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The no-makeup look reigns supreme among celebrities who ooze a breezy, naturally luminous appeal. Think Gwyneth Paltrow doing an AMA at Goop HQ, bathed in an office-appropriate glow, or Pamela Anderson beaming and makeup-free at any number of recent events. The best tinted sunscreens play into the carefree vibe, flooding the skin with antioxidants, protecting it from the sun, and providing just a hint of coverage.
As Amy Wall, a pro esthetician in Northern California, notes, “Tinted sunscreens won t give you glam, but they will give you healthy coverage and peace of mind.” Since that’s just what the doctor ordered for the minimalist moment, it’s no wonder that the tinted SPF category is on fire (albeit burn-resistant!) right now.
In the past few months alone, La Roche-Posay has diversified its tinted sunscreen shade selection, while Beauty of Joseon has dropped a new line of ultra-lightweight SPF in 12 flexible shades. Last year, Supergoop! proved that an SPF 50 formula can feel weightless and dewy with the launch of Protec(tint), and RMS Beauty expanded its sun-care collection with 13 glow-boosting shades of niacinamide-infused sunscreen. The new class of tinted sunscreens are “inclusive, breathable, and adaptive,” Wall says—and many of them offer skincare benefits beyond UV protection, like hyaluronic acid for hydration and licorice root extract to brighten (to name a few).
Vogue’s Favorite Tinted Sunscreens
- Best for Dewy Coverage: Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint, $48
- Best for Matte Coverage: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Light Fluid Sunscreen, $40
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Tower 28 Sunny Days Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen, $32
- Best for Mature Skin: Dr. Few Tinted Mineral Sunscreen, $85
With no shortage of options on the market—including cult classics that have never lost their luster—we’ve whittled down the list with some help from the pros. Ahead, find the best dermatologist-approved tinted sunscreens of 2025 to help you stock up for sunny days ahead.
In This Article:
- What is a tinted sunscreen?
- Is a tinted sunscreen as good as a clear or untinted sunscreen?
- What to look for in a tinted sunscreen
- What are the disadvantages of tinted sunscreen?
- Meet the experts
Supergoop! Protect(tint) Daily SPF Tint
- Why We Love It: Vogue’s beauty closet has no shortage of top-of-the-line tinted sunscreens. Still, Supergoop!’s SPF 50 formulation managed to glide out from the fray when it launched in 2024. “If I were stuck on a desert island with one cosmetic product, it would be a complexion salve,” Vogue’s senior beauty shopping writer Kiana Murden wrote. “And after testing Supergoop! s Protec(tint), I know this would be my pick for sure... Despite having such a high SPF level, Protec(tint) feels weightless and nourishing on the skin.” The relatively new-to-market formula has also proven its mettle among skincare pros. “I find that patients like skin tints and ask me my opinion about them quite a bit,” says Corey L. Hartman, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Alabama. “This is a popular option that offers broad-spectrum protection, and it’s easy to incorporate into your daily skincare routine. The formula is lightweight so that you can comfortably use it all over the face. This is important when you’re applying an SPF product—you want to go everywhere.” Along with chemical and mineral sun protection, the tint contains hyaluronic acid, a must for hydration, and the soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredient ectoin.
- SPF Level: 50
- Texture: The brand describes the skin tint’s texture as “lightweight and cushiony.”
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical and mineral (zinc oxide, 13.58%, momosalate 7.0%, octisalate 5.0%)
- Best for: Lightweight, buildable sun protection with a natural finish; suited for all skin types
- Sweat-resistant No
- Water-resistant: No
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Made with skincare-grade ingredients | Those looking for medium to full coverage might find Protect(tint)’s coverage lacking |
| Lightweight feel | The formulation is not waterproof or sweat-resistant |
| Available in 14 shades |
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint
- Why We Love It: There’s something about Ilia’s skin tint that keeps us coming for more. With its smooth, sheer coverage, this TikTok-loved tinted sunscreen is so good that it’s earned a stamp of approval from Britta Plug, esthetician and Wilding cofounder. “[This] is a product that claims to do it all, and I have to say it even stood up to a recent beach day in Maui (with reapplication, of course),” she says. “I was impressed.” Did we mention there were 26 shades to choose from? Safe for sensitive skin, the SPF-40 formula is free of fragrance, silicones, and gluten; it’s also non-comedogenic and infused with skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. “This is really a serum for the skin with SPF benefits. It s radiant, rich, and [looks best] on skin that absorbs moisture,” says Wall. “It’s stunning on dry or mature skin, though it may be too slick for women who desire a more matte coverage. Think glow over coverage.”
