The 10 Best SPF-Equipped Moisturizers for Your Manly Face
The Best Face Moisturizers for Men With Every Skin Type
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Why should you add the best face moisturizer for men to your daily skincare routine?
Look, we’re not saying you need to jump on the super complicated Korean beauty regime or even borrow products from your girlfriend’s drawer (although, you totally can). But as you get older and start investing in grown-up things like a steady job, a workout routine, a car lease, or even a mortgage (congrats!), you should also be investing in yourself. The first place to start: taming that mean mug you look at in the mirror every morning.
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If you’re not already moisturizing your face each morning, you should start — and stat. Your face literally comes into contact with a ton of stressors every day, from air pollution and environmental debris to harsh winds, to sweat — especially after a tough gym session. All of those things sink into your skin to cause other things you don’t want to see, like wrinkles, creases, sagging and dullness. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to combat it all. The best men’s face moisturizer will protect your skin from wear and tear, and some of the top options will protect you from UV rays, too.
Aim to use a face moisturizer twice a day, after you wash your face in the morning and before bed, and you’re good to go. All of our options for the best men’s face moisturizers below are packed with skin-clearing, skin-boosting ingredients that will leave your face feeling revived, refreshed and literally ready to face the day.
Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with Alicia Zalka, MD, Board Certified Dermatologist, Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine, and Founder of Surface Deep. We asked Dr. Zalka our burning questions about skincare, especially as it relates to sun exposure, the best face moisturizer for men, and SPF protection.
Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for men’s face moisturizers, as well as some insight from Dr. Zallka on whether or not you really need moisturizers with SPF protection.
Should You Use a Men’s Face Moisturizer With SPF Protection?
More and more face moisturizers now do double duty as face sunscreen. And not to generalize too much, but most guys probably want to keep skincare as simple as possible. So does that mean the best men’s face moisturizers will also protect your mug from the sun? If you want your face moisturizer to do double duty, then the answer is yes.
Dr. Zalka recommends applying sunscreen to our skin every day. For your face, she specifically recommends products with SPF 30 or higher for maximum protection. If you want to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun — and do everything you can to fight premature signs of aging — then applying moisturizers with SPF protection is a must before you step out into the sun. That’s even true during the winter or on cloudy summer days. Dr. Zalka even says, “hazy and cloudy days still allow ultraviolet rays (which are a form of radiation, don’t forget) to be absorbed by your skin.” Meaning, yeah, even if you wake up and the sun isn’t shining, you should still throw on some sunscreen.
On the other hand, moisturizers without SPF are great for wearing after showers and before bed. In fact, that’s a great test if you aren’t sure which type of moisturizer to buy:
If you typically apply facial moisturizers in the morning , then you’ll definitely want moisturizers with sunscreen.
, then you’ll definitely want moisturizers with sunscreen. If you apply moisturizers at night so your skin can recharge while you sleep, then you’ll want to invest in anti-aging moisturizers for men.
What Is the Best Face Moisturizer for Men?
Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on your skin type, budget and skincare habits. To help you out, we’ve gathered the best face moisturizer for men with every skin type and preference. Every single face moisturizer featured in this article has been tested by a member of the SPY grooming team, and you’ll find many of the products below in our own medicine cabinets.
To help you out, we’ve rounded up the best face moisturizers for men, including options with and without SPF. These range from premium products with all-natural ingredients to drug store mainstays. Keep scrolling to learn more about how we test grooming products like face moisturizers.
1. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream
BEST OVERALL
Kiehl’s has been in the business for over 150 years, and this is one of their most beloved products. Among its fans? Our editors, who tried it and found that “skin never feels as soft as it does after using this moisturizer.” Though it comes at a premium price, a little goes a long way, and the high-quality ingredients deliver lasting hydration. The ingredients include squalane, a moisturizing oil derived from olives.
