Tinted sunscreens are a fantastic option for anyone looking to combine sun protection with a touch of color. They’re especially beneficial for:
- Busy Individuals: Streamline your morning routine by combining SPF and light coverage
- Sensitive Skin Types: Many tinted sunscreens use mineral filters, which are gentler on the skin.
- Those Seeking a Natural Look: Achieve a subtle, even complexion without the heaviness of foundation.
- Makeup Minimalists: Perfect for days when you want to skip full makeup but still look polished.
The Best Tinted Sunscreens at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of our top picks:
- Best Overall: Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40
- Best Splurge: EltaMD UV Tinted Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
- Best Budget: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with Sheer Tint
- Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
- Best Mineral: Lightsaver Activated Mineral Face Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 33
- Best Mineral, for Less: Bliss Block Star Daily Mineral SPF 30
- Best Matte: Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Face Sunscreen
- Best for Mature Skin: Revision Skincare Intellishade Matte Age-Defying Tinted Moisturizer SPF 45
- Best Primer: e.l.f. Cosmetics Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30
- Best Skin Tint: Saie Slip Tint with Mineral Zinc SPF 35
- Best Tinted Moisturizer: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Natural Dewy SPF 30
- Best Shade Range: It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Foundation With SPF 50+
Best Overall: Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 Sunscreen
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 is a multitasking marvel. It not only offers broad-spectrum sun protection but also imparts a radiant glow, thanks to its light-reflecting pigments. Infused with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it hydrates and brightens the skin. Users rave about its ability to double as a primer, creating a smooth canvas for makeup.
Best Splurge: EltaMD UV Tinted Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
EltaMD’s UV Tinted Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 is a favorite among dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts. Its lightweight formula provides excellent sun protection while offering a subtle tint that blends seamlessly into the skin. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, it ensures your skin stays hydrated throughout the day.
Best Budget: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with Sheer Tint
For those seeking an affordable yet effective option, CeraVe’s Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with Sheer Tint is a standout. Developed with dermatologists, it contains essential ceramides that help restore the skin’s natural barrier. The sheer tint provides a natural-looking finish without leaving a white cast.
Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 offers high-level sun protection in a lightweight, tinted formula. It’s formulated with Cell-Ox Shield technology, providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and antioxidants to combat free radicals. Users appreciate its non-greasy texture and how it leaves the skin with a healthy glow.
Best Mineral: Lightsaver Activated Mineral Face Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 33
Lightsaver’s Activated Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 33 is a 100% mineral sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection. Its unique formula includes a Light Activated Repair Complex, which helps repair signs of sun damage. The lightweight texture and sheer tint make it suitable for daily use, leaving the skin feeling soft and protected.
Best Mineral, for Less: Bliss Block Star Daily Mineral SPF 30
Bliss Block Star Daily Mineral SPF 30 is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. This 100% mineral sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection and a sheer tint that evens out skin tone. Its whipped texture glides on smoothly, leaving a natural, matte finish.
Best Matte: Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Face Sunscreen
Sun Bum’s Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Face Sunscreen is perfect for those seeking a matte finish. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula provides broad-spectrum protection and a subtle tint that blends well with various skin tones. Users love its smooth application and how it doesn’t leave a white cast.
Best for Mature Skin: Revision Skincare Intellishade Matte Age-Defying Tinted Moisturizer SPF 45
Revision Skincare’s Intellishade Matte is a 5-in-1 daily anti-aging tinted moisturizer that corrects, protects, conceals, brightens, and hydrates the skin. With broad-spectrum SPF 45, it offers excellent sun protection while improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The matte finish is ideal for those with combination to oily skin.
Best Primer: e.l.f. Cosmetics Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30
e.l.f.’s Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 is a hybrid product that functions as both a sunscreen and a makeup primer. Its lightweight formula is enriched with aloe, hyaluronic acid, and squalane, providing hydration and a radiant finish. The subtle shimmer gives the skin a healthy glow, making it a great base for makeup.
Best Skin Tint: Saie Slip Tint with Mineral Zinc SPF 35
Saie’s Slip Tint is a dewy tinted moisturizer that offers SPF 35 protection. Its blendable formula provides light coverage, evening out skin tone while keeping the skin hydrated. Users appreciate its natural finish and how it feels like a lightweight face cream.
Best Tinted Moisturizer: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Natural Dewy SPF 30
Laura Mercier’s Tinted Moisturizer is a cult favorite for a reason. It offers a dewy finish and featherlight coverage that lasts throughout the day. With 20 different shades, it’s easy to find a match that suits your skin tone. The added SPF 30 ensures your skin is protected from harmful UV rays.
Best Shade Range: It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Foundation With SPF 50+
It Cosmetics’ CC+ Cream is renowned for its extensive shade range and full coverage. With SPF 50+, it provides superior sun protection while acting as a foundation, serum, and moisturizer. Users love its ability to conceal imperfections and its hydrating properties, making it a staple in many makeup routines.
How to Use
1. Cleanse: Start with a clean face.
2. Moisturize: Apply your regular moisturizer if needed.
3. Apply Tinted Sunscreen: Use your fingers or a makeup sponge to apply the tinted sunscreen evenly across your face.
4. Reapply: Reapply every two hours when exposed to the sun.
Who’s Who
- Supergoop!: Known for innovative sun care products that double as makeup.
- EltaMD: Dermatologist-recommended brand focusing on gentle, effective sun protection.
- CeraVe: Offers affordable, dermatologist-developed skincare with essential ceramides.
- La Roche-Posay: French brand renowned for its gentle, effective formulations.
- Lightsaver: Focuses on mineral sunscreens with added skin benefits.
- Bliss: Provides spa-quality skincare at accessible prices.
- Sun Bum: Beach-inspired brand offering sun protection with a laid-back vibe.
- Revision Skincare: High-end skincare brand known
FAQ
Can I use tinted sunscreen instead of foundation?
Absolutely! Tinted sunscreens provide light to medium coverage, making them a great alternative to foundation, especially for a natural look.
How often should I reapply tinted sunscreen?
It’s recommended to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors, sweating, or after swimming.
Are tinted sunscreens suitable for all skin types?
Yes, but it’s essential to choose one that matches your skin type. For oily skin, opt for matte finishes; for dry skin, look for hydrating formulas.