There are certain things all men should do on a consistent basis to slow the process of aging — a big one being sun protection. No matter what the season is, shielding your skin from the sun should be a top concern. The smartest way to do that? By investing in some of the best moisturizers with SPF. Using an SPF (preferably SPF 30 or greater) on a daily basis can significantly protect your skin from the sun's UVA and UVB rays that can cause different types of skin complications later in life, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Face moisturizer is already essential in any guy's grooming routine, but to up the ante even further, opt for one with SPF. Another seemingly superficial (but also major) benefit: A 2016 study from Johnson and Johnson's Skin Research Center found that roughly about half of the participants who used daily moisturizers containing SPF saw improvements in the appearance of their sunspots, while 41% of them said they saw their skin clear up after a year of use.
Ahead, we feature some of our favorites and the best moisturizers with SPF so you can keep your skin fresh and protected all year long.
The Grey Daily Face Protect SPF 50
The Grey makes one of the best, highest protectant SPF formulas available for everyday use while also being a lightweight cream for rapid absorption and a nongreasy feel. Most others that have SPF 50 tend to feel heavy on the face and leave an oily finish, but not this one.
The peptides in here also help boost your body's natural skin's defense during the day and at night, even against blue light, helping to slow the signs of aging.
Dr. Dennis Gross Dark Spot Sun Defense SPF 50
Guys who are prone to acne should definitely use SPF, as unprotected sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation and acne scars. Enter Dr. Dennis Gross, a brand that specializes in producing quality skin care products for people with special skin conditions, especially acne. This moisturizer feels light, includes hyaluronic acid, and it's noncomedogenic.
Kiehl's Facial Fuel SPF 20
For quick touch-ups and for days when you might find yourself in and out of the sun, it's nice to have a reliable, high-quality moisturizer with SPF close at hand. This Kiehl's moisturizer provides solid protection via SPF 20.
Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF 30
While so many face sunscreens out there tout their sheerness, Dermalogica's moisturizer is one of the few SPF products we've tried that doesn't leave a visible white cast after application. What's more, it includes a proprietary formula that gives protection from blue light (skin-damaging rays from computer and smartphone screens) and reduces redness and dryness.
Neutrogena Ultimate Sport Face Oil-Free Sunscreen Lotion
Not only does Neutrogena's sunscreen contain ingredients found in more expensive sunscreen products, but this moisturizer works great for guys who spend a lot of time outdoors, thanks to its sweat-wicking properties. And if you're a frequent outdoor runner, this sunscreen won't burn your eyes.
Oars + Alps Daily Anti-Aging Facial Moisturizer SPF 37
With a broad spectrum of SPF 37 that protects your skin against UVA and UVB rays every day, this facial moisturizer by Oars + Alps also helps stop common signs of aging. On top of that, it keeps your face hydrated throughout the day without the oil and grease.
Jaxon Lane Rain or Shine Daily Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30
Another crowd-pleasing sunscreen, Jaxon Lane's latest product also contains skin-soothing ingredients like vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and green tea.
Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40
The thickest sunscreen on our list, Supergoop's cream moisturizer is ultra hydrating without blocking your pores and includes SPF 40. We found that applying this after cleansing leaves a dewy finish.
Bravo Sierra Face Sunscreen SPF 30
Bravo Sierra was tested by active military personnel, and it works just as well for civilians. We especially like the brand's sunscreen, which is affordable, (relatively) fragrance-free, and is great for guys who spend most of their time outdoors.
Murad City Skin Age Defense SPF 50
Murad's mineral-based sunscreen is a bestseller for a good reason: It doesn't clog pores, it goes on light, and just a little bit of it goes a long way. A great option for men with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Vacation Mineral Lotion SPF 30
If you're worried about buying sunscreens that could potentially destroy the reefs, then Mineral Lotion SPF 30 by Vacation might be the one for you. This sunscreen, formulated with reef-friendly, non-nano zinc, follows the EU regulations for nanoparticles and the Hawaii reef-friendly mandate.
Alastin Skincare Broad Spectrum SPF 30+ Sunscreen
This water-resistant sunscreen from Alastin Skincare moisturizes the skin and protects it from harmful, broad-spectrum UVA and UVB rays. It also helps calm the skin with key botanicals, such as cucumber and aloe leaf extract.
Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer SPF 25
This tinted moisturizer not only gives you a broad spectrum of SPF 25, but it also provides lightweight, natural-looking dewy coverage that hydrates skin for up to 24 hours.
Mantl Invisible Daily SPF 30
Co-created by Queer Eye's Karamo Brown, Mantl's sunscreen is specially formulated for guys who are balding, so this moisturizer is just as effective on your scalp as it is on your face.
Aesop Sage & Zinc Facial Hydrating Lotion SPF 15
With so many man-made grooming products on the market today, sometimes it's best to find one that is based on a natural alternative. Aesop's Sage & Zinc Facial Hydrating Lotion SPF 15 is a mineral-based protectant and one of the best natural options available.
Since it is s zinc-based product, this lotion may leave a slightly white shadow, similar to your childhood of youth when you used to have slathered sunscreen on your nose, courtesy of your mother.
By making it a priority to use a daily facial moisturizer with an SPF, you can be sure to look young and keep Father Time at bay.
Editors' Recommendations
- The 15 best 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioners to shorten your shower time
- The 12 best pre-shave oils to get your closest, most comfortable shave yet
- Answer your dry hair problems: The best men’s hair oils
- The 8 best hair gels for men for the perfect slicked look
- The 11 best hair styling creams for men in 2023 for perfect hair