Courtesy of Kiehls
2. CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
RUNNER UP
You should know CeraVe at this point, but if you don’t, let us introduce you. CeraVe is one of the most popular facial moisturizing lotions in the market for a reason. It’s super lightweight so it won’t feel muddy and weighed down on your skin, it’s great to use on various skin types and it spreads easily for effortless application. The facial lotion uses SPF 30 to keep your skin clear from any harmful sun rays and is best to be used in the morning before heading out of the house.
Courtesy of Amazon
3. Geologie Active Recovery Hydro-Gel Moisturizer
CONTENDER
What sets Geologie apart is its customized skin care program. You tell them about you and your skin, and they’ll curate a customized skincare regimen for you. Of course, if you’re not ready to commit, you can just try their active moisturizer, which features powerful, proven skincare ingredients niacinamide, squalane, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin.
Courtesy of Geologie
4. Disco Hydrating Face Moisturizer
BEST FRAGRANCE
Disco’s skincare is formulated with natural, vegan ingredients and provides premium skincare at a modest price. This hydrating face moisturizer is designed to work with all skin types, and it has hydrating, anti-inflammatory ingredients to help slow the signs of aging.
Review: The Best Disco Skincare Products
Courtesy of Disco
5. Bulldog Original Moisturizer
BUDGET BUY
This moisturizer is simple, but it gets the job done. It combines natural oils for a calming, masculine fragrance, without any parabens or artificial colors. The formula is affordable, quick-absorbing and best for normal skin.
Courtesy of Target
6. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel-Cream
BEST DRUG STORE BUY
The Neutrogena Hydro Boost line feels like a fresh burst of cooling hydration melting into your skin. This gel-cream face moisturizer is just slightly richer than some of the other products and is ideal for dry skin. The hyaluronic acid attracts and locks in moisture to quench and restore the skin’s natural barrier, leaving your face smooth and refreshed.
Courtesy of Amazon
7. GetMR. The Daily Sunscreen
BEST 2-IN-1
GetMr. is another new skincare brand for men, and we recently had the chance to test out The Daily sunscreen and moisturizer for ourselves. If you’re serious about sun protection or have especially sensitive skin, then this is a great option for you. The Daily is a zinc oxide sunscreen that provides SPF 30 protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Review: GetMR. Is a New 2-in-1 Daily Sunscreen for Men
Courtesy of GETMr.
8. Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37
ANTI-AGING
Another option that provides both chemical and mineral sun protection, this face moisturizer protects your skin from the sun while also defending against signs of aging. It’s oil-free and non-greasy yet highly moisturizing to keep your skin feeling fresh and hydrated without shine. This is a great option to expedite your morning skincare routine since it offers sun protection, moisture and anti-aging all in one.
Courtesy of Amazon
9. Baxter of California Face Moisturizer for Men
BEST OIL FREE
Many men make the common mistake of thinking if they have oily skin they can skip moisturizer, but that isn’t so. Oily skin can still get dry, which actually signals the body to produce even more oil. That’s why a great moisturizer is crucial, and this one by Baxter of California is designed for normal to oily skin. It used plant-based moisturizers to restore the skin’s moisture barrier, it absorbs super fast and leaves a matte finish.
Courtesy of Amazon
10. Caldera + Lab The Good Serum
BEST NATURAL PICK
There’s a good chance that in math and science class you were told to “show your work.” Caldera + Lab took that to heart, and you can peruse the “science” and “The proof” tabs on their site to see the clinical tests they’ve conducted. If you want natural ingredients that actually work, this brand has your back.
Review: Caldera + Lab’s The Good Serum Revitalized My Skin
Courtesy of Caldera and Lab
11. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen
BEST FACE SUNSCREEN
While it’s technically just considered sunscreen, we couldn’t leave this option out for consideration. It’s the #1 Dermatologist Recommended face sunscreen and works as applied over your current moisturizer, providing both chemical and mineral sun protection. It doesn’t have all of the same moisturizing properties as your average moisturizer, but when it comes to protection, this stuff is the real deal.
