Once you find the right tinted sunscreen, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Let’s be honest—sunscreen isn’t always the most exciting step in your routine. Sure, it’s essential for healthy skin, but many formulas leave behind a white cast, feel greasy, or just add one more thing to your morning to-do list.
That’s where tinted sunscreens come in. These multitasking MVPs not only protect your skin with mineral-based spf, but they also even out your complexion, blur blemishes, and eliminate the need for a separate foundation. No more chalky residue, no extra layers—just an effortless glow and reliable sun protection in one step. (Oh, and don’t forget: Spf 30 or higher is the way to go, according to dermatologists.)
Our beauty editors have been putting the latest and best sunscreens to the test—consulting dermatologists, checking for blendability, and seeing which ones truly deliver. Now, we’re sharing the absolute best formulas worth adding to your routine. Ready to meet your new favorite sunscreen? Let’s dive in.
Tinted vs. Untinted Sunscreen: Which One’s Right for You?
With so many sunscreens out there, you might be wondering whether to go tinted or untinted. It all comes down to personal preference, but here’s the breakdown:
Tinted Sunscreen
Tinted sunscreens provide the same sun protection while helping to even out skin tone and reduce redness. Lightweight options like our 100% mineral tinted spf and sheer defense work well under makeup or on their own for natural coverage and a smooth finish.
It is best for sensitive or redness-prone skin (calms irritation), dry or combination skin (adds hydration), and minimal makeup lovers (light, natural coverage).
Skin concerns addressed: Uneven skin tone, redness, and visible signs of aging caused by blue light exposure.
Untinted Sunscreen
Untinted sunscreens vary based on their active ingredients. Mineral formulas can sometimes leave a white cast, while chemical sunscreens—like our clear defense—absorb seamlessly, protecting against aging while keeping your skin’s natural glow intact.
It is best oily or acne-prone skin (lightweight, non-clogging formulas), deep skin tones (no ashy cast), and seamless layering under makeup.
Skin concerns addressed: Sun protection without added coverage, oil control, and preventing clogged pores.
The choice is yours—both offer great protection, so pick what works best for your skin and routine!
1. Laura Mercier Blurred Tinted Moisturizer Oil Free Matte SPF 30
For those battling midday shine, this lightweight, oil-free formula is a game-changer. Infused with kaolin to keep excess oil in check, it blurs imperfections while delivering SPF protection—so your skin stays fresh, matte, and effortlessly polished all day long.
2. CeraVe SPF 30 Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Face Sheer Tint
This budget-friendly, glow-boosting sunscreen does more than just protect—it enhances. With a lightweight mineral blend, it shields your skin from harmful rays while leaving behind a natural, radiant finish. No heavy feel, no chalky residue—just effortless sun defense with a hint of luminosity.
3. InnBeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow SPF 43
If you love a lit-from-within glow without the greasy feel, this luminous formula is your match. Packed with vitamin C and peptides, it does more than protect—it brightens, nourishes, and leaves your skin with a radiant, sun-kissed sheen that looks effortlessly fresh, never overdone.
4. Peter Thomas Roth SPF 45 Max Mineral Tinted Sunscreen
For skin that deserves a little extra love, this velvety formula does more than shield—it smooths, softens, and enhances. Infused with safflower extract and a powerhouse duo of vitamins C and E, it helps blur fine lines, even out texture, and defend against daily environmental stressors. The result? A naturally radiant and smooth finish that looks as good as it feels.
5. Kosas DreamBeam SPF40 Comfy Smooth Mineral Sunscreen
This weightless mineral spf does more than just protect—it perfects. Packed with skin-loving peptides, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, it keeps your complexion hydrated, smooth, and balanced. The soft peachy-pink tint subtly evens out redness, leaving behind a fresh, healthy gow—never greasy, never heavy, just effortlessly radiant.
6. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen (SPF 50)
This skin-loving spf checks all the right boxes—lightweight coverage, a natural matte finish, and a formula gentle enough for sensitive skin. Designed to blend effortlessly, it evens tone without feeling heavy. Plus, with iron oxide for blue-light defense, it keeps your skin shielded from everyday stressors. No parabens, no fragrance—just smooth, comfortable wear.
Read More: Why Beauty of Joseon's Matte Sun Stick Is Perfect for Oily Skin