Of all the grooming products a man can own, a moisturiser containing a built-in sunscreen is probably the most essential. Not only do these products keep skin soft, supple and hydrated, they help protect it against the sun’s damaging UV rays. Although not designed to be used as a sunscreen in the way you might use one for the beach, given that the sun’s rays assault skin year-round, even in winter and on cloudy days, an SPF moisturiser will help protect against day-to-day damage.
Look for products that offer protection against the sun’s UVA and UVB radiation – each of which affect the skin differently. “UVA is associated with ageing, whereas UVB is associated with burning,” says leading skin cancer expert Dr Paul Banwell. “You need to make sure you are wearing sunscreen that protects you against both radiations, so, when choosing a product, look for a ‘broad spectrum’ one, so you are protected from UVA and UVB rays.”
Be aware, too, that there are two types of sunscreen: chemical and mineral. “Chemical sunscreen works by absorbing UV rays and changing them into heat, then releasing that heat from the skin, whereas mineral sunscreens work by sitting on top of the skin to form a shield,” explains Dr Banwell. Which type you opt for depends on personal preference. Mineral sunscreens can leave a white residue on the skin if not properly rubbed in, while chemical ones are clear but may irritate sensitive skin.
To help you find a product that’s right for you, we’ve rounded up our pick of the best. We road-tested each moisturiser on skin exposed to sunlight, as part of a normal daily routine. As well as assessing each moisturiser’s protective properties, we took into account how each made the skin feel after application, how long hydration lasted and – crucially for those with a mineral sunscreen – whether they left any white residue or made the skin look ashen on application. Value for money was important, too.
Jack Black’s high-performance SPF moisturiser packs an SPF 20 broad-spectrum sunscreen composed of two chemical UV light absorbers, alongside antioxidant vitamins and phospholipids for hydration. The super-lightweight texture dries to a matte finish within seconds, with minimal scent. Harry’s daily face lotion is lightweight and quickly absorbed, using zinc oxide as a physical sunscreen, with shea butter and liquorice extract. Its subtle mint and eucalyptus scent provides a fresh morning wake-up call. CeraVe’s moisturiser offers SPF 50 protection and contains three skin-saving ceramides and hyaluronic acid, using time-release technology for all-day hydration. Designed for normal to dry skin, it leaves skin feeling supple from morning to night.
