17 Tinted Sunscreens That Perfect Your Skin Without Looking or Feeling Heavy (2024)

We updated this article in April 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.

You know you should never skip sunscreen, but layering on moisturizer, SPF, and foundation can feel like a lot—and, during rushed mornings especially, sun protection easily falls to the wayside in favor of hydration and some necessary coverage. The best tinted sunscreens come in handy for this very reason, because they offer some skin-evening magic while providing SPF protection—cutting out the need for additional products.

Meet the Experts: Mona Gohara, M.D., associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine, Joshua Zeichner, M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Zeichner Dermatology, Debra Jaliman, M.D., board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, Shari Marchbein, M.D., board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, and Rebecca Kazin, M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Icon Dermatology & Aesthetics.

But with so many options, how do you choose? “The most effective SPF is one that fits into your lifestyle, because it’s the best way to ensure it will make its way into your routine,” says board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, M.D., associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine and member of Prevention’s Medical Review Board.

And FYI: tinted sunscreens aren’t the same as makeup with SPF, which might help shield your skin from the sun, but that’s only the case if you apply enough (at least half a teaspoon), and “there are not consistent regulations when it comes to foundations with SPF,” says Dr. Gohara. Overall, tinted sunscreens are a surer avenue for sun protection, and although they may not give the coverage of a full-on foundation, at the very least, they’ll act as a skin-evening primer.

Our top picks

Now let’s get to the fun part: shopping! Below, explore the best tinted sunscreens to keep your skin glowing year-round.

The non-tinted version of this mineral SPF was named on our list of the top sunscreens for your face by Dr. Zeichner. But in addition to protective antioxidants, a lightweight feel, and matte finish, the tinted version offers additional coverage when your complexion needs a little boost. While some heavy, greasy sunscreens can cause breakouts, this fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic formula won’t clog your pores and will keep you looking fresh-faced.

CeraVe’s tinted sunscreen packs ceramides for hydration and niacinamide to reduce redness, as well as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide for top-notch mineral sun protection. The formula leaves behind a healthy glow and blends in beautifully—sans white cast. Plus, it’s made to work with sensitive skin, so you don’t need to worry about irritation with this one. Prevention senior editor Emily Goldman swears by this tinted sunscreen thanks to its quick-drying formula and the fact that it doesn’t disrupt her sensitive skin.

Comparable to their original formula, EltaMD’s oil- and fragrance-free tinted sunscreen is a triple threat: It offers broad spectrum, chemical-free protection, antioxidants to further shield against sun damage, and a dose of hyaluronic acid to draw moisture to the skin. Dr. Gohara loves this option because it’s easy to layer and blends well on top of other skin care products like serums. Bonus: It’s water resistant for up to 40 minutes and non-comedogenic, so you don’t have to worry about this one clogging your pores.

If you hate the feeling of foundation, but still want a bit of coverage without looking cakey—this one is for you. ILIA’s serum-foundation-sunscreen hybrid feels feather-light on the skin, is available in 18 inclusive shades, packs all-star hydrators like hyaluronic acid, and protects with SPF 40. A true a multi-tasking product. “It’s so good for the no makeup makeup look,” a Sephora shopper raved.

This creamy tinted SPF from MDSolarSciences is a total dream if you struggle with sensitive skin. The brand’s original and tinted formulas have been recommended by dermatologists in our lists of best natural sunscreens and top reef-safe SPFs. The hype is worth it: Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, the noncomedogenic formula contains mineral UVA/UVB filters, skin-brightening vitamin C, and nourishing vitamin E. The best part? It blends in seamlessly for natural coverage.

Find hydration and radiance in this beloved, one-of-a-kind sunscreen that contains hyaluronic acid and cocoa peptides that moisturize, plump, and protect the skin while added pearlescent pigments leave behind an immediate, lasting glow. The range includes four shades, including a deep bronze suitable for dark skin tones. “Gives your face a soft healthy glow with or without makeup,” a Sephora shopper wrote. “I will definitely continue to buy this.”

