Protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays is essential for a healthy skincare routine. However, sunscreens can offer more than just protection – enter tinted sunscreens. These versatile products fight UV damage while imparting a subtle, flattering glow to your complexion.
If you want to enhance your UV protection while improving your complexion, read on as we explore the top tinted sunscreens for every skin type and tone, helping you stay safe and look your best in the sun.
Understanding Tinted Sunscreens
To choose the right tinted sunscreen, it’s essential to understand its key ingredients and how it differs from regular sunscreens.
Key Ingredients to Look For
Tinted sunscreen can be formulated with a variety of UV-blocking ingredients. There are mineral sunscreens, which use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block the sun’s rays physically, and chemical sunscreens, which use a combination of compounds to absorb UV radiation before it can damage the skin. When shopping for a tinted sunscreen, pay attention to the SPF level, broad spectrum, and PA rating, especially if you’re looking for blue light protection.
Tinted Sunscreens Advantages Over Regular Sunscreens
The added benefit of evened skin tone can be a game-changer for those who prefer the no-makeup, makeup look. Tinted sunscreen can offer a mineral-based layer of physical protection while giving that extra confidence that comes with a perfected complexion.
Top Picks
Best Tinted Sunscreen For Oily Skin
Australian Gold Botanical SPF 50 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
Buy it here: $12 at Amazon
Best Tinted Sunscreen for Face
Vichy LiftActiv Sunscreen Peptide-C Face Moisturizer with SPF 30
Buy it here: $44.99 at Amazon
Best Tinted Sunscreen For Acne-Prone Skin
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum
Best Tinted Sunscreen For Dry Skin
Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Sunscreen Serum SPF 50
Buy it here: $65 at Amazon
Best Tinted Sunscreen For Fair Skin
BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum
Buy it here: $39 at Amazon
Best Tinted Sunscreen For Brown Skin Tones
Mele No Shade Sunscreen Oil
Buy it here: $20 at Amazon
Best Tinted Sunscreen For Mature Skin
Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
Buy it here: $50 at Amazon
Glow, Don’t Shine: Tinted Sunscreens for Oily Skin
If you’ve got oily skin and want to avoid looking greasy, try using tinted sunscreen with a matte finish. Gel-based or powder formulas work great, too, since they won’t add any extra shine to your face.
For those interested in a deeper exploration of tinted sunscreen suitable for oily skin, our comprehensive guide covers everything from selecting the right formula to applying tips for a flawless finish. This full-featured article aims to help you make an informed choice, ensuring your tinted sunscreen protects your skin and complements its natural oil levels without contributing to excess shine. Read my article on The Best Tinted Sunscreen for Oily Skin on Any Budget.
For K-beauty enthusiasts and those looking to explore the benefits of Korean skincare, I have crafted a special feature entitled “3 Best Tinted Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin—Reviewed.” This article dives into Korean beauty to bring you our top picks of tinted sunscreens that provide broad-spectrum protection and are also ideally suited for oily skin types.
1. Australian Gold Botanical SPF 50 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
Protection: SPF 50
Standard size: 88ML
Price: ± $12.00
It’s packed with zinc & titanium for top-notch broad-spectrum UV protection, leaving your face with a cool powdery finish. Plus, it’s perfect for medium to tan skin tones, blending seamlessly to even out your complexion and soften those fine lines.
Are you not into that oily shine? No worries! This lotion has a non-greasy, oil-free formula matte finish that doubles as a BB Cream. It’s like your skin, but better—and it won’t clog your pores either.
And guess what? It’s crafted with some amazing Australian botanicals—think soothing Eucalyptus and Red Algae. These ingredients are not just good for your skin; they’re antioxidant powerhouses, ready to fight off those pesky free radicals.
Whether you’re off on an adventure or just stepping out for your daily errands, this tinted sunscreen is hypoallergenic and light enough for everyday use, even in winter. Plus, it’s kind to the planet and your skin, being free from all those harsh chemicals and never tested on animals.
So, are you ready to give your skin the care it deserves with this luxurious, eco-friendly sunblock?
