These moisturisers with SPF make sun protection effortless (2025)

It goes without saying that sunscreen is the most important step in any daytime routine. Aside from protecting your skin from sun damage, it's also integral to your overall health as it serves as a shield against harmful rays than can lead to skin cancer.

From Australian sun creams that undergo rigorous testing to the elegant textures of Korean formulas, we are now spoilt for choice when it comes to SPF. In recent times, you may also notice day creams and moisturisers with SPF protection built in. If you're confused as to the difference between them and a traditional sunblock, we've called on the experts to find out.

Meet The Experts:

• Mark Curry, virologist and co-founder of The Inkey List
• Amy Frith, aesthetician and founder of BASE Skincare

What is a moisturiser with sunscreen?

As the name suggests, these are face creams with built in SPF. Years ago, you're likely to find day moisturisers with SPF15 or SPF20, but modern formulas now come with higher protection including SPF30 and SPF50.

What's the difference between a traditional sunblock and a moisturiser with SPF?

Considering that many sunscreens have hydrating benefits, the existence of moisturisers with SPF can be confusing. But there is actually a formulation difference between the two.

"A moisturiser with SPF is designed primarily as a skincare product first and sun protection second, meaning it usually has added hydrating ingredients, sits comfortably on the skin, and plays well with other products," says Mark Curry, co-founder of The Inkey List.

"A traditional SPF, on the other hand, is formulated with the primary goal of UV protection, so it often contains a higher concentration of UV filters and is rigorously tested for things like sweat resistance, water resistance, and full-day wear in outdoor conditions."

Aesthetician and founder of Base skincare, Amy Frith, agrees, adding: "Both undergo SPF testing, but their real-world protection can vary. Sunscreens are formulated to create an even, stable UV barrier, while SPF moisturisers may break down faster due to their skincare-focused ingredients. Many aren’t as resistant to sweat, oil, or friction, meaning their protection can wear off more easily too."

Is a moisturiser with sunscreen as effective as a traditional SPF?

Technically, yes, but only when used properly. "If it says SPF50, then it has been tested and validated to offer that level of protection. However, the real-world effectiveness can be different," shares Curry.

"With a moisturiser with SPF, people tend to apply it as they would a regular moisturiser which is usually too little to get the full SPF protection. A dedicated SPF is typically applied more generously using the three-finger rule [apply a line of product on three fingers before massaging onto skin], as people are more conscious of getting proper coverage."

The testing process varies too. "Traditional SPFs often go through more stringent UVA testing, especially in Europe, where the PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) rating matters, so while a moisturiser can have excellent protection, it’s crucial to check how broad-spectrum it is", suggests Curry.

Moisturisers with SPF either use a chemical, physical or a combination of both types of UV filters. Chemical filters absorb UVA and UVB rays while physical (or mineral) ones deflect the sun rays back.

The benefits of a moisturiser with SPF

When formulating a moisturiser with SPF, Curry notes that there are multiple things to consider, such as texture and wearability ("it needs to feel like skincare, not thick or greasy"), make-up compatibility so it doesn't pill or ball-up under foundation, long-wear comfort, and skincare benefits. "You’ll often see added humectants such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid alongside skin-friendly actives like niacinamide and peptides to make it work harder for the skin," he adds.

When should you use a moisturiser with SPF

As a beauty editor who's been committed to sun protection since her early teens, I find face creams with sunscreen far more user-friendly, and I tend apply more of it simply because it feels comfortable and lighter on the skin. My complexion often gets shiny by midday, so moisturisers with SPF negates the need for an additional layer for day cream.

"A moisturiser with SPF is convenient for light, everyday exposure such as running errands or working indoors near windows," says Frith, who notes that there are generally more cosmetically elegant.

However, if you are spending long hours in the sun - for example, when on holiday - or splashing about on the beach, a traditional sunblock that promises to be water and sweat-resistant is still best. It goes without saying, but re-application is important no matter the SPF you choose. A sunscreen mist or powder is a great option for topping-up your protection throughout the day.

The Bazaar-approved moisturisers with SPF