15 Best Face Moisturizers With SPF For Acne-Prone Skin – Top Picks
Protect your skin from sun rays and give it lasting hydration to make it supple and healthy.
If you have acne-prone skin, layering the skin with multiple products can suffocate the skin and cause severe breakouts. However, you cannot ignore layering moisturizer with SPF when stepping out into the sun. This is where the best moisturizer with SPF for acne-prone skin can help you out. This dual-purpose product eliminates the need to use two separate products for hydration and sun protection. It gives you better results than using different kinds of acne-fighting products along with a moisturizer.
Dr. Priya Gill, a Malaysian dermatologist, says, “Oily skin is caused by the overproduction of sebum from your sebaceous (oil) glands. This excess sebum can be due to many factors such as stress, poor diet, hormonal shifts, pollution, and improper skin care. By applying the right moisturizer to your skin, your sebum levels will begin to decrease and your skin will become less oily.
When you use moisturizers with SPF, your skin gets both hydration and protection from sun damage. In addition, they are gentle and lightweight on your skin and do not cause any harm to your oily acne-prone skin. So, are you ready to replace all those acne-fighting creams with this single skin care product that does the job of many? Scroll down to check out the best moisturizers with SPF suitable for acne-prone skin and transform your skin care game.
In This Article
15 Best Moisturizers With SPF For Acne-Prone Skin
1. Best Non-Greasy Finish: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion With Sunscreen
On the top of our list is the all-time favorite and dermatologist-recommended CeraVe AM facial moisturizer. As the name suggests, it is formulated for use in the morning. With broad-spectrum protection, this SPF 30 moisturizer gives you your daily dose of UV protection without the need for added layering. It is fragrance, paraben, and oil-free. It is also non-comedogenic, making it more than ideal for acne-prone skin. To make things even better, this expert recommended acne-prone moisturizer with SPF contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide — with super gentle active acne-fighting ingredients that aid in making your skin healthy and glowing without a hint of breakouts. Therefore, this product helps in replenishing the skin, treating acne, and reducing blemishes. To understand more about the usage of this product, click on the YouTube video given below.
Pros
- Affordable
- Contains active ingredients
- Recommended for daily use
- Fragrance, paraben, and oil-free
- Easy to use pump-out dispenser
- Non-comedogenic and non-greasy
- Protects against UVB rays
Cons
- Not ideal for use under makeup
2. Best Non-Comedogenic Formula: Neutrogena Bright Boost Moisturizer With Sunscreen
This product is from Neutrogena’s Bright Boost line and contains a broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 that protects your skin from sun damage while improving and brightening your skin tone. This day cream is formulated to visibly reduce hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage or acne, improve uneven skin tone, reduce redness, and hydrate the skin. That’s a whole lot of things in a small bottle, we know! Use it daily to let the moringa seed extract and vitamin E work their magic. This product is non-greasy, lightweight, gives a sheer finish, and works well under your makeup! It is also non-comedogenic, making it ideal for your skin care routine. Go through the YouTube video given below to understand the features of this product.
Pros
- Affordable
- Brightens skin tone
- Can be used under makeup
- Firming, plumping, and hydrating
- Non-greasy
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Contains fragrance
3. Best Lightweight Texture: Cetaphil Pro DERMACONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion
All oily-skinned folks who have patches of dry, flaky skin and are sick of looking for the right product — we’ve got just the thing for you. Cetaphil understands that just because you have acne-prone oily skin, does not mean your skin is adequately moisturized. Which is why they have gifted us with this 4-in-1 oil control product. This wonder product not only moisturizes the skin, but also helps in absorbing excess oils, reduces shine, hydrates, and provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It is specially formulated for oily skin to relieve dryness and soften the skin. It is lightweight, non-greasy, and contains a lower concentration of sunscreen filters to reduce the chances of a breakout.
Pros
- Ideal for irritated or inflamed skin
- Suitable under makeup
- Paraben and fragrance-free
- Easy to use pump-out dispenser
- Can be used with acne medication
- Dermatologically developed and tested
Cons
- May cause discomfort around eyes in rare cases
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion With Sunscreen Best Non-Greasy Finish | Neutrogena Bright Boost Moisturizer With Sunscreen Best Non-Comedogenic Formula | Cetaphil Pro DERMACONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion Best Lightweight Texture | |
---|---|---|---|
Dimensions | 2.31 x 1.13 x 6 inches | 1.25 x 2.38 x 5.5 inches | 1.77 x 2.52 x 6.53 inches |
Weight | 4.32 Ounces | 2.08 Ounces. | 4 Ounces. |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 4,413 | 13,565 | 1,216 |
Price | $11.93 | $16.5 | $13.49 |
4. Best Anti-Oxidant Protection: DRMTLGY Broad Spectrum 45 Anti-Aging Moisturizer
Here’s a DRMTLGY product that has descended from the big leagues into our laps to give us clear and healthy skin for days! Formulated to suit all skin types, especially acne-prone skin, it is fragrance, oil and paraben-free, and non-greasy. Unlike most sunscreens, it doesn’t leave a white cast even on deeper skin tones! With a broad spectrum SPF 45, this acne skin moisturizer provides advanced skin protection for all skin tones. It also protects your skin from free radical damage. With a combination of anti-aging products like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and zinc oxide, this product is the best multi-tasking moisturizer you could have asked for. To make things even better, it is gluten, cruelty, and hormone-free to give you a guilt-free skincare experience.