Where to buy? Amazon
2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Ultra Fluid Sunscreen
Protection: SPF 50
Standard size: 50ML
Price: ± $37.00
It’s SPF 50, perfect for sensitive skin types, and gives broad-spectrum protection against harsh sun rays. It absorbs fast and leaves your skin with a tinted matte finish, making you glow. It’s packed with Cell-Ox Shield tech for that extra UVA/UVB defense and antioxidant boost.
It has no greasy feel, a matte finish, and a universal tint that works for all skin types. It’s lightly tinted with iron oxides to boost that healthy glow. And guess what? The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends it to help prevent sun damage, including sunburn and even premature aging.
You’re getting SPF 50 for UVA and UVB protection, an instant glow thanks to the universal tint, and an ultra-light texture. It’s also fragrance-free, paraben-free, water-resistant for 40 minutes, and perfect for sensitive skin. How cool is that?
Where to buy? Amazon
3. SkinBetter Science Sunbetter Tone Smart Sunscreen Lotion
Protection: SPF 75
Standard size: 50ML
Price: ± $75.00
Meet the top-notch sun protection in a creamy lotion that magically adapts to your skin color and gives you a touch of color. Here’s why you’ll love it: It’s free from oils that clog your pores. This broad-spectrum sunscreen works excellent as a primer under your makeup or just on its own for a bit of coverage. Plus, it’s a champ at helping prevent sunburn. Use it as directed, along with other sun protection measures, and you’re helping reduce the risk of early skin aging thanks to the sun.
Dermatologists check out Skinbetter Science’s products and don’t contain parabens, fragrances, dyes, or cruelty.
- It’s a 100% mineral sunscreen that’s non-nano and doesn’t need any shaking.
- Thanks to patented technology, you’re getting extraordinary protection.
- It’s not just about UV rays; this sunscreen also defends against blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation.
- Hang tight in water for 80 minutes with this.
- And yes, it’s PA++++ for that extra level of protection.
Where to buy? Skinbetter
Top Tinted Sunscreens for Face
Selecting the right tinted sunscreen can be challenging, but understanding how different formulas are tailored to various skin types can help you identify the best option.
1. Vichy LiftActiv Sunscreen Peptide-C Face Moisturizer with SPF 30
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: 1.7oz
Price: ± $44.99
Get your daily dose of sun protection with this facial sunscreen and anti-aging moisturizer, all in one! It’s got SPF 30 to shield you from UVA/UVB rays. Its dermatologist-tested formula contains Vitamin C, Phytopeptides, and Vichy Volcanic Water. Plus, it’s allergy-tested and has a light floral scent without parabens.
Why you’ll love it: This moisturizer is not just about sun protection. It tackles wrinkles, dark spots, and dullness and improves firmness, leaving your skin bright and hydrated.
Just apply it in the morning on clean skin or after your serum. Remember to skip the eye area. It’s great for everyone, even if you’ve got sensitive skin.
And guess what? Over 50,000 dermatologists worldwide recommend it. So, why not give it a try?
Where to buy? Amazon
2. Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Face Serum SPF 30
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: 1.4oz
Price: ± $9.95
This hyaluronic acid serum locks in moisture for ages, making your skin soft and hydrated—perfect for daily slathering. Need sun protection? I’ve got you covered with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection to keep sun damage and early aging at bay. Plus, it’s water-resistant for 80 minutes.
It’s ultra-lightweight and non-greasy, folks. This serum soaks right in, doesn’t block your pores, and leaves your sensitive skin glowing, bright, and looking its best.
Worried about the white cast? Nope. This serum goes on clear and works with every skin tone.
It’s vegan and PETA-certified cruelty-free. Dermatologist-tested, it contains no oils, parabens, oxybenzone, or octinoxate.
Where to buy? Amazon
3. DRMTLGY Anti Aging Clear Face Sunscreen and Facial Moisturizer
Protection: SPF 45
Standard size: 1.7oz
Price: ± $25.95
Do you have oily, combination, dry, normal, or sensitive skin? No worries—this formula has you covered. It’s fragrance-free, not greasy, oil-free, no parabens, and doesn’t leave that annoying white residue. Plus, it works wonders on every skin tone.
