If you have dry skin, you know the daily struggle. Your skin needs serious hydration, but you can’t skip sun protection either.
Finding one product that does both well can be a real challenge. You don’t want a greasy mess or a formula that pills under makeup.
We tested dozens of moisturizers with SPF made for dry skin. Some felt amazing, while others just didn’t deliver the moisture we needed.
Our guide breaks down the top performers. We’ll help you find a formula that truly nourishes your skin while keeping it safe.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Face Cream | Daily Sun Protection | PRICES |
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No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Face & Neck Cream | Multi-Action Formula | PRICES |
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No7 Radiance+ Brightening Vitamin C Moisturizer Face Cream | Vitamin C Brightening | PRICES |
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CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion With SPF 30 | Lightweight Matte Finish | PRICES |
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Cetaphil Face Moisturizer, Daily Oil Free Facial Moisturizer with SPF 35 | High SPF Protection | PRICES |
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Olay Complete+ Face Moisturizer with Sunscreen SPF 40 | High SPF Protection | PRICES |
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Face Moisturizer with SPF | Sunscreen for Face | Collagen, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid Cream | Multi-Tasking Formula | PRICES |
No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Face Cream
This cream is a true multitasker, offering deep hydration, sun protection, and anti-aging benefits all in one step.
It combines SPF with hyaluronic acid to plump dry skin and collagen peptides to target fine lines. I love that it simplifies my morning routine. You get serious skincare without needing multiple products.
The texture is rich but absorbs well, leaving no greasy residue. It layers beautifully under makeup, so it’s perfect for daily use. The packaging is sturdy and hygienic with a pump.
Pros:
👍 Powerful anti-aging and hydrating combo
👍 SPF provides essential daily sun protection
👍 Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula
👍 Hygienic pump bottle packaging
👍 Works well under makeup
Cons:
👎 The SPF level could be higher for intense sun
👎 Scent might be strong for sensitive noses
👎 Bottle is a bit small for the price
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic all-in-one for anyone with dry, aging skin who wants simplicity. It delivers noticeable hydration and smoothness. I think it’s a great value for the level of technology it packs.
No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Face & Neck Cream
This cream is a powerhouse that tackles dryness, aging, and sun protection all at once.
It combines SPF 30 with a rich blend of hydrating and firming ingredients. You get hyaluronic acid for a moisture boost and peptides to help support your skin’s firmness.
The texture is luxuriously creamy but absorbs well without a heavy feel. I appreciate that it’s designed for both the face and neck, which is a common trouble area.
Pros:
👍 Multi-action formula (moisturizer, SPF, anti-aging)
👍 Contains proven ingredients like hyaluronic acid & peptides
👍 Includes SPF 30 for daily sun protection
👍 Targets both face and neck skin
👍 Helps hydrate and firm crepey texture
Cons:
👎 The price point is higher than some basic moisturizers
👎 The cream may feel a bit rich for very oily skin types
👎 Only one size option is available
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic all-in-one product if you want to simplify your routine. It delivers serious hydration and sun protection, making it a great value for the results you get.
No7 Radiance+ Brightening Vitamin C Moisturizer Face Cream
This moisturizer tackles dryness while giving your skin a brighter, more radiant glow.
It’s packed with Vitamin C, which is fantastic for brightening a dull complexion. The formula is specifically designed to nourish dry skin without feeling heavy.
I found it absorbs quickly, so you can apply makeup right after. It feels lightweight on the skin, which is a nice change from thicker creams.
Pros:
👍 Brightens skin with Vitamin C
👍 Nourishes dry skin effectively
👍 Fast-absorbing, lightweight feel
👍 Doesn’t leave a greasy residue
👍 Works well under makeup
Cons:
👎 Does not contain SPF
👎 Jar packaging can be less hygienic
👎 Scent might be strong for some
My Honest Opinion:
This is a great daily moisturizer if your main goal is hydration and radiance. Just remember, you’ll need to layer a separate sunscreen with it for full protection.
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion With SPF 30
This is a fantastic daily moisturizer that hydrates dry skin without any greasy shine.
It combines SPF 30 protection with CeraVe’s signature ceramides and hyaluronic acid. This formula helps restore your skin’s natural barrier while locking in moisture. It’s also oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.
The texture is ultra-light and absorbs quickly into your skin. It leaves a clean, matte finish that feels comfortable all day long. I find it works perfectly under makeup without pilling.
Pros:
👍 Lightweight, matte finish
👍 Contains barrier-repairing ceramides
👍 Includes hydrating hyaluronic acid
👍 Non-greasy and oil-free
👍 Broad spectrum SPF 30 protection
Cons:
👎 Bottle is smaller than some competitors
👎 Matte finish might be too drying for some
👎 Needs reapplication for all-day sun protection
My Honest Opinion:
This is my go-to for daily hydration and sun protection. It’s reliable, feels great on the skin, and doesn’t break me out. If you hate heavy, shiny sunscreens, you’ll love this one.
Cetaphil Face Moisturizer, Daily Oil Free Facial Moisturizer with SPF 35
This Cetaphil moisturizer is a fantastic two-in-one product that hydrates dry skin while providing solid sun protection.
