Finding a tinted sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection along with skincare benefits and a touch of coverage for evening out complexion can feel like searching for a unicorn. The options seem endless, the formulas confusing. Mineral or chemical filters? Dewy or matte finish? Sheer coverage or more pigment?
We’re breaking it down so you can find your perfect match. We researched the top tinted sunscreen products on the market right now, compiling favorites across categories like best for oily skin, most hydrating, and clean picks with only mineral active ingredients.
Read on for reviews of 15 top-rated tinted sunscreens that fit a range of needs. Whether you have sensitive skin, want hydrating antioxidants, plan to wear it as a primer under makeup or simply seek light coverage and protection in one easy step, we have you covered. Find out which is the best tinted sunscreen to add to your routine for smoothing, safeguarded skin.
The EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Sunscreen is a lightweight, oil-free face sunscreen that provides broad spectrum SPF 40 protection. It contains 9% zinc oxide and is specially formulated to be gentle on sensitive and acne-prone skin. The tint helps even out skin tone while antioxidants like vitamin E help hydrate the skin.
We like that the EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Sunscreen provides mineral sun protection with zinc oxide, which is less likely to irritate sensitive skin. The oil-free formula also works well for acne-prone skin by not clogging pores. The universal tint helps even out skin tone without looking like heavy makeup. It glides onto skin smoothly and doesn’t leave a white cast. This is an excellent everyday facial sunscreen for all skin types.
The CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 provides broad spectrum protection with a combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. The oil-free, sheer tint formula creates a healthy glow while also hydrating skin with ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
CeraVe makes excellent products for sensitive skin, and this tinted sunscreen is no exception. We like the mineral active ingredients of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation. The hydrating formula keeps skin moisturized with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. The healthy glow tint looks natural while evening skin tone. Overall an excellent sensitive skin sunscreen.
The EltaMD UV Elements Tinted SPF 44 Sunscreen is an oil-free, water-resistant sunscreen moisturizer that can be used on both face and body. It provides UVA/UVB protection with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. The universal tint blends well with most skin tones.
We like that this EltaMD sunscreen can pull double duty as both a facial sunscreen and body lotion. The high SPF 44 rating along with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide means great protection that’s gentle for skin. It applies sheerly without greasiness or white residue. The matte finish also makes it a nice primer under makeup. A versatile sunscreen moisturizer.
The Neutrogena Purescreen+ Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 offers broad spectrum sun protection in a non-whitening, lightly tinted formula. It contains 21% zinc oxide along with vitamin E to help nourish skin while protecting it. The water resistant medium tint works for a variety of skin tones.
Neutrogena makes excellent sunscreens for sensitive skin, and this tinted version is no exception. We like the high percentage of non-nano zinc oxide for safe mineral protection without chemicals. The tint offers decent coverage across skin tones without looking artificial. It glides onto skin smoothly without greasiness. Overall a great tinted mineral sunscreen for daily wear.
The Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Sunscreen offers SPF 50 mineral protection in an oil-free, tinted BB cream formula. It contains antioxidants from Australian botanical extracts along with non-nano zinc oxide. The matte finish works well as a makeup primer for medium to tan skin tones.
This Australian Gold sunscreen combines great sun protection with skin care. We like the high level of zinc oxide along with antioxidant botanicals like Kakadu plum and eucalyptus. The tinted formula offers enough coverage to even out skin tone without getting cakey. It has a velvety matte finish that also smoothes skin texture. Great for normal to oily skin that needs sun protection with a matte foundation-like effect.
The EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Sunscreen offers broad spectrum SPF 41 sun protection with 9.5% transparent zinc oxide specially formulated for sensitive and post-procedure facial skin. The oil-free formula has a silky texture that blends in well without looking white.
EltaMD is a top professional skincare brand known for gentle, effective mineral sun protection. We like that this sunscreen offers high SPF with nearly 10% zinc oxide to safely shield sensitive complexions without irritation or stinging. The sheer tint helps mask post-procedure redness and melasma while protecting and healing skin. Lightweight and breathable for daily facial wear.