Its multi-use formula uses Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide to make your skin look its absolute best, while Zinc Oxide gives you top-notch protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Say hello to Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide, aka Vitamin B3. These super ingredients plump up your skin to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, shrink your pores, and boost your hydration.
Dermatologist-recommended and friendly for everyone: this sunscreen won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. Thanks to its antioxidant power, it fights those skin-aging free radicals—all without the harm of UV and infrared radiation.
Where to buy? Amazon
4. Unsun Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: 1.7oz
Price: ± $25.95
It’s 100% mineral-based, keeps your skin moisturized, minimizes pores, and gives you that gorgeous glow. You can wear it on its own or under your fave makeup.
No more mismatched shades—this 2-in-1 sunscreen protects you from the sun and blends seamlessly with your skin tone, from Olive to Dark Chocolate. And guess what? There’s no white cast!
Whether chilling indoors or adventuring outdoors, this broad-spectrum sunscreen has your back against UVA and UVB rays. Use it every day, all year round, to stay protected.
Where to buy? Amazon
5. TiZO3 Facial Mineral Sunscreen and Primer, Tinted Broad Spectrum SPF 40 with Antioxidants
Protection: SPF 40
Standard size: 1.75oz
Price: ± $45.00
So you want serious sun protection for your face without that heavy, greasy sunscreen feel? This mineral sunscreen has got you covered—literally!
Its sheer tint provides broad-spectrum defense against UVA and UVB rays. But unlike some sunscreens, which can feel like a thick, oily mask, this lightweight formula leaves a silky matte finish—smooth and breathable, not sticky or shiny.
You can wear it alone to protect your fresh face or use it as the perfect base under makeup. Either way, working anti-aging sun care into your routine is easy.
And here’s the bonus—it’s made without chemical sunscreen agents, dyes, fragrances, oils, or preservatives. It’s just a gentle mineral formula that’s ideal for sensitive skin.
Sun protection is made simple and clean. What’s not to love?
Where to buy? Amazon
Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: 1oz
Price: ± $32.00
This tinted SunnyDays mineral sunscreen is a total game-changer for sensitive skin babes!
You get mineral broad spectrum SPF 30 coverage plus a smooth, natural tint to even out your complexion.
Made with gentle zinc oxide and skin-soothers like prickly pear and aloe, it protects without irritating. Just pure UV defense and a subtle tint—safe for even eczema-prone skin.
Use it daily as the last step in your routine before makeup. The buildable coverage instantly color corrects while shielding you from harsh rays. Two big wins in one tube!
Trust me, your face will thank you for this sensitive skin multitasker.
Where to buy? Amazon
Best Tinted Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin
Acne-prone skin requires gentle, non-comedogenic formulas. Sunscreens containing zinc oxide are often recommended as they are non-irritating and soothing. Avoid thick, creamy textures that could clog pores and instead look for lightweight lotions or gel-based formulas.
1. EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum
Protection: SPF 46
Standard size: 48g
Price: ± $45.00
There is no white cast, so you can rock it alone or under makeup. It comes in a travel-sized pump bottle, perfect for on-the-go use. Are you worried about breakouts? This is your go-to acne sunscreen, especially when dealing with acne-prone skin.
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Face Sunscreen isn’t just oil-free and packed with Zinc Oxide; it also blends into your skin like a dream. And if you’ve got sensitive skin dealing with acne, rosacea, or hyperpigmentation, this tinted sunscreen is designed to soothe and protect.
Where to buy? Amazon
2. Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50
Protection: SPF 50
Standard size: 50ML
Price: ± $62.00
It’s a super-light SPF 50 mineral sunscreen that increases protection against early signs of aging and hydrates like a dream.
Suitable for: Pretty much everyone, whether your skin is normal, dry, a mix, or oily.
Worries it can kick to the curb: Dry skin, dull moments, those pesky fine lines and wrinkles.
