The 12 Best Tinted Sunscreens to Use When You’re In a Rush
These SPF-makeup hybrids are a real time-saver.
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Back in the mid-to late-2010s, I was all about the full glam makeup look that Miss Kylie Jenner helped popularize; full coverage foundation, carved-out brows, and liquid lipsticks were my jam. But as the years passed—and my acne cleared up—I began getting lazier with my routine. Intense eyebrows and an elaborate blush and contour routine were the first to go from my everyday makeup regimen. I have places to see and things to do, and sometimes, I have to prioritize efficiency, which is where hybrid products like the best tinted sunscreens come in.
“Using a tinted sunscreen has several benefits, such as offering protection from the full spectrum of light (not just UV rays),” says Supergoop! founder Holly Thaggard. “It also provides the perfect amount of buildable coverage for that ‘your-skin-but-better’ payoff that everyone loves right now. It will also help proactively prevent any further skin damage from the sun while covering up any previous damage that your skin may have already incurred for a really smart, two-pronged approach to skin health.” Since they have that tint to them, these sunscreens are also less likely to give those with tanned or deeper skin tones that dreaded white cast.
Tinted sunscreens are like tinted moisturizers, but they really prioritize sun protection as well as guard our skin against other damaging light sources, like the blue light that shines from our phones and laptops 24/7. And just like regular face sunscreen, there are a couple of things you should consider when scouting for one—not all tinted moisturizers are created equal. “It is best to use one that is SPF 30 or higher and offers broad spectrum coverage against UVA and UVB. Tinted sunscreens may be available as mineral or chemical sunscreens. Looking for other key ingredients that help to hydrate and nourish the skin, like hyaluronic acid, ingredients that help to support the skin barrier, such as ceramides, and those that help to reduce inflammation, like niacinamide,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick, an NYC-based board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Cornell University.
Top picks for the best tinted sunscreens in 2024
With the help of our experts and after plenty of internet sleuthing, we’re here to present below the 12 best tinted moisturizers that’ll help you cut down on your morning routine and get you out of the door faster—while also shielding your skin from harmful light.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Does not leave a white cast
Cons
- Only one shade
Dr. Garshick recommends this one to anyone, but particularly those with acne-prone skin. “It is oil-free, so it won’t clog the pores, and it also contains niacinamide to help soothe and calm the skin. Other key ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, help to boost moisture and provide protection against free radical damage. This lightweight formula is also fragrance-free and can be worn alone or with makeup,” she explains.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid
SPF: 40
Size: 1.7 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This is a staple in my daily beauty routine! I use it every morning to provide SPF to my skincare. I use moisturizer and serum drops, then apply this on top prior to using makeup. If I’m going for a daily no-makeup look, then this will be my last step! I absolutely love this and highly recommend it!”
Pros
- Moisturizing
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
- Only one shade
This tinted sunscreen does a whole lot more than just ward off sun damage. “It contains peptides, antioxidants, and DNA repairsomes to work to repair sun damage and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also protecting the skin from UV and blue light damage,” Dr. Garshick says.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, peptides, vitamin E
SPF: 50
Size: 3.4 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “My skin tone is medium brown. When I put a thin layer of this on my skin, it doesn’t look as ashy or discolored as it does when I use regular sunblock. This blends much better! I don’t even need to wear makeup to blend it in completely. When I put it on my face you can’t even tell it’s on.”
Supergoop! Protec(tint) Daily SPF Tint
Pros
- Wide shade range
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not be suitable for oily skin
Supergoop!’s latest launch graced the faces of the models at Sandy Liang’s fall 2024 NYFW show, leaving their skin glowing, perfected, and protected. “We packed Protec(tint) with nourishing ingredients like ectoin and hyaluronic acid-infused clay, which are known to balance, hydrate and further protect the skin,” says Thaggard.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, clay, ectoin
SPF: 50
Size: 1.18 oz.
Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I have a beloved and moisturizing SPF that I use daily. However, I have been in search of a tinted spf that was both a high SPF and came in a color that was light enough for my skin, buildable, and not drying. I actually gave up last year, because most were drying that I could find, or not light enough. This is PERFECT. I can’t recommend this enough!”
Neutrogena Purescreen Mineral UV Tint
Pros
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Limited shade range
- Some reviewers reported leaky packaging
Whether you wear it under makeup or by itself, this drugstore gem blends effortlessly into the skin. “It contains zinc oxide as well as vitamin E to help nourish the skin,” says Dr. Garshick.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, vitamin E
SPF: 30
Size: 1.1 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This skin tint is great for my combination skin. It doesn’t emphasize dry patches nor settle into fine lines/wrinkles, and it leaves a natural to slightly dewy finish. I have light neutral skin tone and the light works well. No white cast. It slightly evens out my complexion which is good enough for no makeup days.”
Tower 28 Beauty Beauty SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen
Pros
- Wide shade range
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Limited shade options for deeper skin tones
In general, you’ll find that tinted sunscreens offer a slight blurring effect for any redness or imperfections. But sometimes, we all need that extra boost of coverage, and Tower 28’s tinted sunscreen foundation gives just that. Apply an extra layer of it to camouflage anything you want to hide—and really make sure you’re getting the sun protection you need.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, prickly pear extract, white sage extract
SPF: 30
Size: 1 oz.
Sephora rating: 4.1/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “Tinted moisturizers typically don't offer a ton of coverage. As a full glam girlie, I was pleasantly surprised to see how this formula covered my most stubborn dark spots, how dewy (and not greasy) my skin looked afterward, and how long it held up through the sweltering summer heat. I keep this tucked in my arsenal for those days I want a little extra sun protection and foundation coverage.”—Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Only one shade
- On the pricier side
Although this tinted sunscreen is on the pricier side for the drugstore, its thin, non-oily formula—including antioxidants and a matte finish—makes it well worth it. To those who hate wearing sunscreen because of their greasy feel, the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen is calling your name.
Key ingredients: Titanium dioxide, antioxidants, iron oxides
SPF: 50
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “After trying many different mineral sunscreens after my previous favorite went off the market, I think I’ve found a new ‘everyday sunscreen’. It spreads evenly, and the light tint is perfect for creating a nice, even base for makeup after it’s set for a few minutes. I love the fact it is a mineral sunscreen that does not have the white cast of so many other sunscreens. This is now my daily sunscreen, and I’m planning on having a backup for my gym bag.”
SkinCeuticals SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- On the pricier side
While those with sensitive skin often need to stay vigilant and check ingredient lists for any potentially irritating ingredients, SkinCeuticals’ tinted sunscreen is specifically formulated to work for everybody. Although it contains mineral SPF filters, the tint helps to prevent that harsh white cast that mineral sunscreens typically cause, and it features a plankton extract that’s known to make skin more resistant to environmental stressors.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, artemia salina (plankton extract)
SPF: 50
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Dermstore rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer says: “I absolutely LOVE this stuff. I have incredibly sensitive skin, and this doesn’t bother me in the slightest. It also has a slight tint, and on my very pale skin, it evens my skin tone so well that it has negated the need for any foundation! I also haven’t burned since I’ve started using it, which is incredible since it’s been such a hot summer here in Phoenix. I’m thrilled with this find, so I hope they never stop producing it!”
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
Pros
- Wide shade range
- Moisturizing
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Limited shade options for deeper skin tones
- Some dislike smell
This award-winning skin tint serves up filtered skin in a bottle and is loaded up with ingredients that help the skin underneath look better on its own, too. Hyaluronic acid plumps, squalane tightens, and niacinamide smooths, all working in conjunction as you go about your day.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, squalane, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
SPF: 40
Size: 1 fl. oz.
Sephora rating: 3.7/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I love this product! I hated using heavy foundation every day because my base never came out right. My skin was always either too dry or too oily for my base to last. I wanted something that was light and quick, and I have to say that this skin tint definitely is. My makeup routine is cut in half and saves me so much time in the morning.”
Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
Pros
- Buildable coverage
Cons
- Limited shade range
This option from Colorescience, a brand known for its mineral formulas, defends against all sorts of stressors, including blue light, UV rays, and free radicals. Plus, it’s ideal for anyone who’s super active or going to be out in the water for a long time, as it's water- and sweat-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
Key ingredient: Zinc oxide
SPF: 50
Size: 1.8 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I prefer the dewy look, so for me, I absolutely loved the effect this gives. I actually use it like a primer under my foundation, and wow, talk about a glow up! Not only does it help cover redness, but it gives me this healthy-looking glow. Love that it also [has] SPF, so I like that I’m also protecting my skin.”
Pros
- Wide shade range
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- On the pricier side
- May not be suited for oily skin
Saie is a brand that feels tailor-made for the “clean girl” aesthetic, and this tint achieves that by giving you just enough coverage while making you look like you’re barely wearing anything on your skin. If it’s a little too dewy for you, just add a few swipes of powder, and you should be good to go.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, licorice root extract
SPF: 35
Size: 1.3 oz.
Sephora rating: 3.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “This feels hydrating and evens out my skin tone for a beautiful finish. I ALWAYS set my under eye and forehead with powder and get tons of compliments on my skin when I have this on.”
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen with Sheer Tint
Pros
- Moisturizing
Cons
- Only one shade
As with any CeraVe product, this one is infused with ceramides to support the skin’s moisture barrier. It’s also designed to feel lightweight on the skin, making it perfect for layering under other products or reapplying throughout the day.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxides, ceramides
SPF: 30
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I was skeptical that a tinted moisturizer sunscreen at this price point could be any good, but it has wildly surpassed my expectations. It provides a small tint (which for me replaces the need for makeup but for others that want more coverage, could be buildable). My one negative is that it’s a bit greasy/makes my skin slightly shiny for a few minutes. But again, given the amount of product you get at this price point, this does not bother me much.”
Pros
- Wide shade range
- Protects against blue light exposure
Cons
- May not be suitable for dry skin
This chemical sunscreen comes in a whopping 30 shades, which is rare for a tinted sunscreen. It also contains a host of skin-supporting ingredients, like hyaluronic acid to hydrate and collagen to plump.
Key ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, prebiotics, probiotics, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, rainbow seabright elixir, niacinamide, collagen
SPF: 30
Size: 1 fl. oz.
Ulta rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “This is in my top three tinted moisturizers that I’ve ever tried and this is all I ever wear. It has a natural finish with light coverage that makes your skin look smooth and flawless. Would highly recommend!”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Marisa Garshick is an NYC-based board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Cornell University.
Holly Thaggard is the founder of Supergoop!.
Why is applying SPF every day important?
We’ve all heard dermatologists, beauty editors, and probably our own family and friends wax poetic about the importance of sunscreen, but is it really that important to apply it every day, especially when it’s winter? “The sun’s UVA rays are present at about the same intensity all year long, and they can also penetrate clouds and windows. It’s super important to help protect our skin by wearing a broad-spectrum SPF every single day. These rays are also the culprits when it comes to things like premature aging, discoloration, and more,” says Thaggard.
Dr. Garshick agrees: “It is important to make SPF part of your daily routine as it is always important to protect against UV exposure that is present every day, not just on beach days. Additionally, making it part of your daily routine makes it less likely that you’ll forget to apply it,” she adds.
Why use a tinted sunscreen over a non-tinted sunscreen?
It all boils down to preference. “Some people prefer a tinted sunscreen to get the benefits of natural coverage, especially for those who don’t like to wear a lot of makeup, while others may opt for tinted sunscreen to minimize the look of a white cast that can occur with some mineral sunscreens. Tinted sunscreens are especially good for those dealing with melasma or hyperpigmentation as they often provide added protection against blue light, which is especially important for those with hyperpigmentation,” explains Dr. Garshick.
Why Trust Elle Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty writer Carol Lee spoke with trusted dermatologists about tinted sunscreens. She also searched the internet for top-rated tinted sunscreens, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.
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