IF I COULD send a mass email to every man in the world, it would say—in all caps—that you need to be wearing sunscreen whenever you’re exposed to the sun. Whether it’s the dog days of summer or the dead of winter, leaving your skin unprotected from UV rays can result in premature signs of aging, skin discoloration, and even cancer. But if you don’t have the energy to add another product to your (hopefully established) skincare routine, there is an easy solution.
Simply swap your daily moisturizer with an SPF moisturizer. These products combine the best of both worlds, offering the UV protection of sunscreen with the hydration of moisturizers. They’re not a full replacement for sunscreen, to be clear, but can hold up on their own through more mundane tasks and events.
SPF moisturizers are formulated primarily for hydration with added sun protection, so they often contain lower concentrations of UV filters and blockers than standard sunscreens. As a result, they may offer less durable and often less water-resistant coverage, making the products weaker for extended sun exposure. Of course, there are rare exceptions that perform equally to sunscreen with the most intense rays for long periods, but these are few and far between.
Alexander Witkowski, MD, PhD. He adds that for more intense or extended sun exposure, like hitting the beach or going for a hike, a dedicated broad-spectrum sunscreen is preferred, though there are a few rare exceptions. Witkowski says that this oil-free, non-comedogenic formula is enriched with aloe vera and shea butter to hydrate and soothe skin without leaving a greasy residue.
It’s a take I absolutely agree with, as No. 128 has become my go-to daily moisturizer with SPF. As someone with dry skin, this smooth, creamy moisturizer leaves my skin feeling soft and alive, thanks to its one-two punch of aloe vera and shea butter. But it’s also great for oily skin, as its added moisture can help balance sebum production.
It’s infused with vitamin A to combat free radicals (unstable molecules that damage skin cells by accelerating aging and causing wrinkles), and never leaves a cast. What truly sets it apart is how quickly it absorbs into the skin, making it a game-changer for those mornings when you’re short on time, which for me are most days. Even those with sensitive skin will find No. 128 to be an effective, non-irritating daily option, as it’s fragrance-free and super gentle.
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