Debunking Misinformation About Face Moisturisers With SPF

Everything You Need to Know About Face Moisturisers With SPF

Regular application of sunscreen is vital for protecting the skin from the sun's harmful rays, and keeping the complexion looking healthy at any age. And for optimal protection from the sun, the beauty industry is now introducing formulations and products that have SPF in them. For instance, you can now find SPF in moisturisers, serums, and more, making sun protection simple and convenient. But is a moisturiser with SPF enough for all day, effective protection against the sun? Or which product is best, face moisturiser with SPF or sunscreen? Let’s find out as we discuss important facts about this multitasking skincare product.

Overview

When it comes to sun protection, both sunscreens and moisturisers with SPF are beneficial. However, the latter is better as it combines the best of two integral skincare steps - moisturisation and sunscreen. Moisturisers with SPF deliver all-day hydration while protecting your skin from the sun’s damaging UVA and UVB rays. However, despite their many benefits, even the best SPF face moisturisers are sometimes overlooked by those who don’t know how to best utilise them. That’s why we’re here with our skincare guide, which covers how to choose the best face moisturisers with SPF, how much to use and how they differ from the regular face sunscreens.

The Basics: Facts About SPF in Moisturisers

• Face moisturisers with SPF are hybrid skincare products that combine hydration and sun protection into one skincare step.
• Not all moisturisers with SPF are the same. There are a variety of formulas for different skin types, skin concerns, skin tones and lifestyles.
• Wondering if a moisturiser with SPF is enough? While SPF moisturisers or sunscreens will do the majority of the job, you should also indulge in additional sun safety measures such as seeking shade and wearing protective clothing.

What Is a Facial Moisturiser With SPF?

Sun protection comes in many forms, from sunscreen sticks to sunscreen lotions, and SPF face moisturisers. The latter i.e. SPF moisturisers have sunscreen built into their formulations, effectively combining the goodness of a face moisturiser and sunscreen. The result is a multi-benefit product that effortlessly blends into your daily skincare routine. SPF face moisturisers come in a variety of options to suit all skin types and can be formulated with different active ingredients to help address an array of skin concerns.

Why is there SPF in my Moisturiser?

SPF, which stands for ‘Sun Protection Factor, is a measurement of how well a particular sunscreen product protects your skin against UVA and UVB rays. Without proper protection, the sun’s harmful rays can cause skin damage, and in worse cases, skin cancer.  SPF face moisturisers can help protect your skin from these damaging effects, which often show up in the form of fine lines, wrinkles and discolouration.

What Are the Benefits of Having SPF in Moisturisers?

This sun protection option is packed with multiple benefits. For starters, SPF in moisturisers offer daily protection from the sun’s harmful rays, which is essential for maintaining a healthy-looking skin. Their formulations are enriched with broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin against both UVA and UVB rays. In addition to sun protection, these multi-purpose products also offer additional hydrating benefits that can help support your skin’s appearance. And, last but not least, moisturisers with SPF are convenient. You can replace two products in your routine (face sunscreen and face moisturiser) with one, saving your time and effort.

Should You Use a Moisturiser With SPF Every Day?

Protecting your skin from sun damage is a year-round practice that requires a consistent daily routine. Even if you get your hands on some of the best SPF face sunscreens, they won’t benefit you if you’re not consistent with the application. Ideally, you should apply SPF moisturiser every morning as part of a comprehensive sun protection routine—come rain or shine. This is because the sun’s rays can penetrate through clouds, as well as glass surfaces (for instance, when you’re driving or sitting near a window).

Each sunscreen product can have slightly different application instructions, so it’s essential to read the product label carefully and apply as directed. For example, CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion With SPF 30 should be applied approximately 15 minutes before sun exposure. Keep reading to learn more about how to apply (and reapply) moisturisers with SPF.

How Often Should You Reapply Your Face Moisturiser With SPF?

The IJDVL (Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology) recommends reapplying sunscreen or SPF moisturisers at least every two hours, especially if you spend large portions of your day outdoors. However, if you’re indulging in an outdoor activity like swimming, it’s recommended that you use a water-resistant sunscreen on both your face and body for optimal protection and reapply frequently. You can also consult with a certified dermatologist to get personalised advice on when and how often to apply (and reapply) the SPF moisturisers.

