Article updated: April 26, 2023
It’s no secret that most men don’t like spending a lot of time on their daily skincare routine. However, as we age taking care of our skin becomes important in maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance.
Like a pair of well worn leather boots, skin begins to show signs of wear as we get older. Although many variables can play a role, there are two main factors that contribute to the aging effect of our skin: natural wear and tear, and sun damage.
Incorporating a daily facial moisturizer into your morning routine can go a long way to help improve the look and feel of your skin, while limiting future damage. I recommend taking things one step further though, and suggest pairing that facial moisturizer with a high quality SPF. But having to apply two seperate products on a daily basis? I know what you’re thinking: no thanks. To help simplify matters, I compiled a list of men’s facial moisturizers that also contain SPF. That’s right, facial moisturizer and SPF in one. Magic.
The Lineup:
- Tame the Beast – Face Lotion with SPF 20
- Jack Black – Double-Duty SPF 20 Face Lotion
- Kiehl’s – Facial Fuel
- No. 7 – Protect and Perfect
- Clinique for Men – SPF 21 Moisturizer
- Neutrogena – Triple Protect
- Lab Series – Daily Moisture Defense
- Brickell – Daily Defense
- Big Boy – Moisturizing SPF 20 Cream
- Baxter of California – Moisturizer with SPF 15
- Every Man Jack – Facial Moisturizer with SPF 20
Best Men’s Face Moisturizers with SPF Reviewed
Tame the Beast – Face Lotion with SPF 20
If you’re looking for the best men’s face lotion with SPF, I highly recommend you check out this offering from Tame the Beast. If you’re unfamiliar with Tame the Beast, they are a male specific grooming company that offers a wide range of premium skincare products for men. One of the things that I really like about them is that they formulate their products with a ton of natural botanicals and extracts. Their face lotion with SPF contains unique ingredients such as: Aloe vera, blue algae, sea parsley, phospholipids, buddleja davidii (summer lilac), lemon balm (herb), vitamins A & E, chamomile oil, and lavender oil.
What I like about it:
• It absorbs and dries fast
Us men like our skincare routine to be short and sweet. We want to apply our face lotion and forget about it. One of the great things about this lotion from Tame the Beast is that it absorbs fast and dries quickly. It doesn’t stay wet or heavy on the skin, and it doesn’t transfer to clothes while you’re preparing for your day. Quick, easy, and simple. Just the way we like it.
• Shine free
One of the things that I don’t like about face lotion is that many of them leave an oily looking sheen on the skin. Thankfully that’s not the case with this face lotion from Tame the Beast. It goes on smoothly and dries quickly, without any annoying shine left behind.
• It isn’t chalky
Guys don’t want lotion that dries to a shiny finish, we also don’t want one that dries to a chalky finish either. Traditional SPF sunscreen is known for being thick, messy to apply, and often times it leaves a ugly chalky residue behind. That’s not the case with this Tame the Beast lotion with SPF. It’s lightweight, applies smoothly and evenly, and most importantly dries without the chalky residue.
• Odor-free
While this is personal preference, I really like the fact that this SPF face lotion has no odor and no fragrance. Once it’s applied to the skin you totally forget that it’s there. It simply does its job of protecting and moisturizing without having to smell it all day.
• Long-lasting sun protection
Another thing that I really like about this lotion with SPF 20 is how long it protects. No guy wants to spend his day re-applying SPF face lotion multiple times. Use Tame the Beast lotion with SPF during your morning routine and your face will stay moisturized and protected all day.
Benefits:
- SPF 20
- Highly moisturizing
- Non-chalky
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy/non-oily
- Fragrance-free
Jack Black Double-Duty Men’s Face Moisturizer With SPF 20
This lightweight face lotion visibly improves skin’s appearance and eliminates dry skin without adding weight or oiliness. The addition of potent antioxidants and vitamins help heal damaged skin and reduce the signs of aging, while broad spectrum SPF 20 acts as a barrier and protects from damaging UV rays. Blue algae extract and sea parsley are added to keep skin soft and supple, while improving overall appearance. Featuring a smooth, creamy texture that applies evenly and absorbs fast; this Double-Duty face lotion from Jack Black won’t leave any oily or chalky residue behind.
