What is a Tinted Moisturizer? Who Should Use One & Why

What is a Tinted Moisturizer? Who Should Use One & Why

There’s a time and a place for a full face of permanent makeup. But what about when you just want subtle coverage? For those days, we encourage you to consider adding a tinted moisturizer to your routine. Not only does it provide you with that subtle coverage you’re looking for, but it has the added benefit of keeping your skin hydrated too.

In today’s post, we’re going to tell you everything you’ve ever wanted to know about tinted moisturizers. We’ll talk about who should use them, the occasions they’re great for, as well as the ingredients to look for in a tinted moisturizer…and much more. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

What is Tinted Moisturizer?

As its name suggests, tinted moisturizer is a moisturizer with a tint to it. Rather than a clear or white substance like your nighttime moisturizer might be, this option has a shade close to your natural skin color. That way, you can apply it to get a combination of coverage and moisturizing all in one. In addition to hydrating your skin and offering a bit of coverage, you can also find formulations with other features, including a soft shimmer for a gentle glow. 

When to use a tinted moisturizer

It’s important to note that a tinted moisturizer offers a lot less coverage than foundation. This isn’t a bad thing, though! There are all kinds of situations where you might want just a bit of coverage along with some hydration. This includes when you’re out running errands, hanging out around the house, or virtually any other time you don’t want to wear a heavy face of makeup.

In fact, many people list tinted moisturizer as the only thing they put on their face before heading out for the day. It can help balance out uneven skin tones, provide you with plenty of moisturizing, and even come with other benefits including SPF coverage. Thanks to their lightweight coverage, they’re also a popular option while on vacation or during the summer months. 

Still, we know many people struggle with determining whether to use foundation or tinted moisturizer and which one is right for them. Luckily, we have a whole post on the topic right here. It includes this breakdown of the two options:

“The most obvious difference between foundation and tinted moisturizer is the amount of coverage that each offers. If you’re looking for coverage as well as color, foundation is probably best for you. That’s because it has a much higher pigment than tinted moisturizers do. Pigment is the fine loose powder element within your foundation that’s responsible for color correction and coverage. It also works to conceal blemishes, pimples, and fine lines.

If, however, a moisturized finish with a hint of color is all you need, we’d recommend the lighter base of a tinted moisturizer. While these low pigment formulas won’t conceal imperfections, they will offer a dewy glow and plenty of moisture.”

Ingredients to Look for in a Tinted Moisturizer

For oily acne-prone skin

If you have acne-prone skin, it’s helpful to look for a tinted moisturizer with an oil-free formula. That way, you’re still getting the benefits of a moisturizer but you don’t have to worry about your skin looking oilier. There are also options to choose from that have acne-fighting ingredients, including salicylic acid. 

For dry skin

As for ingredients to look for in a tinted moisturizer if you have dry skin? Moisturizers on their own will have hydrating ingredients. But there are several special ingredients to be on the lookout for that can provide you with additional hydration.

These include:

  • Aloe
  • Vitamin E
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Ceramides
  • Squalene

For added sun protection

It’s incredibly important to use an SPF every day to prevent your skin from sun damage that leads to premature aging and a higher risk of skin cancer.

If you plan to only use a tinted moisturizer as SPF each day, you’ll want to be sure it’s a high-quality product so you’re getting adequate sun protection. Some formulas offer SPF 15 coverage, for example. This can be helpful in addition to a more powerful SPF on its own, but it’s not enough to just use SPF 15.

If you’re determined to only use one product on your skin each day, a tinted moisturizer with a minimum SPF 40 is a good place to start. But just like regular sunscreen, be sure to reapply throughout the day. 

Even better than using a tinted moisturizer with SPF, however, is using an SPF before applying your tinted moisturizer. 

Other helpful ingredients

We’ve covered ingredients to look for if you have acne-prone skin, dry skin, and if you want added sun protection. 

But here are some other ingredients to look for depending on your goals:

  • For additional moisturizing: Jojoba esters, pansy flower, glycerin
  • To smooth the skin: Niacinamide
  • For calming the skin: Chamomile
  • To nourish the skin: Vitamins A, C, E
  • Antioxidants and free radical protection: Noni extract, moringa seed, vitamins C and E

Bonus Tinted Sunscreen Tips

There are plenty of options that come with built-in bronzing or illuminizing effects. But this might not always be the look you’re going for. You can create a versatile product by adding your own bronzing drops or illuminizer to your tinted moisturizer when you apply it. 

Foundation goes on well with a brush or sponge. But for your tinted moisturizer, applying it with clean hands is your best bet.

You might be tempted to set your tinted moisturizer with powder. But keep in mind this defeats the purpose of the product. You won’t achieve that “no make-up make-up” look with a layer of powder covering your skin! 

If you’re interested in learning more about makeup or professional makeup application services in West Palm Beach, you’re in the right place. Click here to learn more about Anushka Spa & Salon makeup services, including bridal makeup, permanent makeup, and more. 

When you come to us for all of your makeup needs, you’ll enjoy a variety of amenities, including:

  • Chair-Side Checkout
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • 26 Styling/Color Stations
  • Makeup Studio 
  • Luxury Boutique
  • Wine Bar
  • Spathacary
  • Complimentary Valet Parking

Book your appointment today!

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