Courtesy of Amazon
12. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men
BEST FOR TIRED SKIN
Say “see ya” to tired, dull skin thanks to this moisturizer that will bring your complexion back to life. It’s packed with ingredients chosen to revitalize and re-energize skin, like caffeine, chestnut extract and soy. Antioxidants also help perk things up, courtesy of vitamins C and E, which improve radiance and skin texture, as well as fight off free radical damage, respectively.
Courtesy of Kiehl’s
13. Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre
EDITOR’S PICK
“I completely swear by Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentrate,” says our e-commerce editor Tyler Schoeber, “I can’t even begin to explain the work it’s done so far for my skin. For me, it’s brought my skin routine down to a minimum by keeping my face breakout free and smooth after I wash it each time.”
Courtesy of Amazon
14. Lumin Ultra-Hydrating Moisturizing Balm
MOST VERSATILE
This hydrating moisturizing balm is a cream ready to keep your face as hydrated as it can be. Simply rub it over your face before bedtime and get the dry areas on your face when you wake up. Post-shower, place a little on as well since your skin begins to dry up after it’s wet. We’re big fans of Lumin’s skincare products, which are a great option for guys who are new to skincare and looking for effective and affordable products.
Courtesy of Lumin
15. Bevel Moisturizing Face Gel
BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Bevel’s moisturizing face gel is just what your skin needs as the ending game to your skincare routine. It isn’t greasy and stays completely lightweight on your face, so you won’t feel it weighing your skin down after application. If you’re looking for a quality face moisturizer that also prioritizes quantity, you’ve found it.
Courtesy of Bevel
16. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
LONGEST LASTING
This French formula works its magic quickly: it only takes one hour for it to help restore the skin barrier. It’ll keep your face hydrated for up to 48 hours without clogging pores. The oil-free formula is silky soft and sinks right into skin. It contains prebiotic thermal water, ceramide-3, niacinamide and glycerin to boost the overall health and moisture levels of your skin.
Courtesy of Amazon
17. Stryx Tinted Moisturizer
BEST TINTED
Don’t be afraid — it’s not makeup, we promise. Stryx’s tinted moisturizer soothes your skin while also subtly covering blemishes. It’s a great option for acne, as it immediately boosts your appearance while fighting acne under the surface.
Courtesy of Stryx
18. Asystem Daily Defense Moisturizer + SPF
BEST ANTIOXIDANT
Asystem is a relatively new men’s brand, but we’ve already been impressed with their products, which include one of our favorite vitamin subscription services, pain relief products and skincare essentials. The Asystem Daily Defense Moisturizer + SPF boasts SPF 30 protection from UVA and UBV rays. In our testing, we found that it absorbed quickly and was effective in preventing sunburn even on especially bright days.
Courtesy of Asystem
19. Lord Jones Whole Plant Formula Acid Mantle Repair CBD Moisturizer
BEST CBD
This moisturizer is packed with 250mg of CBD, ceramides and hyaluronic acid to soothe and replenish skin. It’s safe for nearly all skin types to support all-day hydration. If your concerns include dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles, this is a particularly good face moisturizer for men.
Courtesy of Sephora
20. Rugged & Dapper Age & Damage Defense Moisturizer
AMAZON’S CHOICE
One of the best-reviewed men’s moisturizers on Amazon, the Rugged & Dapper face cream works for all ages and most skin types, from oily to acne-prone to sensitive. The ingredient list includes peptides to boost collagen, and botanical hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and jojoba to help to calm and soothe the skin, making this a great lotion to slather on after shaving, or after a particularly strenuous workout.
Courtesy of Amazon
21. MARLOWE. No. 123 Men’s Facial Moisturizer
If you’d rather go bare-faced than face the idea of putting on some goopy face cream, you’ll want to check out MARLOWE’s lightweight moisturizer. Because it’s water-based and full of natural ingredients (think green tea and willow bark extracts), it glides on smoothly and easily and absorbs in seconds.
