Tinted moisturizers are the perfect solution for achieving a natural glow, without having to resort to foundation. They give a lightweight coverage, and often include added benefits such as sun protection or formulations to help combat aging.
We reviewed dozens of tinted moisturizers to identify the best of the best. We looked at features including level of coverage, number of tint colors offered, and options including SPF, anti-aging ingredients, or formulations for specific skin types.
Our Top Pick is the bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream. This stood out a clear winner, thanks to its combination of high-quality ingredients, a wide range of tints, and excellent reviews.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Tinted Moisturizers
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Tinted Moisturizer Overall | SbareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel | 4.6 |
Best Tinted Moisturizer with SPF | PUR 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer | 4.4 |
Best Budget Tinted Moisturizer | Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Tinted Moisturizer | 4.1 |
Best Anti-Aging Tinted Moisturizer | Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Perfector Tinted Moisturizer | 4.3 |
Best Tinted Moisturizer for Dry Skin | Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Tinted Moisturizer | 4.0 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at time of publication and can change
Best Tinted Moisturizer Overall: bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream
As our Top Pick, we selected the bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream. This tinted moisturizer contains a huge range of amazing features, at a fantastic price point. The clinically tested formula has been tested by dermatologists, and is formulated without the use of parabens, oils, silicone, or fragrance.
As well as SPF 30, this contains antioxidants to defend your skin from environmental stresses. Mineral electrolytes are used to energize your skin, while marine botanicals hydrate and replenish your skin, helping you maintain a healthy glow all day long.
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream Key Features:
- SPF 30
- 10 tints to choose from
- Clinically tested
Best Tinted Moisturizer with SPF: PUR 4-in1 Tinted Moisturizer
As the best tinted moisturizer with SPF, we selected the PUR 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer. As well as including a broad spectrum SPF 20, this moisturizers 4-in-1 formulation also acts as your moisturizer, primer, and foundation!
The formulation contains chamomile to help soothe sensitive skin, as well as aloe vera, shea butter and Vitamin E to help create a dewy finish. The creatin complex renews skin cells, while the sodium hyaluronate will add hydration and help your sin feel fresh all day long.
PUR 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer Key Features:
- SPF 20
- 4 tints available
- Vegan friendly
Best Budget Tinted Moisturizer: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Tinted Facial Moisturizer
Our pick for the best budget tinted moisturizer is the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Tinted Facial Moisturizer. Coming in at under $15, this offers amazing value for money. The oil-free formulation also includes antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E to help protect your skin from free radicals.
The lightweight coverage will keep your skin feeling fresh, and includes a touch of shimmer for a natural looking glow.
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Tinted Facial Moisturizer Key Features:
- SPF 20
- Oil free
- 3 tints
Best Anti-Aging Tinted Moisturizer: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Perfector Tinted Moisturizer
If you’re looking for all the benefits of a tinted moisturizer, but also want anti-aging ingredients, then the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Perfector Tinted Moisturizer is just what you’re looking for. This includes retinol, clinically proven to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
This tinted moisturizer also helps to even out your skin tone and smooth out it’s texture, thanks to the blendable sheer coverage which is available in 6 different shades. It also contains SPF 20, while providing a natural and dewy finish.
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Perfector Tinted Moisturizer Key Features:
- 6 tints to choose from
- Includes clinically proven retinol
- SPF 20
Best Tinted Moisturizer for Dry Skin: Physicians Formula Organic Wear Natural Tinted Moisturizer
If you’re looking for a tinted moisturizer which will keep dry skin feeling comfortable and hydrated, the Physicians Formula Organic Wear Natural Tinted Moisturizer is our suggestion. Containing jojoba seed oil, sunflower seed oil, avocado oil, and shea butter your dry skin will thank you for this moisturizer.
The 100% natural formulation contains 80% certified organic ingredients. It’s designed to help even your skin tone, blur out minor imperfections, and enhance the natural beauty of your skin.
