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By Kiana Murden and Jenny Berg Tio2 E171
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Having the best tinted sunscreens in your beauty bag (and your beach bag) just makes sense. After all, maintaining a healthy glow all summer long depends on good UV protection—so why not let your chosen formula double as your complexion hero? Whether you’re considering what skin care to pack for a summer getaway, or simply want to ward off sun damage at pool parties and cocktails on the terrace, our list of the best tinted sunscreens will carry you through the season with ease.
Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
DreamBeam Broad Spectrum SPF 40 PA++++
Activated Mineral Sunscreen–Tinted Broad Spectrum SPF 33
Total Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50
Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 30
Neutrogena Purescreen+ Mineral UV Tint Face Liquid Sunscreen
Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Tinted Sunscreen
Radiant SkinTint Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Nudescreen Daily Mineral Veil SPF30
“A tinted sunscreen is a product that’s primarily an SPF and also has pigment added to offer light-to-medium makeup coverage,” explains Britta Plug, esthetician and Wildling cofounder. “This can be especially helpful in mineral-based sunblocks that can leave a white cast. The pigments help to harmonize the physical sunblock with your personal skin tone.”
She goes on to explain that the difference between a tinted sunscreen and tinted moisturizer with SPF is really semantics—thinking of it as a spectrum, rather than distinct categories. In her opinion, it’s really all about the primary function of the product. “Is it formulated to mostly hydrate and moisturize skin but also has SPF as an added benefit? Or is it primarily an SPF that has some hydrating ingredients added for a dewy finish or to offset some of the dryness that can accompany mineral SPF?”
According to Dr. Mona Foad, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, “Tinted sunscreens can be just as effective, if not more so, than clear or untinted sunscreens.” She adds that both tinted and untinted sunscreens can provide effective broad-spectrum protection against UVB and UVA rays—if they contain the right ingredients. “The efficacy in terms of UVA protection is determined by the active ingredients such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or avobenzone—not by the tint,” she notes. “Additionally, tinted sunscreens often provide better protection against visible light—including high-energy visible light or blue light—due to the presence of iron oxides and pigments. Visible light can contribute to hyperpigmentation, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.” Of course, tinted sunscreens also have cosmetic perks, working to even out the skin tone and cover imperfections. “This dual function can be convenient and might encourage more consistent use,” Foad points out. Plus, “The tint provides a visible indication of where the sunscreen has been applied, which can help ensure more even coverage and prevent missed spots.”
“When choosing a tinted sunscreen, there are several important factors to consider to ensure it meets your needs and provides effective protection,” Foad says. Below, she breaks down the key components to keep in mind when selecting a tinted sunscreen.
Foad adds that other factors to consider include a sunscreen’s finish—matte, dewy, or natural—depending on your preference. Also consider that some sunscreens contain antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E, which can offer extra protection against environmental damage; and some formulations are water-resistant (ideal if you’re thinking of bringing one of these with you to the pool or beach).
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By Lauren Valenti and Kiana Murden
By Kiana Murden and Jenny Berg
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