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15 Best Tinted Sunscreens Dermatologists and Editors Love in 2025

Shield your skin with dermatologist-approved tinted sunscreens for powerful SPF protection and effortless coverage all day.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 24, 2025

Shield your skin with dermatologist-approved tinted sunscreens for powerful SPF protection and effortless coverage all day.

If you’re seeking sun protection that’s as versatile as your makeup routine, tinted sunscreens offer a dependable SPF shield while evening out your complexion. Whether you want to streamline your beauty regimen or avoid a white cast, these multitasking formulas combine the power of skincare with cosmetic appeal. Our editors and top dermatologists have reviewed and tested the latest launches and timeless favorites to bring you the best tinted sunscreens to wear all year round.

Why Choose a Tinted Sunscreen?

Tinted sunscreens go beyond traditional SPF products by offering:

Broad-spectrum sun protection (UVA and UVB coverage)
Complexion-evening tint that replaces or layers under makeup
Antioxidant and skin care ingredients for added skin health
No white cast: Tints help blend mineral formulas seamlessly, especially on darker skin tones

Most are suitable for sensitive, acne-prone, and dry skin—look for options that best fit your unique complexion needs.

What to Look For in the Best Tinted Sunscreen

SPF value: SPF 30 or higher for daily protection; SPF 50+ for extended sun exposure
Mineral vs chemical filters: Mineral (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) for sensitive, reactive skin
Shade range: Flexible tints suit light to deep skin; some brands offer multiple shades for a truer match
Finish: Matte, dewy, or natural—pick the one that complements your skin type
Bonus skin care: Look for added niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or antioxidants for multitasking benefits

Editors’ and Dermatologists’ Picks: Tinted Sunscreens for Every Skin Type

1. EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

This cult-favorite hybrid sunscreen delivers broad-spectrum coverage with a universal tint suitable for many skin tones. Formulated with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, it’s especially recommended for sensitive, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin. The lightweight formula blends beautifully and never feels greasy, making it ideal for a daily no-makeup look.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
Finish: Natural
Shades: 1 (blends to complement most skin tones)

2. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50

If finding your perfect shade seems impossible, Colorescience’s innovative adaptive tint technology makes it easier. With six flexible shades, this 100% mineral option not only protects against UVA/UVB but also guards the skin against pollution, blue light, and infrared. The light, natural finish makes it suitable for all-day wear.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, iron oxides
Finish: Natural
Shades: 6

3. ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

This sunscreen does double duty: shielding skin with mineral-based SPF 50 while using DNA Repairsomes and peptides to help repair existing sun damage. Perfect for mature skin or those concerned with visible signs of aging, its universal tint and lightweight feel make it a go-to for daily protection.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, peptides, antioxidants, DNA Repairsomes
Finish: Natural
Shades: 1 universal

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

Recommended by many dermatologists, this formula is known for its non-greasy, hydrating texture and four blendable shades that suit light to deeper skin tones. The antioxidant-rich base, coupled with high SPF, provides daily protection suitable even for sensitive skin.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, vitamin E
Finish: Natural
Shades: 4

5. TiZO3 Tinted Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40

Ideal for oily and combination skin, this sunscreen keeps shine in check with its matte finish. It’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores, and is reinforced with vitamins C and E for antioxidant benefits. Its sheer universal tint blends well into most skin tones.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, vitamin C, vitamin E
Finish: Matte
Shades: 1 universal

6. MD SolarSciences MD Mineral BB Creme SPF 50

This multitasking formula combines mineral sun filters with the coverage of a BB cream. Available in several tints, it provides antioxidant protection and a soft-focus, blurred finish that’s especially flattering for those looking to minimize pores and imperfections.

Key ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, green tea, vitamin C, vitamin E
Finish: Satin
Shades: 3 (light, medium, dark)

7. Revision Skincare Intellishade Matte SPF 45

This award-winning hybrid blends SPF protection with a matte, pore-minimizing formula. It features peptides and antioxidants to fight signs of aging while evening out your skin tone. Perfect for oily or combination skin types seeking a primer-like finish that lasts.

Key ingredients: Octinoxate, octisalate, zinc oxide, peptides, antioxidants
Finish: Matte
Shades: 1 (self-adjusting tint)

8. Sun Bum Glow 30 Broad Spectrum Tinted Sunscreen

This formula delivers a subtle, radiant finish for those who love a dewy glow. Infused with plant-based antioxidants and lightweight coverage, it’s ideal for minimalists or for layering under makeup.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, antioxidant blend
Finish: Radiant/dewy
Shades: 1 universal

9. Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum SPF 36

This derm-favorite hydrates, brightens, and shields with antioxidant-rich ingredients and SPF 36 protection. The universal tint adapts to most skin tones, evening out discoloration and redness while feeling weightless.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, antioxidants
Finish: Natural
Shades: 1 universal

10. Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 50

Specially developed for those concerned about oil and shine, this affordable mineral option offers a tint for fair to medium skin, a powdery-matte finish, and high SPF—all with naturally derived botanicals.