It combines SPF 35 sunscreen with a gentle, oil-free moisturizing formula. I love that it’s designed for sensitive skin and is completely fragrance-free. You get daily hydration and UV defense in one simple step.
The lotion has a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film. It works well under makeup and doesn’t cause pilling or a white cast, which is a common issue with some SPF products.
Pros:
👍 High SPF 35 protection
👍 Oil-free and non-comedogenic
👍 Fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin
👍 Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
👍 Affordable and widely available
Cons:
👎 May not be moisturizing enough for extremely dry skin
👎 Some users might prefer a higher SPF
👎 Bottle design could be improved for easier dispensing
My Honest Opinion:
This is a reliable, no-fuss daily moisturizer with SPF that I trust for my sensitive skin. It’s not the most luxurious product, but it gets the job done effectively without irritation. If you want simple, dependable hydration and sun protection, it’s a great choice.
Olay Complete+ Face Moisturizer with Sunscreen SPF 40
This moisturizer is a fantastic all-in-one solution that deeply hydrates dry skin while providing strong, invisible sun protection.
It combines SPF 40 broad-spectrum sunscreen with skin-nourishing ceramides. The formula is fragrance-free and specifically designed for sensitive skin. You get serious hydration without any greasy residue.
I love that it leaves absolutely no white cast, which is a common problem. It absorbs quickly and works well under makeup. The 6-ounce bottle also offers great value for your money.
Pros:
👍 High SPF 40 broad-spectrum protection
👍 Fragrance-free and good for sensitive skin
👍 Leaves no white cast on any skin tone
👍 Contains ceramides to strengthen skin barrier
👍 Excellent value in a large 6oz size
Cons:
👎 Can feel a bit heavy for very oily skin types
👎 The pump dispenser isn’t always perfect
👎 Some may prefer a higher SPF for intense sun
My Honest Opinion:
This is a reliable, no-fuss daily moisturizer with sunscreen. It’s perfect if you want solid protection without the typical sunscreen feel or look. I recommend it for anyone with dry or sensitive skin who struggles with white casts.
Face Moisturizer with SPF | Sunscreen for Face | Collagen, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid Cream
This moisturizer is a powerhouse that tackles dryness, sun protection, and anti-aging all in one simple step.
It combines SPF sunscreen with a potent blend of collagen, retinol, and hyaluronic acid. This means you get hydration, sun defense, and firming benefits from a single cream. It’s designed to be an all-in-one solution for your morning routine.
The lotion has a rich, creamy texture that absorbs well without leaving a heavy or greasy residue. I found it easy to apply and layer under makeup, making it a practical choice for daily use.
Pros:
👍 Multi-tasking formula saves time
👍 Powerful anti-aging ingredient blend
👍 Provides essential daily sun protection
👍 Hydrates deeply for dry skin
👍 Lifts and firms over time
Cons:
👎 Contains retinol, which can irritate sensitive skin
👎 Higher price point than basic moisturizers
👎 Only one size option (1.7oz)
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic choice if you want to simplify your skincare routine without sacrificing results. It’s especially good for those with dry skin who are also focused on anti-aging and need reliable SPF protection every day.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
SPF Level & Protection
For daily use, SPF 30 is the minimum dermatologists recommend. Look for “Broad Spectrum” on the label, which means it protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Higher SPFs like 40 or 50 offer more protection, especially for very fair or sun-sensitive skin.
Skin Type & Formula Weight
Dry skin needs rich, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. If your skin is also sensitive, choose a fragrance-free formula. For combination skin, a lighter, non-greasy lotion that won’t clog pores is ideal.
Additional Skin Benefits
Many SPF moisturizers now include anti-aging ingredients like peptides, vitamin C, or retinol. Decide if you want a simple hydrator or a multi-tasking product that also targets wrinkles, dullness, or firmness alongside sun protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an SPF moisturizer instead of sunscreen?
Yes, if you apply enough. Most people don’t use the recommended quarter-teaspoon amount for the face, which reduces protection. For extended outdoor time, a dedicated sunscreen is best.
Will SPF moisturizers leave a white cast?
Many modern formulas, especially chemical or hybrid sunscreens, are designed to be sheer. Mineral-based options with zinc oxide can sometimes leave a cast, but brands like Olay have developed clear versions.
Do I need to reapply SPF moisturizer?
Yes, every two hours if you’re in direct sun. For indoor or office days with minimal sun exposure, your morning application is typically sufficient.
Can I use it under makeup?
Absolutely. Look for fast-absorbing, lightweight formulas labeled as non-greasy or with a matte finish, like the CeraVe Ultra-Light lotion, to provide a smooth base.
What’s the difference between face lotion and cream with SPF?
Lotions are typically lighter and more fluid, ideal for normal to combination skin. Creams are richer and more emollient, providing deeper hydration for dry or mature skin.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For most people with dry skin, the No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Face Cream is the top choice. It combines serious hydration with effective SPF 30 and proven anti-aging ingredients at a reasonable price. If you have sensitive skin, the Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 35 is a gentle, reliable workhorse. For a budget-friendly option that feels great on the skin, the Olay Complete Sensitive SPF 40 offers outstanding protection and value in a large bottle.
Consistency is key. The best product is the one you’ll use every single morning without fail.