Courtesy of Amazon
22. Ceylon Facial Moisturizer
BEST NEWCOMER
Uneven skin texture can be extremely frustrating and difficult to treat, especially without drying out the skin since our faces can be extra sensitive. Luckily, this Celyon moisturizer hydrates with hyaluronic acid and calms with niacinamide while also improving texture thanks to the Alpha Hydroxy Acids, which gently exfoliate the skin over time. If you want clear, smooth and quenched skin, this is the one for you.
Courtesy of Ceylon
23. Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen SPF 50+
EXTRA STRENGTH SPF
If your skin is on the sensitive side, this is the moisturizer for you. Designed to be ultra-gentle on all complexions, it’s fragrance-free, non-irritating and won’t clog pores. It moisturizes and nourishes skin for a full eight hours. Plus, it keeps you safe from damaging UVA and UVB rays with SPF 50 and five filters to guard you against the sun.
Courtesy of Amazon
How We Chose the Best Men’s Face Moisturizers
SPY takes grooming very seriously. We have an entire section on our site dedicated to this product category, and skincare is actually one of our editors’ favorite topics to write about. We’re also living through a golden age of men’s skincare and grooming products, which has led to a ton of new brands and products vying for guys’ attention. When building your own skincare routine, there are certain core products we always recommend — face wash, retinol cream, sunscreen and face moisturizers. And over the years, our editors, product reviewers and writers have tested and reviewed a lot of face moisturizers.
So how do we choose the best face moisturizer for men? In our years of testing and reviewing products, we’ve found that selecting the best men’s skincare products is more subjective than selecting, say, the best Bluetooth sunglasses or laptops. The type of product that’s right for you will depend on your skin type, age, personal preferences, budget and how important eco-friendly packaging and ingredients are to you. For this guide, we did our best to balance both subjective and objective factors.
We started by selecting the most important types of face moisturizer that we wanted to include: tinted moisturizer, moisturizer with SPF, moisturizer without SPF, natural options, affordable drugstore brands, splurge-worthy products, moisturizer for sensitive skin, etc. For some of these categories, the top option was clear. In others, we had to compare several similar products before arriving at our final secition. In addition, we considered the following criteria when reviewing new men’s face moisturizers:
Ingredients
SPF protection (if any)
(if any) Price
Brand quality and trustworthiness
Effectiveness
Anti-aging properties (if any)
We believe the best face moisturizers for men will satisfy all of these criteria, and we believe our top three picks — Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream, CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, and Geologie Active Recovery Hydro Gel Moisturizer — absolutely do.
Every single face moisturizer on this list has been personally tested by a SPY editor or product reviewer at some point in the last two years. Some of these products are new, while others have been available for many years. Keep checking back, as we’ll regularly update this guide as new products become available.
Updates: This article was last updated on Thursday, May 12, at which time we selected a new “Best Overall” face moisturizer for men — Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream. We named this the top face moisturizer in our 2021 product awards, and it was selected by consensus among our editors based on the criteria above. In addition, we added Geologie Active Recovery Hydro Gel as one of the top options, as it’s performed well in our testing and has a great list of ingredients. We also removed products from brands such as Super Goop! and Paula’s Choice.
These are a few of our favorite things: a selection of grooming products tested by SPY editors over the past 12 months. George Chinsee | SPY
How Tests Grooming Products
SPY has developed more formal testing guidelines so far in 2022, and we’re in the process of standardizing our selection criteria across all product categories. However, some of the products featured in this guide were tested prior to the implementation of our new product review guidelines. We will always be transparent about which products we have personally tested, and which products we have chosen to include based on customer reviews and brand reputation. In this particular article, we have had the chance to test every moisturizer featured here. Some of these moisturizers were provided by the brands for editorial review, while others we purchased ourselves.
When testing grooming products, we ask our reviewers to use the products over a period of at least two weeks. In many cases, we will use a particular product for 2-3 months before determining whether it’s effective or not. Our reviewer will determine if the product has had the desired effect, as well as how pleasing it was to use and apply. If we don’t feel that a product is effective, or if we believe it offers a poor value for the cost, we will make sure to share this information with our readers. For every grooming product you read about on there is another grooming product that didn’t make the cut.