Physicians Formula Organic Wear Natural Tinted Moisturizer Key Features:
- SPF 15
- Available in 2 tints
- Paraben-free
Who Should Buy a Tinted Moisturizer
Tinted moisturizers are a great addition to anyone’s makeup kit. They offer the perfect lightweight solution for days when you’d rather avoid the full coverage of foundation. As well as covering up minor imperfections, many formulations now include SPF so you can feel confident your skin is protected for the sun’s rays when you’re out and about.
There’s a formulation out there to suit almost all skin tones and types. So if you have super fair, oily skin, or darker aging skin, you’ll be sure to find a brand to suit you.
Important Features to Consider
A tinted moisturizer should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting the best one for your needs:
- Tint. Some tinted moisturizers offer a great range of tints, while others are only available in 2 shades. While these moisturizers are designed to provide a lightweight coverage, it’ll still be obvious if your tint doesn’t match your skin tone. Make sure you select a shade as close to your skin tone, or current foundation as possible.
- SPF. Many of the tinted moisturizers we reviewed include an SPF. This is an essential part of any skin care routine as far as we’re concerned.
- Skin Type. Just as with many other types of skincare and makeup, there are different formulations of tinted moisturizers to suit different skin types, If you have oily skin, select an oil-free formula. If your skin is more prone to dry patches, then a hydrating formula will suit you better.
- Added extras. If you’re looking for benefits such as anti-aging, color correction, or the addition of antioxidants, then you’ll find tinted moisturizers which also offer these options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tinted moisturizer and how does it work?
Tinted moisturizer is a hybrid product which combines both skin care and makeup. A winning combination! To create tinted moisturizer, manufacturers blend a facial moisturizer with makeup pigments, which gives it a slight color. This means you can get the benefits of both products in one easy application. It’s a great time saver, meaning you can skip a few steps in your makeup routine.
Is BB cream and tinted moisturizer the same?
No, they’re not. BB stands for Beauty Balm, and these products also contain additional extras like primers, shine control, and SPF.
Some tinted moisturizers do contain added benefits, but their formulation is lighter than that of a BB cream. It’s easiest to think of BB creams as falling somewhere in between foundation and tinted moisturizers.
What is the best way to apply tinted moisturizer?
It’s best to apply a small amount of your usual moisturizer first. Then apply the recommended amount of tinted moisturizer over your face and neck. You can do this with your hands, or use a blender or brush. Try all 3 ways and see which you prefer.
Can I wear tinted moisturizer alone?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lightweight coverage, then you can definitely wear tinted moisturizer alone. Bear in mind though, that it won’t cover major blemishes as well as foundation. If you do have any uneven patches you’d like to over up, you can combine your tinted moisturizer with a small amount of concealer over those areas.
Other Tinted Moisturizers We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other tinted moisturizers. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best tinted moisturizers list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option to add to your beauty routine. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Tinted Moisturizers with SPF
- Anti-Aging Tinted Moisturizers
- Tinted Moisturizers for Oily Skin
- Tinted Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Tinted Moisturizers with SPF
Control Corrective Tinted Moisturizer
This includes aloe vera, allantoin, and vitamin C to help protect your complexion from irritation and environmental stresses.
Key Features:
- SPF 30
- Suitable for all skin types
- One tint available
Cost:Â $56
No7 Dual Action Tinted Moisturizer
This dual action moisturizer provides long-lasting hydration, as well as environmental protection with a hint of sheer color.
Key Features:
- Fair tint
- Suitable for all skin types
- SPF 15
Cost:Â $32
Origins GinZing Energy-Boosting Tinted Moisturizer
If you’re looking for a tinted moisturizer with a high sun protection factor, this includes SPF 40.
Key Features:
- Includes coffee beans and ginseng for an energy boost
- Sheer tint release for many skin tones
- SPF 40
Cost:Â $50
Revision Skincare Intellishade Original Tinted Moisturizer
This award-winning tinted moisturizer is designed to blend naturally with the color of your skin.