The DRMTLGY Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46 offers broad spectrum sun protection combined with a lightly pigmented universal tint in one product. The oil-free formula contains antioxidants like green tea, jojoba oil, vitamin E, and vitamin B3 to nourish while hydrating skin.
We like that this DRMTLGY sunscreen combines sun protection, skincare benefits, and a touch of coverage in one formula. The lightweight lotion texture absorbs quickly without greasiness or heaviness. The hint of tint helps even skin tone subtly without adding much color for a your-skin-but-better effect. Nourishes skin with antioxidant plant oils while shielding it from UV damage. Great for low-maintenance natural beauty.
The Eucerin Sun Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 35 provides mineral protection with 6% zinc oxide in a sheer, lightly tinted lotion. The oil-free formula is non-comedogenic and formulated to be gentle for sensitive and acne-prone skin while shielding from UVA/UVB damage.
As an excellent drugstore brand for sensitive skin, Eucerin delivers again with this tinted sunscreen. We like the decent SPF 35 rating along with non-nano zinc oxide for gentle protection that won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts. The light tint helps mask unevenness without adding much pigment or makeup. Applies sheerly without grease or heaviness. Great daily facial sunscreen for acne-prone and sensitive skin types.
The Paula’s Choice RESIST Super-Light Tinted Sunscreen offers broad spectrum SPF 30 sun protection in an oil-free, matte finish face lotion that doubles as a primer for oily skin types. It features antioxidants like vitamin C, peptides, and retinol to repair signs of aging while protecting skin.
Paula’s Choice makes excellent products packed with proven anti-aging ingredients, and this sunscreen is no exception. We like that it offers sun protection along with a smoothing primer texture that keeps excess oil and shine at bay all day. The hint of tint provides the perfect touch of coverage while the antioxidants get to work repairing past damage and fueling collagen production. Lightweight enough for daily wear under makeup.
The Colorescience Total Protection (CoTZ) Flawless Complexion Sunscreen offers broad spectrum SPF 50 protection in a lightly tinted formula with a powder-soft, matte finish. It contains non-nano zinc oxide along with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, green tea extract, and peptides.
CoTZ makes excellent sunscreens packed with high levels of mineral actives. We like the very high SPF 50 rating in this tinted sunscreen along with 20% non-nano zinc oxide for strong protection that’s safe even right after procedures. The matte texture doubles as a primer while masking redness or uneven tones. Light enough for daily wear but still supremely protective for when you need heavy duty safe sun protection.
Product | Key Features |
---|---|
EltaMD UV Daily Tinted | mineral SPF 40 protection; 9% zinc oxide; moisturizing; oil-free |
CeraVe Tinted | mineral SPF 30, hydrating ceramides; sheer healthy glow tint; oil-free |
EltaMD UV Elements | lightweight SPF 44 for face & body; oil-free; water resistant 80 mins |
Neutrogena Purescreen+ | mineral SPF 30, 21% zinc oxide; medium tint; water resistant 80 mins |
Australian Gold Botanical | SPF 50; non-nano zinc oxide; antioxidant botanicals; matte finish |
EltaMD UV Physical Tinted | mineral SPF 41; 9.5% zinc oxide; sheer tint; for sensitive skin |
DRMTLGY Tinted Moisturizer | SPF 46 protection; hydrating; lightweight; universal tint |
Eucerin Sun Tinted Mineral | SPF 35; 6% zinc oxide; light tint; non-comedogenic |
Paula’s Choice RESIST Tinted | SPF 30; oil-free matte finish; anti-aging antioxidants |
CoTZ Flawless Complexion | SPF 50; 20% non-nano zinc oxide; light tint; matte finish |
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted | mineral SPF 46 for acne-prone skin; oil-free; contains niacinamide |
TIZO Tinted Sunscreen | SPF 40; lightweight sheer coverage; works as primer; oil/fragrance-free |
d’Alba Waterfull Tone-up | SPF 50+; hydrating formula; dewy glowy tint; PA++++ rating |
EltaMD UV Restore Tinted | SPF 40 for sun damaged skin; improves moisture; sheer tint |
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue | mineral SPF 30 protection; hydrating hyaluronic acid; light-medium coverage |
When choosing the best tinted sunscreen for your needs, here are some key factors to consider:
Sun Protection Strength – Look for a tinted sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher for adequate UVB protection, plus “broad spectrum” labeling to ensure UVA ray protection as well. Higher SPF ratings don’t necessarily mean more protection – SPF 50 blocks about 98% of rays vs SPF 30 at 97%.
