You don’t need a beauty editor to tell you to wear sunscreen every single day. Even on rainy days, the sun still projects rays that can damage your skin. (Office workers don’t get a pass, either, as the sun goes through windows.) But layering sunscreen—which can be thick, chalky, or even cause breakouts—can be a real pain. That's where the best tinted moisturizers with SPF come in. For starters, these miracle products kills two birds with one stone—less steps, less gunk on your face—not to mention the sheer coverage and UVA and UVB protection. Also, more elegant formulations allow for greater compliance, meaning you'll actually remember—nay, want—to apply one each day, and your makeup will look all the better for it.
Tinted moisturizers differ from tinted sunscreen in their 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 holy grail in one product.
Reese Witherspoon and Ava Phillippe's red carpet glow at the 2024 Critics Choice Awards can be credited to Ilia's tinted moisturizer.
As editors who use tinted moisturizer with SPF almost every day, we know what makes one noteworthy. The best tinted moisturizers with SPF have to be lightweight, actually moisturizing, and provide light (preferably buildable) coverage. Lucky for you, all of the products on this list tick those boxes. Ahead, Marie Claire editors 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: These may make you forget your favorite foundation exists.
Overview
- Best Overall Tinted Moisturizer With SPF: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector SPF 30
- Best Drugstore Tinted Moisturizer With SPF: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Perfector SPF 20
- Best Luxury Tinted Moisturizer with SPF: NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30
- Best Tinted Moisturizer With SPF for Dry Skin: Saie Slip Tint Dewy Tinted Moisturizer SPF 35 Sunscreen
- Best Tinted Moisturizer With SPF for Oily Skin: Tarte BB Tinted Treatment 12-Hour Primer SPF 30
- Best Tinted Moisturizer With SPF for Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30
- Best Tinted Moisturizer With SPF for Mature Skin: Estee Lauder Futurist Hydra Rescue Moisturizing Makeup SPF 45
The Best Tinted Moisturizers With SPF
Laura Mercier created one of the OG of tinted moisturizers. This editor-beloved, makeup artist-approved, SPF 30-infused moisturizer cloaks your complexion with a glowy, sheer tint and a healthy dose of hydration. Lots of sodium hyaluronate is floating around in the formula, which will keep rough patches away and smooth fine, dry lines. It's also packed with macadamia and kukui seed oils to ensure skin looks and feels moisturized for up to 24 hours.
Pros: Lightweight; Offered in 20 shades; Buildable coverage.
Cons: Coverage fades throughout the day.
Customer review: "I have been using this product since it came out. The texture and color are perfect for me. Does not look heavy but gives me the right amount of cover. I usually looks for good prices but I'll pay whatever for this!" — Sephora
Oh, retinol, and all of the powerful things it can do for skin. This $13 drugstore gem's formulation is no f-ing joke, including: retinol, SPF 20, and a sheer veil of coverage, which is clinically proven to erase the look of fine lines and keep the texture of your skin in tip-top shape. For those with mature skin, this tinted moisturizer will pull double duty by providing a light, even layer of coverage while working to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. More than 11,000 Amazon shoppers love this product and left 5-star reviews, so you know it's a real winner.
Pros: Under $15; Anti-aging; Lightweight; Applies smoothly.
Cons: Under-30 SPF; Limited shade range.
Customer review: "I found I liked this very much. It doesn't have heavy coverage, just enough to smooth a bit. Feels VERY light on your skin and it's good to know it's got sunscreen and retinol so it's actually good for your skin!" — Amazon
For a budget-friendly pick, it doesn't get much better than this Maybelline BB cream. The formula has been around for ages, yet it's still a favorite. You won't find any oils or heavy ingredients in this water-gel formula, and it will freshen up your face with a photogenic, SPF-protected glow with buildable coverage. If you're a fan of multi-tasking makeup, this one has eight (!!) different benefits including blurring, protecting, smoothing, and hydrating.
Pros: Under $10; Brightening; Blurring; Oil-free; Lightweight.
Cons: Limited shade range.
