The Best Tinted Moisturizers for Natural-Looking Coverage

The Best Tinted Moisturizers

There's no denying that foundation has a spot in any makeup routine. While you likely appreciate the complete coverage foundations offer, it may not necessarily be what you need for everyday purposes. Enter: tinted moisturizers, foundation's lighter, more natural-looking little cousin. At the risk of sounding like Captain Obvious, these deliver both moisture and a skin-perfecting tint, offering more hydration with sheerer coverage than a traditional foundation. "Tinted moisturizers create a more natural, skin-like finish, not to mention are quick and convenient," explains makeup artist and beauty expert Neil Scibelli. Many contain sunscreen and other good-for-your-skin ingredients, making them a great option if you're short on time, he adds. (See: 7 Double-Duty Beauty Hacks and The Products That Make Them Happen)

The other major benefit of tinted moisturizers? "Foundations usually require more work when it comes to application and blending, and tools such as a brush or sponge," says Scibelli. "Tinted moisturizers are so sheer that it's actually best to apply them with your fingertips." Simply dab on a few drops, patting the product into skin rather than swiping it, which will simply wipe it off, he adds. Craving a little more coverage in certain spots? Add another layer, or top it off with concealer and you're good to go.

Want to try it yourself? Check out these eight best tinted moisturizers for natural-looking coverage.

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30

The OG formula of this classic tinted moisturizer launched more than two decades ago, but now, it's been relaunched with a new and improved formula. Upgrades include 24-hour hydration, a higher SPF (the original was SPF 20), plus five new shades for a total of 20 options.

Dermaflash Dermaprotect Daily Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

While this is touted and works well as a primer, you'll find the coverage is more than enough to wear on its own as a tinted moisturizer, too. While it only comes in one shade, it blends in surprisingly well on a variety of skin tones. Plus, it delivers an impressive SPF 50, which is high for any type of makeup.

Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

A top pick for the best tinted moisturizer for oily skin, the oil-free yet hydrating formula has a perfectly luminous finish that leaves your complexion looking healthy and glowy, without ever veering into the shiny territory. Along with oh-so-important SPF, it also contains skin-brightening vitamin C and comes in 12 shades.

Tarte Amazonian Clay BB Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20

The namesake ingredient in this vegan formula balances skin, removing excess oil and reducing dryness, simultaneously. The light-to-medium coverage also blurs away imperfections (yes, please), and the SPF comes from mineral sunscreen ingredients, making it a solid choice for sensitive skin.

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Perfector

Give your skin an anti-aging boost with this wallet-friendly tinted cream infused with retinol—a gold standard wrinkle-fighter—which makes it the best tinted moisturizer for mature skin. Extra hydrating to combat the potentially drying effects of this powerful ingredient, it also has SPF, and the perfect amount of color, making it a balanced blend of skin care and makeup.

Lune+Aster CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

Foundation fans will appreciate the medium coverage of this best tinted moisturizer formula. Skin-care fans will appreciate that it's packed with nourishing vitamin E, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-rich sea buckthorn plant—not to mention its high SPF. It's a top pick for the best tinted moisturizer for dry skin, thanks to its ultra-hydrating ingredients. (

Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36

This may technically fall more into the category of a tinted sunscreen, but it's so hydrating that it can easily be used as a tinted moisturizer. The one shade works well on many skin tones and packs a good amount of coverage. Plus, the formula is loaded with antioxidants to shield your skin from damaging pollution.

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

This multi-tasking tinted moisturizer offers 12 hours of hydration, SPF 30 protection, and an au natural finish. Its noncomedogenic formula (read: it won't clog pores) boasts colloidal oatmeal, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid to soothe, protect, and hydrate skin.