Pros
- Hydrates the skin
- Fights free radicals
- Combats signs of skin-aging
- Ideal all-round moisturizer
- Corrects uneven skin tone and dark spots
- Provides antioxidant protection
- Easy to use pump-out dispenser
Cons
- Slightly expensive
5. Best Hypoallergenic Formula: Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer With Sunscreen
If you haven’t been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard all the rave about Differin. Most popular for its retinol products, this brand has changed the face of the affordable skincare regime. This dermatologist-tested, oil-absorbing moisturizer for acne-prone skin with broad-spectrum SPF is lightweight, does not irritate the skin, oil-free, and contains SPF 30. It is a non-sensitizing formula that helps in calming and soothing irritated or itchy skin. Its Micropearl technology absorbs all the oil on the surface and leaves the skin with a clean, matte finish. It is non-greasy, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic — a dream come true for all acne-prone-skinned folks out there! To understand the functionality better, check out the product review by this YouTuber.
Pros
- Ideal for daily use
- Does not leave a white cast
- Can be layered with Differin gel
- Oil-absorbing
- Non-greasy
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- It may burn the eyes if applied incorrectly.
6. Best Water-Resistant Formula: IMAGE Skincare Prevention + Daily Matte Moisturizer
Here is another one of our favorites. A sheer mattifying moisturizer with a creamy texture that melts like butter on your skin (but definitely does not feel like butter — don’t worry!). It spreads easily and leaves your skin without a greasy shine. The soft matte touch of this mineral-based formula makes it ideal for daily use and an excellent makeup base. In addition to using mineral and chemical UV filters with a blend of marine extracts, this formula is water-resistant, giving you a longer application compared to other products.
Pros
- Doesn’t leave a white cast
- Water-resistant
- Non-greasy
- Matte-finish
- Mineral sunscreen
- Contains antioxidants to combat environmental stressors
Cons
- Slightly expensive
7. Best For Using With Makeup: Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery Sunscreen Moisturizer
Another big-league product that assures professional-grade skincare and results without a single breakout, this acne moisturizer with a broad spectrum SPF helps fight all signs of aging. With medium-weight consistency, this product strikes the perfect balance between a moisturizer and a sunscreen. This scientifically formulated product helps to improve photoaged skin by using a blend of antioxidant white tea, polyphenols, and unique polypeptides. It is paraben, fragrance, and artificial color-free to ensure that your skin stays calm and doesn’t breakout. It is also cruelty and gluten-free and is vegan, making sure you have a guilt-free skincare experience.
Pros
- SPF 50
- Anti-aging properties
- Cruelty and gluten-free
- Ideal for sensitive acne-prone skin
- Easy to use pump-out dispenser
- Can be used under makeup
- Paraben, fragrance, and artificial color-free
Cons
- May not be ideal for oily skin
8. Best Long-Lasting Formula: Block Island Organics Natural Face Moisturizer SPF 30 With Clear Zinc
This acne-prone skin moisturizer with SPF is so good and safe (for you and the environment) that it has been winning awards for the past 5 years now! This professional-grade sunscreen for acne is for the planet warriors who are conscious about using products that may harm the environment. The reef-safe mineral sunblock ingredients used in this product leaves your skin with no white cast and irritation. There are no chemical sunscreen ingredients used in the UV filters and it is completely natural and organic. With deeply hydrating ingredients such as shea butter, aloe, and a bunch of antioxidants, this product leaves your skin soft and glowing with visible results. Packed with non-toxic and cruelty-free ingredients that are especially gentle with sensitive skin, ensuring you don’t suffer unnecessary breakouts.