On-the-go touch ups just got easier, thanks to Avène’s portable tinted sunscreen. Ideal for sensitive or redness-prone complexions, this cream-to-powder formula is supercharged with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to protect against UVA and UVB rays, along with vitamin E and squalane to give skin a dewy sheen. Reviewers love its versatility: One Amazon shopper wrote that it’s “not nearly as oily as most sunscreens.” Plus, it won’t take up too much room in your bag—so you have no excuse to not reapply.

The best thing you can do to slow down the signs of aging? Slather on the SPF. This tinted sunscreen from SkinMedica is a safe bet, because it prevents sun damage while repairing any damage that’s already been done. Ingredients like niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3 that targets discoloration), hydrating shea butter, and vitamins C and E work together to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while nourishing the skin.

This game-changing powder sunscreen easily adds another tinted layer of coverage without clogging pores. A favorite of Dr. Jaliman, the unique brush-on formula is available in a range of shades from fair to deep, helps soak up excess shine, and is easily reapplied every two hours for all-day, on-the-go protection.

Protect your skin with this lightweight tinted sunscreen that goes on silky smooth. “Sheer Tint SPF 45 from PCA SKIN is a great option because it has a universal tint that blurs imperfections and gives the skin a great glow,” says Dr. Kazin. “Plus, it provides water-resistant SPF protection,” she adds, so it’s ideal if you have an active lifestyle.

This velvety SPF from SkinCeuticals protects your skin without suffocating it. Along with its featherlight feeling, the fragrance-free, noncomedogenic formula offers an SPF of 50. Water resistant for up to 40 minutes, this tinted sunscreen is available in one shade that adapts to most skin tones but blends best onto light to medium complexions. “Not only is it effective but it works well to even out your skin tone, which I love since I don’t typically wear foundation,” a pleased reviewer wrote.

This vegan tinted sunscreen acts as moisturizer and a skin tint all in one. Made with hyaluronic acid, it helps smooth out the complexion with plumping hydration for a dewy result. It has over 6,000 five star ratings from customers who say it’s the “best product” for sensitive skin.

If you dislike the greasy, thick feeling of most sunscreens, this Daily Defense Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30 will become your new best friend. Its unique formula contains lightly tinted moisturizer, sunscreen, and nourishing antioxidants to protect your skin while adding hydration to your complexion. Amazon shoppers, who gave this tinted sunscreen rave reviews, said it’s a great option for everyday use.

Drunk Elephant’s tinted sunscreen is packed with chemical-free protection. Zinc oxide and algae extract defend against harmful UV rays, while sunflower sprout extract neutralizes skin-damaging free radicals and environmental aggressors. Designed for all skin types, the silicone-free cream moisturizes with marula and raspberry seed oil—without leaving a chalky white cast behind. “I have incredibly dry skin and most products sink into the dry patches and look flakey. This didn’t,” a Sephora reviewer wrote.

This fragrance-free sunscreen contains a universal correcting tint that totally disappears into the skin sans white cast. Enhanced with vitamin A, vitamin C, and diamond powder, it leaves behind a gorgeous lit-from-within glow that brightens dark spots and evens skin tone without ever looking or feeling too slick.

For a tinted formula that helps reverse the signs of aging (while preventing future damage!), check out this lightweight sunscreen, which leaves skin looking more even. “ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless is a tinted version of the classic Eryfotona Actinica and is a full mineral sunscreen for the face with peptides, DNA repairsomes, and vitamin E,” says Dr. Marchbein. “These are perfect for day-to-day and the tinted sunscreen can be used instead of makeup.”

A safe bet if you want a bit more coverage, Suntegrity’s multi-action SPF helps even out your skin tone in seconds. Available in a range of shades, the vegan tint is chock-full of ingredients your skin will love: peptides to reduce signs of aging, hyaluronic acid to hydrate, aloe vera to soothe, and vitamins C and E to brighten and nourish your complexion. Broad spectrum mineral filters guard against sun damage, all while maintaining a lightweight feel, which is why reviewers love it. In fact, one Amazon shopper claimed that it “practically disappears on the skin.”

Anyone can use tinted sunscreen, though the best formula for each individual will vary. Some formulas may appear orange-y on lighter skin tones, whereas others may appear ashy on darker skin tones. The right tint, however, will seamlessly blend in, offer minimal coverage, and protect against sun damage all at once. Those who want to minimize their morning skincare and makeup routines will also appreciate a good tinted SPF.