The 16 Best Tinted Moisturizers With SPF, According to Experts and Editors

Get up and glow.

Collage of tinted moisturizers by Ilia, Bare Minerals, and Nars with photo of woman with makeup overlaid on gradient background
(Image credit: Future)

I don't need to take you back to sunscreen school, because you're a smart human who knows how crucial is it to apply sunscreen every single day. Even on rainy days, the sun is still projecting rays that can damage the fragile skin on your face. But it's fair if layering sunscreen—which can be thick, chalky, or even cause breakouts—isn't the most appealing part of your daily routine. That's where tinted moisturizers with SPF come in. For starters, it kills two birds with one stone—less steps, less gunk on your face—not to mention the sheer coverage and UVA and UVB protection. But also, the more elegant formulations allow for greater compliance, meaning you'll actually remember—nay, want—to apply it each day, and your makeup will look all the better for it. 

If you're wondering what makes a tinted moisturizer different from its tinted sunscreen counterpart, it's all in its multitasking abilities. "A tinted moisturizer will provide hydration, skincare benefits, and a small amount of coverage," explains pro makeup artist Mia Dondero. "Whereas foundation is used purposefully for coverage, but doesn’t always offer the same hydrating benefits." And because we could all use as much sun protection as we can get, a tinted moisturizer with SPF is basically the makeup/skincare trifecta in one product. 

As editors who use tinted moisturizer with SPF almost every day, we know what makes one noteworthy: It has to be lightweight, actually moisturizing, and it has to provide light (preferably buildable) coverage. Lucky for you, all of the products on this list tick those boxes. Ahead, we've rounded up the best tinted moisturizers with SPF that will not only make your skin gorgeous but will also keep your skin gorgeous with sun protection. Sorry in advance if these make you never want to pick up your favorite foundation again. 

Overview

What to Look For in Tinted Moisturizers With SPF

If you're looking for adequate sun protection, it's best to use a traditional sunscreen (with broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of at least 30 or higher), rather than relying solely on a tinted moisturizer with SPF. That being said, think of the products on this list as an additional means of sun protection with all of the benefits of a tinted moisturizer. 

Here's what else to consider when looking for a tinted moisturizer with SPF.

  • Ingredients 

Tinted moisturizers tend to have a myriad of skin-loving ingredients, which means they pull double duty as makeup and skincare. As for what ingredients to look for, Dondero recommends being on the lookout for hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. "Any face tints with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are a great find because it’s going to add extra skincare benefits like plumping the skin, smoothing texture, and adding extra hydration," she explains. 

Additionally, both Dondero and pro makeup artist Cat Mignano opt for tinted moisturizers that only uses clean ingredients, meaning they are formulated without any phthalates, parabens, formaldehydes, sulfates, and other ingredients that may be harmful to you or the environment. 

  • Finish 

Tinted moisturizers with SPF also have a range of different finishes, which can give you a different look depending on your skin type. If you have dry or combination skin, you may want to opt for a tinted moisturizer with a glowy, radiant, or dewy finish. "I love any skin tints that have a glowy finish, because the glow will blur texture on the skin," adds Dondero. On the other hand, if you have oily skin, go with a matte finish to help keep oil at bay. And if you're not a fan of the glowy or matte look, you can't go wrong with a tinted moisturizer with a natural, skin-like finish.  

The Best Tinted Moisturizers With SPF