Pros
- Anti-aging properties
- Transparent protection
- Non-toxic
- Organic
- Ideal for sensitive acne-prone skin
- Contains anti-aging green tea and pomegranate
Cons
- May not be ideal for oily skin
9. Best Anti-Aging: Origins A Perfect World SPF 40
The Origins A Perfect World SPF 40 helps delay the appearance of signs of aging. It is enriched with the goodness of antioxidant-rich white tea extracts and SPF 40 to form a protective layer over the skin and delay signs of aging. It hydrates the skin and protects it from the damaging effects of pollution, UV rays, and other environmental aggressors. This lightweight moisturizer boosts skin barrier function and is proven to deliver visible results for improved skin health.pore-minimizing product contains no fragrance, parabens. As the brand likes to say, this
Pros
- Nourishing
- Vegan
- Glides smoothly
- Blurs wrinkles over time
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Might feel slightly greasy on the skin
10. Best Cruelty-Free Formula: Paula’s Choice Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid
Alright, this product is for everyone, including our skincare fanatics who love layering on serums, treatments, you name it! This AM moisturizer gives you the perfect matte finish with sufficient SPF 30. It is lightweight, oil-free, and contains antioxidants to promote youthful-looking skin while protecting it from sun damage. To make things even better, this moisturizer for acne-prone skin softens the look of your enlarged pores, irrespective of your skin type. This professional-grade, pore-minimizing product contains no fragrance, parabens. As the brand likes to say, this product is just effective, science-backed, and nothing else.
Pros
- Matte finish
- Leaves no cast
- Reduces visible pores
- No fragrance
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Slightly expensive
11. Best Vegan Formula: Kimberly Sayer Ultra Light Facial Moisturizer
This Kimberly Sayer product is exactly what it says! Ultra-lightweight and easy to absorb. It opens up clogged pores, ensuring no future breakouts. It contains a unique blend of lemon oil and zinc oxide to detoxify your skin, minimize oil production, dry up existing acne and zits, and ensure that you don’t get more of them! It is the prevention and the cure; how great is that? With SPF 30, this moisturizer is all you need to combat acne while starting your day. The formula leaves you with a soft matte finish that is ideal to use under your makeup. It also contains natural ingredients like sunflower seed oil, coconut oil, and aloe vera leaf juice among others to keep your skin hydrated and nourished.
Pros
- SPF 30
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Ideal for under makeup use
- Easy to use pump-out dispenser
- A fusion of organic beauty and science
Cons
- It may not be best-suited for dry skin.
12. Best For Combination Skin: St. Ives Solutions 3-in-1 SPF 25 Moisturizer
Ives Solutions 3-in-1 SPF 25 Moisturizer hydrates and protects the skin. It is formulated with natural tea extracts and witch hazel that balances excess oil production in acne-prone skin and prevents the early signs of aging. SPF 25 in the formula offers protection and fades discoloration caused by acne and blemishes. This dermatologist-tested non-comedogenic moisturizer is refreshing, non-greasy, and leaves a radiant glow. It has a lightweight formula for anyone who does not like wearing heavy creams. This nourishing cream has fresh green tea and a citrusy scent to put you in a good mood.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Applies sheer
- Dermatologist tested
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
13. Best Oil-Free: Proactiv Clear Skin Sunscreen Moisturizer
The Proactiv Clear Skin Sunscreen Moisturizer is a hydrating SPF lotion that offers a luminous finish. The broad-spectrum oil-free moisturizer offers a lightweight matte finish that does not clog pores or cause greasy shine or breakouts on reactive skin. It is absorbed quickly to hydrate and protect your skin. This SPF 30 product controls shine and is dermatologically-recommended safe for acne-prone skin.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- SPF 30
- Dermatologically tested
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
14. Best Silicone-Free: Hero Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen
The Force Shield Superlight sunscreen by Hero offers a skin-like finish without clogging pores. The fragrance-free formula is infused with zinc oxide, green surge, and extrapolates that are safe for acne-prone skin and is supported by clinical data. It helps in nourishing the skin as well as keeping tabs over breakout-prone skin. This lightweight gel is hydrating and easily absorbed into the skin without leaving a greasy feeling. This reef-safe natural zinc sunscreen is powered by SPF 30 protection, clinically proven, and non-irritating, even on sensitive skin types.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Suitable for daily use
- Value for money
- Clinically-proven
Cons
- Not long-lasting
15. Best Paraben-Free Formula: Murad Anti-Aging Moisturizer
Last (but not least!) on our list is this sleek premium beauty product that promises you a grease-free daytime SPF moisturizer for acne-prone skin that makes your skin happy! By happy we mean, it relieves dryness, provides lightweight hydration, and visibly minimizes fine lines and wrinkles to finally give you soft, youthful, and plump skin. The stuff of all our dreams really. It is formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, mineral Oil, and any other common unwanted ingredients in our beauty products.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Ideal for all skin types
- Does not leave a white cast
- Works extremely well on sensitive and combination skin
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Well, that brings us to the end of our list of the 15 best moisturizers with SPF for acne-prone skin. To make things easier for you, here is a brief buying guide that assists you in making your final choice!
How To Choose A Moisturizer With SPF For Acne
Before you dive deep into your shopping cart, picking every item that you can probably relate to, we suggest keeping the following things in mind to make sure that your multitasking moisturizer is the best fit for you.
