using a moisturizer with SPF:
- Protection from UV rays: The most obvious benefit of using a moisturizer with SPF is the protection it provides from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can cause damage to the skin, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. By using a moisturizer with SPF, you can reduce your risk of sun damage and skin cancer.
- Hydration: Moisturizers are designed to hydrate the skin and keep it looking and feeling soft and supple. By using a moisturizer with SPF, you can ensure that your skin is getting the hydration it needs while also being protected from the sun.
- Convenience: Using a moisturizer with SPF can save time and effort in your daily skincare routine. Instead of applying a separate moisturizer and sunscreen, you can use a moisturizer with SPF and accomplish both steps in one.
- Reduces Inflammation: Sun damage can cause inflammation and redness in the skin. Moisturizers with SPF can help to reduce inflammation and provide a soothing effect on the skin.
- Anti-aging: Regular use of moisturizer with SPF can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, by protecting the skin from damage caused by UV rays.
- Better overall skin health: Moisturizers can help to improve skin health, as they provide essential nutrients and hydration, which can improve skin's overall appearance.
- Suitable for all skin types: Moisturizers with SPF come in different formulations to cater to different skin types, including oily, dry, sensitive, and combination skin, making it easy for everyone to find a suitable option.
Overall, using a moisturizer with SPF can provide a range of benefits for men's skin, helping to keep it healthy, hydrated, and protected from damage.
What is SPF and how does it work?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, it is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect your skin from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. The number indicates the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn and are linked to skin cancer. The SPF number is calculated by comparing the amount of time it takes for skin to burn with the sunscreen on, versus the amount of time it takes for skin to burn without the sunscreen.
It's crucial to keep in mind that SPF only safeguards against UVB rays and not UVA rays. The latter is responsible for inducing long-term skin damage, such as wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. Although some sunscreens may provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays, it's essential to seek out a sunscreen that explicitly states it offers "broad-spectrum" protection.
If you're looking for more information on SPF and sunscreen, the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) is a trusted source to turn to. Their website offers a wealth of information on sun protection, including tips for choosing and applying sunscreen, frequently asked questions about sunscreen, and advice for safeguarding your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. To learn more, check out their website: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/sunscreen-patients/sunscreen-faqs.
What to look for in a Moisturizer with SPF
When looking for a moisturizer with SPF, there are a few key things a man should consider:
- SPF level: The most important thing to look for in a moisturizer with SPF is the level of SPF. A minimum of SPF 30 is recommended for daily use, but higher levels, such as SPF 50, can provide more protection for extended sun exposure.
- Broad-spectrum protection: Make sure that the moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Non-greasy formula: Some moisturizers with SPF can leave a greasy or oily residue on the skin, which can be uncomfortable and may cause acne. Look for a non-greasy or oil-free formula that absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a shiny finish.
- All-in-one solution: A moisturizer with SPF that also contains anti-aging ingredients like retinol or vitamins C, E can be a great all-in-one solution for men who want to hydrate, protect, and care for their skin all at once.
- Suitable for skin type: Moisturizers with SPF come in different formulations to cater to different skin types, including oily, dry, sensitive, and combination skin, making it easy for everyone to find a suitable option.
- Water resistant: If you plan on being active outdoors, look for a moisturizer with SPF that is water resistant, which will help to ensure that the sunscreen stays on your skin even if you sweat or get wet.
If you're in the market for another type of moisturizer, check out top picks for moisturizer's for men.
Common Ingredients
When looking for a men's moisturizer with SPF, there are a few key ingredients to look for:
Sunscreen ingredients: The most important ingredient in a moisturizer with SPF is the sunscreen ingredient itself. Look for moisturizers that contain physical sunscreen ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, these are gentle on the skin and provide broad-spectrum protection.
Antioxidants: Antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E can help to protect the skin from environmental damage and may also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Hyaluronic acid: This ingredient is a natural humectant, which means it attracts and holds onto the water in the skin. It can help to hydrate and plump the skin, making it look more youthful.
Retinol: Retinol is a form of Vitamin A, which can help to boost collagen production and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.
Aloe vera: Aloe vera can help to soothe and calm the skin, which can be particularly beneficial for men who have sensitive or easily irritated skin.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts like Green Tea, Chamomile, and Calendula have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, and can provide added protection against environmental stressors.
It's important to note that not all SPF ingredients are created equal, particularly when it comes to men's moisturizers. Some men's moisturizers with SPF may have their main SPF ingredient as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are effective but can leave a white cast on the skin. As a result, it's important to check the ingredients list and do some research before making a purchase, to ensure that you're getting a product that suits your specific skin type and preferences.
In addition, some men may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, so it's a good idea to patch-test a small amount of moisturizer on the skin before applying it all over the face.
What to look for by skin type
Different skin types will have different needs when it comes to selecting a men's moisturizer with SPF. Here are a few tips for different skin types:
Oily skin: Men with oily skin should look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with SPF that won't clog pores. A gel or serum-based formula is a good choice, as it absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a greasy residue.
Dry skin: Men with dry skin should look for a moisturizer with SPF that is hydrating and nourishing. A cream-based formula is a good choice, as it will help to lock in moisture and provide added hydration.
Sensitive skin: Men with sensitive skin should look for a moisturizer with SPF that is gentle and non-irritating. A fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula is a good choice, and it's also a good idea to look for ingredients that soothe and calm the skin, such as aloe vera or chamomile.
Acne-prone skin: Men with acne-prone skin should look for a moisturizer with SPF that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores and cause breakouts. A lightweight, oil-free formula is a good choice, and it's also a good idea to look for ingredients that help to control oil production, such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
Aging skin: Men with aging skin should look for a moisturizer with SPF that contains anti-aging ingredients such as retinol or hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
It's also important to note that all skin types should look for a moisturizer with SPF that is broad spectrum SPF and water-resistant, to ensure that the sunscreen stays on your skin even if you sweat or get wet.
In summary
Incorporating a men's moisturizer with SPF into your daily skincare routine is a simple and effective way to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, while also keeping it hydrated and healthy. Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive, acne-prone, or aging skin, there is a moisturizer with SPF that is perfect for your needs. By taking the time to find the right moisturizer for your skin type and incorporating it into your daily routine, you can be sure that you are doing everything possible to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
So don't hesitate, start incorporating a men's moisturizer with SPF into your skincare routine today and see the positive results for yourself.