What’s great about it:
• Doesn’t leave a shine
No guy wants to use a face lotion that dries to a shiny finish. This Jack Black facial moisturizer goes on smooth, dries quickly and doesn’t leave that unappealing oily shine. After all, high-gloss finishes are for cars, right?
• It’s lightweight
This lightweight, silky lotion with SPF is perfect for the guy that wants to apply it and forget it. It’s not thick or heavy, and it doesn’t feel cakey on the skin. A little goes a long way, and once it’s applied you’ll forget it’s there.
• It lasts all day
The idea of having to re-apply lotion throughout the day is not an appealing thought. Use Jack Black Double-Duty as part of your morning routine and it will continue to moisturize, hydrate, and protect all day.
• The bottle lasts forever
A bottle of this stuff just won’t die. Which, as it turns out, is a great problem to have. A little bit of this moisturizer goes a long way; effectively prolonging the bottles lifespan.
Benefits:
- Hydrates skin without adding oiliness
- Broad-spectrum SPF 20
- Contains antioxidants and vitamins
- A little goes a long way/long lasting
Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment With SPF 15
This moisturizing facial lotion from Kiehl’s is infused with chestnut extract, soy, and vitamins C & E to moisturize and improve the appearance of dull skin. Broad spectrum SPF 15 is added to help protect against harmful UV rays. This non-oily moisturizer applies easily and absorbs fast; leaving healthy, hydrated skin behind without a greasy or chalky appearance. Designed specifically for the unique characteristics of men’s skin and fragranced with a subtle masculine scent.
Why I like it:
• Doesn’t leave a shiny residue
Facial lotion that leaves you with shiny, oily skin isn’t doing its job in my opinion. Nobody wants their face to shine like a new penny. That’s what I like about Kiehl’s Facial Fuel with SPF; it moisturizes, protects, and dries without leaving any greasy, shiny residue.
• It isn’t chalky
If one of your goals in life is to look like a human chalkboard, look elsewhere for your facial lotion with SPF. When applied properly -less is more- this lotion goes on smoothly and evenly, and dries without a chalky residue.
• It lasts all day
When applied during your morning routine, expect this lotion to moisturize and protect until the sun goes down. Nice.
• It’s packed with vitamins
Kiehl’s adds vitamins C & E to their Facial Fuel lotion, which are both chock-full of benefits for your skin.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant and is commonly found in anti-aging skin care products due to its role in collagen production, ability to heal damaged skin, and even reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Its also been known to help repair and prevent dry skin.
Vitamin E is also an antioxidant and absorbs harmful UV light when applied to skin; effectively protecting against sun damage.
• It smells great
You won’t find a sweet, flowery fragrance here. This lotion is clearly intended for a man and offers a subtle, yet masculine scent.
Benefits:
- Moisturizes and protects
- Broad spectrum SPF 20
- Enriched with vitamins C & E
- Non-oily
- Subtle masculine scent
NO.7 Protect & Perfect Intense Men’s Face Moisturizer With SPF 30
Formulated for men, No.7’s Protect and Perfect daily facial lotion moisturizes the skin and improves the look of deep lines and wrinkles; while the broad spectrum SPF 30 protects the skin from harmful UV rays. This lightweight formula is easily absorbed into the skin and offers defense against premature aging. Featuring a hypoallergenic formula, this lotion is safe for men with sensitive skin.
Why I like it:
• It isn’t greasy
No.7 nailed it with this non-greasy lotion. It applies easily and smoothly, and when it’s dry, there’s no greasy residue left on your face or your fingers.
• Safe for sensitive skin
Even though my skin isn’t overly sensitive, I can appreciate a company that looks out for their sensitive skinned customers. No. 7 formulated this lotion to be hypoallergenic and safe for men who are susceptible to allergic reactions from skin care products.
