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.
The Best Tinted Sunscreens on Sale This Amazon Prime Day
It’s no secret that Amazon is the ultimate hub for all things beauty, from hi-tech gadgets to glowing skin essentials, like tinted sunscreens which pair UV protection with lightweight coverage. Ahead, a look at the best tinted sunscreens on sale this Amazon Prime Day 2024.
- Best Drugstore: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50,
$16, $12 - Best Mineral: Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen,
$70, $53 - Best Matte Finish: MDSolarSciences MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 30,
$42, $34 - Best for Sensitive Skin: EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44,
$45, $34 - Best Water-Resistant: Neutrogena Purescreen+ Mineral UV Tint Face Sunscreen, $28, $13
- Best French: Avène Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Tinted Sunscreen,
$36, $23
Vogue’s Favorite Tinted Sunscreens:
- The Derm-Endorsend: EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44, $40
- The French Pharmacy Favorite: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50, $39
- Best Texture: Lightsaver Activated Mineral Sunscreen—Tinted Broad Spectrum SPF 33, $45
- Best Fragrance-Free: SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50, $42
- Best Non-Comedogenic: Kosas DreamBeam Broad Spectrum SPF 40 PA ++++, $40
- Best for Blending: Saie Slip Tint SPF 35, $36
- Most Hydrating: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50, $12
- The Editors’ Pick: Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40, $38
In This Section:
- 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
- Meet the experts
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
- Why We Like It: “CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen is a well-known, affordable product that offers mineral-based protection with added hydrating benefits,” Foad says. “It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help maintain the skin’s natural barrier and retain moisture, and uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are suitable for sensitive skin.” Its sheer tint blends into skin tones ranging from fair to deep, leaving behind a subtle, sun-kissed glow.
- SPF Level: 50
- Texture: Lightweight lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (titanium dioxide 5.5% and zinc oxide 10%)
- Shades:1
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
- Why We Like It: “This splurge-worthy mineral sunscreen incorporates both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum SPF 50+ coverage while also improving overall skin tone and radiance,” Dr. Garshick details. “It is a lightweight formulation that absorbs easily while offering a universal tint without leaving behind a greasy or white residue. It can be used by all skin types, including those with sensitive skin, as it is paraben free and fragrance free.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lightweight lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 5% and titanium dioxide 6%)
- Shades:1
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint
- Why We Like It: There’s something about Ilia’s skin tint that keeps us buying it again and again. It’s so good that it’s even earned Plug’s stamp of approval. “[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). I was impressed.” Did we mention there were 26 shades to choose from?
- SPF Level: SPF 40
- Texture: Serum
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 12%)
- Shades: 30
Kosas DreamBeam Broad Spectrum SPF 40 PA++++
- Why We Like It: Dreamy indeed for sensitive skin types, Kosas’ SPF 40 is non-comedogenic and silicone-free; it also uses non-nano zinc oxide, which provides a physical barrier to UV rays without penetrating the skin. Available in two shades—the peachy-pink Original and the warm, golden Sunlit—the formulation offers more benefits with its thoughtful ingredients. It’s infused with soothing allantoin, plumping peptides, ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier, and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
- SPF Level: 40
- Texture: Lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano zinc 21.7%)
- Shades:2
Lightsaver Activated Mineral Sunscreen Tinted Broad Spectrum SPF 33
Lightsaver
Activated Mineral Sunscreen–Tinted Broad Spectrum SPF 33
- Why We Like It: A dermatologist-developed brand, Lightsaver reached instant cult status when it launched last summer. Dr. David Kim infused his mineral sun-care collection with skin-loving ingredients that offer more than broad-spectrum sun protection. The sunscreens contain photolyase to calm and soothe; niacinamide for brightening and collagen production; squalene for hydration; and lingonberry to ward off blue light damage. But that’s not all that has beauty editors raving: “While all [the ingredients are] fabulous, what I most love is the texture,” Vogue beauty shopping writer Kiana Murden wrote previously. “Lightsaver’s sunscreen has this delectably whipped texture that feels cushiony and fluffy; I’d liken it to applying a rich, cleansing foam.” Even with its whipped-cream texture, the tinted iteration melts quickly into all skin tones without leaving a white cast behind.
- SPF Level: 33
- Texture: Lightweight, fluffy cream
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 14%)
- Shades:1
Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
- Why We Like It: “This lightweight broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide 12%, iron oxide, antioxidants, and a patented Enviroscreen technology to protect against UVA/UVB, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation,” says Dr. Garshick. “It is available in four different shades, making it easy to blend with your skin for natural coverage, and uses iron-oxide pigments to adapt to your specific tone without leaving the skin feeling greasy, making it good for all skin types.”
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lightweight serum, featuring encapsulated iron-oxide pigments
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 12%)
- Shades:4
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50
- Why We Like 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. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, this lightweight number absorbs quickly and leaves a matte finish while its cocktail of antioxidant technology, mineral-sunscreen filter, vitamin E, and thermal spring water treats, protects, and hydrates skin from within.
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Lightweight lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (titanium dioxide 11%)
- Shades:1
Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
- Why We Like It: Isdin’s tint is a thoughtful pickup for someone with mature skin. Why? Per Dr. Garshick, “this tinted mineral sunscreen contains zinc oxide as well as peptides, antioxidants, and DNA Repairsomes to work to repair sun damage and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also protecting the skin from UV and blue-light damage.” Dr. Park highly recommends the formula too.
