7 Best Men’s Moisturizers with SPF for Protection in 2024

Before the invention of SPF moisturizers, it’s safe to say that few of us were applying moisturizer followed by sunscreen every single day, without fail. Beyond the fair-skinned and highly sun-exposed, it just wasn’t happening. Today, however, by sneaking in UVA and UVB protection to daily moisturizers, skincare companies are making sure sun protection is built in, thanks to the best men’s moisturizer with SPF.

This move isn’t just smart, it makes life easier. Applying moisturizer followed by sunscreen is an added step that promotes clutter and sucks up time, thereby deterring the last step. With a lovely SPF moisturizer, you’re streamlining your skin care, which is great for the guy looking to simplify. Plus, sun protection moisturizers are usually way less sticky on the skin than straight sunscreens. Another reason why you’re more likely to slather on a moisturizer with SPF.

It’s worth noting that an SPF moisturizer isn’t the same thing as loading up on the appropriate amount of sunscreen before prolonged, direct sun exposure, but it works wonders at providing a base of daily protection plus essential hydration and skin barrier health.

Let’s take a peek at the 7 best men’s moisturizers with SPF below.

Key Takeaways

For this assignment I began pouring over hundreds of photos, customer reviews, and even my own bathroom cabinet (and my partners) until I whittled it down to the 7 finalists you see on this list. Overall, the best men’s moisturizer with SPF is La Roche Posay Toleriane Face Moisturizer Sunscreen because it’s great for sensitive skin, protects the skin barrier, and is backed by derms, all at a decent price point. For a simple, straightforward option that is affordable and great for troubled skin, look no further than CeraVe Am Facial Lotion with SPF 30.

three tubes of cosrx suncream — cosrx / Instagram

Why it’s great: When it comes to skincare, you can’t go wrong with this brand known for being free of harsh chemicals and focusing on skin barrier health. The French brand La Roche Posay offers a sunscreen from the gentle Toleriane line that’s ideal for sensitive skin. Not only does it contain broad-spectrum sunscreen but it also protects the skin’s delicate barrier thanks to ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide. Plus, it’s backed by derms as an essential part of any skincare routine.

How it feels: Regardless of your skin type, reviewers love that this lightweight formula goes on smoothly and doesn’t get in your eyes if you sweat.

Who is this for?: Anyone can appreciate a restorative barrier cream infused with sunscreen. Truly, this is for everyone.

Flaws but not deal breakers: While I find the price point to be approachable, there are some slightly cheaper options that do a great job of moisturizing and protecting the skin.

Why it’s great: If you’re going to splurge on the best men’s moisturizer with SPF, you may as well do it with an award-winning brand backed by science. Reviewers seem to really love this one from Murad. Not only does it offer broad-spectrum protection, but it is pretty pumped up in terms of skin health-promoting ingredients. For instance, it utilizes the antioxidant ginkgo biloba to shield the skin from environmental aggressors. It’s clinically proven to hydrate, nourish, and brighten the skin, thanks to a boost of vitamin C. A great choice for sensitive skin types.

How it feels: Reviewers, including one devotee who lives near the Equator, love that it is light yet moisturizing while offering stellar sun protection.

Who is this for?: Those with sensitive, stressed skin are likely to love the barrier this sunscreen provides. Even if your skin is in pretty good shape, the brightening effect from Vitamin C gives anyone a nice glow.

Flaws but not deal breakers: While rich in vitamins and antioxidants, the high price tag and the low product volume don’t offer the best value for those on a budget.

Why it’s great: For the price, this SPF moisturizer puts in work beyond basic sun protection and hydration. It uses juicy ingredients like hyaluronic acid to increase the skin’s moisture content and peptides to promote collagen and improve skin texture. Niacinamide, beauty’s latest buzzy ingredient, really locks in that moisture and minimizes pores. I love that e.l.f. decided to infuse their best-selling face cream with broad spectrum SPF 30 to really streamline your morning routine.

How it feels: I think you’ll love the way this quick-absorbing cream plumps and softens the skin.

