The 15 Best Tinted Sunscreens to Add to Your Morning Routine

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

Pros

• Lightweight
• Reduces redness

There are a number of non-greasy and oil-free formulas available just for acne-prone skin, including this beloved option from EltaMD. Along with being hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, it’s also noncomedogenic, so you won’t have to worry about breakouts. Its tinted formula also features niacinamide to help reduce redness, plus hyaluronic acid to keep skin plump.

One satisfied customer writes: “I bought this sunscreen to protect my face from the damaging rays. I am so thankful for a sunscreen that does not clog pores or makes my acne worse!” —BrookeH

Best Mineral

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50

Best Mineral

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50

Pros

• Lightweight
• Leaves behind a radiant finish

This cult-classic mineral sunscreen uses a blend of zinc and titanium oxides to protect against damaging UVA/UVB rays. Its lightweight, waterlike consistency sinks right in, with a universal tint powered by iron oxide spheres that enhance skin’s natural tone.

One satisfied customer writes: “Lightweight, watery consistency that is easy to spread, wears well under makeup, and keeps me protected. I love that my skin feels more moisturized than it does tacky like some sunscreens.” —Stephanie

Best for Sensitive Skin

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Light Fluid SPF 50

Best for Sensitive Skin

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Light Fluid SPF 50

Mineral sunscreens tend to be less irritating for people with sensitive skin, and this SPF 50 titanium oxide version from La Roche is no exception. While some mineral sunscreens can be thick and hard to spread over the skin, this one has a non-greasy, fluid texture that absorbs quickly, leaves behind a matte finish, and layers well under makeup. Another pro is that the sunscreen is formulated with the brand’s signature thermal spring water to soothe the skin.

One satisfied customer writes: “I have very dry, sensitive, reactive skin. I don’t like when sunscreen feels heavy or sticky on my skin. This sunscreen was moisturizing throughout the day. It doesn’t feel heavy or sticky. I finally found a tinted mineral sunscreen that works for me!!!” —DWK

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Best Lightweight

Supergoop! Protec(tint) Daily SPF 50

Best Lightweight

Supergoop! Protec(tint) Daily SPF 50

Pros

• Available in 14 shades
• Buildable coverage

Cons

• Some reviewers claim its formula settles into fine lines and wrinkles

Although it’s designed to be buildable, this tinted SPF 50 sunscreen provides a natural finish that makes skin look healthier and more even with just one layer. Along with mineral and chemical protection, it’s also formulated with hyaluronic-acid-infused clay to help balance the skin’s oil and hydration levels. Plus, the ingredient ectoin is key in shielding your face from external stressors like pollution and radiation.

One satisfied customer writes: “This is the best skin tint on the market right now. Looks like skin, but better. Wears beautifully and you don’t need to powder if you have dry skin. Natural finish and not too dewy, just a perfect finish!” —TalyiaSharnise

Expert Pick

SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair SPF 34

Expert Pick

SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair SPF 34

Pros

• Helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles
• Reviewers say it layers well under makeup

SkinMedica’s Total Defense + Repair SPF 34 is a personal favorite for Jeanine B. Downie, a board-certified dermatologist based in Montclair, New Jersey. In addition to evening skin tone, the chemical sunscreen is enhanced with an antioxidant complex that helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin texture over time.

One satisfied customer writes: “I have tried many other broad-spectrum sunscreens at the advice of my dermatologist. This one is by far the best! It’s extremely lightweight and spreads evenly with ease. The fact that it’s tinted is wonderful. I don’t have to wear heavy makeup after applying this tinted sunscreen because the coverage is so good. This is a huge plus during the hot and humid months of the year!” —Cindy

Best Reef-Friendly

Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad-Spectrum SPF 36

Best Reef-Friendly

Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad-Spectrum SPF 36

Pros

• Hydrating
• Helps shield skin from blue light

This popular pick is another of Downie’s favorites. It’s hydrating, fragrance-free, reef-safe, and provides a long-lasting tint to boot. Its mineral-based formula offers broad-spectrum sun protection and is even water-resistant for up to 40 minutes—a bonus if you plan to exercise outdoors this spring and summer.

