You cannot replace sunscreen and moisturizer with each other. These two products are the bare minimum necessity when it comes to skincare. They are also recommended together for different purposes.A moisturizer keeps your skin healthy and prevents moisture loss. On the other hand, sunscreen protects your skin from sun damage that can lead to tanning, dullness, premature ageing and long-term pigmentation.You can build a routine that works for your skin after understanding the difference between moisturizer and sunscreen. Your skin stays protected, hydrated and becomes resilient when you use moisturizer and sunscreen in the right order, consistently.What Is Sunscreen ?Sunscreen is a skincare product that protects the skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays can cause skin damage, premature ageing, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreens work by absorbing or reflecting UV radiation to prevent it from penetrating the skin. They are available in different forms, including lotions, creams, sprays, and gels.What Is Moisturizer ?Moisturizers are skincare products that help hydrate the skin by preventing water loss. They contain ingredients such as humectants, emollients, and occlusives that work together to trap moisture in the skin. Moisturizers are available in various forms, including creams, lotions, gels, and oils.When And How To Use Sunscreen ?Sunscreen should be used daily, regardless of the weather or season. UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, so it's essential to protect your skin even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin areas, including the face, neck, and hands, at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. Make sure to reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours or after swimming/sweating.Related Article: Detailed guide on how to use sunscreenWhen And How To Use Moisturizer ?Moisturizers should be used after cleansing and toning the skin, typically in the morning and at night. Apply moisturizer to your face and neck, gently massaging it into your skin. It's essential to to choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and addresses your specific concerns, such as dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity.What Should I Apply First, Sunscreen or Moisturizer ?So let’s understand should you use sunscreen before or after moisturizer?Start by applying a generous layer of moisturizer and follow up with sunscreen. Here's why- Sunscreen carries ingredients that shield the skin against harmful UV rays – preventing photoaging, burns, tanning, pigmentation and more. To ensure optimal efficacy, your sunscreen formula should atop the dermis after the moisturizer. Difference between moisturizer and sunscreenFeatureMoisturizerSunscreenPrimary RoleHydrates the skin and repairs the skin barrierProtects skin from harmful UV raysMain BenefitsMaintains moisture balance, prevents dryness and flakinessPrevents sun damage, tanning, and premature ageingProtection OfferedStrengthens and maintains the skin barrierBlocks UVA and UVB raysSkin Health ImpactKeeps skin soft, healthy, and resilientReduces the risk of pigmentation and skin cancerKey IngredientsHyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, GlycerinZinc Oxide, Avobenzone, OxybenzoneApplication OrderApplied first, before sunscreenApplied last, after moisturiserUsage FrequencyMorning and night (AM & PM)Morning (reapply every 2 hours)How To Choose Sunscreen For Face ?The skin on the face is delicate and sensitive than the skin on the body, so it's essential to choose a sunscreen specifically designed for the face. Look for a high-protection sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 PA++++ that is oil-free and non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores. 1. If you have acne-prone skin, choose a matte sunscreen for oily skin that contains niacinamide and UV absorption heroes. This featherlight formula ensures formidable protection while preventing clogged pores. The best part? The gorgeous matte finish this sunscreen bestows upon the skin. 2. If you have oily skin, choose a lightweight gel sunscreen that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. A gel-based formula controls excess oil, feels breathable on the skin, and provides high sun protection without clogging pores. 3. Similarly, if you have dry skin type choose rich dewy sunscreen from Foxtale. It contains D-Panthenol and Vitamin E that moisturize and nourish your skin while giving it a dewy effect. 4. To double down on glow, use Foxtale’s Glow Sunscreen with SPF 50. Infused with new-gen UV filters – Vitamin C and Niacinamide, the formula gives your skin maximum protection from the sun while ensuring a brightening effect. How to Choose the Best Face Moisturizer for Your Skin Type ?Choosing the right moisturizer for your face will maintain healthy skin.1. If you have dry skin, choose a moisturiser for dry skin that provides intense hydration and also repairs the skin barrier. Foxtale’s Ceramide Moisturizer to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture. It gives you long-lasting comfort. It also contains Olive Oil, which is a rich emollient for dry skin and restores softness without feeling heavy. This formula works to replenish moisture levels and also protects your skin from pollution and environmental damage. Your skin becomes soft, resilient and less prone to dryness with its regular use. If you want something to use daily, this ceramide moisturizer is suitable for dry skin that needs nourishment and barrier support.2. If you have oily skin, choose a non-greasy moisturizer for oily skin that controls shine without clogging pores. Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer fits well in this aspect. It is infused with Niacinamide, which regulates excess oil production and minimises the look of pores. It makes your pores less prone to congestion.It also contains Hyaluronic Acid for hydration without heaviness, and Marine Extracts improve the skin’s moisture levels. They both keep your skin soft and smooth throughout the day. It absorbs quickly because it has a non-sticky texture, making it ideal for daily use before sunscreen or makeup.If you are looking for oil control and to keep your skin comfortable, the Oil Balancing Moisturizer is a great choice for oily and combination skin.3. If you have sensitive skin, use a moisturizer which is formulated for sensitive skin. Foxtale’s Skin Repair Cream uses ERS technology to nourish, hydrate, and heal your skin. ConclusionSo, which is better sunscreen or moisturizer? You basically need both! Daily use of sunscreen and moisturizer is essential for healthy skin. Sunscreen shields from UV rays, moisturizers hydrate and prevent dryness. Choose products based on skin type and concerns for youthful skin.Related Article: 1. Guide on proper skincare routine2. Guide on sunscreen for dry skin3. Dewy vs Matte sunscreen guide