July 30, 2023
_LEARN
/
REFERENCE LAB
What is Tinted Sunscreen?
As summer invites us outside, the importance of sun protection cannot be overstated. Sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin from premature aging and sun damage
. Although awareness of sunscreen’s importance is increasing, only 31% of people report wearing sunscreen year round. 1 This is likely a result of traditional sunscreen’s poor compatibility with all skin tone types and under makeup. Not to mention the fact that mineral sunscreens, which are generally regarded as safest for daily use, tend to leave white casts, especially on melanin-rich skin. Luckily a class of tinted sunscreen is emerging with enhanced elegance and ease of use, making integration of a daily broad spectrum SPF easier than ever. If you’re looking to protect your skin without compromising on your beauty routine, tinted sunscreens might be for you!
_LEARN
/
REFERENCE LAB
July 30, 2023
What is Tinted Sunscreen?
As summer invites us outside, the importance of sun protection cannot be overstated. Sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin from premature aging and sun damage
. Although awareness of sunscreen’s importance is increasing, only 31% of people report wearing sunscreen year round. 1 This is likely a result of traditional sunscreen’s poor compatibility with all skin tone types and under makeup. Not to mention the fact that mineral sunscreens, which are generally regarded as safest for daily use, tend to leave white casts, especially on melanin-rich skin. Luckily a class of tinted sunscreen is emerging with enhanced elegance and ease of use, making integration of a daily broad spectrum SPF easier than ever. If you’re looking to protect your skin without compromising on your beauty routine, tinted sunscreens might be for you!
The Basics of Tinted Sunscreen: What You Need to Know
To fully understand tinted sunscreen we have to answer three important questions: What does tinted sunscreen do? What is the difference between tinted sunscreen and normal sunscreen? And which is better, tinted or untinted sunscreen? A majority of tinted sunscreens are mineral sunscreens, with the tint serving as a way to reduce white cast on skin. (Read more about the difference between mineral vs chemical sunscreen here!) It is important to know which sunscreen ingredients to avoidTinted sunscreens not only eliminate white cast but when comparing tinted vs untinted sunscreen or even face vs body sunscreen, tinted face sunscreen varieties can offer additional protection against visible light.
How Does Tinted Sunscreen Work? A Closer Look
as well as which are safe for your skin type. Mineral sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which are white in color; these ingredients don’t penetrate the skin barrier but instead sit on the skin’s surface. Because of this, regular mineral sunscreens can have a very visible white residue. 2Tinted sunscreens solve this problem with pigmentation.
Mixed with natural mineral pigments such as iron oxides, tinted sunscreens can be colored and matched to any skin tone. These naturally occurring minerals are chemically inert and can even be used on sensitive skin. 3 Due to these added minerals, tinted sunscreens could have several advantages over non-tinted sunscreens.
Tinted Sunscreen vs. Regular Sunscreen: What Sets Them Apart?
Visible light
Visible light comes from many natural and manmade sources like the sun, our phones, and computers. This type of light, especially when generated by screens, gives off harmful blue light that ages the skin.4 Visible light penetrates deep into the skin and stimulates melanin production. It's associated with several skin conditions like
hyperpigmentation and melasma and has also been linked to premature aging of the skin. 5,6 To block visible light, your sunscreen has to be visible on the skin. This means non-tinted sunscreens would need to remain opaque on the skin's surface to successfully block visible light. The problem is, untinted sunscreen is meant to disappear on the skin due to its prominent white color. Tinted sunscreens don't have that problem and can, therefore, remain on the skin's surface.
So, tinted sunscreens contain visible pigments that block both harmful UV rays and visible light and are more effective at slowing aging in the skin. 7,8 That's why tinted sunscreen is beneficial even if you spend most of your days indoors.
