Combo Deal: How To Wear Skincare With SPF Safely

Saving time and money? Yes please! From an effortless lip and cheek stain to a versatile body and hair oil, we love a multitasking beauty product. But when it comes to using a face cream with SPF you need to be a bit savvy with the application in order to get maximum benefits.

“Both moisturizer and sunscreen are non-negotiable elements in any skincare routine,” says Dr. Monica Li, dermatologist, founder of Vancouver Skin MD and clinical assistant professor at the department of dermatology and skin science at UBC. “You need a moisturizer to hydrate the skin, especially with cooler and drier weather, and sunscreen for UV protection all year round.”

With more moisturizer-SPF hybrids hitting shelves this season, if you’re looking to add one to your minimalist routine here are a few best practices to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. —Emily MacCulloch and Ingrie Williams, @t.zonebeauty

Numbers Game

“In a combination product, the SPF component needs to be minimum 30 or higher and with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection,” says Li. “If you’re only using one and spending time outdoors, then reapplication is needed every 2 hours.”

Measuring Up

“At minimum, if the cream is being applied on the face and neck, a full two finger length (index and middle), or a teaspoon, of product is needed for adequate UV protection,” she says. And there’s no harm in using more if your skin is dry and needs more hydration.

Touchy Subject(s)

“If you have sensitive skin, you may want to use a separate moisturizer and sunscreen, as it may help distinguish if either formula is causing skin issues or intolerability,” recommends Li. Ingredients such as UV filters, fragrances or preservatives are common potential irritants for those with reactive skin. She also notes that mineral sunscreen filters, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, tend to be a better fit for sensitive complexions. 

Daily One and Done

Here are three new formulas that bring you the best of both worlds:

• Blending broad spectrum protection with skin-friendly niacinamide, Bioré UV Aqua Rich Glowy Moisturizer SPF 50 (Walmart, $15) is a sheer tinted liquid that melts into skin to brighten an uneven tone and refine a textured complexion. Leaving a radiant finish that doubles as a non-greasy makeup base, the price tag is unbeatable, too.
• Packed with 5 per cent vitamin C and amino acids to brighten and protect the skin, Paula’s Choice C5 Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 (Sephora, $64) is a peach-hued fragrance-free lotion that provides a soft glow while targeting dark spots and firming fine lines without clogging pores.
• The original formula of Clinique’s iconic moisturizer launched in 1968; now, the brand’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ SPF 50 ($48) has gotten an upgrade to deliver UVA and UVB protection in a lightweight formula that strengthens your skin barrier and provides all-day hydration.