Key ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, botanical extracts
Finish: Matte
Shades: 1 (for light/medium skin)

11. DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46

This SPF-infused moisturizer is lightweight, hydrating, and suitable for most skin types. Its universal tone blends in seamlessly for a natural look, while enhancing skin radiance and texture.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, niacinamide
Finish: Natural
Shades: 1 universal

12. Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation

A clean, fragrance-free formula safe for even the most sensitive skin, Tower 28’s buildable, medium-coverage SPF 30 tint comes in a well-curated range of shades and leaves a radiant, skin-like finish. Great for daily use and visible redness reduction.

Key ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide
Finish: Natural/Radiant
Shades: 14

13. bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream SPF 30

This hydrating gel-cream works as a moisturizer, tinted skin perfector, and mineral sunscreen. It’s especially beneficial for dry or combination skin that needs a moisture boost in addition to sun protection.

Key ingredients: Titanium dioxide, glycerin, squalane
Finish: Dewy
Shades: 20

14. ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

Beloved by clean beauty fans, this hybrid product merges serum, foundation, and sunscreen. With SPF 40, niacinamide, squalane, and hyaluronic acid, it leaves a natural luminosity and a light, hydrating feel.

Key ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide, niacinamide, squalane, hyaluronic acid
Finish: Dewy/radiant
Shades: 30

15. Supergoop! CC Screen 100% Mineral CC Cream SPF 50

Offering more coverage than most tints, this CC cream brightens and corrects while delivering mineral SPF 50. With adaptable shades and a silky texture, it’s ideal for those who want flawless coverage and stout sun defense.

Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, niacinamide, apple extract
Finish: Natural
Shades: 15

How to Choose and Use Tinted Sunscreen

The ideal tinted sunscreen depends on your skin type, tone, and finish preference. Dermatologists recommend:

Oily skin: Look for matte or oil-absorbing finishes; avoid heavy creams
Dry skin: Seek out hydrating formulations with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or squalane
Sensitive/acne-prone skin: Opt for fragrance-free, mineral-based options with soothing ingredients like niacinamide
Darker skin tones: Pick brands with multiple tints; formulas with iron oxides may help shield against blue light and hyperpigmentation

Brand	Filters	SPF	Shade Range	Finish	Best for
EltaMD UV Clear	Mineral/Chemical	46	1 Universal	Natural	Sensitive, acne-prone, redness
Colorescience Sunforgettable Flex	Mineral	50	6	Natural	All skin types
ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless	Mineral	50	1 Universal	Natural	Anti-aging
La Roche-Posay Anthelios	Mineral	50	4	Natural	Sensitive, diverse tones
TiZO3	Mineral	40	1 Universal	Matte	Oily, acne-prone

Tinted Sunscreen: Application Tips

Apply after skincare: Ensure your skin is clean and moisturized for even coverage.
Generous amount: Use at least a nickel-sized dollop for your entire face to reach the advertised SPF rating.
Blend well: Start at the center and blend outward with fingers, sponge, or brush.
Reapply: For best protection, reapply every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
Layer with makeup, if desired: Use under or in place of foundation for a unified look.

FAQs About Tinted Sunscreen

What’s the difference between tinted sunscreen and tinted moisturizer with SPF?

Tinted sunscreens are primarily designed for sun protection with a tint to minimize white cast and even skin tone, while tinted moisturizers with SPF prioritize hydration and usually provide a sheerer sun shield. Always check the SPF value and ensure it meets your daily needs.

Is tinted sunscreen enough protection for daily wear?

Yes, if the SPF is 30 or higher and applied generously. Reapplication is key if you’re outdoors for extended periods or sweating.

Are tinted sunscreens better for darker skin?

Many mineral sunscreens leave a white cast on deeper tones, but tinted formulas—especially those with multiple shades or adaptive tints—blend more effectively for darker skin, creating a natural finish while offering sun protection.

Can I use tinted sunscreen as my only foundation?

Absolutely! Most tinted sunscreens offer sheer to medium coverage, which is perfect for a fresh, even look that still lets your skin shine through. Those who want heavier coverage might layer a foundation on top.

What ingredients should I look for or avoid?

Look for: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, squalane, antioxidants.
Avoid: Fragrance, alcohol, coconut-derived ingredients if you have sensitivities or acne-prone skin.

Final Thoughts

Tinted sunscreens are a skincare essential, fusing sun protection with a radiant, even complexion. Whether you have dry, sensitive, oily, or mature skin, there’s an expert-approved, highly rated product ready to slot into your morning routine. Wearing sunscreen daily is the most effective way to prevent premature aging, sun spots, and skin cancers—now, with a tint, you’ll love how your skin looks, too.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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