It’s a light liquid formula packed with goodies like KLEAIR™ Zinc Oxide, a superhero against free radicals, being 2.45 times more effective than the usual stuff. Plus, it’s got hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate and even out your skin tone super fast, as well as silk extract to make your skin look smooth and radiant.
What you won’t find: Any of those no-nos like parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, sulfates SLS & SLES, and synthetic fragrance. Oh, and it’s cruelty-free!
Why you’ll love it: Thanks to the unique antioxidants and the KLEAIR™ zinc oxide, this sunscreen is a powerhouse at fighting free radicals that lead to saggy skin, lines, and wrinkles. And KLEAIR™ is not your average mineral filter; it blends into your skin without a hitch.
What people are saying:
- After just one use, everyone agreed it felt fantastic on their skin.
- An expert noticed a 92% improvement in the redness and evenness of skin tone right after the first try, 100% saw softer and more supple skin, and 90% found their skin looked more radiant after just one use and even better after two weeks.
- A study showed a 56% boost in skin hydration after one use and a total win for skin barrier health after two weeks.
Where to buy? Amazon.
3. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Face Sheer Tint SPF 30
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: 50ML
Price: ± $12
This tinted mineral sunscreen gives you that healthy glow without leaving that ghostly white cast that other sunscreens do. It feels super light on your skin, not greasy at all, and it’s packed with goodies like Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid to keep your skin hydrated.
Plus, it’s got SPF 30, so it can double as your tinted moisturizer or primer. It’s great for all skin types, even sensitive or acne-prone skin. And it’s got three essential ceramides to keep your skin barrier happy.
Best part? No nasty chemicals like oxybenzone, avobenzone, or benzene, so it’s safe and gentle for daily use.
Where to buy? Amazon
Best Tinted Sunscreen For Dry Skin
If your skin is dry, try tinted moisturizers or creamy stuff packed with hydrating heroes like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. They’re fantastic at trapping all that moisture in. Plus, creamy textures are fab because they create a protective shield that keeps moisture from bailing on you and gives your skin’s barrier a nice little boost.
1. Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Sunscreen Serum SPF 50
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: 50ML
Price: ± $65
It’s a hydrating, mineral, non-nano zinc-oxide SPF 50 sunscreen that feels more like a serum. It’s loaded with multivitamins to give you some serious skincare perks. It protects you from UVA and UVB rays, pollution, blue light, and free radicals. Plus, it leaves your skin instantly radiant and super dewy.
It’s super lightweight, has a hint of tint for those no-makeup vibes, and is packed with goodies like 2% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), a triple plum blend, Shitake mushroom (Vitamin D), and other serum-like ingredients. Perfect for those lazy days when you just can’t be bothered. Wake up, slap this on, and you’re good to glow!
The secret sauce: Dutch tulip complex. Think antioxidants, natural moisturizers, and amino acids that leave your skin softer, smoother, glowing, and hydrated.
Where to buy? Amazon
Top Tinted Sunscreen For Fair Skin
Lighter skin tones should choose a tinted sunscreen with sheer, buildable coverage. An overly pigmented formula can be complex to blend and might look too stark against paler complexions.
1. BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: 35ML
Price: ± $39.00
This 3-in-1 multi-tasker moisturizes, adds a hint of color, and protects with SPF 30. Packed with Hyaluronic Acid for that extra hydration boost, it leaves your skin dewy and glowing—great for dry, normal, and combo skin types.
What’s in it for you? It evens your skin tone and blurs those little imperfections with just the right amount of sheer-to-light coverage that builds up as you need. Plus, it’s dermatologist-tested, won’t clog your pores, and is hypoallergenic.
Where to buy? Amazon
Best Options For Brown Skin Tones
Richer skin tones will need a tinted sunscreen with a more generous amount of pigmentation to avoid the dreaded white cast resulting from mismatched formulas. Luckily, many skincare companies are now formulating tinted sunscreens in variable shades to cater to a broader range of skin tones, offering a more inclusive array of products.
1. Mele No Shade Sunscreen Oil
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: ±30ML
Price: ± $20
The MELÉ No Shade Sunscreen Oil offers SPF 30 Broad-Spectrum protection in a lightweight formula that soaks right in, letting you jump straight into your day.