Who is this for?: If your skin feels dehydrated, then you’ll appreciate all of the healthy skin ingredients in this SPF moisturizer.

Flaws but not deal breakers: I’m not crazy about the pot container that requires you to dig your fingers in for each application because it can be unsanitary. To avoid any issues, make sure you’re applying with clean hands.

Why it’s great: Much like Murad, Paula’s Choice uses science to formulate their skincare, only at a lower price point. I love this SPF moisturizer for dry skin because it’s nice and rich, thanks to shea butter, which provides tons of long-lasting hydration. Of course, it’s got niacinamide, too, to brighten and restore the skin barrier.

How it feels: Reviewers note how their skin seems to drink up this rich formulation without feeling heavy or greasy.

Who is this for?: It provides a dewy look that is otherwise hard to achieve if you have dry skin. And if you have dark skin, you’ll love that it doesn’t leave a white cast behind.

Flaws but not deal breakers: Because it’s so rich and has a chemical formulation, it’s not ideal for oily or sensitive skin.

Why it’s great: Those on a budget need a reliable, affordable SPF moisturizer that is simple yet effective. Even if price isn’t a factor, many reviewers suffering from acne or adverse skin conditions rely on CeraVe lotion with SPF as an essential part of their skincare kit. It uses patented controlled-release technology to replenish ceramides in the skin and deliver long-lasting moisture. It also happens to be the only physical/chemical sunscreen hybrid on this list to reflect and absorb the sun’s rays.

How it feels: People love the way it glides on smoothly and doesn’t leave behind a greasy feeling like typical sunscreens.

Who is this for?: If your skin easily reacts to new products, then this simple SPF moisturizer is for you.

Flaws but not deal breakers: Besides niacinamides, glycerin, and ceramides, there aren’t any ‘skin-boosting’ ingredients here. However, if you need something clean and straightforward, this is the way to go.

Why it’s great: One of the only men’s SPF moisturizers out there that is truly clean of all irritants, Vanicream is my number one pick for sensitive and/or acne-prone skin. Because it’s pH balanced and focused on restoring the skin’s natural barrier thanks to essential ingredients like ceramides, it’s actually been known to improve acne on many wearers. It can even make your skin less oily.

How it feels: Lightweight and never greasy on the skin, it soaks in beautifully, leaving no white cast behind.

Who is this for?: Those dealing with oily skin and acne may notice a surprising improvement in the quality of their skin after using this moisturizer and sunscreen combo.

Flaws but not deal breakers: I do wish the SPF were higher, especially if it’s meant to protect sensitized skin.

Why it’s great: Including a Korean skincare moisturizer with SPF is a must for me because of the delicate way they care for skin barrier health. Almost all Korean skincare products, including this wildly popular Cosrx sunscreen, undergo clinical trials. Even though this is technically a sunscreen, most reviewers use it as an SPF moisturizer because it’s so hydrating. This gentle sun cream uses aloe leaf extract to soothe irritated skin and hydrates without that thick, greasy feeling. This makes it great for oily skin.

How it feels: You’ll love the lightweight feel on the skin and the fact that it leaves no white cast behind.

Who is this for?: If your skin is red, sensitive, or itchy, a soothing sunscreen moisturizer like this is a must.

Flaws but not deal breakers: If your skin is sensitive or acne-prone, be advised it contains silicone and fragrance.

man with dabs of moisturizer on face — paulaschoice / Instagram

Buying Considerations for Moisturizer With SPF

SPF Number

Because the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends SPF 30, I didn’t bother to include any men’s SPF moisturizers under that mark. It’s already tough as it is making sure you’re applying enough sunscreen for adequate protection when it’s in moisturizer form. I actually recommend adding another sunscreen on top if you’re sun-exposed for a significant amount of time.

The go-to amongst Korean skincare brands, SPF 50 is better, but surprisingly only marginally so when compared to SPF 30. Overall SPF 30 is pretty ideal.