When we’re trying out a new face moisturizer for men, we consider how effectively the product absorbs into the skin, the overall tactile sensation, and how long it lasts. Most importantly, we want to verify that the product actually does what it promises to. In the end, we selected 23 products from 22 different skincare brands. Collectively, we’ve tested dozens more face moisturizers that don’t appear on this list.
Protect Your Mug — The Best Face Sunscreens for Guys
The Best Men's Moisturiser for Every Skin Type
A moisturiser can't turn back time (despite what the packaging promises) but it can pause it. Find a good one, and it'll be your defence against not only the elements, but also the years. Start early, deploy daily, and you'll outflank wrinkles and fine lines before they even start to appear.
If they already have, well, employing one of the best moisturisers for men is still the best way to slow their progress. All you need to do is pick the right option – and, truthfully, it probably isn't that special-offer tube you snatched off the supermarket shelf last weekend.
To find the best, we put the top brands to the test in the Esquire Lab with our panel of 212 men. The Esquire editors have also selected their anecdotal over-achievers, so you're bound to find one that works for you.
Esquire Lab Picks
Best all-round moisturiser:
Best moisturiser for oily skin:
Best moisturiser for sensitive skin:
Best moisturiser for shine control:
Best luxe moisturiser:
Best post-shave moisturiser:
Best vegan moisturiser:
Best hydrating moisturiser:
Esquire Editors' Picks
Best for combination skin:
Best for dehydrated skin:
Best for pigmentation and rough texture:
Best for tired, dull skin:
Best for dry skin:
Best for all skin types:
Best for irritated, upset skin:
Best for city skin:
Best for oily skin:
Best for SPF:
Really, the best moisturiser for you depends on the results you're hoping to achieve. If you're simply after a one-and-done softening solution, head straight for a simple yet effective emollient cream, such as 's suits-all salve. For skin that's feeling dry and rough, a cream containing exfoliating acids will resurface without the need for scrubbing (which is very 2014, by the way). For dark spots and pigmentation, vitamin C is your fast-track to brighter skin, and for oily or breakout-prone types, there will always be the skincare security blanket of .
Whether you're looking to fill wrinkles, buff away fine lines or simply emulate that big-holiday glow, these are the very best men's moisturiser to place your trust in.
How we test moisturisers
We asked 212 men to try a range of moisturisers and report back on how well they hydrated skin. They made a note of how easy each one was to apply too, as well as how hydrated skin felt immediately and six hours after application.
In the Esquire Lab, we also used a multi-skin test machine to see how hydrating each moisturiser really was. Find the results below.
The best moisturisers for men
The 10 Best SPF-Equipped Moisturizers for Your Manly Face
There’s a good chance that you’re not wearing SPF as often as you should. We know, it’s greasy, you’re lazy and it’s not even summertime yet!
Well, we hate to break it to you (again) but you should be wearing SPF every single day (yes, even on overcast days and when you plan to stay indoors, according to the experts.) It’s a critical component in protecting you against harmful, cancer-causing UV rays, and on top of melanoma, sun damage can cause premature aging, fine lines and skin tone discoloration, aka sunspots.
And the best course of action would be to apply sunscreen along with your daily skincare routine — but we know that might not be plausible for you, a very busy man who hates the texture of sunscreen. It’s why, if you won’t surrender to our sunscreen tirades, you should, at the very least, be using a moisturizer that has SPF in it.
“A moisturizer with SPF helps to hydrate and protect the skin. It’s a great option for men that are always on the go and that don’t like the feeling of having many products on their skin. It’s a good option to really simplify one’s skincare,” says dermatological nurse and celebrity aesthetician Natalie Aguilar. However, it shouldn’t be a total replacement for sunscreen — especially when you’re spending long hours out in the sun.
“It’s important for men to keep in mind that a moisturizer with built-in SPF is not enough protection for someone going surfing or going out in the sun hiking. For these activities, a separate SPF should be used,” says Aguilar. “However, these moisturizers can be a good option for those that will not do a multiple-step routine or those who just don’t like applying SPF. In these cases, a moisturizer with a built-in SPF will ensure some protection.”