Customer review: "I have repurchased this twice because I like this a lot. It’s a great price for buildable coverage. Love that it has sun protection and it’s super easy to apply. The shade needs altered on me depending on the season, but that’s easy with a drop foundation mixed in. I am prone to acne and this does not break me out." —Target
When Ilia dropped this super-lightweight formula, editors raved over its satiny, dewy finish. It doesn't just look pretty: squalane, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid hydrate, plump, and calm the skin, while an impressive SPF 40 stops UV light from harming the complexion. Along with celebrities like Vanessa Hudgens, Cindy Crawford, and Kate Hudson, this one also gets the pro stamp of approval from Dondero. "It never fails to leave the skin feeling plump, dewy, and hydrated," she confirms. Boasting an impressive 30 shades, there's a good chance you'll find your exact match, and it doesn't hurt that this product is completely clean.
Pros: Pro-approved; Lightweight; Vegan; Improves the look of blemishes, redness, and uneven tone over time; Offered in 30 shades.
Cons: Has a strong smell; Packaging could be improved.
Customer review: "This is the best shade match I’ve ever found for my skin, so I immediately loved it for that. I get a lot of compliments on my skin when I wear this, it has spf, it’s moisturizing but lightweight. I love it." — Sephora
Technically speaking, this is more of a tinted sunscreen. If your sensitive skin can't handle heavy moisturizers or foundations, CeraVe's formula will be right up your alley. Finicky skin will love this mineral-based formula that combines SPF 30 with essential ceramides to soothe irritation and protect from environmental aggressors. The formula also contains niacinamide to help soothe the skin. Dermatologists love CereVe for their no-fuss formulas, so you can count on this to protect you from UV rays and provide a nice glow.
Pros: Great for sensitive skin; Non-comedogenic; Lightweight; Does not leave a white cast; Developed with dermatologists.
Cons: Only comes in one shade.
Customer review: "As an aging woman with fair and sensitive skin I am very pleased with this CeraVe product. It not only protects my skin but the tint blends naturally on my face. It gives my face moisture and feels wonderful. Will definitely purchase again." — Amazon
Another oldie but a goodie, Dondero says this cult-favorite tinted moisturizer is a "must-have." Thanks to its mineral-rich seawater and kopara combo, your skin will feel softer and smoother than a baby's bottom. If you have a few dark spots or discoloration, you'll also be happy to know that it's powered by vitamin C, which helps to brighten those areas over time. One final benefit? "It gives a beautiful skin-like finish and feels light on the skin," Dondero says.
Pros: Pro-approved; Buildable coverage; Lightweight; Brightening.
Cons: May not be suitable for oily skin.
Customer review: "This is the best tinted moisturizer on the market, no doubt. That’s saying a lot considering the amount of money and time I have spent purchasing and testing out countless tinted moisturizers. This one makes my skin look better, brighter and overall healthier. The glow is real. Don’t wait, buy it." — Sephora
Jam-packed with good-for-you ingredients, Saie's Slip Tint is just as much of a skincare product as it is makeup. Not only does it intensely moisturize skin, but it also works to brighten up your skin tone with every single wear. In terms of finish, skin is left with an ultra-glowy, dewy look. It also comes pro-approved by Mignano: "It is very light coverage but makes your skin look so radiant and I love that it has hyaluronic acid in it to boost that skin moisture!"
Pros: Pro-approved; Lightweight; Buildable; Brightening; Travel-friendly; Long-wearing.
Cons: Texture is a little thick.
Customer review: "Perfect for normal/dry skin. It has lightweight coverage that manages to negate my redness but still shows my freckles. The formula is hydrating and lasts through my workout in the gym." — Sephora
Tower28’s tinted sunscreen sold out pretty much the moment it launched, so if you can get ahold of your shade, do so—and fast. The blendable, buildable formula is easy to wear on all skin types (even sensitive skin), and the built-in mineral SPF 30 protects with the best of them. Mignano has personally gone through multiple tubes because it makes skin look "flawless." "I love it because it is just as lightweight and hydrating as a tinted moisturizer," she says, "but you get a light-medium buildable coverage out of it."