SPF Moisturizer vs Sunscreen

Some of you low-maintenance guys might be wondering, if I’m putting on sunscreen, why bother with a moisturizer beforehand? For starters, sunscreens do not typically contain any moisturizing ingredients, offering merely broad-spectrum sun protection.

And while moisturizers contain plenty of ingredients that hydrate the skin and lock in moisture for skin barrier health, they do nothing in the way of sun protection. However, by combining the two, you gain the benefits of both in one easy step. How’s that for low maintenance?

Keep in mind, however, that it can be difficult to adequately protect the skin from the sun via SPF moisturizer if you’re spending the day on the beach, say. For easy, everyday use, I recommend an SPF moisturizer. But for serious, prolonged sun exposure, I recommend adding additional sunscreen on top before heading outside.

UVA vs UVB

Both refer to Ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun. UVA is Ultraviolet A light that is longer in wavelength and associated with aging. Ultraviolet B (UVB) is shorter and refers to skin burning. Both wreak havoc on the skin cells and can cause cancer.Most of the sunscreens you find on the market today contain both UVA and UVB protection, generally referred to as ‘broad spectrum.’

Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen

It is important to know the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens so you can choose the best option for your skin type. Also known as physical sunscreen, mineral

sunscreens act like a shield by providing a physical barrier between the skin’s surface and the sun’s rays. There are only two FDA-approved options: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Mineral sunscreens are generally better for sensitive skin, dry skin, and skin conditions like eczema.

Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, act like a sponge to absorb damaging rays before they harm your skin. People often prefer them because they’re lightweight, versatile, and easier to rub in. They’re also less likely to leave a white cast behind, especially if you have dark skin. Chemical sunscreen ingredients include avobenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate.

bottles of murad environmental shield sunscreen — muradskincare / Instagram

Why Trust Us

Rachel Cascella is a seasoned expert in men’s grooming, with a proven track record for dissecting the complexities of skincare, makeup, and hair care products for men. Her work at FashionBeans showcases a deep understanding of what makes a product stand out, emphasizing ingredient quality, user experience, and effectiveness. Her detailed reviews span from the multifaceted benefits of skincare items to everyday makeup essentials for men (yes, they exist).

When Rachel’s recommending products her approach is thorough and personalized, considering different skin and hair types, which is evident in each of her articles. Her article about the best leave-in conditioners, is a great example??. Her dedication to providing balanced, informative content underscores her commitment to helping men navigate the vast grooming product landscape with confidence. To find more of her content see her writing profile here.

How I Choose

Many moisturizers with SPF claim to protect the skin from broad-spectrum rays while also adequately hydrating the skin. But sometimes, these products don’t achieve those goals. So, wherever possible, I use my extensive knowledge of skincare and SPF, including loads of research and combing through reviews, to bring you the very best men’s moisturizer with SPF for you. I made sure to highlight the top 7 for all skin types that are highly rated and most likely to garner a second purchase.

Company reputation: Is the brand known for delivering results while also offering a good return policy and adequate customer service? I focused on skincare brands that I know are exceptional, time and again.

Reviews: How do the dozens, if not thousands of customers feel about the SPF moisturizer? I made sure to comb every review of a prospective product before adding it to my shortlist.

Value: More than price, I focus on the value of a product. Does it do what it says, and then some? And does the price match the size and benefits of the SPF moisturizer? This is a big one I never choose to ignore.

Final Verdict

A good men’s moisturizer with SPF should hydrate the skin, protect the barrier, and offer an SPF of at least 30. The best men’s moisturizer with SPF is La Roche Posay Toleriane Face Moisturizer Sunscreen because it’s clean and gentle, good for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is backed by dermatologists.

FAQ

- As long as your sunscreen is broad spectrum, meaning it offers protection from UVA rays associated with skin aging, you can mitigate wrinkles and sun damage.

Contents

Key Takeaways Buying Considerations for Moisturizer With SPF SPF Number SPF Moisturizer vs Sunscreen UVA vs UVB Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen Why Trust Us How I Choose Final Verdict