

By now, you're probably sick of being told that you need to wear sunscreen, so I'll just assume you get the basics: Everyone needs to wear SPF every day, skin cancer can affect everyone, your cells will slowly die by UV rays, et cetera, et cetera. You know it, I know it, and your dermatologist certainly knows it. But the sun is creeping back into our lives, which means more time spent outdoors and more potential for sun damage and burns. And before you say something like, "But I want a tan!" or "Let me list the things about sunscreens that annoy me!" just know that I've heard it all, and am prepared to offer you a solution that doesn't include skipping SPF: Tinted sunscreen.
Sick of white casts left on your skin, are dying for a summer glow, and don't want that uncomfortable tacky feeling that sunscreen can leave behind? The best tinted sunscreens are those that lie somewhere in between a classic SPF and a tinted moisturizer with SPF 15 (which, for the record, isn't the same as sunscreen).
What's the difference between tinted sunscreen and normal sunscreen?
Tinted sunscreen offers the same level of protection as a standard sunscreen but come with a skin-mimicking tint so that white casts are a thing of the past. Instead, you're left with a more even complexion that is glowing and refreshed, sans sun damage. As for your other skin concerns, like acne, dark spots, or fine lines, tinted sunscreen can get to work on those, too. Below, you'll find the perfect tinted SPF that protects you from the sun—while healing your other skin woes. Also worth checking out: our guide to tinted moisturizers with SPF built-in.
CeraVe CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Face Sheer Tint SPF 30
A drugstore and dermatologist favorite, CeraVe is known for the magic it works on sensitive skin—it's lightweight and non-greasy, and won't irritate your skin. This product comes with a pretty tint, to boot.
Unsun Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Not only is this sunscreen 100 percent mineral-based, but it also color corrects to leave the skin looking refreshed and with a more even tone. That means no white cast—but also, the tint won't smudge onto your white T-shirt.
Clarins UV Plus Anti-Pollution Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Tinted Sunscreen Multi-Protection
Say goodbye to sun spots, damage, and wrinkles. This French sunscreen protects not only against UVA/UVB rays, but also against pollution and free-radicals that can cause acne.
EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 Sunscreen
A staple of every celebrity skincare video, odds are you've seen someone pull this baby out. This formula is great for anyone with sensitive skin, as it's fragrance-free and lightweight which means no pore clogging.
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Face Lotion
This tinted SPF is so supple that it can actually double as a makeup primer. It leaves behind a matte finish so anyone who's worried about looking greasy or oily by 5 p.m. can rest assured.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid
All beauty lovers know that French drugstores are a treasure trove of skincare goodies, and that's because they stock brands like La Roche-Posay. This SPF is a tinted mineral formula that is lightweight and blendable, and perfect for sensitive skin.
Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte™ Physical Daily Defense SPF 30
Not only does this mineral, zinc-based SPF protect against sun damage and pollutants, but it leaves a glowy finish behind. Even though the tint is sheer and lightweight, it instantly perfects the look of skin so you don't even need to wear foundation.
Neutrogena Tinted Facial Moisturizer SPF 20 Sunscreen
We all know that sun damage can accelerate aging, and this sunscreen takes proactive measures to stop fine lines in their tracks. In addition to protection from the sun, this formula also utilizes retinol, antioxidants, and vitamins to restore a youthful glow to the skin.
TIZO Ultra Zinc Body Face Sunscreen Tinted SPF 40
For anyone who associates SPF with a chalky, uncomfortable finish, this sunscreen might change your mind. It's formulated with hydrating vitamins and contains a sheer tint that gives the skin a dewy, glowing finish.
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
If you're trying to achieve healthy, luminous skin, this SPF by SkinCeuticals will do the trick. It contains zinc and titanium dioxide for maximum sun protection, while also soothing the skin and leaving behind an enviable glow.
Sisley Paris Tinted Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
Sisley knows a thing or two about skincare, and this tinted SPF is just as expertly formulated. It has a beautiful tint that leaves the skin looked refreshed and healthy, all while protecting it from sun damage.
PCA SKIN Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Sunscreen
This dermatologist- and aesthetician-founded brand has created the ultimate tinted sunscreen that never leaves white casts. For makeup lovers, it won't disturb your base or make your foundation look off in any way.
PETER THOMAS ROTH Peter Thomas Roth Max Mineral Tinted Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45 UVAUVB Protective Lotion
Anyone with sensitive skin knows finding the right SPF can be a challenge. This product uses mineral sun protection, along with vitamins C and E, and safflower extract to soothe and nourish sensitivity.
Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF 20 Tinted Moisturizer Sunscreen
There's nothing more frustrating than when your SPF settles into fine lines and wrinkles and exacerbates their appearance. This product actually softens those lines, all while offering sun protection.
Coola Mineral Tinted Sunscreen Sunblock
This sunscreen doubles as a BB cream for an even tone and boosted radiance. It leaves behind a matte finish that never looks greasy, all while giving the skin nourishing antioxidants.
Juice Beauty Tinted Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30
If you’re dealing with breakouts, this lightly tinted, full-spectrum mineral moisturizer is one to take note of. The formula isn’t sticky, won’t clog pores, and helps heal current blemishes while preventing new ones. So you can protect and nourish your skin at the same time.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Instant Radiance Sun Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Available in two blendable shades, this sunscreen will defend your skin from harmful rays while helping to even out your skin tone and cover redness. Apply this color-correcting formula in the morning to give yourself a dewy glow for the day ahead.
Paula's Choice RESIST Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
Just applying sunscreen will help to prevent premature aging of your skin, but if you’re looking for even more protection for your complexion, this ultra-light formula with a sheer, subtle tint is one to have on hand. Filled with antioxidants, it neutralizes damaging free radicals and boosts collagen production.
MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Creme SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB Sunscreen
This lightweight tinted mineral sunscreen will control the shine and leave you with a matte finish. The water-resistant formula will also help protect your skin against environmental damage while brightening your complexion and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
bareMinerals COMPLEXION RESCUE Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
This hydrating oil-free formula is a multi-tasker that delivers moisturizing skincare benefits, broad-spectrum SPF 30, and sheer-to-medium coverage. Get ready to have a coveted fresh and radiant complexion.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Tight, flaky skin? This tinted moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF 30 has vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and other nourishing ingredients that’ll leave your face feeling healthy and refreshed. It’s available in several tints and promises 12 hours of hydration.
Tatjana Freund is a Beauty Commerce Writer, covering makeup, skincare, and haircare products and trends. She's a fan of vodka tonics and creepy Wikipedia pages.
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