The 8 Best Tinted Moisturizers, According to Makeup Artists and Editors

Bring on the glow.

model with blonde hair wearing glowy tinted moisturizer
(Image credit: Getty)

Tinted moisturizers fall into countless makeup categories—they’re the foundation of the no-makeup makeup look, the pinnacle of the “clean girl aesthetic,” and the secret to every glass/dolphin/jello skin trend you’ve ever seen. In short: The best tinted moisturizers are makeup bag necessities. They’re as lightweight as they come, provide hydration and coverage in one, and make your skin look like the best, most even version of itself. Fingers are an appropriate applicator and it’s virtually impossible to have a streaky finish. 

If you’ve ever stepped into a Sephora, you’ve probably heard about the holy grail Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer. And while it’s a cult favorite for a reason (the finish is *chef’s kiss*), it’s only one of many amazing tinted moisturizers in existence. Saie has a new-to-market formula that contains SPF, Rare Beauty is a go-to for glow, and Chantecaille’s packs in a surprising amount of coverage. The category’s lines have blurred, so some of the best are dubbed tinted sunscreens or skin tints, but so long as they pack inadequate hydration and subtle coverage, we’ll give ‘em a shoutout. To get the lowdown on all our must-have tinted moisturizers, read ahead. 

What to Look For

  • Shade 

Because tinted moisturizers are inherently less pigmented, you have a little more flexibility when it comes to finding your perfect color match. Still, as makeup artist Jennifer Fleming points out, “some brands offer limited color selections in tinted formulas.” It’s important to make sure the shade you select is well-suited for your complexion and works with your undertones. 

  • Texture 

While texture is largely personal preference, there are a few testing points you’ll want to keep in mind. “Check if your tinted moisturizer feels light to the touch after it is applied,” advises Fleming. “I tend to shy away from options that have a sticky or tacky feel upon application. Some newer formulas are infused with serums and other enhancers that can affect texture.” 

  • SPF

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable skincare product—and you can get a little extra dose of protection if you pick a moisturizer with SPF. “I always try to see if my tinted moisturizer has an SPF in it to keep me protected during the summer,” says makeup artist Dani Parkes

The Best Tinted Moisturizers

Meet the Experts

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Jennifer Fleming

Texas-bred, Jennifer Fleming’s passion for makeup began with the red painted lips of her family’s matriarchs, igniting an appreciation for the power and ability of makeup to enhance and transform. Years later in a packed Mustang, she made the leap to the lights of New York City. Working backstage assisting on fashion shows, photo shoots, and celebrity red carpet helped inform her foundation for makeup. She found her niche in advertising and men’s grooming for several brands including Maybelline Chase, and the National Basketball Association. Fifteen years later and her timeless approach to glamour is defined by clean refined skin, while enhancing her client’s natural beauty. Today, she continues to draw inspiration from art, travel, nature, and history- while being inspired by current digital beauty trends. Jennifer currently splits her time between New York and Paris; struggling to learn French and cosplaying as a chef.  

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Dani Parkes

Self-taught makeup artist Dani Parkes, also known as Faces by Danii, started doing makeup at the age of 8. At 18 years old she moved to New York knowing no one and started to build her network. Dani is passionate about all things makeup. Her goal is to highlight and extenuate the natural features on one's face, rather than completely changing the way they look. She creates new ideas and draws inspiration from a lot of artists based in the UK and Europe. Their effortless glam and technique is what has shaped Dani’s makeup style. She continues to grow as an artist and hopes to continue to build her network of clients. Dani has glammed up some of your favorite influencers and celebrities including Natalie Noel, Lea Michelle, Emily Lind, and Lauren Wolfe. 

Samantha Holender
Beauty Editor

Samantha Holender is the Beauty Editor at Marie Claire, where she reports on the best new launches, dives into the science behind skincare, and shares the breakdown on the latest and greatest trends in the beauty space. She's studied up on every ingredient you'll find on INCI list and is constantly in search of the world's glowiest makeup products. She's constantly tracking the biggest nail and hair trends to pop up in the beauty space, going backstage during fashion weeks, tracking celebrity looks, and constantly talking to celebrity hair stylists, nail artists, and makeup artists. Prior to joining the team, she worked as Us Weekly’s Beauty and Style Editor, where she stayed on the pulse of pop culture and broke down celebrity beauty routines, hair transformations, and red carpet looks. Her words have also appeared on Popsugar, Makeup.com, Skincare.com, Delish.com, and Philadelphia Wedding. Samantha also serves as a board member for the American Society of Magazine Editors (ASME). She first joined the organization in 2018, when she worked as an editorial intern at Food Network Magazine and Pioneer Woman Magazine. Samantha has a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from The George Washington University’s School of Media and Public Affairs. While at GWU, she was a founding member of the school’s HerCampus chapter and served as its President for four years. When she’s not deep in the beauty closet or swatching eyeshadows, you can find her obsessing over Real Housewives and all things Bravo. Keep up with her on Instagram @samholender.