Can You Skip Sunscreen If Your Moisturizer Has SPF?

Let’s be honest—when life gets busy, multitasking products are a lifesaver. An SPF moisturizer that hydrates and protects your skin? Yes, please! But does it mean you can ditch sunscreen altogether? Not so fast. While SPF moisturizers are convenient, they may not give your skin the full protection it needs. Let’s break it down in simple, no-nonsense terms.

Sunscreen vs. SPF Moisturizers: What’s the Difference?

Think of sunscreen as a bodyguard and SPF moisturizers as multitaskers. A sunscreen’s one job is to block harmful UV rays. It’s designed to go on in a thick layer and create a barrier between your skin and the sun. SPF moisturizers, on the other hand, are like skincare hybrids—they’re here to hydrate first and protect second.

And here’s where it gets tricky. Most of us don’t use SPF moisturizers the same way we apply sunscreen. Studies actually show that when people use moisturizers with SPF, they miss more areas of their face compared to when they use a regular sunscreen. We’re talking an average of 16.6% of the face left unprotected with SPF moisturizers versus 11.1% with sunscreen. That’s a lot of room for UV rays to sneak through!

Why SPF Moisturizers Are Still Great

Now, don’t write them off completely—SPF moisturizers can be a solid part of your routine, especially if you’re short on time or just hanging out indoors.

Here’s what they’re good for:

• Convenience: Mornings can be a rush, and combining your moisturizer and sun protection into one step can feel like a win.
• Hydration: These products are usually packed with nourishing ingredients that keep your skin soft and smooth.
• Everyday Use: If you’re not spending hours in the sun, an SPF moisturizer can work as a basic shield against incidental exposure.

But (and this is a big but), they’re not enough on their own if you’re planning to spend more than a few minutes outside.

The Case for Dedicated Sunscreen

So, why can’t you just rely on your SPF moisturizer? The answer is simple—it’s not as reliable.

1. Not Enough SPF: Many SPF moisturizers don’t pack enough punch when it comes to sun protection. Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, but a lot of moisturizers don’t meet this standard—or if they do, you might not apply enough of it to get the full benefit.
2. Broad-Spectrum Protection Matters: Your skin needs protection from both UVA (the rays that age your skin) and UVB (the rays that burn). While some SPF moisturizers are broad-spectrum, not all of them are. Check the label!
3. Reapplication Is Key: Sunscreen isn’t a “set it and forget it” kind of product. It needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re sweating, swimming, or spending a lot of time in direct sunlight. Be honest—when’s the last time you reapplied your moisturizer midday?

How to Protect Your Skin Like a Pro

Here’s the deal. For the best sun protection, you’ll want to use both an SPF moisturizer and a dedicated sunscreen. It’s not as complicated as it sounds—promise!

• Start With Your Moisturizer: If your skin feels dry, go ahead and use an SPF moisturizer in the morning. Think of it as a base layer of protection.
• Layer on Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher over your moisturizer. Be generous—about a nickel-sized amount for your face should do it.
• Don’t Forget to Reapply: Keep a travel-size sunscreen or SPF spray in your bag for touch-ups throughout the day. Your future self (and your skin) will thank you.

The Bottom Line

So, can you skip sunscreen if your moisturizer has SPF? In a word—nope. While SPF moisturizers are great for a quick, convenient layer of protection, they’re no substitute for a proper sunscreen. Your skin deserves the best defense against UV rays, and that means giving it the full coverage it needs.

The good news? By using both products, you’re not just protecting your skin—you’re giving it the hydration and care it deserves. And who doesn’t want that?

So, grab your sunscreen, slather it on, and keep your skin glowing and protected. You’ve got this!