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Serum
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 10.7%)
- Shades:1
MDSolarSciences MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 30
- Why We Like It: This MDSolarSciences BB cream creates a natural matte finish that is perfect for summer. Available in four shades, its sheer tint is known to sit well on the skin without clogging pores or settling into fine lines. Niacinamide and caffeine are enriched in the formula too, to aid redness, puffiness, and discoloration.
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Cream.
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 17% and titanium dioxide 2%)
- Shades:4
EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44
- Why We Like It: Dermatologists can’t seem to recommend EltaMD’s sunscreens enough, this tinted variant included. It’s currently Dr. Park’s favorite—noting that it “contains hyaluronic acid and applies so smoothly on the skin.” Think of it as your go-to for sensitive or post-procedure skin care.
- SPF Level: SPF 44
- Texture: Lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 10% and titanium dioxide 5.7%)
- Shades:1
True Botanicals Everyday Skin Tint SPF 30
- Why We Like It: “The finish is a medium-coverage tint, and it has great staying power,” Plug says. Available in 18 shades, the formula features a blend of botanical oils and actives (like milk thistle, red raspberry seed, and squalane) to refine the look of pores and impart a fresh-faced glow. On days she doesn’t want medium-coverage wear, she’ll mix it with a bit of the brand’s Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 19%)
- Shades: 18
Saie Slip Tint SPF 35
- Why We Like It: Plug calls Saie’s Slip Tint a total crowd-pleaser because it’s great for daily use and blends like a dream. “The light coverage evens out skin tone and gives a nice glow.” Each of the 14 shades features a nourishing blend of hyaluronic acid, licorice-root extract, and pansy flower to hydrate skin and boost luminosity.
- SPF Level: SPF 35
- Texture: Lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 15%)
- Shades: 14
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40
- Why We Like It: Supergoop!”s Glowscreen is Vogue Verified for a reason. The viral SPF quickly captured the hearts of editors and celebrities alike (think Brooke Shields and Storm Reid) for its ability to illuminate your complexion without weighing you down. The multipurpose tinted sunscreen meets face primer even includes hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and glycerin to maintain skin’s moisture levels and brighten your complexion.
- SPF Level: SPF 40
- Texture: Silky primer
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 10%)
- Shades: 4
Le Prunier Plumscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 31
- Why We Like It: “Okay, I know this one isn’t tinted (it comes out of the tube as a light sand color but doesn’t add any pigment to the skin), but I have to share it because it’s my absolute favorite for day-to-day use this year, and I’m obsessed; I’ve been literally pulling it out of my purse to show friends how great it is,” Plug admits. “It feels entirely weightless and leaves my skin feeling velvety and balanced—it doesn’t feel like SPF at all.”
- SPF Level: SPF 31
- Texture: Light cream
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 4.7%)
- Shades: 1
Neutrogena Purescreen+ Mineral UV Tint Face Liquid Sunscreen
Neutrogena Purescreen+ Mineral UV Tint Face Liquid Sunscreen
- Why We Like It: Dr. Garshick is a fan of Neutrogena’s tint because it blends well under makeup and is notably lightweight across its four shades. What’s more, it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and “contains zinc oxide as well as vitamin E to help nourish the skin.”
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Lightweight lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 21.6% and titanium dioxide 3.2%)
- Shades: 4
Avène Solaire UV Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
- Why We Like It: A French pharmacy staple, Avène’s tinted sunscreen is a favorite amongst editors and supermodels for a reason. The mineral formulation offers broad-spectrum UV protection, while delivering numerous skin care benefits. Powered by thermal spring water and infused with niacinamide, bisabolol, and allantoin, the lightweight sunscreen moisturizes and evens out the complexion, all while delivering a sheer wash of color that looks like you spent all of winter break on holiday. Bonus: It’s waterproof.
- SPF Level: SPF 50
- Texture: Velvety fluid
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 12%)
- Shades:1
La Mer The Radiant SkinTint Broad Spectrum
- Why We Like It: The silky formulation wears like a dewy, skin-plumping veil—but its perks go beyond a complexion-boosting glow. Offering broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30, the tint is infused with lime tea concentrate to protect against a host of environmental aggressors.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Lightweight cream
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (octinoxate 7.5%, octisalate 2.0%)
- Shades: 6
Nudestix Nudescreen Daily Mineral Veil
- Why We Like It: Reef-safe, the formula takes it easy on the environment—but works hard for your skin, multitasking as a primer, a moisturizer, and effective sun protection. Formulated with green-algae and passionflower extracts, the vegan tint shields the skin from UV rays, as well as from blue light.
- SPF Level: SPF 30
- Texture: Lightweight lotion
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano zinc oxide 15%)
- Shades:4
Agency SilkScreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
- Why We Like It: Designed to make sunscreen application feel luxurious (rather than laborious) Agency’s mineral SPF 50 has a featherweight texture with a silken finish. “This is a tinted sunscreen designed to provide broad-spectrum protection while also offering skincare benefits of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and licorice root,” Foad notes. “This sunscreen is dye-free, paraben-free, and comes in two [sheer] tints: light to medium and medium to deep.” Plus, it’s available by subscription—so you’ll never forget to restock.
- SPF Level: 50
- Texture: Serum
- Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide 13.35% and titanium dioxide 2.37%)
- Shades: 2
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.