- SPF Level: SPF 40
- Texture: Serum
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 12%)
- Shades: 30
- Best for: Those with dry, sensitive, or mature skin who want to combine light, dewy coverage with sun protection.
- Sweat-resistant: No
- Water-resistant: No
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Available in 26 shades | The product is not sweat-proof or waterproof; may appear slick on oily skin. |
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Safe for sensitive skin |
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50
- Why We Love It: It’s safe to say La Roche-Posay’s Antelios sunscreens are editor favorites—whether we’re picking them up across the pond at a French pharmacy or stocking up at our local drugstore. The Tinted Light Fluid Sunscreen has long been a skincare staple at Vogue HQ, but our enthusiasm got a solar charge when the brand expanded its shade range earlier this year. Previously available in just one universal hue, the blendable tint now comes in four colors: Tinted (the original shade), Medium, Medium Deep, and Deep. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, this lightweight product absorbs quickly, leaving a natural, matte finish behind. Meanwhile, the sunscreen treats, protects, and hydrates the skin with a cocktail of antioxidant technology, a mineral-sunscreen filter, vitamin E, and thermal spring water. “I’ve long been a fan of La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreens, and this one is no exception,” Dr. Hartman says. “I personally prefer mineral sunscreens to chemical sunscreens, and finding a mineral sunscreen without a white cast can be a challenge—especially for people with darker skin tones. This product can be used on all skin tones without a white cast.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lightweight lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (titanium dioxide 11%)
- Shades: 4
- Best for: Those with sensitive skin looking for sun protection and lightweight coverage with a matte finish
- Sweat-resistant: Yes
- Water-resistant: Yes
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Water and sweat-resistant for up to 40 minutes | Some users report that even the lightest hue leaves a slightly orange tint, which can be too dark for very fair skin tones |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Oxybenzone-free |
Saie Slip Tint SPF 35
- Why We Love It: “Slip Tint is playful and easy—it’s makeup that conveniently has SPF. But with 15% zinc oxide, it s not to be taken lightly either,” Wall says. “This is a great gateway if somebody is transitioning from a tinted moisturizer." Plug describes Saie’s Slip Tint as a total crowdpleaser because it’s great for daily use and blends like a dream. “The light coverage evens out skin tone and gives a nice glow,” she says. With a dewy finish, the product comes in 14 hues, which range from Very Fair to Richly Deep. “I like that Saie offers this product in a variety of shades, which enables more people to wear the product more frequently,” says Dr. Hartman. He also approves of the formula. “It has hyaluronic acid to help moisturize skin and licorice root extract to help even the skin tone and brighten the overall complexion,” he notes. Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, a Toronto-based dermatologist and allergy expert, appreciates the product from a sustainability perspective. “It uses non-nano zinc oxide [which is generally reef-safe], has sustainable packaging, and is climate-neutral certified,” she says. It’s also fragrance and essential-oil free, and it has iron oxide, which helps those with melasma.” The reason? Iron oxide provides a filter for high-energy visible light that can worsen hyperpigmentation.
- SPF Level: SPF 35
- Texture: Creamy, dewy lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 15%)
- Shades: 14
- Best for: Those with dry or dull skin seeking sun protection and sheer coverage with a dewy finish.
