The finest tinted sunscreens are for those who apply a foundation to balance out their skin tone regularly. Lightweight, great for leveling skin tone, and for reapplying throughout the day, these base-product wonders are a must-have for touch-ups. The SPF ranges from 15 to 50, and there are mineral, chemical, and hybrid formulations to choose from to help you narrow down your search.

According to board-certified dermatologist Michele Green, MD, who practices in New York City, persons with darker skin tones should avoid using mineral-based sunscreens since they tend to leave a white cast on their skin.

What Is Tinted Sunscreen?

To put it simply, tinted SPF is SPF that is available in a variety of hues to match your skin tone. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are common SPF active components in tinted sunscreens, as are pigments that give the product its color. Other sunscreens' colored pigments can't reflect visible light as these can. Dedicated sunscreens with a tint are more dependable and effective than SPF foundations and moisturizers.

Selecting A Tinted Sunscreen: A Guide

Riyaz suggests daily use of an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen for the best protection against ultraviolet A and B radiation to help prevent visible indications of aging, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation, as well as reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Depending on the level of UV protection you need, you may want to keep an eye out for additional components in tinted sunscreens. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are two of sunscreens' most common active components.

A board-certified dermatologist and creator of 5th Avenue Aesthetics, Dr. Marie Hayag, suggests using tinted sunscreens with iron oxide as an extra layer of defense against harmful wavelengths of light, such as the harmful blue spectrum.

Tinted vs. Clear Sunscreen

Tinted sunscreens have a darker shade of color, whereas tinted sunscreens do not. In contrast to untinted sunscreens that tend to be white, tinted sunscreens use pigments to hide imperfections and make them appear more like makeup. One isn't better than the other, and neither is more effective than the other In some cases, tinted sunscreens might give an additional layer of protection.

Our skin is protected from the blue light generated by your computer screen, thanks to tinted choices that include iron oxides. In addition, the tint makes mineral formulae (traditionally felt chalky and difficult to blend in) compatible with all skin tones.

BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30

Allure's Best of Beauty Award-winning BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 has won three times and two Readers' Choice Awards. Because of this, when we say that this base is worth every penny, we mean it. The tinted moisturizer and sunscreen's dew-enhancing recipe is as amazing as the 20-shade selection.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50

A negative reputation for the white cast is associated with mineral SPF treatments. However, La Roche-Anthelious Posay's Mineral Tinted SPF 50 will change your mind. Designed for sensitive skin, this oil- and the fragrance-free product is just as popular with oily skin because of its matte finish. When it comes to protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation, this tinted sunscreen is made with 100% mineral-based titanium dioxide, which is also reef-safe.

Alastin Skincare HydraTint SPF 36

Because of the moisturizing properties of hyaluronic acid, HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36 from Alastin Skincare is ideal for dry skin types. Think of this sunscreen as a BB cream, and you'll get the same benefits. It has a dewy, light-coverage finish to hide discoloration and black spots. Because it has no scent, this is an excellent choice for people with sensitive skin.

1. Sunscreen Isdin Eryfotona SPF 50 Ageless Ultralight Tinted Mineral

"It's ideal for those who loathe sunscreen because it doesn't smell or leave a white cast, and it's really thin and light," says Dr. Hartman, a dermatologist at the University of California, San Francisco. Though expensive, you'll get months of use out of it. In addition to peptides and antioxidants, the watery fluid contains hyaluronic acid, which helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Vichy Tinted Mineral SPF 60

Drugstore-tinted sunscreen is a favorite of Dr. Hartman's since it's mineral-based, water-resistant, and feels light on the skin. Because Vichy's trademark volcanic water helps to protect your skin from pollution, the brand's sunscreen is a perfect option for city people. In reviewers' eyes, it can create a natural glow without a greasy or oily texture.

Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen

Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen has a little peachy tint that mixes well with all skin tones and prevents a chalky look despite not being advertised as a tinted sunscreen. Besides its mineral filters, this composition claims to guard against free radicals & blue light, making it a must-wear no matter where you are.