Active Ingredients – Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide sit on top of skin to deflect rays, making them less likely to irritate sensitive skin. If acne-prone, check label is non-comedogenic.
Tint Color – The ideal tint matches your skin tone naturally without adding heaviness. Sheer or “universal” tints work for many complexions. Color-correcting green tints help redness.
Texture/Finish – Consider oil-free formulas with a matte or powdery finish if you have oily skin or prefer a smooth base for makeup application after. Dewier finishes provide more hydration.
Skin Type – In sensitive, post-procedure skin, mineral formulas are gentler. Acne-prone skin benefits from oil-free, non-comedogenic options. Very dry skin may require more emollient creamy textures.
Added Skincare Benefits – Some tinted sunscreens also include extra nutrients like antioxidants, skin-replenishing ceramides, anti-aging peptides or retinol for an all-in-one skincare/protection product.
There are a few main types of tinted sunscreen formulas:
Tinted Mineral Sunscreen – Contains active mineral filters like zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. These physical UV blockers are less likely to irritate, best for sensitive skin. Often have lighter coverage.
Tinted Chemical Sunscreen – Uses chemical UV filters like avobenzone, oxybenzone octocrylene. These organic compounds absorb rays. Better UVA protection but can sometimes irritate.
Tinted BB/CC Cream with SPF – Lightly pigmented multifunctional products with sunscreen ingredients. Tend to offer more coverage than plain tinted sunscreen but less than foundation.
Tinted Moisturizer with SPF – Hydrating base formulas that blend seamlessly while providing sun protection. More moisturizing formulas with lighter coverage than BB/CC creams.
Tinted Color-Correcting Sunscreen – Uses tints like green, purple or yellow to counteract specific skin tone issues like redness, sallowness, dullness. Mainly color-correct rather than match skin tone.
Using tinted sunscreen properly is key to getting the full sun protection and skincare benefits. Here are some best practices:
Amount to Apply: Adults need about 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) to cover exposed skin sufficiently. Apply liberally and evenly instead of rubbing in completely. Reapply every 2 hours of sun exposure.
Layering: Apply tinted SPF as the last step in your morning skincare routine before makeup for optimal protection. Can use over serums, boosters and creams. Works well as primer under foundation.
Washing: Use a gentle cleanser at night to remove sunscreen residue completely, which can clog pores over time if left on. Oil cleansing works well to break down sunscreen films.
Storage: Keep tinted SPF products in cool, dry areas away from excessive light and heat to preserve stability of formulas and prevent separation or changes in texture over time.
Expiration: Unopened tinted sunscreen lasts 2-3 years on average. Opened bottles stay fresh for 9-12 months but may separate or smell odd when inactive/expired. Always check dates and discard when in doubt.
Tinted sunscreens offer light coverage to help even out skin tone while protecting it. The tint helps mask redness, blotchiness, uneven spots and dark circles. It provides subtle color without looking like heavy makeup.
Tinted sunscreens provide UV protection along with light color, whereas makeup products like foundation and BB creams focus mainly on beautifying coverage without SPF. Tinted sunscreen coverage is more subtle and sheer.
Yes, apply any tinted SPF product as the final step of your morning routine, after serums, treatments and moisturizer. This helps ensure UV filters remain intact on top of the skin surface for maximum sun protection.
Definitely! Many tinted sunscreens provide just enough coverage, hydration and blurring to wear comfortably on their own without needing additional complexion makeup products overtop on low-key days.
Yes, tinted sunscreens provide the same UV protection as untinted formulas with the same SPF ratings. The tint itself does not affect the ability to shield skin from tanning/burning. It simply helps even skin visually while protecting it.
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