While seasonal changes or tropical climates can pose unique skincare challenges, one crucial step that everyone agrees on is sunscreen usage. It’s essential for preventing sun damage, dark spots, skin cancer, and premature aging, making it a vital component in daily routines. If you’re not already incorporating it into yours, the question remains: what are you waiting for?
I must admit that I only recently became a devoted fan of sunscreen myself, after initially being deterred by the perceived hassle of layering multiple products before makeup application (a surprising confession, perhaps). Additionally, some sunscreens left me unimpressed due to their white or greyish residue, which not only added to my morning routine but also made it seem like an unnecessary extra step.
This is precisely why I’ve come to appreciate the benefits of tinted sunscreens, offering a convenient and effective way to achieve both protection and a smooth, even complexion.
What Are Tinted Sunscreens?
When it comes to mineral-based, broad-spectrum sunscreens with added pigments for coverage, tinted sunscreens offer a unique combination of protection and complexion-enhancing benefits. For those who prioritize convenience and natural-looking results, these formulas can be a game-changer; I’ve found that they work exceptionally well for my busy lifestyle, providing effortless coverage without the need for additional foundation products.
The added benefit is that they allow for excellent skin breathability, making them an ideal choice for days when you want to look polished but still want your skin to function at its best. As I’ve explored various tinted sunscreen options, I’ve narrowed down my top three favorites, which I’d like to share with you: Each of these products has earned a spot in my daily rotation due to their impressive performance and versatility.
Whether you’re looking for a natural-looking base or a quick fix for blemishes, I believe you’ll find something on this list that resonates with your needs.
Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation
I’m a huge fan of Tower 28 Beauty, founded in 2019 by Amy Liu, who has firsthand experience battling eczema. Her passion project aims to provide a range of clean, gentle products for people with sensitive skin. The brand’s SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen is a standout product that doubles as a foundation offering buildable, light-to-medium coverage.
This sunscreen boasts 100% mineral SPF, ensuring no pores are clogged and making it suitable for even the most problem-prone or sensitive skin types. As an added bonus, it’s vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free.
Tinted Sunscreen With an Inclusive Shade Range
While the liquid formula has a runny consistency at first, it surprisingly settles nicely on the skin once applied. What I appreciate most is the extensive range of 17 inclusive shades that provide a great color match. This product truly shines when my skin is experiencing hormonal acne flares or sensitivity issues; it’s become a trusted go-to for those occasions. On the downside, the texture can feel slightly thick during application, and it may not be the best fit for dry skin types.
Additionally, the SPF level could be higher, ideally reaching 40 or above.
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 Sunscreen
While the liquid formula has a runny consistency at first, it surprisingly settles nicely on the skin once applied. What I appreciate most is the extensive range of 17 inclusive shades that provide a great color match. This product truly shines when my skin is experiencing hormonal acne flares or sensitivity issues; it’s become a trusted go-to for those occasions. On the downside, the texture can feel slightly thick during application, and it may not be the best fit for dry skin types.
Additionally, the SPF level could be higher, ideally reaching 40 or above.
Tinted Sunscreen With Multiple Benefits
This Supergoop Glowscreen SPF40 Sunscreen is a multitasking superstar that not only provides sheer, glowy coverage but also hydrates and primes the skin with its blend of Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Vitamin B5. The rich formula is infused with antioniodics, making it a great choice for those looking for a cruelty-free and gluten-free option. With SPF40 protection, this sunscreen is suitable for everyday use.
When I want a more radiant makeup base, I reach for this one, appreciating its beautiful finish that resembles a light layer of foundation – perfect for those who prefer a natural look. The lotion-like texture is also a plus. While the limited shade range may be a drawback, Supergoop has other products that can make up for it. Some users might find the Glowscreen SPF40 too shiny, but fans of Charlotte Tillbury’s Flawless Filter Foundation will appreciate its similar finish.
Overall, this sunscreen is a great addition to any makeup routine.
Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50
The sheer enthusiasm with which I discuss this product is unparalleled; as I have developed an enduring fascination that shows no signs of waning. In fact, I’ve reached a point where I’m eager to continue exploring its many facets and sharing my findings with others.
Viral Sunscreen On Tik Tok
I was first introduced to Colorescience through the buzz surrounding its innovative color-shifting technology on TikTok. The brand’s Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF50 caught my attention, as I learned about its lightweight mineral sunscreen formula, powered by patented EnviroScreen Technology. This cutting-edge innovation provides comprehensive protection against UVA/UVB rays, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation.
What truly sets this product apart is its unique tone-adapting pigments. Initially appearing white, the formula seamlessly adjusts to an individual’s skin tone upon blending, creating a mesmerizing effect that can only be described as enchanting. The result is a flawless finish that looks and feels like magic.
No-Makeup Makeup Sunscreen
As I apply Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF50 in Medium, the demi-matte finish leaves my complexion looking radiant and healthy. What truly impresses me is the skin-blurring effect, which expertly conceals any imperfections, including discoloration, blemishes, and inflammation. Despite its lightweight texture, this formula proves to be surprisingly durable, with just a small amount providing buildable medium coverage that creates an effortlessly even-toned complexion.
In my experience, it’s as if I’ve achieved perfectly balanced skin without the appearance of heavy foundation coverage.
SPF50 Tinted Sunscreen
I’m thoroughly impressed with the SPF50 coverage offered by Colorescience’s sun protection products, which have become a staple in my daily routine. In fact, their formulas have replaced foundation for me, earning them a spot as one of my absolute favorite products to date. While I do appreciate the flexibility of their four-shade range, which caters to a broad spectrum of skin tones and undertones, I’m not convinced that the darkest shade works effectively for those with very dark skin.
On a more positive note, Colorescience prides itself on being chemical-free, 100% free from harsh chemicals that can cause harm. Some users have raised concerns about pore clogging, but after using it regularly and doubling up on cleansers, I haven’t experienced any issues myself. The initial sticker price of $54 might be daunting for some, but I managed to snag this gem at a discounted rate of just $15 through an influencer’s second-hand sale.
Since then, I’ve been hooked, deeming Colorescience one of my most trusted and reliable holy-grail products.