Pros: Pro-approved; Buildable light-to-medium coverage; Great for sensitive skin; Protects against blue light pollution.
Cons: Texture is a little thick.
Customer review: "Just wow. I am officially buying my second tube of this thing. It’s lightweight. Easy to apply with fingers, sponge, or brush. Covers my imperfections, scars, redness. And this seriously lasts all day long. + no break outs (super sensitive skin)." — Sephora
Who better to make SPF makeup than a beloved sunscreen brand? Again, this one falls more into the tinted sunscreen category, but it has a few moisturizing ingredients (hyaluronic acid, for one) skin loves. Dondero says this is her favorite tinted moisturizer—she loves it so much, she never leaves the house without it. "I use it on all of my clients, and it is an essential step in my makeup routine," she adds. "I love this product so much that it reminds me to apply my sunscreen daily!"
Pros: Protects from blue-light damage; Can work as a makeup primer; Leaves an instant glow.
Cons: Coverage is on the sheer side.
Customer review: "This sunscreen works as a beautiful skin primer. When I apply my powder or liquid foundation it glides on and leaves me with an all day glow. I can also just apply this with a little clear SPF gloss on my lips and head out the door." — Sephora
If you want no-BS coverage that will camouflage all of your problem areas like a magic marker, this is for you. Offering major sun protection with SPF 50, IT Cosmetics' tinted moisturizer is also made with a special slow-aging serum full of hydrolyzed collagen, peptides, niacin, hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants, to shrink your pores and reduce signs of aging. Somehow, this little tube has all of the benefits of a full-coverage foundation, moisturizer, anti-aging serum, and sunscreen.
Pros: Offered in over 20 shades; Anti-aging; A little goes a long way; Long-wearing; Blends smoothly.
Cons: May feel heavy on skin.
Customer review: "I love this product! I have mature skin and it is absorbed into my skin and doesn’t leave a greasy feel. It covers my scares and helps even out my skin tone." — Sephora
Hydration is key when it comes to a smooth, bouncy canvas for makeup, and this moisturizing option glides on without chalkiness for radiant protection. Basically, this is a moisturizer, light-coverage foundation, and sunscreen all in one—the perfect option for lazy-girl morning routines. Just like the name suggests, skin feels good thanks to moringa seed and hyaluronic acid and looks just as good with a radiant, "your-skin-but-better" effect.
Pros: Lightweight; Buildable; Applies smoothly.
Cons: Limited shade range; Under-30 SPF.
Customer review: "I have been using this product for years and highly recommend it to anyone, if you're the type of person who doesn't need or like full coverage foundation this product is perfect for evening out your skin tone and giving a nice glow. It's very buildable as well if you want a little bit of extra coverage." — Ulta
If wrinkles or fine lines are your concern, it's ideal to find a formula that won't sink in and emphasize them. Estee Lauder's classic smoothes and covers them, adds hydration to plump the skin and reduce their appearance, and has a pretty off-matte finish to boot. If you're a fan of slightly more coverage, this one has got your back with medium-to-full, buildable coverage. It also boasts SPF 45 protection, which is higher than average for a tinted moisturizer.
Pros: Great for mature skin; Offers medium, buildable coverage; Soothes skin; Long-wearing; Offered in 20 shades.
Cons: May feel heavy.
Customer review: "I really liked it, medium in density, ideal for combination skin, covers my flaws, and does not emphasize pores or if there are any flaking, does not dry the skin and does not make it greasy!" — Dermstore
Secure the ultimate no-makeup makeup glow with this in-between lightweight to medium coverage BB cream. While it protects your skin with SPF 30, it'll also blur your pores, cover imperfections, and boost your skin's radiance thanks to its brightening effect. If you have oily skin, its matte finish will also keep shininess at bay. Bonus: It doubles as a primer if you're looking to double-up on SPF underneath your foundation.
Pros: Buildable; Lightweight; Blurring; Brightening; Long-wearing.
Cons: May not be suitable for dry skin.