One satisfied customer writes: “I have used this for over two years. It is light and protective and gives my skin a bright and dewy glow. I love it!” —Elizabeth M

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Best for Redness

Peter Thomas Roth Max Mineral Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 45

Best for Redness

Peter Thomas Roth Max Mineral Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 45

Pros

• Great for sensitive skin

This sunscreen’s vanishing tint aims to mask redness, and is best for medium to olive skin tones. Its mineral formula uses a combination of zinc and titanium oxides to keep skin protected, plus vitamins E and C for a hydration and brightening boost. Ingredients like safflower extract add soothing qualities for those with sensitive skin, and diamond powder finishes off the formula to leave skin glowing.

One satisfied customer writes: “This is my new favorite sunscreen. I have sensitive skin, and this does not irritate it at all and does not sting my eyes. I was worried about the tint being too dark as I have extremely fair skin, but it blends in beautifully.” —MisssAsh

Best for Coverage

Tower 28 Beauty SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Foundation

Best for Coverage

Tower 28 Beauty SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Foundation

Pros

• Buildable

Cons

• May not be hydrating enough for drier skin types

Here's a tinted mineral sunscreen that is perfect for anyone in search of a sun protection product with serious coverage benefits. SunnyDays’ buildable SPF 30–infused formula looks and feels like a lightweight liquid foundation (only better) and is perfect for masking redness and reducing the appearance of dark spots while allowing your natural skin to shine through. And since it’s made without alcohol and fragrance, it’s also a good match for sensitive and reactive skin types.

One satisfied customer writes: “I love this product! For someone with sensitive, acne-prone skin and hyperpigmentation issues, it’s a win-win. Honestly I break out from everything, and this does not have any comedogenic ingredients. It’s perfection!” —justbsoulful

Best for Glow

Iris & Romeo Weekend Skin SPF 50

Best for Glow

Iris & Romeo Weekend Skin SPF 50

Pros

• Provides a radiant finish
• Reef-friendly

Cons

• Limited color range

This glow-boosting SPF 50 mineral sunscreen provides both immediate and long-term benefits. Its golden, universal tint delivers on dewiness without the shimmer to leave your face looking ultra-radiant. Plus, vitamin C and niacinamide work overtime to even skin’s tone and shield against blue light and UV rays.

One satisfied customer writes: “Love this stuff!! It’s beautiful on its own and gives a beautiful glow. When I wear makeup with it, it’s a great primer!” —sheeba84

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Best for Melanated Skin

Live Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50

Best for Melanated Skin

Live Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50

Pros

• Hydrating
• Buildable coverage

Cons

• Some reviewers claim it has a strong smell

Thanks to this SPF’s hyaluronic acid and sea buckthorn oil formula, dry skin is met with an extra dose of hydration and plumpness. Available in 10 versatile shades, it uses non-nano zinc oxide to protect skin against harmful rays without leaving behind a white cast. Another key quality: The sunscreen also happens to be both water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes (but, of course, don’t forget to reapply).

One satisfied customer writes: “A lot of tints I’ve tried are either too watery or too oily. This skin tint is the perfect in-between. It leaves me so glowy, and I just add some powder on top if I want a softer finish. LOVEEEEE.” —Sophia

Best for Oily Skin

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50

Best for Oily Skin

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50

Pros

• Helps absorb excess oil
• Leaves a matte finish

On top of providing SPF 50–level sun and blue light protection, this beloved routine staple also helps reduce common oily skin issues. The jack-of-all-trades product minimizes pores, absorbs excess oil, and nicely provides a matte finish.

One satisfied customer writes: “I use this product every day! It sits well on top of my moisturizer and does not appear heavy on my skin. Though it is matte, it does not dry out my skin.” —Fallon B

Best Chemical Formula

ZO Skin Health Smart Tone Broad-Spectrum SPF 50

Best Chemical Formula

ZO Skin Health Smart Tone Broad-Spectrum SPF 50

Pros

• Radiant finish
• Formulated with antioxidants

If you prefer a chemical sunscreen formula, consider this top pick from ZO Skin Health. It uses SPF 50 to guard against UVA and UVB rays, as well as HEV light—better known as the blue light emitted by your phone and laptop. Its non-greasy, creamy formula is also infused with an antioxidant complex featuring vitamins A, C, and E, which protects skin from environmental aggressors for up to 12 hours. The “smart tone” in its name refers to the formula’s self-adjusting tint that complements and color-corrects most skin tones.

