But before we go any further, I want you to listen very carefully: Using a moisturiser or a foundation that merely lists SPF as an ingredient does not tick that ‘protection’ box. In order to protect your skin from damaging UV rays, it is imperative that you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. This means the product protects skin against skin-ageing UVA rays (this is typically illustrated by a ‘PA+++’ or star rating, for example) and burn-inducing UVB rays (illustrated by an SPF rating). The reason for this serious caveat is that in order to truly give your skin the protection it requires, a product has to contain a hefty amount of those all-important UV-blocking ingredients. Dermatologists recommend applying a half-teaspoon of SPF to the face in order to guarantee the level of protection on the bottle—if you’re relying on a tinted moisturiser or foundation for such coverage, I’d bet my hat that you’re not applying nearly enough.
The best advice a dermatologist ever gave me? Instead of shopping for moisturisers that have SPF credentials, look for SPFs that have moisturising credentials. Trust me, facial SPF formulas have come on leaps and bounds in recent years, with most good formulas providing just as much hydration and moisture as your standard day cream. If you want to only apply one product to your face in the morning post-cleanse, can the standard day cream and reach for a moisturising SPF instead. While these products might sit on SPF shelves in store, trust me when I say they’re far closer to what you might believe to be a truly great moisturiser—the bonus is they’re delivering next-level sun protection while they work. So, if you’re looking to save some time in the morning, keep scrolling to shop the best moisturisers with actual SPF protection, whatever your skin type.
Tagged: skin