Customer review: "Umm.. where has this product been my whole life?! As an oily girl this product is amazing, I have tried so many foundation and skin tint products and I’m always disappointed when they separate on my skin through the day. This looks like my skin and feels amazing without separating." — Sephora
The texture of this oil-free tinted gel cream feels super-soothing to the skin, which is ideal for a two-in-one that offers skincare and makeup benefits. Plus, it's extra creamy and blendable, so it won't take much work at all to apply. Just think about how hydrated your skin will feel thanks to squalene and mineral electrolytes, which are two star ingredients in the moisture category. Editors are also huge fans of this pick as it provides just the right amount of coverage to even out skin without feeling heavy.
Pros: Lightweight; Buildable; Applies smoothly; Offered in 20 shades; Blurring.
Cons: Coverage fades throughout the day.
Customer review: "THIS IS THE ULTIMATE HOLY GRAIL! So smooth and dewy and sheer! Stays all day and so much nicer and not cakey like foundation! So smooth, omg, like I’m so in love with this product!" — Sephora
Some tinted moisturizers are so good—meaning so foundation-like, with believable, featherlight coverage—it's hard to believe they're also delivering UVA and UVB protection. Alastin has made one of those unicorn products, and with a formula that's bmineral-based for low irritation. It's especially good for beach vacations, as the formula is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. Mignano counts herself a fan of this "gorgeous" tinted sunscreen, pointing out that it "comes in a huge tube that is guaranteed to last you a long time."
Pros: Pro-approved; Brightening; Evens skin tone; Water-resistant; Lightweight; Reef-safe.
Cons: Only offered in one shade.
Customer review: "I love this product. I always get compliments when I’m wearing it. It just melds perfectly with my skin. I can wear a small amount for light coverage or a little more as a foundation. No weird sunscreen smell. Just perfect!" — Alastin
Any new product from Selena Gomez' Rare Beauty will get editors' undivided attention. When this tinted moisturizer was released not too long ago, it almost instantaneously sold out. The appeal is obvious: Not only does it instantly blur your pores and blemishes, but it also smooths any texture and provides a radiant finish, all while offering sun protection. The packaging also has a dropper-like bottle, which is ideal to use with your fingers for an even application.
Pros: Blurring; Brightening; Offered in 24 shades; Applies smoothly; Non-comedogenic.
Cons: Under-30 SPF.
Customer review: "I am not kidding when I say I never write reviews or rate things but this product deserves it it is my new favorite product. It goes on so good and lasts all day. It also doesn’t dry out my skin throughout the day. It even goes on nicely over other skincare products" — Sephora
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 best hybrid products 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 several skin-loving ingredients, allowing them to pull double duty as makeup and skincare. In terms of ingredients, Dondero recommends looking out 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 choose tinted moisturizers that only uses clean ingredients, meaning they are formulated without any phthalates, parabens, formaldehydes, sulfates, and other elements that may be harmful to you or the environment.
- Finish
Tinted moisturizers with SPF also have a range of different finishes, providing distinct looks depending on your skin type. If you have dry or combination skin, you may want to choose 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 unwanted shine 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, second-skin finish.
How to Apply Tinted Moisturizer With SPF
Some makeup products can be tricky to apply, but tinted moisturizers aren't overly complicated. In fact, you don't even need a foundation brush—just your fingers will do. "I like to apply tinted moisturizer as if it was any other moisturizer, with my hands," says Mignano. "I think that the warmth of your fingers really helps the product melt into your skin, making the product look as if its a second layer of your beautiful skin, but better."
Simply rub the tinted moisturizer between your fingers and pat onto the skin. To ensure the tinted moisturizer lasts all day, Dondero says to make sure you set it with a setting powder.
Meet the Experts
Mia is a pro makeup artist based in both L.A. and New York City. Her work has appeared on the runways of NYFW, in campaigns for Inked by Dani, Extensible Jewelry, Navy Hair Care (and more), and in editorial spreads.
Cat is a New York City-based makeup artist who was formally trained at the Make-Up Designory (MUD) in New York City, completing the Multi-Media Program. She has extensive experience in editorial and branded beauty looks. Some of her clients include Bethenny Frankel, Ellen Pompeo, Remi Bader, and Alex Cooper.
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