A Quick Guide to Tinted Moisturizers: What is it, how to apply

Tinted moisturizers have become very popular over the last few years because they can provide several benefits. For example, they do not clog pores or cause breakouts because the moisturizer has a thin film of tint. 

Tinted moisturizer usually has SPF in addition to sun protection. In addition, some tinted moisturizer products have ingredients such as aloe vera or witch hazel that help improve the skin’s moisture retention and sun protection.

What is a tinted moisturizer?

TINTED MOISTURIZER

Tinted moisturizing creams are similar to lotions, except they have a tint. Skip the makeup brush or sponge and just apply the formula over your face with your fingers. If you prefer more coverage at specific areas, simply add a light layer of concealer over the tinted moisturizer and blend (using your fingers) into your skin to get a soft, smooth look. 

A tinted moisturizer looks like regular lotion but is not smooth. Often, this product will have a fine powder consistency with intense color. The color of the product may vary because some manufacturers use different pigments and binders. 

The pigments used in a tinted moisturizer are usually a shade of brown or black and are added by a powder maker. The powder is mixed with a carrier oil, mixed thoroughly until it resembles more of a paste than a powder. The finished product is a dense, white, creamy, lightweight, radiant finish with a slight reddish tint.

How to apply a tinted moisturizer

For darker skintones

Tinted moisturizer with a slight brown tint is great for people with darker skin tones who want a hint of color but not too much. The formula will give a beautiful, even coverage with almost no visible blending. 

To achieve a beautiful, even finish, you will need to blend the foundation. Begin by blending a small amount of powder over your brush. Next, tap the excess blend out of your brush and gently blend in your dry skin with a large circular motion until the desired coverage is achieved.

You can also use a tinted moisturizer along with a sheer coverage concealer. Using a powder brush, run a dime-size amount of concealer through your finger and tap the rest of the concealer onto your face with a small pointed, bristled brush. 

Work in a circular pattern, beginning in the middle and slowly working your way out. This technique will ensure that you get even coverage with little effort.

The best tinted moisturizer for dark skintones: bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream SPF 30

If you can’t choose between a BB cream, a CC cream, and a tinted moisturizer, then bareMinerals Tinted Hydrating Gel could be the one for you. It has a gel-like consistency and has one of the widest range of skintones among all the other tinted moisturizers in the market. The best thing is the brand uses natural formulas and steers away from harmful ingredients.

For a matte finish

For those of you who prefer a matte finish, tinted moisturizer is a perfect solution for evening makeup. After applying a sheer foundation with a powder brush, you can simply add this moisturizer to your face and blend well. For a medium coverage foundation, you will want to add one-half to one tablespoon of powder to your brush. 

When applying this foundation, it is best to do so with a damp sponge rather than with a brush as the bristles of the sponge can cause excess powder residue on your face. Once applied, you will want to apply a second layer of foundation to finish the look.

You can create interesting effects when applying tinted moisturizers. For example, if you have light or fair skin, you can create an even canvas by using two shades of the same foundation that are opposite each other in tint. 

In addition to an even canvas, you will have a very defined look because the light and shade of foundation create shadows.

Many people choose tinted moisturizer as a great way to refresh their look without having to change their everyday cosmetics. If you have been using liquid foundations, you may find that it has taken a bit of time for your skin to absorb the moisture provided. 

Even with the use of a tinted moisturizer, you can refresh your look with only a few applications. This type of moisturizer also helps hydrate your skin so that you have a smooth, even complexion.

The best matte finish tinted moisturizer: Sephora Collection Matte Perfection Tinted Moisturizer

If you’re looking for an affordable, scent and cruelty-free tinted moisturizer, Sephora’s Matte Perfection Tinted Moisturizer is the perfect one for you. The product is available in 16 wide shade colors.