• It’s lightweight
You don’t want to feel lotion on your face; you just want to know that it’s there doing it’s job. This lightweight lotion by No. 7 does it’s job without feeling weighty on the skin.
• It lasts all day
Not having to re-apply facial lotion multiple times throughout the day is a win in my book. Apply this in the morning and it keeps you moisturized and protected all day.
• It smells good
Men’s skincare products haven’t always been a thing believe it or not. Once upon a time we had to use the same feminine smelling skin care products woman use. Thankfully times have changed, and companies like No. 7 now create great, masculine smelling products like this Protect and Perfect Moisturizer with SPF.
Benefits:
- Intensely hydrating without adding oiliness
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30
- Anti-aging benefits
- Hypo-allergenic – great for sensitive skin
Clinique For Men Broad Spectrum SPF 21 Moisturizer
This moisturizing facial lotion from Clinique is designed to hydrate and improve skin’s appearance. Formulated specifically for men and featuring Broad Spectrum SPF 21 for protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays. This oil-free moisturizer applies smoothly and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy or chalky residue. As with all Clinique products, this lotion is allergy tested and 100% fragrance free, so it’s great for sensitive skin.
What I like about it:
• It’s oil-free
This moisturizer from Clinique is great for men with oily or combination skin types. It’s lightweight and doesn’t leave a shiny, greasy residue.
• It absorbs and dries quickly
Don’t overdue it. Apply the recommended amount and it absorbs quickly and evenly. No need to wait long for it to dry or worry about it transferring to clothes. Ain’t gonna happen.
• No chalky residue
Cheap SPF and lotion containing SPF will often times dry on the skin leaving a streaky, dry, chalky residue. That’s not a problem with this Clinique for men moisturizer. Just make sure you don’t go overkill on the application, and it will dry clean and clear.
• Safe for sensitive skin
If you suffer from sensitive skin, finding suitable skincare products can be difficult. This oil-free moisturizer from Clinique is allergy tested, and it doesn’t contain any fragrance. If you’re a guy with sensitive skin, it’s certainly worth considering.
Benefits:
- Improves skin’s appearance
- Moisturizes and hydrates
- Broad Spectrum SPF 21
- Oil-free
- Great for sensitive skin
Neutrogena Triple Protect Men’s Face Lotion With SPF 20
This face lotion from Neutrogena offers multiple benefits to help protect your skin. The lightweight, non-greasy lotion hydrates dry skin for a healthy appearance; while the broad spectrum SPF 20 protects from harmful UVA/UVB rays and also helps fight the signs of aging. The advanced formula is also great for use after shaving as it helps soothe razor irritation. Featuring a light, subtle, masculine scent, this lotion goes on smooth and absorbs quickly.
Why I like it:
• Its doesn’t add shine
This lotion from Neutrogena is formulated to be non-greasy, so it’s going to dry evenly without leaving any unappealing oiliness or shine.
• It’s lightweight
No guy wants to feel the lotion on his face. This lightweight moisturizer dries quickly and doesn’t feel weighty on the skin. You’ll forget it’s even there.
• It soothes razor irritation
Razor irritation is no fun. Did you know one of the major causes of razor irritation is dry skin? Adding a daily moisturizer to your routine can help reduce or eliminate this common by-product of shaving. Neutrogena Triple Protect for men goes one step further and actually combats razor irritation with a soothing effect that eliminates burning, itching, and redness post shave.
• It penetrates and dries quickly
This stuff applies smoothly, penetrates evenly and dries quickly.
Benefits:
- Moisturizes, soothes, and protects
- Non- greasy
- Broad spectrum SPF 20
- Fights the signs of aging
Lab Series Daily Moisture Defense Lotion With SPF 15
This lightweight all-day face lotion from Lab Series moisturizes for fresher, healthier looking skin; while the SPF 15 protects from the harmful rays of the sun. Infused with antioxidants to reduce naturally occurring damage to the skin and help fight the signs of aging. A little goes a long way with this lotion and only a small amount is needed to moisturize and protect.