Need protection that lasts? This sunscreen has you covered. It goes on sheer, with no streaks or residue. For the best protection, apply it 15 minutes before heading out into the sun and top it up every 2 hours.
Are you worried about harsh ingredients? Don’t be. It’s free from parabens, alcohol, mineral oil, and phthalates.
And get this—it’s made with love in collaboration with dermatologists of color. They understand melanin-rich skin and have tailored this sunscreen to meet its unique needs.
Where to buy? Amazon
2. Keys Soulcare Protect Your Light Daily Moisturizer Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen
Protection: SPF 30
Standard size: ±50ML
Price: ± $32.00
This daily moisturizer keeps your skin hydrated for up to 24 hours! Plus, it’s packed with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 to protect you from the sun. It moisturizes without making your skin feel greasy or heavy, and it’s perfect for layering under makeup without leaving any white residue.
Made with olive-derived squalane and niacinamide, it brightens and balances skin, making it look and feel great.
This SPF moisturizer is super light, goes on clear, and leaves your skin feeling refreshed and confident.
Where to buy? Amazon
Best Tinted Sunscreens For Mature Skin
For mature skin, look for tinted sunscreens that offer added benefits such as anti-aging ingredients and a luminous finish without settling into fine lines and wrinkles. Products enriched with antioxidants like vitamin E, niacinamide, and peptides can help combat signs of aging while providing adequate sun protection. Hydrating ingredients are also crucial to keep the skin plump and youthful-looking.
1. Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Protection: SPF 50
Standard size: ±50ML
Price: ± $50.00
Check out this facial sunscreen! It’s 100% mineral-based, tinted, and water-resistant, plus it’s got SPF 50. It’s packed with vitamin E, 10.7% zinc oxide, a peptide complex, and DNA Repairsomes to protect and repair your skin. And guess what? It moisturizes your skin, too!
Where to buy? Amazon
2. Naked Sundays SPF50+ Collagen Glow 100% Mineral Sunscreen
Protection: SPF 50
Standard size: 88 Grams
Price: ± $40.00
It’s not just any sunscreen; it’s packed with 100% mineral filters and a cool mix of Iron Oxides that protect against UVB, UVA, and even Blue Light. Thanks to non-nano zinc oxide filters, it doesn’t have that annoying white cast.
How about a 4-in-1 Mineral zinc SPF that’s a primer, moisturizer, SPF50, and collagen booster all rolled into one—and guess what? Zero Whitecast! Exclusive Vegan Collagen to smooth out those fine lines and boost moisture, plus Watermelon Extract for that extra hydration kick and free radical fight.
Looking for that perfect finish? This formula gives your skin a subtle glow and a satin-smooth, translucent look that protects and nourishes, making it the ideal base.
Where to buy? Amazon
Conclusion
Tinted sunscreen can offer the best of both worlds: sun protection and complexion enhancement. You will find one that suits your needs with options for every skin type and tone. Remember, it’s not just about how you look but also about protecting your skin daily from the sun’s damaging effects.
Shade-matching yourself with the perfect tinted sunscreen can be a bit of trial and error, but the rewards are worth the effort. Your skin will thank you for the extra love and care. Make it a part of your routine now, and your future complexion will shine — safely under the sun.
Keep exploring:
- You may also be interested in Discover the Best Korean Sunscreens for Flawless Skin Protection
- Dive deeper into our picks for the 13 Best Korean Eye Creams for a Smoother, Radiant Look in 2024
FAQ
How I Chose the Best Tinted Sunscreen?
My selection process is rooted in thorough research and consideration of expert recommendations, user reviews, and product ingredient quality. We aim to provide a cross-section of the best options available, ensuring that different preferences and needs are met.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Tinted Sunscreen?
Always look for the SPF and PA ratings, as well as the UV-blocking ingredients. The creamy, gel-based, or powder texture best suits your skin type. Finally, pay attention to the tint itself. Does it provide the right level of coverage, and does it match your skin tone?