Sometimes rather than wearing a dedicated sunscreen, you may prefer to apply an SPF moisturizer. Is an SPF moisturizer enough?
SPF moisturizers are moisturizing products that come with the added benefit of sun protection. As with any good sun protection product, look for one that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Also, ensure that it is photostable so that it will hold up against exposure to sunlight. Many older sun filters break down over time, leaving you vulnerable to sun damage. A well formulated sun protection product won’t do that.
There are many advantages of an SPF moisturizer over a dedicated sunscreen:
• Often a lighter texture with a more pleasing feeling on skin, ideal under make-up
• Contains moisturizing, emollient ingredients
• May be less problematic for oilier skin types
Conversely, the disadvantages of using an SPF moisturizer over a sunscreen are:
• May not deliver adequate protection against UV rays
• Most likely not water resistant; potentially problematic for sports and other strenuous outdoor activities
The Bottom Line?
If you plan to spend most of your time indoors and will be outdoors for only a brief period during the day, an SPF moisturizer will probably offer adequate sun protection. However, if you plan to be outdoors all day long – at the beach, out for a hike or gardening – then you need dedicated sun protection that only a sunscreen can offer.
What I Use
My skin care routine changes frequently because I’m always testing out new products. However, sun protection is one area I never compromise on. Regardless of the weather or the season, I use an SPF product every day. During the winter I will happily wear an SPF moisturizer. One like La Roche Posay Hydraphase SPF 30 not only effectively blocks both UVA and UVB rays, but it is a firm favorite with friends and customers alike because it feels great on skin. Other go to products in the winter include Cliniderm SPF 45 and Keys Solar Rx SPF 30. My darker skin tone is pretty happy with both of these chemical free sunscreens.
During the summer, I always use a dedicated sunscreen, even if I am not planning outdoor activities. You just never know… Anthelios sunscreens are my brand of choice. I’m particularly fond of the Anthelios Creme SPF 50+, now also available in a tinted version. The new Anthelios SPF 45 Spray is ideal for when I’m at the beach or spending a lot of time outdoors.