Why I like it:
• Matte finish
There is nothing worse than a facial moisturizer that leaves your skin greasy and shiny. It feels uncomfortable and looks like you really need to wash your face. Lab Series Daily Moisture Defense doesn’t leave your face looking like a high gloss paint job; it dries to a nice matte finish.
• It’s lightweight
The lightweight formula won’t feel weighty on the skin. It applies smoothly, and absorbs evenly for all day moisturizing and protection.
• Fights the signs of aging
Whether you are young or old, every guy can benefit from a lotion that fights the signs of aging.
• It lasts all day
I like simple things. Put it on in the morning, and you can feel it working to keep your skin hydrated and protected all day. Simple.
Benefits:
- Moisturizes dry skin
- SPF 15
- Infused with antioxidants
- Lightweight/non-greasy
- Unscented
- Fights the signs of aging
Brickell Daily Defense Face Moisturizer For Men With SPF 15
This natural and organic oil-free face lotion for men is designed to hydrate and protect your skin without clogging pores. The fast-absorbing formula contains aloe vera and cocoa butter to hydrate your skin; while green tea is added to help reverse the signs of aging. Natural zinc oxide and titanium dioxide based SPF 15 provide protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. This light, easy to apply lotion has a subtle masculine scent that absorbs quickly with no oily residue. Only a small amount is needed to achieve full facial coverage.
What I like about it:
• Doesn’t add shine
This daily defense moisturizer dries to a nice matte finish. No oily residue or unappealing shine is left behind. Oorah.
• It’s natural and organic
I really like the fact Brickell formulates this lotion with all natural and organic ingredients. I don’t like putting harsh chemicals on my skin; I’m sure you don’t either.
• Absorbs and dries quickly
This lightweight lotion absorbs evenly, dries fast and feels almost non-existent on your skin (in a good way).
• The bottle lasts
Brickell’s face moisturizer is thin (not too thin), and spreads smoothly and easily. You really only need a small amount to cover large areas of skin. Because of this, a single bottle seemingly lasts forever.
• Smells really good
Lightly scented and not at all overpowering. I don’t exactly know how to describe the smell, but it’s pretty damn good. Citrusy masculine-y? I’m working on it.
Benefits:
- Hydrates and protects
- Natural and organic
- Great for sensitive skin
- SPF 15
- Oil-free
- Masculine scent
Big Boy Men’s Facial Moisturizer With SPF 20
This facial moisturizer from Big Boy is handcrafted in a small village near Palermo, Italy. Olive oil and argan oil hydrate the skin while SPF 20 protects the skin from prolonged sun exposure. This creamy, easy to spread lotion is excellent for dry, flakey skin; or any men needing a light facial moisturizer with the added benefit of UVA and UVB protection.
What I like about it:
• Moisturizes without adding shine
With all the moisturizing benefits of this lotion, you’d think it would leave a oily shine. Guess again.
• Contains olive & argan oil
Featuring two heavy hitters when it comes to moisturizing; olive oil and argan oil.
Olive oil is not only an excellent moisturizer, but it’s also an antioxidant and is believed to boast some serious antibacterial effects. Antioxidants are known for fighting cancer and also prevent premature aging; while antibacterials can help eliminate and prevent disease causing bacteria on the skin.
Like olive oil, argan oil is known for its moisturizing properties. It’s also great for fighting acne and combats the signs of aging by reducing the appearance of wrinkles and restoring skin’s elasticity.
• Absorbs quickly
This silky lotion spreads easily, and absorbs and dries quickly.
• It lasts all day
Use in conjunction with your morning routine and it moisturizes and protects all day.
