As we head into the warmer months, it’s only natural for foundation to fall off your beauty radar. As someone who tends to opt for tinted moisturiser over foundation, I’m here to tell you that the latest formulas really deliver on all fronts. Super hydrating and packed with skin-nourishing ingredients, they’re akin to cleverly formulated foundations but feel lighter and airier, and deliver more coverage than a skin tint.
Not sure whether to try one? I spoke to NARS national senior ertist, Becky Moore and Jess Kohn, education manager for Laura Mercier, who reveal why tinted moisturisers deserve a spot in your makeup bag. Plus, I’ve tried and tested over 20 formulas to reveal nine of the best tinted moisturisers for a natural, skin-like finish, only better. (By the way, a tinted moisturiser is also a great alternative to foundation for mature skin.)
What’s the Difference Between Foundation and Tinted Moisturiser?
The main difference between a foundation and a tinted moisturiser is often down to the overall coverage and finish of the formula on the skin.
“Foundations vary in coverage (from full-coverage to medium-coverage) and typically focus on camouflaging imperfections with pigments, while tinted moisturisers offer lighter coverage and even out skintone via formulas that are lightweight and hydrating. They also tend to contain skin-loving ingredients that help to strengthen the skin barrier,” reveals Kohn.
Are Tinted Moisturisers Suitable for All Skin Types?
Yes, the good news is that tinted moisturisers are suitable for a wide range of skin types. Kohn says choosing the correct formula for your skin and any skin concerns you may be experiencing is key. “For dry skin, opt for a dewy or hydrating formula containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin. For oily skin, mattifying formulas will help control unwanted shine, so look for formulas containing oil-absorbing ingredients such as clay to help mattify and soothe the skin.”
How To Apply a Tinted Moisturiser
This really depends on your desired finish and your tool of choice. Kohn reveals that using a soft foundation brush with dense bristles melts the product into the skin and achieves a streak-free finish.
Whereas Moore says, “Using your fingers, not only warms up the product before you apply it, but the warmth from your fingers will allow the product to saturate the skin beautifully, creating a base that is even and natural looking. Once applied, follow with a translucent loose setting powder to ensure longevity and absorb any unwanted oil throughout the day to control shine,” explains Kohn.
“Despite their abilities to offer a more natural, sheerer finish in comparison to foundation formulas, tinted moisturisers create the perfect flawless base for a whole makeup look, and can be followed with contour, bronzer, blush and highlight to further enhance the skin,” she adds.
Are Tinted Moisturisers Good for Older Skin?
“Tinted moisturisers are good for mature skin as they provide hydration which is often lacking due to the naturally occurring decline in collagen and oil production,” reveals Kohn. “And because they’re lightweight and sheer, tinted moisturisers are less likely to emphasise any unwanted texture or settle into fine lines.”
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At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
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