Key Features:
- SPF 45
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Suitable for all sin types
Cost:Â $75
TheBalm Balmshelter Tinted Moisturizer
As well as its hydrating benefits, this tinted moisturizer is designed to help improve the tone and texture of your skin.
Key Features:
- SPF 18
- Choose from 7 tints
- Suitable for all skin types
Anti-Aging Tinted Moisturizers
DRMTLGY Anti-Aging Tinted Moisturizer
This tinted moisturizer contains a range of anti-aging ingredients. It’s suitable for sensitive skin, and includes a happiness guarantee.
Key Features:
- SPF 46
- Universal tint
- Oil-free
Cost:Â $20
Mother Made The Aqualight Tinted Moisturizer
This formulation is designed to hydrate, protect, and firm aging skin. It also helps to diminish the appearance of fine lines.
Key Features:
- Suitable for normal to dry skin
- SPF 50
- Cruelty-free
Cost:Â $26
This 7-in-1 formulation helps to even out and correct skin tone, and includes antioxidants to protect from environmental damage.
Key Features:
- Light to medium tint
- SPF 15
- Suitable for all skin types
Cost:Â $18
Pure Ziva Anti-Aging Tinted Moisturizer
This anti-aging tinted moisturizer protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays while also including antioxidants to help fight the signs of aging.
Key Features:
- SPF 30
- Cruelty-free
- 3 tints available
Cost:Â $20
This creamy tinted moisturizer contains anti-aging algae extracts as well as helping to illuminate your skin.
Key Features:
- Includes primer
- Suitable for all skin types
- Natural ingredients
Tinted Moisturizer for Oily Skin
Burt’s Bees Goodness Glow Tinted Moisturizer
This tinted moisturizer is made from 98.8% natural ingredients, and is rich in antioxidants.
Key Features:
- 6 tints available
- Non-greasy
- Cruelty-free
Cost:Â $11
With ingredients including aloe and cucumber, as well as vitamins A,C, and E, this hydrating yet non-greasy formulation is a great choice for oily skin.
Key Features:
- SPF 20
- 2 tints available
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cost:Â $12
This lightly tinted moisturizer is suitable for sensitive skin, as well as including a high SPF rating.
Key Features:
- SPF 41
- Oil-free
- Includes antioxidants
Cost:Â $30
Laura Mercier Tinted Oil Free Moisturizer
The lightweight tint of this moisturizer can be built into an increased coverage for problem areas.
Key Features:
- Nude tint
- SPF 20
- Oil-free
Cost:Â $46
Neutrogena Visibly Even Tinted Moisturizer
This formula includes essential soy, to help reduce blotchiness and uneven skin tone.
Key Features:
- SPF 30
- Hypoallergenic
- Clinically proven effects
Tinted Moisturizer for Dry Skin
Drunk Elephant Tinted Moisturizer
The silicone-free formulation of this tinted moisturizer is hydrating and easily absorbed.
Key Features:
- SPF 30
- Universal tint
- Contains antioxidants
Cost:Â $36
EltaMD Tinted Moisturizer for Dry Skin
Specifically designed for dry skin, this contains hyaluronic acid to help boost moisture retention.
Key Features:
- SPF 40
- Dermatologist recommended
- Universal tint
Cost:Â $29
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Tinted Moisturizer
This tinted moisturizer provides 12 hours of soothing hydration for dry skin.
Key Features:
- Choose from 6 tints
- SPF 30
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cost:Â $28
La Roche Posay Anthelios Tinted Face Sunscreen
With an SPF of 50, this is perfect for vacations or when you’re exposed to high levels of UVA and UVB rays.
Key Features:
- SPF 50
- Dermatologist recommended
- Fast absorbing
Cost:Â $34
Sonia Kashuk Radiant Tinted Moisturizer
The vitamin and collagen infused formulation of this tinted moisturizer will keep your skin feeling hydrated all day long.
Key Features:
- Pack of 2
- SPF 15
- One tint available
Cost:Â $14