Benefits:
- Moisturizes and hydrates
- SPF 20
- Improves skin’s appearance
- Subtle pleasant scent
Baxter of California Oil Free Moisturizer For Men With SPF 15
This oil-free daily moisturizing facial lotion from Baxter of California is designed to hydrate the skin; while the SPF 15 protects from UVA/UVB rays. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant to help fight the signs of aging while glycerin hydrates the skin and smoothes out fine lines and wrinkles. This fragrance-free lotion is great for sensitive skin, and the non-greasy formulation doesn’t clog pores.
What I like about it:
• Non-greasy
Nobody likes the feel of greasy lotion or sunblock. Thankfully this moisturizer with SPF from Baxter of California is neither. It applies smoothly and dries fast. No oily face or greasy fingers. Yay.
• Doesn’t leave a chalky residue
Keep the chalk on the chalkboard. Apply the recommended amount; massage fully into the skin, and rest assured this lotion dries clear as crystal.
• Contains glycerin
Glycerin is a powerful emollient known for it’s moisturizing properties. It’s found in many beauty and skincare products and is coveted for it’s ability to soften and hydrate. It protects the water in your skin, and actually attracts more water from the air. Powerful stuff indeed.
• It’s lightweight
Most men hate the feeling of having product on their face. That’s not an issue with this lotion. It’s lightweight, applies evenly, and dries fast. You won’t even know it’s there.
Benefits:
- Hydrates the skin
- SPF 15 protects from UVA/UVB
- Infused with vitamin E
- Fights the signs of aging
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Every Man Jack Daily Face Lotion With SPF 20
This hydrating, non-greasy face lotion from Every Man Jack is ideal for men with dry or irritated skin. Infused with chamomile and cucumber extract to soothe irritated skin while organic aloe vera is added to help hydrate. Vitamins C & E act as antioxidants to help protect the skin and help fight signs of premature aging. Broad Spectrum SPF 20 offers UVA/UVB protection. Formulated without harsh chemicals and fragrances make this a great option for men with sensitive skin.
Why I like it:
• Non-greasy
Greasy lotions leave your face shiny and oily. This Every Man Jack lotion is lightweight, non-greasy, and does a good job of absorbing and drying quickly without the glossy shine.
• It soothes
They included ingredients in this lotion that soothe dry, cracked, or irritated skin. It also works well as a post shave lotion to help soothe razor irritation.
• It smells great
The scent isn’t overly strong with this one, which is a positive in my book. The subtle fragrance it does have is quite nice and distinctly masculine.
• Good value
Sometimes you don’t have to pay a lot to get a quality product. That’s the case when it comes to this Every Man Jack lotion with SPF.
Benefits:
- Hydrates
- Soothes irritated skin
- Broad spectrum SPF 20
- Fights signs of premature aging
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Great for sensitive skin
Why it’s Important for Men to Moisturize
Moisturizing with a good lotion is vital to keep your skin looking young and healthy. Of course some lotions are better than others; you should choose one that is non-greasy, non-comedogenic (doesn’t clog pores), and contains SPF.
Tip: Any lotion from the above list will do.
Skin types fall into 5 categories:
Each skin type is different and requires its own unique needs. Read on to find your skin type and how you can benefit from a daily moisturizer.
The 5 Skin Types
• Normal skin
Normal skin requires the least maintenance of all the skin types. If you fall into this category, your skin probably stays pretty consistent year round, and usually doesn’t get too dry or oily. That being said, even people with normal skin will benefit from moisturizing with a face lotion, especially a face lotion that contains SPF. A few key benefits of using a daily moisturizer w/SPF:
- Helps fight the signs of aging
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles
- SPF protects from harmful, cancer causing UVB rays
- Gives skin a healthier appearance
If normal skin is your type, I recommend a non-greasy moisturizer that hydrates, protects and contains SPF.
