The Real Chic Life

Tinted sunscreens are the ultimate multitaskers: they shield your skin from UV rays while evening out your complexion with sheer, breathable coverage. Whether you’re a skincare minimalist or a makeup lover on off-duty days, the right tinted SPF can replace both foundation and moisturizer. I’ve been on the hunt for a perfect tinted sunscreen for years and to be honest it’s been a tough feat. Many left my skin ashen (not the perfect shade match) or oily (better for those with dry skin). Despite this, sunscreen is a must for me, so I’ve always had to make do. But things are changing, and I’ve rounded up the ones I think are the best of the bunch. I’m so excited to introduce you to a new one I’ve fallen in love with, too.

This year, MERIT Beauty joins the ranks with its highly anticipated launch, The Uniform, a skin-first formula that blends protection, care, and coverage.

Why Use a Tinted Sunscreen?

These products offer more than just SPF:

Sun Protection That Lasts

Broad-spectrum formulas defend against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays—an essential step in any skincare routine.

Even, Uniform Complexion

Tinted sunscreens help blur imperfections, balance redness, and create a naturally uniform skin tone—like your skin, only better.

Streamlined Routine

Lightweight, breathable, and buildable, these products can often replace foundation, primer, or tinted moisturizer for daytime wear.

Skin-Enhancing Ingredients

Infused with antioxidants, hydrating agents, and soothing botanicals, many tinted sunscreens double as skincare.

2025’s Best Tinted Sunscreens

Here are the top contenders, now featuring the buzzed-about MERIT The Uniform:

NEW: MERIT The Uniform SPF 40 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen

• Brand Merit: Known for minimalist, skin-loving beauty—this launch reflects MERIT’s “less is more” philosophy.
  
• Merits:
  
  • Broad-spectrum SPF 40
    
  • Non-comedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin
    
  • Infused with niacinamide and plant-based squalane
    
• Finish: Natural, satin-like glow. It dries as light as air.
  
• Tint: Available in a flexible, curated range of lightweight shades designed to blend seamlessly across skin tones
  
• Why We Love It: The Uniform lives up to its name—delivering a smooth, even layer of protection and polish. It’s makeup that doesn’t feel like makeup but the best part is the shade range mentioned above. It’s easy to find your perfect fit using their shade finder too.
  

2. EltaMD UV Daily Tinted SPF 40

This used to be my go to. I’ve used it for over a decade but I always wished it came in more shades. Until recently it only came in two. They have recently released a third (darker shade) which I haven’t tried yet. 

• Merits: Dermatologist-recommended, hydrating with hyaluronic acid.
  
• Finish: Soft dewy.
  
• Tint: Subtle tone-adapting coverage ideal for redness or post-procedure skin.
  

3. Saie Slip Tint SPF 35

• Merits: Clean beauty favorite with skin-enhancing actives.
  
• Finish: Glowy, radiant.
  
• Tint: Light to medium buildable coverage; 14 inclusive shades.
  

4. Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

• Merits: Great for oily skin types; helps blur pores.
  
• Finish: Matte and smooth.
  
• Tint: Universal tint with soft-focus effect. Though it’s touted as universal, it doesn’t work as well for darker skin tones in my opinion.
  

5. Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30

• Merits: Sensitive skin-approved, lightweight, fragrance-free.
  
• Finish: Natural and breathable.
  
• Tint: True shade range from fair to deep.
  

Whether you’re chasing a polished no-makeup look or trying to simplify your morning routine, tinted sunscreens like MERIT’s The Uniform deliver SPF, skincare, and coverage in one. They’re the new go-to for everyday wear—leaving your skin protected, perfected, and effortlessly even.

Tip: For a flawless finish, apply with your fingers or a damp sponge, and reapply every 2 hours when exposed to sunlight.

I’m headed on vacation, and I bet you can guess which one I’m bringing with me. We’d love to hear about your favorites. Let us know in the comments.

Until Next Post,

Xo Tonya Parker