Best ways to hydrate your skin in the sun

If you’re after a fuss‑free, everyday face moisturiser that gives your skin light hydration and some sun protection — without feeling heavy or greasy — Neutrogena’s Ultra Gentle Daily Moisturiser is an appealing pick. It’s lightweight and oil‑free, so it sinks into skin quickly and leaves a soft, smooth finish rather than a sticky or shiny layer.

One standout ingredient is glycerin, a tried‑and‑true humectant — essentially, it draws moisture into your skin and helps lock it in. Over time, that can help strengthen your skin’s natural moisture barrier, which is especially helpful if your skin ever feels dry or tight.

Plus, it offers broad‑spectrum UVA/UVB protection (SPF15). That doesn’t replace a dedicated high‑SPF sunscreen for long sun exposure — but for everyday errands, commuting, or a quick walk outside, it gives an extra layer of defence against premature skin ageing caused by UV rays.

How to use — and get the best results

• Use it in the morning, on clean, dry skin. As per manufacturer instructions, apply “in the AM on clean skin.”

• A little goes a long way — because it’s lightweight and oil‑free, you don’t need much for good coverage.

• If you’re planning to spend extended time outdoors or in strong sunlight, you may wish to apply a dedicated sunscreen with higher SPF on top — this moisturiser is fine for daily, incidental sun exposure (e.g. walking between home and car), but for beach or long walks you’ll want more robust coverage.

• Because the formula is simple and “gentle,” it can suit normal to combination skin types well, especially for those who dislike heavy creams or dislike that greasy feeling some moisturisers leave behind.

What to like — and what to be cautious about

👍 Pros

• Lightweight, quickly absorbed, doesn’t feel heavy or greasy — great for everyday use.

• Moisturises for up to 24 hours, thanks to glycerin helping retain skin hydration.

• Broad‑spectrum UVA/UVB SPF15 — useful for daily sun exposure, errands, commuting, etc.

• Oil‑free, fragrance‑free — a plus for those who dislike heavy creams or are prone to clogged pores.

⚠️ Things to consider / potential drawbacks

• SPF15 is modest — it may not be enough if you spend extended time outdoors or during peak sun hours. A more substantial sunscreen may be needed.

• Some users report that layering foundation or primer too soon after application can cause “pilling” (the moisturiser gathering into small flakes) — best to wait a minute or two before applying makeup. Aestetica

• As with many products combining moisturiser and SPF, dedicated sunscreens generally offer stronger UV defense, so this is more of a “daily‑wear” product than a “sun‑day” main shield.

Who it’s best for

This moisturiser‑SPF combo is especially good for:

• People wanting a simple, no-fuss AM skincare step — cleanse, moisturise + SPF in one.

• Those with normal to combination skin who don’t want heavy creams.

• Daily city‑dwellers, commuters, office workers — ideal for incidental sun exposure (walking to work, running errands).

• Anyone seeking light hydration + gentle protection without a greasy finish