• Dry skin
If you suffer from dry skin a good moisturizer is your best friend. People with dry skin tend to have a dull, rough complexion. They typically also show signs of aging quicker than any of the other skin types. Dry skin can be caused by many factors; some of which unfortunately can’t be controlled:
- Genetics
- Weather
- Medications
- Hard water
- The wrong soap
- Dry air
The best way to combat dry skin is to avoid products that strip the skin of moisture. If you think you may be using the wrong soap in the shower, check out my list of 10 Best Men’s Bar Soaps For Dry Skin. Equally important is keeping your skin hydrated with a great moisturizer like Jack Black Double-Duty or Kiehl’s Facial Fuel especially during the harsh winter months.
• Oily skin
Oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum (oil) by the sebaceous glands. The condition is quite common in men & women and in most cases it’s hereditary; meaning if you have it, your parents probably suffer(ed) from it too. One way to combat overzealous sebaceous glands is to moisturize. That’s right. I know it sounds counterproductive, but our sebaceous glands work by lubricating the skin with oil; they can produce too much oil if they sense your skin isn’t moisturized or hydrated. If oily skin is your problem, I suggest going with one of the oil-free face lotions from above like: Baxter of California, Brickell, Clinique, or Jack Black.
• Combination skin
Combination skin is the most common skin type. As the name suggests, sufferers have a combination of dry and oily skin. A double whammy. As illogical as it sounds, combination skin features two -or more- different skin types on the face. You may suffer from dry flakey skin on your cheeks; while you experience excessive oil in your T-zone (forehead, nose, & chin). If you fall into this skin type category I suggest using a lightweight or oil-free face lotion such as Baxter of California, Jack Black, or Clinique.
• Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin sufferers may deal with dry, oily, or combination skin, and frequently suffer from redness and irritation. Sensitive skin tends to burn easily in the sun and is easily irritated by changes in weather, chemicals, and skincare products. I recommend using a face lotion that is safe for sensitive skin or one that is natural and organic and contains SPF. Try: Brickell, Every Man Jack, Clinique, or No.7.
How to Apply Face Moisturizer with SPF
Hey it’s not rocket science, but applying lotion the correct way will yield much better results than doing it the wrong way.
• A clean canvas is best
You should only apply lotion after you’ve washed your face. Ideally in the morning. Applying lotion to unwashed skin can lead to clogged pores, reduce the depth of absorption, and significantly limit the moisturizers efficacy.
Apply lotion directly after washing your face; before your skin is completely dry. Damp skin does a better job of absorbing the moisture and locks it in for a longer period of time. – Science
• Don’t overdue it
One or two applications per day is enough. Some believe using too much moisturizer can cause your sebaceous glands to grow dependent on it, essentially stopping them from doing their job of producing sebum. Similar to how using steroids can cause testicular atrophy (small balls) by dramatically increasing testosterone levels in the body, and essentially doing the testicles job for them; causing them to become less-active and shrivel up. Random.
• Work it in
Work it in. And don’t apply too much; remember less is more. Applying too much lotion at once will cause most of it to remain unabsorbed and sit on the surface of the skin, making your face look shiny and greasy. Not thoroughly massaging in lotion that contains SPF can produce a dry, chalky finish once it’s dry. Not cool man.
Thanks for checking out my list of best men’s face moisturizers with SPF. If you found this article helpful, check out my list of best smelling body lotions for men. As always if you have any comments or questions, feel free to drop me a line in the comment section below.
Thanks for sharing this article! I really am looking for the best face moisturizer for my husband and luckily I came across this website. Cool!
You’re welcome Khayrie, thanks for reading.
thanks for the information. i’ll surely check the products out.
Thanks for commenting Lee
Thanks for the article. I’m in serious need of a good facial moisturizer with SPF.
Thanks for reading, Phil.
Thanks for the recommendations. I’m curious about the baxter of california lotion for my husband. He’s bald and often burns on the top of his head. Would this be a good option for him? Thanks – Rhonda
Hey Rhonda, the Baxter of California face lotion contains SPF 15 which blocks out 93% of UVB rays. So unless your husband spends prolonged periods of time in the sun for work or a long day at the beach, I believe SPF 15 should serve his head well.