- Sweat-resistant: No
- Water-resistant: No
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Hydrating | The sheer coverage may be too light for some |
| Evens out skin tone | |
| Boosts luminosity |
Dr. Few Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
Why We Love It: Gwyneth Paltrow’s go-to skincare expert, Dr. Julius Few, infused his mineral sunscreen with ingredients that nourish the skin. Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs microscopic surgeon in Austin, says: “With SPF 50 and a blend of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this formula offers high-level protection and a smooth, semi-matte finish. It also includes antioxidants like vitamin C and E, making it ideal for mature skin or those concerned with sun-induced aging.” The oculoplastic surgeon-developed tint comes in one universal shade that preps the skin for makeup, leaving it smooth and luminous. “This product is billed as a makeup primer, which is smart,” Dr. Hartman says. “Many patients will use a makeup primer. If they reach for one with broad-spectrum protection, that’s even better.” It may pay to have a sponge or brush handy, as Wall notes that the product can require a bit of blending. “The 25% zinc gives you serious UV protection, but you have to press and blend well,” she instructs. “It s not invisible—but it works.”
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Creamy lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (nano-zinc oxide 25%)
- Shades: 1
- Best for: Anyone seeking a makeup primer with sun protection and those looking to address fine lines, wrinkles, and laxity
- Sweat-resistant: No
- Water-resistant: No
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Doctor-developed | The price is on the high end, landing this in the splurge category |
| Anti-aging | It’s only available in one shade |
| Wears well under makeup |
Tower 28 Sunny Days Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: “Formulated specifically with sensitive and acne-prone skin in mind, this non-comedogenic formula combines mineral SPF 30 with a breathable tint,” Dr. Collins says. “It’s fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and earned the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance. It’s great for redness-prone or reactive skin.” Enriched with aloe vera and prickly pear and white sage extracts, “Sunny Days works well for patients with sensitive skin who are looking for a lightweight skin tint with sun protection,” Dr. Hartman echoes. Available in 17 tints—each named after a Los Angeles landmark—the sunscreen offers buildable, light-to-medium coverage with a natural finish. "I love that Tower 28 created this with barrier support in mind,” Wall says.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Ultra-lightweight, dewy lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano zinc oxide)
- Shades: 17
- Best for: Those with sensitive or problem-prone skin looking for sun protection with medium coverage
- Sweat-resistant: No
- Water-resistant: No
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Reef-safe | Not sweat or water-resistant |
| Suited for sensitive skin | |
| Available in 17 shades |
Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40
- Why We Love It: “A newer K-beauty favorite, this fluid sunscreen delivers lightweight SPF 40 protection with a hint of tone-evening tint,” Dr. Collins says. “With ingredients like rice extract and niacinamide, it offers both UV defense and brightening benefits, making it a great fit for dull or uneven complexions. The new launch is creating buzz in Dr. Hartman’s client base. “I’ve had patients rave to me about this sunscreen,” he says. “They say it applies easily to the skin and adds moisture without feeling greasy or sticky—almost more like a moisturizer than a sunscreen.” The SPF 40 fluid formula is made with olive lipids to support the skin barrier and artemisia capillaris extract to soothe and calm the complexion. Available in 12 shades, the Korean sunscreen is also infused with mineral pigments for natural coverage that gives the skin a slightly blurred finish. The brand recommends blending it out with a brush or sponge for an airbrushed, glass-skin effect.
- SPF Level: SPF 40
- Texture: Lightweight fluid
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide)
- Shades: 12
- Best for: Those with dull or uneven complexions seeking light coverage and sun protection.
- Sweat-resistant: No
- Water-resistant: No
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Balances oily skin | The coverage may be too light for some |
| Lightweight | |
| Hydrating | |
| Gentle on sensitive eyes |
RMS Beauty SunCoverup Super Tint SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: Leave it to a pro makeup artist to whip up a sunscreen that evens out the skin tone and boosts its luminosity. RMS founder Rose-Marie Swift filled this formula with skin-loving ingredients, including vegetable squalane for hydration, bisabolol for soothing, and a proprietary blend of adaptogenic herbs that soften the skin. The sheer sunscreen is also enhanced with GlowPlex, a brand-exclusive blend of niacinamide and quinoa-seed and pea extracts that firm and brighten the skin. Dr. Hartman notes that the formulation is silicone-free and contains zinc oxide to protect the skin from UV rays and blue light. "This falls between glow serum and sunscreen—it s not for everyone,” Wall warns. “But if your skin is tired or flat, this puts a cosmetic-level sheen on it. It s sun care, skincare, and play-of-light all rolled into one."