The Basics of Tinted Sunscreen: What You Need to Know
To fully understand tinted sunscreen we have to answer three important questions: What does tinted sunscreen do? What is the difference between tinted sunscreen and normal sunscreen? And which is better, tinted or untinted sunscreen? A majority of tinted sunscreens are mineral sunscreens, with the tint serving as a way to reduce white cast on skin. (Read more about the difference between mineral vs chemical sunscreen here!) It is important to know which sunscreen ingredients to avoidTinted sunscreens not only eliminate white cast but when comparing tinted vs untinted sunscreen or even face vs body sunscreen, tinted face sunscreen varieties can offer additional protection against visible light.
How Does Tinted Sunscreen Work? A Closer Look
as well as which are safe for your skin type. Mineral sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which are white in color; these ingredients don’t penetrate the skin barrier but instead sit on the skin’s surface. Because of this, regular mineral sunscreens can have a very visible white residue. 2Tinted sunscreens solve this problem with pigmentation.
Mixed with natural mineral pigments such as iron oxides, tinted sunscreens can be colored and matched to any skin tone. These naturally occurring minerals are chemically inert and can even be used on sensitive skin. 3 Due to these added minerals, tinted sunscreens could have several advantages over non-tinted sunscreens.
Tinted Sunscreen vs. Regular Sunscreen: What Sets Them Apart?
Visible light
Visible light comes from many natural and manmade sources like the sun, our phones, and computers. This type of light, especially when generated by screens, gives off harmful blue light that ages the skin.4 Visible light penetrates deep into the skin and stimulates melanin production. It's associated with several skin conditions like
hyperpigmentation and melasma and has also been linked to premature aging of the skin. 5,6 To block visible light, your sunscreen has to be visible on the skin. This means non-tinted sunscreens would need to remain opaque on the skin's surface to successfully block visible light. The problem is, untinted sunscreen is meant to disappear on the skin due to its prominent white color. Tinted sunscreens don't have that problem and can, therefore, remain on the skin's surface.
So, tinted sunscreens contain visible pigments that block both harmful UV rays and visible light and are more effective at slowing aging in the skin. 7,8 That's why tinted sunscreen is beneficial even if you spend most of your days indoors.
Exploring Tinted Sunscreen: Benefits and Uses
Tinted sunscreens have the best of both worlds. One of the benefits of sunscreen
is that it protects your skin from both UV light and visible light damage. 9 They also eliminate white cast and can even double up as a light-coverage foundation, enhancing your skin's appearance and simplifying your makeup routine! These properties have made tinted sunscreen an emerging favorite among skincare enthusiasts.
Exploring Tinted Sunscreen: Benefits and Uses
Tinted sunscreens have the best of both worlds. One of the benefits of sunscreen
is that it protects your skin from both UV light and visible light damage. 9 They also eliminate white cast and can even double up as a light-coverage foundation, enhancing your skin's appearance and simplifying your makeup routine! These properties have made tinted sunscreen an emerging favorite among skincare enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Shade: Finding Your Perfect Tinted Sunscreen
When it comes to selecting a tinted sunscreen that complements your skin tone, there are several key factors to consider:
- Undertone: Understanding your undertone is critical to selecting the right shade of tinted sunscreen. Undertones can be warm, cool, or neutral, and they determine how colors appear on your skin. 10
- Skin Depth or Darkness: Consider the depth or darkness of your skin tone, ranging from very light to dark. This factor is essential in finding a tinted sunscreen that blends seamlessly with your natural skin color. You may have to try several shades before finding your fit.
- Specific Skin Concerns: Take into account any specific skin concerns you may have. If you have acne-prone skin, look for a tinted sunscreen that offers oil-free and non-comedogenic properties to prevent breakouts.9
Choosing the Right Shade: Finding Your Perfect Tinted Sunscreen
When it comes to selecting a tinted sunscreen that complements your skin tone, there are several key factors to consider:
- Undertone: Understanding your undertone is critical to selecting the right shade of tinted sunscreen. Undertones can be warm, cool, or neutral, and they determine how colors appear on your skin. 10
- Skin Depth or Darkness: Consider the depth or darkness of your skin tone, ranging from very light to dark. This factor is essential in finding a tinted sunscreen that blends seamlessly with your natural skin color. You may have to try several shades before finding your fit.
