Tinted Sunscreen: Benefits, Uses & How to Choose for Every Skin Type

Tinted sunscreen is a hybrid product that combines the protective properties of traditional sunscreen with the complexion-enhancing benefits of a light foundation. Infused with pigments, it not only guards against UVA and UVB rays but also helps even out skin tone, blur imperfections, and provide a subtle glow. Unlike regular sunscreens, tinted versions often contain iron oxides, which offer additional protection against visible light—a boon for those concerned about hyperpigmentation and photoaging.

Tinted sunscreen benefits can be multiple if you incorporate it in your routine the right way.

1. Sun Protection: At its core, tinted sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
2. Evens Skin Tone: The added tint helps camouflage minor imperfections, redness, and unevenness, giving you a smoother complexion.
3. Blue Light Defense: Thanks to iron oxides, tinted sunscreens can protect against blue light emitted from screens, which can contribute to skin aging.
4. Lightweight Coverage: Perfect for no-makeup days, it provides a natural finish without the heaviness of foundation.
5. Time-Saving: Combining skincare and makeup steps, it's a go-to for those busy mornings.

For those with oily skin, it's important to pick a sunscreen that won't make your skin sweat and make it look extra shiny. Using a sunscreen for oily skin that's oil-free and non-comedogenic will keep your skin feeling light and will keep the excess sheen at bay. These formulas also prevent clogged pores and reduce the risk of breakouts.

Dry skin craves hydration. For those with dry skin, it's ideal to use products that will hydrate and lock the moisture in your skin. When looking for a tinted sunscreen for dry skin, opt for products enriched with moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid. On days when you don't want to opt for a tinted sunscreen, you can also pick a hydrating SPF like the Vaseline Gluta Hya Antioxidant Sunscreen.

The trickiest skin type of them all is a sensitive skin. You have to find the right balance of products and the right formulations that work for your skin so as to not trigger it. Sensitive skin requires gentle formulations hence choose products free from fragrances and harsh chemicals. On days when you feel like skipping a tint and just bearing your skin, you can apply the Simple Kind to Skin Gel Sunscreen, specially designed for sensitive skin.

A mineral-based ingredient that provides broad-spectrum UV protection, zinc oxide is a favourite for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It sits on top of the skin and reflects UVA and UVB rays without clogging pores. Plus, it's anti-inflammatory, making it ideal for calming irritation and redness.

This multitasking ingredient brightens dull skin, evens out tone, and reduces the appearance of dark spots and pores. It's especially great for oily and combination skin types, as it helps regulate sebum production while soothing the skin.

Dry skin? This one's for you. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the skin and keeps it plump and hydrated throughout the day. When infused into tinted sunscreen, it helps maintain your skin's softness and glow—no dryness or flaking in sight.

Achieving that flawless finish requires the right application technique. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply tinted sunscreen:

1. Cleanse: Start with a clean canvas. Use a gentle cleanser to remove impurities.
2. Moisturise: Even if your tinted sunscreen has hydrating properties, applying a moisturiser ensures optimal hydration.
3. Apply Sunscreen: Dispense a generous amount—about a teaspoon of tinted sunscreen for your face and neck. Dot it across your face and blend using your fingers or a makeup sponge.
4. Layering: If you desire more coverage, you can layer your tinted sunscreen under foundation or BB cream.
5. Reapply: For continuous protection, reapply every two hours, especially if you're outdoors.

A few dabs won't cut it. You need about a teaspoon of product for your face and neck to get the proper SPF protection. Since tinted formulas often feel like makeup, we tend to apply less—but remember, it's still sunscreen and needs to be generously applied to do its job.

Sunscreen isn't a one-and-done deal. Whether it's tinted or not, it should be reapplied every 2-3 hours—especially if you're outdoors, sweating, or touching your face. A quick top-up with a tinted sunscreen stick or cushion compact makes mid-day reapplication fuss-free and keeps your coverage fresh.

Tinted sunscreens aren't one-size-fits-all. Choosing a shade that's too light can leave a greyish cast, while a too-dark shade may look patchy or unnatural. Aim for a tone that blends seamlessly with your complexion for that perfect no-makeup makeup look.

While some tinted sunscreens do contain hydrating ingredients, they might not be enough on their own—especially for dry or dehydrated skin types. Always layer a lightweight moisturiser underneath to keep skin soft and flake-free throughout the day.

Tinted sunscreen like the Lakmē Sun Expert Tinted Sunscreen is brilliant for casual, everyday wear, but it offers light to medium coverage at best. If you're heading to a special event or need long-wear makeup, use it as a base layer under your foundation, not a full replacement. That way, you get protection and coverage. Embrace the fusion of skincare and makeup with tinted sunscreens. We all have those days when we'd love an even skin tone but putting on foundation and concealer seems like a herculean task. So whether you're heading to the beach or just running errands, these multitaskers ensure you're protected and glowing. So, the next time you ponder skipping sunscreen, remember: with tinted options, there's no excuse not to shine safely.

It's a sunscreen infused with pigments that provide sun protection and a hint of coverage, helping even out skin tone.

Absolutely. It's perfect for daily wear, offering both protection and a natural glow.

Yes, it can act as a primer, providing a smooth base for your makeup.

Apply it generously on cleansed and moisturised skin, ensuring even coverage. Reapply every two hours when exposed to the sun.

Yes, look for non-comedogenic tinted sunscreens that control shine and prevent breakouts.