- Skin type
It is important to know that ‘acne-prone’ skin is a skin condition and not a specific skin type in itself. Most commonly, people who suffer from acne, either have sensitive skin that tends to get irritated, which leads to breakouts, or oily skin that clogs your pores causing sebum to build up, which eventually causes acne. In some rare circumstances, you could be in the center with combination skin, where patches of your skin, most commonly the chin, flare up and other patches, most commonly the T-zone, clog. It is important to identify your skin type to invest in products with ingredients that are best suitable for your skin.
- Price
Whoever said beauty comes with a price was wrong. It can come with a price if you want, but doesn’t necessarily have to. Our list has everything for everyone! Affordable skincare products that promise positive results, just as much as the expensive ones do. Here, the decision comes down to you. If you are experimenting and are unsure if the product is for you, we’d recommend committing to an affordable product. Allow your wallet to breathe in ease while you decide what is made for you and what isn’t.
- Non-comedogenic
Having a non-comedogenic product is a good idea for everyone but it is truly the holy grail for all the oily-skinned folks out there. Non-comedogenic products don’t clog the pores in your skin, ensuring that there is no product build-up that causes acne and excessive oiliness.
- Fragrance-free formulation
Alright now, fragrance is a touchy subject. We obviously love smelling like freshly cut daisies but it’s not always the best idea to put it on our face, especially with sensitive skin. If your skin is sensitive and tends to react easily, we’d suggest staying away from fragrance as much as possible and invest in products with fragrance-free formulations and begin with a small patch test.
- Casting
We haven’t met a single person who is fond of sunscreen casting. It leaves a whitewashed look behind that is neither desirable nor required. You deserve to show off your true self, without leftover sunscreen casting! There are plenty of products on our list that leave you without a white cast and plenty that are ideal for use under your makeup.
Well, that brings us to the end of our buying guide and a long list of products for you to choose from. Remember, both a moisturizer and SPF are a must-have in your skincare regime, irrespective of your skin type. For acne-prone sensitive skin, it is important to make sure you buy clinically-tested product that doesn’t trigger irritation to flare-up acne, whereas for acne-prone oily skin use something that doesn’t clog your pores. For sensitive skin, it’s necessary to get a patch test done and watch your skin transform. You can thank us later! Go enjoy clear and radiant skin for you.
Infographic: Moisturizers With SPF For Acne-Prone Skin: Key Ingredients
Buying skin care products can be quite a daunting task, especially if you have acne-prone skin. That is when something like an SPF moisturizer with anti-inflammatory properties can come in handy. Not only does it moisturize your skin, but also protect it from the sun, making your skincare routine a tad bit less intimidating. Using moisturizers with ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and benzoyl peroxide may help in clearing acne. Go through the infographic below to know what ingredients you will need to look out for when buying an SPF moisturizer for acne-prone skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SPF good for acne-prone skin?
SPF goes beyond the barriers of skincare and dives deep into skin health. It is a crucial step that people with acne should never skip! Since it is so crucial, it would be odd for us to suggest that it isn’t good for acne-prone skin, but truth be told- most over-the-counter sunscreens with greasy formulations tend to cause further breakouts in acne-prone skin. But remember, sunscreen is a preventive measure, not the cure- you need it despite the fact it breaks you out! Thankfully the cosmetic industry recognized our struggle and gifted us with Moisturizers for acne-prone skin that contain SPF- the solution to all our problems.
Can moisturizer with SPF cause acne?
Technically, yes. The oils in the SPF can clog or irritate your pores and cause acne. However, there are enough products out there, and on our list, which don’t contain any oil and are non-comedogenic. You can say goodbye to blocked pores and say hello to clear protected skin.
Does SPF in moisturizer work?
Absolutely! It is obviously not as effective as a thick layer of plain greasy sunscreen, but they definitely do the job.
Can I use a moisturizer with SPF instead of sunscreen?
You can use a moisturizer with sunscreen if it has a SPF value of 40 and above. However, a pure sunscreen offers more protection with its SPF and PA+++ gradations to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
What is a good SPF moisturizer for sensitive and oily acne-prone skin?
The Differin Moisturizer is a a good SPF moisturizer for sensitive and oily acne-prone skin. It is also an affordable option that works wonders, but it is necessary to do a patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Krati Darak, is a hair and beauty enthusiast who stays up to date with the latest skin care products. Finding the right moisturizer with SPF for acne-prone skin isn’t an easy task as there are loads of choices, but she’s found the best ones. She compiled a comprehensive and detailed list of the top products after surveying several product reviews on the market. With moisturizers containing SPF, your skin can be moisturized and protected against sun damage.
Read full bio of Dr. Priya Gill
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