One satisfied customer writes: “Purchased for honeymoon trip to Jamaica where I knew, due to heat, I wouldn’t want to wear a lot of makeup. However, I definitely wanted protection from the sun. This product was exactly what I needed!” —Rebecca D.

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Best Drugstore

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen With Sheer Tint SPF 30

Best Drugstore

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen With Sheer Tint SPF 30

Now 14% Off

Pros

• Great for sensitive skin
• Hydrating

Cons

• Not ideal for all skin tones

This budget-friendly pick retails under $15 and is nicely available at most local drugstores—which comes in handy when you forget to pack sunscreen. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, it’s a great option for dry skin types, or anyone generally looking to add more moisturizing products to their routine. As a bonus, the sunscreen has even earned the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.

One satisfied customer writes: “I really like this tinted moisturizer! It gives a little coverage and doesn’t leave my skin feeling cakey at all. At first it does look a bit greasy, but after a few minutes, that goes away. I have VERY sensitive skin, and this does not break me out or anything! Definitely recommend!” —Lindsey

Best Under Makeup

Kosas DreamBeam Comfy Smooth Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

Best Under Makeup

Kosas DreamBeam Comfy Smooth Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

Pros

• Hydrating
• Available in travel size

Cons

• May not provide as much color payoff as other tinted sunscreens

Housed in vibrant peach-and-pink packaging, this mineral sunscreen from Kosas looks great alone or can create the perfect canvas for base makeup. Another thoughtful design touch is the tube’s skinny applicator nozzle, which helps you dispense just the right amount of product. Its peach pigment aims to brighten skin while seamlessly offsetting the white cast of zinc oxide.

One satisfied customer writes: “The best thing about this is the tiny applicator. It ensures it doesn’t dispense too much like other brands, and is easier to control. I love the glow and moisturizing effect it gives too. This needs to be more hyped!” —hana2

Best for Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50

Best for Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50

Pros

• Lightweight
• Helps repair existing sun damage

Experts often recommend Isdin’s bestsellers, so it’s no surprise this mineral sunscreen from the brand is on our list. In addition to preventing future sun damage and premature signs of aging, its SPF 50 mineral formula uses peptides and antioxidants to repair existing sun damage and wrinkles. It has a super-luxurious, silky consistency that absorbs quickly, feels relatively weightless, and best of all, doesn’t leave behind a white cast.

One satisfied customer writes: “I use this product as part of my daily morning skincare routine. It is lightweight with a pleasant fragrance, and I like the added color tint.” —Carol

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Meet the Experts

• Dr. Jeanine B. Downie is a board-certified dermatologist and director of Image Dermatology PC in Montclair, New Jersey.
• Dr. Joshua Zeichner is a board-certified dermatologist, an associate professor of dermatology, and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

What are the benefits of tinted sunscreen?

On top of protecting skin from UVA/UVB rays and blue light, the pigment in tinted sunscreen helps provide a light level of coverage. For some, tinted sunscreen may completely replace a base makeup product like foundation or concealer. “Tinted sunscreen is a sunscreen that has a bit of color/added pigments to add a sheer tint to it,” Downie notes. “The benefit of tinted sunscreen is, you do not have to put on bronzer or foundation.”

What should you look for in a tinted sunscreen?

The most important characteristic to look for in a tinted sunscreen is sun protection. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection with an SPF 30 or higher. If you’re shopping for a tinted sunscreen, Downie recommends looking for a product with a tint that complements your complexion.

If you’re looking for a tinted sunscreen that doubles as a foundation, make sure the product promises some level of coverage. “When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that provides additional benefits that address your skin's needs, whether it is to brighten, hydrate, reduce shine, or mattify the skin,” Zeichner adds. “Many of these products bridge the line between skincare and makeup.”

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How much tinted sunscreen should you apply?

To get the full SPF protection listed on the label, tinted sunscreen should be applied just like regular sunscreen. For the face, Zeichner recommends applying about a quarter-sized dollop. You should also reapply every two hours if you’re going outdoors, or more frequently if you’re sweating or going in water. Remember to check your sunscreen’s label to see how long the formula is water-resistant.

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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, hair care, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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