The Best Tinted Sunscreens for Glowing, Protected Skin

Tinted sunscreens are having a serious moment—and for good reason. They combine the sun protection of a traditional SPF with the skin-perfecting benefits of a sheer foundation or BB cream. Whether you’re going makeup-free or looking for a minimal routine, a good tinted sunscreen can be your skin’s new best friend.

But with so many formulas out there, how do you choose the right one for your skin tone, skin type, and lifestyle? That’s where this guide comes in.

Let’s break down the best tinted sunscreens—for oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, and everything in between.

✨ Why Choose a Tinted Sunscreen?

• SPF + Coverage in One: Lightly evens out skin tone while protecting from UVA/UVB rays.
• Perfect for No-Makeup Days: Gives skin a healthy glow without feeling heavy.
• Often Mineral-Based: Many formulas use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, making them great for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• No White Cast: Tints help neutralize the white cast that traditional mineral sunscreens can leave behind.

Best Tinted Sunscreens (Top Picks)

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1. EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

Best for: All skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin
Why we love it: Lightweight, sheer coverage, dermatologist-approved
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid

✔️ Oil-free
✔️ Doesn’t clog pores
✔️ Blends well without feeling greasy

🛒 Available on Amazon

2. Saie Sunvisor Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 35

Best for: Dry or dull skin
Why we love it: Super glowy finish, clean beauty brand
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, SPF 35

✔️ Dewy finish
✔️ Clean, vegan formula
✔️ Works great under makeup or solo

🛒 Available at Amazon

3. Tower 28 SunnyDays Tinted SPF 30

Best for: Sensitive skin + rosacea
Why we love it: The first tinted sunscreen approved by the National Eczema Association
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, aloe vera, prickly pear extract

✔️ Buildable coverage
✔️ Fragrance-free
✔️ Skin-soothing formula

🛒 Available at Amazon

4. Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 50

Best for: Oily skin + budget-friendly option
Why we love it: Matte finish that controls oil all day
Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, eucalyptus, red algae

✔️ Mineral SPF 50
✔️ Affordable
✔️ Water-resistant up to 80 minutes

🛒 Available on Amazon

5. ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

Best for: Normal to dry skin, skincare-lovers
Why we love it: Combines serum, SPF, and tint in one product
Key Ingredients: Squalane, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid

✔️ Clean beauty favorite
✔️ Dewy, luminous finish
✔️ Available in 30+ shades

🛒 Available at Amazon

6. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Best for: Sensitive skin
Why we love it: High SPF, minimal ingredients, no fragrance
Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, antioxidants

✔️ Dermatologist-trusted
✔️ Light tint, no white cast
✔️ Great under makeup

🛒 Available here

7. BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Gel Cream SPF 30

Best for: Dry, dehydrated skin
Why we love it: Hydrating gel texture + natural coverage
Key Ingredients: Squalane, marine botanicals

✔️ Hydrating finish
✔️ Mineral SPF
✔️ Available in many shades

🛒 Available on bareMinerals

💡 How to Choose the Right Tinted Sunscreen

When picking your perfect match, keep in mind:

• Skin Type:
  • Dry skin? Look for hydrating ingredients like squalane or hyaluronic acid.
  • Oily or acne-prone? Opt for oil-free and mattifying formulas.
  • Sensitive skin? Go for fragrance-free, zinc-based SPFs.
• Shade Range:
  Some brands only offer 1–3 shades. If you have a deeper or very fair complexion, look for inclusive options like ILIA or Tower 28.
• Finish:
  • Dewy: Saie, ILIA, bareMinerals
  • Matte: Australian Gold, EltaMD
  • Natural/Neutral: La Roche-Posay, Tower 28

Pro Tips for Application

• Apply a generous amount (about ½ tsp for your face)
• Let it sit for a few minutes before layering other makeup
• Reapply every 2 hours if you’re in the sun
• Use a makeup sponge for even, smooth coverage
• Layer with a setting spray to lock in SPF + makeup

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re running errands makeup-free or want a simplified summer beauty routine, tinted sunscreen is a glow-up for your skincare arsenal. With the right product, you’ll get protection, coverage, and confidence—without the hassle.

✨ Healthy skin starts with smart sun protection—and these tinted SPFs make it easier (and prettier) than ever.