Hydration with Added Sun Protection: How to Choose the Best Moisturiser with SPF for You?

Using a moisturiser with SPF is one of the easiest ways to help protect your skin from the daily effects of the sun.

But why is it important and what should you look out for when you’re thinking of adding one to your routine? We're here to answer some of your most-asked questions and choose the right formula for you. 

 

Why should I use an SPF moisturiser?

Everyone’s skin needs are different (and so are their lifestyles) but the sun’s UV rays are always present – even on a cloudy day. 

We can’t always see the damage ultraviolet light is causing immediately. So, using a daily moisturiser with SPF gives you peace of mind when you’re getting ready in the morning that you’re helping to defend against them, whilst still giving your skin the level of hydration it needs. 

 

How does the sun impact my skin? 

A small amount of exposure to the sun is important for our wellbeing and for topping up all-important vitamin D levels. However, spending too much time without using sunscreen can lead to sun damage and even signs of premature ageing, like fine lines and wrinkles. Which is why protecting the skin every day is so important to slow down the effects over time. 

What types of UV rays are there?

Sunlight is formed of three types of UV rays. The two that can affect the skin are ultraviolet A rays (UVA) an ultraviolet B rays (UVB). The simplest way to know the difference between the two is that UVA rays lead to ageing and UVB rays cause burning. 

UVA rays

UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin, causing more lasting damage over time. Unlike UVB rays, these don’t cause discomfort so we’re usually unaware that they’re present until later down the line. 

UVB rays 

If you’ve ever had a sunburn, then you’ll know all about UVB rays. They have a shorter wavelength and cause the type of sun damage we see and feel straightaway. The SPF factor of a sunscreen is the equivalent of how many times your natural skin protection factor it takes for your skin to burn. If you’d normally burn in ten minutes with no sunscreen on, an SPF 15 formula will help protect you for up to 150 minutes, for example.

Exercising, sweating, being in the water or even just accidentally rubbing it off can all reduce that, though. Which is why it’s always wise to top up sooner than you’d think.

Each of these ultraviolet rays can cause damage in different ways but it’s equally important to protect your skin from both.

UVA rays	UVB rays
Longer wavelength Can reach deeper into the skin Known to cause skin damage and accelerate signs of ageing	Shorter wavelength Exposure can cause redness and burning

 

Do I need to use an SPF moisturiser every day? 

Because the sun’s rays are always present (even if we don’t feel them at the time) it’s a good idea to use a moisturiser enriched with SPF as part of your morning routine just in case. Think of it as the base for the rest of the day. If you are out in the sun, remember to top up your sun protection regularly.

In terms of when to use it in your skincare routine, you only need to reach for your SPF face moisturiser during the day. Your evening routine is the ideal moment to double cleanse to prepare your skin for SPF again the following morning.

Did you know?

You should only be using a moisturiser with SPF during the day.
Cleanse well and use a non-SPF moisturiser at night to give your pores a break.

 

Finding the right formula for you

How do I choose the best moisturiser with SPF for me?

No matter what your skin type, broad-spectrum protection is key. After that, it’s all about what textures you enjoy, how much hydration you need, and any added beauty benefits you’d like to include.

Which SPF moisturiser should I go for and how should I use it within my routine?

No matter what moisturiser with SPF you go for, it’s best to use it as your final skincare regime step and only use it during the day to give your skin a break as you sleep. 

Here’s a few of our top SPF moisturiser picks:

The one for combination or oily skin

Kind to Skin™ Protecting Light Moisturiser with SPF 15 (also available in a handy travel-sized pouch).

The one for dry or dehydrated skin

Regeneration Age Resisting Cream SPF 15

 

The one for normal or dry skin

Protect 'N' Glow™ Triple Protect Moisturiser SPF 30  which also enhances radiance, as well as giving you blue light and pollution protection.

What should I be looking for in an SPF moisturiser?

• Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays

• A light, refreshing texture for more oily skin types or a richer formula for dry skin

• Added benefits depending on your skin needs like radiance-boosting or firming

Can I use a moisturiser with sun protection if I have sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin needs just as much protection as other skin types (if not even more), so finding a way to incorporate it into your routine without causing irritation is key. Which is why our SPF moisturisers have all been created and tested with sensitive skin in mind.

Like all Simple® products, our SPF moisturisers are free from harsh chemicals, perfume and colour, as well as being dermatologically tested.

Plus, all our moisturisers with SPF are non-comedogenic, which means they won’t block your pores.  

Remember, it’s always recommended to do a patch test no matter what new product you’re trying, just to be safe.