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Fluid cream
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano zinc oxide)
- Shades: 13
- Best for: Those with dull, dry, or aging skin seeking sun protection with light coverage and a luminous finish
- Sweat-resistant: No
- Water-resistant: No
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Dermatologist-tested | The dewy finish may appear slightly shiny on some |
| Hypoallergenic |
EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 Tinted Face Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: A favorite of dermatologists, celebrities, and Vogue editors alike, Elta MD’s tinted sunscreen has a justifiably broad appeal. Ruth McTighe MD, a board-certified dermatologist in South Carolina, says: “This is great for all skin types—especially for those with acne or rosacea-prone skin—as it is non-comedogenic and helps reduce redness and inflammation.” Made with niacinamide to balance the skin tone and reduce the appearance of blemishes, the dermatologist-developed formula has SPF 46, thanks to mineral filters of zinc oxide and octinoxate. Suited for wear under makeup or alone, the oil-free salve comes in two tinted shades. A-list tip: If you can’t choose between the tinted and non-tinted UV Clear formulas, simply pull a Leighton Meeseter. The Gossip Girl star mixes two for sun protection with the slightest of tints.
- SPF Level: SPF 46
- Texture: Lightweight, silky lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (octinoxate 7.5%, zinc oxide 9%)
- Shades: 2
- Best for: Those with acne-prone skin
- Sweat-resistant: No
- Water-resistant: No
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-free | Only available in two shades |
| Parabens-free | Not water or sweat-resistant |
| Non-comedogenic |
Everything You Need to Know
What is a tinted sunscreen?
“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?”
Is a tinted sunscreen as good as a clear or untinted sunscreen?
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.”
What to look for in a tinted sunscreen
“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.
- SPF Level: “For SPF levels, choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays,” Foad says. By comparison, an SPF of 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays. Speaking of sunbeams, “Ensure the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays,” Foad says. “This is essential for preventing skin aging and reducing the risk of skin cancer.”
- Skin Type: Skin type should also inform your tinted-sunscreen selection. “For oily skin, look for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores and are often labeled as ‘oil-free’ or ‘matte finish,’” Foad instructs. For dry skin, she recommends tinted sunscreens with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. For those with sensitive skin, Foad suggests a physical or mineral sunscreen that has gentle, non-irritating ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. “For acne-prone skin, non-comedogenic and oil-free formulas are ideal,” she adds. Also for acne-prone skin, “Look for sunscreens that contain anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide.”
- Shade Range: “Considering shade range is important when looking to find a tint that closely matches your skin tone to ensure a natural look,” Foad says. “Some brands offer a wide range of shades, which can be particularly beneficial for people with darker skin tones.” How does one know when they’ve found their match? “The sunscreen should blend well into your skin without leaving streaks or an uneven finish,” Foad says. “Testing a small amount on your jawline or neck can help determine the best match.”
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).
What are the disadvantages of tinted sunscreen?
While tinted sunscreens certainly have their perks, there are some potential disadvantages to consider. For one thing, “Some tinted sunscreens may not provide the same level of sun protection as regular sunscreens,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “Many are formulated with an SPF of 20 to 30, which is the minimum recommended level for daily use.” Of note, some of the formulations above—including Supergoop!’s and Agency’s—contain a substantially higher level of SPF. You have options!
Engelman also warns that many people apply less tinted sunscreen than is advised, prioritizing how it looks over its capabilities to fully protect the skin. To sidestep this potential drawback, stick to the recommended one ounce of sunscreen (about enough to fill a shot glass) with each application. Finally, “For extended periods of sun exposure, I recommend layering your tinted sunscreen with a traditional broad-spectrum SPF product to ensure adequate protection,” Engelman says. “It s also important to understand that regular reapplication is essential to maintain coverage!” Most dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours or so.
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Kristina Collins is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs microscopic surgeon in Austin.
- Dr. Corey L. Hartman is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.
- Dr. Ruth McTighe is a board-certified dermatologist at Waccamaw Dermatology in the greater Charleston, South Carolina area.
- Dr. Sandy Skotnicki is a dermatologist in Toronto and co-host of the Skin To It podcast.
- Amy Wall is an esthetician based in Mendocino, California.
