For a long time, moisturizer has been considered an essential step in any skincare routine. After cleansing, it would preserve the skin barrier, limit dehydration and prepare the skin to receive subsequent treatments. However, a new approach is starting to make waves: some people now choose to eliminate this step in the morning, to apply their sun protection directly. A minimalist routine that particularly appeals to those who find their skin too shiny, who have trouble with layering products or who simply want to lighten their beauty ritual.
This development is not completely devoid of scientific basis. Several dermatologists point out that not all skin has the same needs and that it is not necessarily necessary to systematically apply a moisturizing cream morning and evening. Some sunscreens already contain hydrating ingredients, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid or ceramides. But can you really do without cream in the morning without weakening your skin? And above all, who can adopt this alternative routine without risk?
Why do some women stop using moisturizer in the morning?
The principle is simple: instead of successively applying a serum, a moisturizer then sun protection, some people choose to reduce their routine to a few essential actions. After cleansing, they go straight to a sunscreen whose formula also provides sufficient hydration. The objective is in particular to avoid the accumulation of layers of products, which can sometimes give a feeling of heaviness, leave a greasy finish or cause small clumps of material under the makeup.
This approach is of particular interest to people who have combination to oily skin, or who tend to shine during the day. In these situations, a cream that is too rich, layered on top of already comfortable sun protection, may be felt to be superfluous. However, it is not a question of removing hydration from your routine, but rather of finding a product capable of fulfilling several functions. The nuance is important: skin that no longer receives moisturizer is not necessarily skin that no longer receives hydration.
Do dermatologists confirm that morning moisturizer is optional?
This question was notably addressed by two consultant dermatologists interviewed by the British media in May 2026. Their answers are quite clear: it all depends on the skin type and the formulation of the sun protection used. Dermatologist Anjali Mahto explains in particular that a person with oily or blemish-prone skin can sometimes do without a classic moisturizer if their SPF already contains sufficiently hydrating ingredients. She cites in particular hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides. Dermatologist Ellie Rashid agrees with this approach and believes that it is entirely possible to eliminate this step when the skin remains comfortable after applying sunscreen.
This vision also matches the conclusions of a study published in May 2026 in the scientific journal, devoted to dermatologists’ views on skincare routines. The researchers surveyed 168 dermatologists and dermatology residents in the Netherlands. Result: 91.6% of respondents said they were concerned about the popularity of multi-step routines, while only 12.5% actively recommended this type of ritual to their patients. The majority favored simpler routines, generally consisting of two to four steps. Be careful, however: this study focuses on the complexity of routines as a whole and does not demonstrate that systematically removing moisturizer in the morning would be beneficial.
Can you replace your moisturizer with sun protection?
This is precisely the central point of this new approach. Some modern sun protection products no longer just filter UV rays: they also include ingredients usually present in moisturizers. Glycerin helps attract and retain water in the surface layer of the skin, while hyaluronic acid helps maintain hydration. Ceramides, for their part, help maintain the skin barrier. A formula combining these different ingredients can therefore provide sun protection and a certain moisturizing comfort in a single step.
But not all sun protection is equal on this point. A very fluid formula, designed for oily skin, will not necessarily provide sufficient comfort to dry or dehydrated skin. Conversely, some sunscreens have a creamy enough texture to replace a classic day cream. The good reflex therefore consists of observing the reaction of your skin after application: if it remains supple, comfortable and does not feel tight over the hours, this combination may be sufficient. Otherwise, it is better to keep a moisturizer before your SPF.
Which skin types can do without moisturizer in the morning?
Oily skin is generally the first to be affected by this possibility. They naturally produce more sebum and can sometimes have difficulty withstanding the accumulation of several textures. For them, light, non-comedogenic sun protection enriched with moisturizing ingredients can be an interesting alternative. Some combination skin types can also adopt this routine, especially when the central areas of the face tend to shine quickly. It is even possible to adapt the application according to the areas: moisturize the cheeks if they are tight, while making do with SPF on the forehead, nose and chin.
On the other hand, dry, sensitive skin or skin prone to certain dermatological conditions should be more careful. A moisturizer can be essential to strengthen the skin barrier and limit feelings of discomfort. This is particularly the case for people suffering from eczema or rosacea, or those who use acne treatments that can dry out the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology also reminds that people with dry skin should favor appropriate moisturizing care and that people following certain anti-acne treatments have every interest in maintaining daily hydration to better tolerate them.
What does a good morning skincare routine look like without moisturizer?
If your skin tolerates this approach well, there is no need to multiply the products. A morning routine can perfectly well be limited to gentle cleansing, possibly a serum adapted to your needs, then broad-spectrum sun protection of at least SPF 30. The serum remains optional: it is not essential to apply one to have healthy skin. The main thing is to choose a sunscreen that is sufficiently comfortable and hydrating for your skin, without compromising on the quantity necessary for effective protection.
It should also be remembered that sun protection does not exempt you from reapplying SPF when exposure is prolonged, particularly after swimming, heavy sweating or outdoor activity. And if your skin starts to feel tight, peeling or show redness, it may be a sign that this minimalist routine is not suitable for it. In this case, reintroducing a suitable moisturizer is preferable. Ultimately, the best routine is not necessarily the one that includes the most products, but the one that really meets the needs of your skin.
FAQ: everything you need to know about morning moisturizer
1. Is it obligatory to put on a moisturizer every morning?
No, not necessarily. Some people, especially those with oily skin, can get by on sun protection that is sufficiently moisturizing. However, dry or sensitive skin is more in need of suitable moisturizing care.
2. Can you replace your moisturizer with sunscreen?
Yes, provided you choose sun protection whose formula provides sufficient hydration. Some SPFs contain glycerin, hyaluronic acid or ceramides. However, broad-spectrum protection of at least SPF 30 must be maintained.
3. Should you moisturize oily skin in the morning?
Oily skin also needs hydration. On the other hand, she may prefer light textures, such as gels or fluids. Moisturizing, non-comedogenic sunscreen can sometimes be enough.
4. Can you do without moisturizer when you have dry skin?
This is generally not recommended. Dry skin tends to lose more water and often requires moisturizer to preserve its skin barrier. Sun protection alone is not always enough to provide them with the necessary comfort.
5. What is the best morning skincare routine according to dermatologists?
A simple routine typically includes gentle cleansing, moisturizer if needed, and broad-spectrum sun protection of at least SPF 30. A targeted serum can be added as needed, but is not essential.