In short, moisturizers with SPF will streamline your morning routine and provide you with a bit of protection against harmful UVA/UVB, which is better than wearing no SPF at all. But a couple of things to keep in mind before shopping for a moisturizer with SPF:
“Many products are tailored for men with a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 multifunction which is totally fine for those that don’t want multiple products. When men are choosing a moisturizer with SPF they want to look for and ensure that the product does actually have an SPF of at least SPF 15,” says Aguilar. Also, give thought to the type of skin you have.
“Your skin type should always be taken into consideration when choosing a moisturizer with sunscreen,” says SkinSpirit Lead Aesthetician Karen Fernandez. “If you’re acne-prone, you’ll want to be especially careful to choose an oil-free SPF with a light texture, and may want to consider powder options. Those with dry skin, on the other hand, can tolerate a thicker texture but will need a deeper exfoliation afterward to keep their skin clean.”
Now that we have thoroughly convinced you to switch out your daily moisturizer with one that has SPF, here are a few of our favorites.
Jaxon Lane
While we’re already big fans of male skincare brand Jaxon Lane (and their moisturizing sunscreen), this rec comes from Aguilar: “I am a huge lover of the Jaxon Lane Rain Or Shine Daily Moisturizer Sunscreen. This 2-1 sunscreen and moisturizer has an SPF 50+ (amazing) and is so lightweight. It’s nongreasy, doesn’t clog pores, and has no white film making it suitable for all skin tones. It also helps improve skin with the benefits of Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, Green Tea, licorice Toot and Ginseng.”
Supergoop!
An ultra-hydrating moisturizer with a bouncy, lightweight feel that protects skin from the sun and pollution using clean and reef-friendly ingredients. If you suffer from dry skin, this moisturizer is a godsend.
Harry’s
Employing shea butter and subtle mint, this everyday lotion from Harry’s absorbs quickly, hydrates and helps prevent sun damage with SPF 15.
Amazon
A great affordable option, this multi-tasking CeraVe facial moisturizing lotion is packed with 3 essential ceramides, hydrating hyaluronic acid, soothing niacinamide and SPF 30 to help restore the skin’s barrier and protect it against damaging UVA and UVB rays. (And it’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores, making it ideal for all skin types.)
Alastin
“The Alastin Hydratint pro mineral SPF is an excellent choice for daily protection,” recommends Fernandez. “It goes on easily, with a beautiful sheen and the tint adjusts for all skin types. With its hydrating aspect, it can work like a tinted moisturizer with SPF which makes it fast and easy. Apply in the morning after antioxidants and, any serum, peptide or growth factors, for dapper, all-day protection.”
Amazon
For oily, sensitive types, this lightweight, oil-free moisturizer from dermatologist-recommended brand Cetaphil uses a 4-in-1 formula to absorb oil, reduce shine and provide protection with broad spectrum SPF 30. It’s even got an endorsement from the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Ulta
Not only does this face moisturizer from dermatologist-recommended French skincare brand La Roche-Posay act as a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen, but it also combines ceramide-3, niacinamide and glycerin, plus the brand’s prebiotic thermal water, for a mixture that helps to restore the skin’s natural protective barrier, while providing up to 48 hours of refreshing hydration.
Kiehl’s
Kiehl’s fast-absorbant daily moisturizer with SPF 30 delivers 24-hour hydration and sun protection without the greasy texture.
Kinfield
Another reef-safe mineral moisturizer that uses clean ingredients like sea kelp and aloe vera to keep sensitive skin and acne-prone skin alike hydrated and protected with broad-spectrum SPF 35. It’s also water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, so don’t worrying about getting your sweat on.
Ulta
If you’re looking for light-as-a-cloud moisture that also effectively shields your face from harmful UVA/UVB rays, this non-greasy, ultra-hydrating cream-to-water formula from Peter Thomas Roth is your go-to.
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