Do Face Moisturisers With SPF Expire?

SPF in moisturisers will expire eventually. As for when this will happen, it can vary. Some may have an expiration date listed on the product label that you can follow. In the case that you aren’t able to locate the product’s expiration date, it’s generally okay to assume that you can use a sunscreen product for up to three years from the purchase date. As per an article published in Healthline, sunscreens and most SPF products have a shelf life of at least three years unless labelled with an expiration date.

Is SPF in Moisturiser Enough for Daily Sun Protection?

The effectiveness of SPF moisturisers, even if it’s the best face moisturiser with SPF, will depend on whether you apply it correctly, reapply when needed and use enough  to thoroughly cover all areas in need of protection. It’s also important to remember that not all moisturisers with SPF are created equally,  some may offer more protection than others.  It is advisable to consult with a dermatologist for the best guidance on how to get the most out of your SPF in moisturiser.

What Should I Look For In a Moisturiser With SPF?

When it comes to selecting an SPF moisturiser, look for formulations that have nourishing ingredients, SPF level of 30 or above and are non-comedogenic (i.e. they won’t clog your pores). CeraVe houses one of the best SPF face moisturisers, which ticks off this check-list and can be your ultimate morning skincare multitasker. CeraVe’s Ceramides AM Facial Moisturising Lotion with SPF 30 features broad-spectrum sunscreen, potent ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and essential ceramides and MVE technology that helps maintain hydration levels in the skin.  What’s more, this moisturising lotion is non-greasy, lightweight, and non-comedogenic, hence it does not clog your pores. Read on as we discuss more on what to look for in a moisturiser with SPF and how to choose the right one for you.

SPF 30 or higher

When finding the best face moisturisers with SPF, the first thing you want to check is the SPF number. According to the IJDVL, a sunscreen with SPF 30 can filter out approximately 97% of UVB rays. So, while shortlisting a moisturiser with SPF, look for one that has an SPF of  30 or above.

Broad-spectrum sun filters

Always read the product label carefully to make sure that your SPF moisturiser contains “broad-spectrum” sunscreen. There are two types of UV radiation that can cause sun damage - UVA and UVB rays - and broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect your skin against both.

Hydrating ingredients

One of the biggest benefits of having SPF in moisturisers is the added hydrating benefits they provide. CeraVe’s SPF moisturiser is developed with MVE technology to help deliver moisture to the surface layer of your skin while also sealing in moisture and supporting your skin’s natural barrier. Look at product labels for beneficial ingredients like those mentioned above, including, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and ceramides.

Non-comedogenic

Go for a moisturiser with SPF that leaves your skin feeling healthy and radiant, without clogging your pores. CeraVe face moisturisers are non-comedogenic, meaning they’re formulated not to clog your pores or trigger breakouts. This is especially important for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as these skin types generally benefit most from such products.

Fragrance-free

Although the addition of fragrance can make your skincare products smell great, this ingredient may cause headaches, irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, dizziness, fatigue, forgetfulness and other symptoms as per an article published in IJDVL. Our moisturisers with SPF are expertly formulated to be fragrance-free and allergy-tested, making them suitable for many types of skin.

How To Get the Most Out of a Face Moisturiser With SPF

To reap the full benefits of a moisturiser with SPF, it’s essential for you to  use it correctly and consistently all year round. Apply the product generously, covering all areas of your face that require hydration and sun protection. According to the IJDVL, you can follow the “Teaspoon Rule” while applying sunscreen. Take slightly more than half a teaspoon of the product on your palms, and gently massage it all over your face, neck and arms. Note: Slightly more than a teaspoon of sunscreen should be enough for the chest, back and each of your legs. However, the exact usage recommendation can vary and you should refer to the product level for proper application. Always read the packaging carefully and apply as per the specific product’s instructions. Remember to apply moisturiser with SPF as the last step in your daytime skincare routine.

For further skincare assistance, browse through the wide range of CeraVe skincare products and flaunt healthy and nourished skin.