- Specific Skin Concerns: Take into account any specific skin concerns you may have. If you have acne-prone skin, look for a tinted sunscreen that offers oil-free and non-comedogenic properties to prevent breakouts.9
Tinted Sunscreen Application Tips for a Flawless Finish
Follow these application steps for an ideal finish:
- Cleanse and Moisturize: Before applying tinted sunscreen, thoroughly cleanse your face with a gentle gel cleanser to remove any dirt. Then apply a lightweight peptide moisturizer to create a less textured canvas for your sunscreen.
- Start Small: A little goes a long way with tinted sunscreen. If you are wondering how much sunscreen to put on your face, begin with a small amount, about the size of a pea, and apply it to your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. This helps distribute the product evenly across your face.
- Build Up if Needed: Assess the coverage and gradually build up the tinted sunscreen if more coverage is desired. Add incremental amounts at a time to ensure a natural-looking finish.
- Standalone or Makeup Combination: Tinted sunscreen can be used as a standalone product for a lightweight, natural look or combined with other makeup items for added coverage. Allow the tinted sunscreen to dry before adding any additional makeup. This avoids any unwanted chemical reactions.
Tinted Sunscreen Application Tips for a Flawless Finish
Follow these application steps for an ideal finish:
- Cleanse and Moisturize: Before applying tinted sunscreen, thoroughly cleanse your face with a gentle gel cleanser to remove any dirt. Then apply a lightweight peptide moisturizer to create a less textured canvas for your sunscreen.
- Start Small: A little goes a long way with tinted sunscreen. If you are wondering how much sunscreen to put on your face, begin with a small amount, about the size of a pea, and apply it to your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. This helps distribute the product evenly across your face.
- Build Up if Needed: Assess the coverage and gradually build up the tinted sunscreen if more coverage is desired. Add incremental amounts at a time to ensure a natural-looking finish.
- Standalone or Makeup Combination: Tinted sunscreen can be used as a standalone product for a lightweight, natural look or combined with other makeup items for added coverage. Allow the tinted sunscreen to dry before adding any additional makeup. This avoids any unwanted chemical reactions.
Tinted Sunscreen and Makeup: Combining Sun Protection and Coverage
Tinted mineral sunscreen serves as a fantastic substitute for a traditional makeup primer. Keep in mind that tinted sunscreens are not meant to provide heavy coverage like foundation. They offer sheer to light coverage, allowing your natural skin to shine through while providing sun protection. That’s why your selected shade must match your skin tone. If you prefer a natural, lightweight makeup look, ditching the foundation and relying on tinted sunscreen is a game-changer! A tinted mineral sunscreen can also be combined with untinted chemical-based sunscreen by first applying a base coat of broad sunscreen SPF and then a layer of your tinted sunscreen. Make sure to let the untinted formula dry before applying your tinted sunscreen. A combination of these two formulas can provide maximum sun protection.
Tinted Sunscreen and Makeup: Combining Sun Protection and Coverage
Tinted mineral sunscreen serves as a fantastic substitute for a traditional makeup primer. Keep in mind that tinted sunscreens are not meant to provide heavy coverage like foundation. They offer sheer to light coverage, allowing your natural skin to shine through while providing sun protection. That’s why your selected shade must match your skin tone. If you prefer a natural, lightweight makeup look, ditching the foundation and relying on tinted sunscreen is a game-changer! A tinted mineral sunscreen can also be combined with untinted chemical-based sunscreen by first applying a base coat of broad sunscreen SPF and then a layer of your tinted sunscreen. Make sure to let the untinted formula dry before applying your tinted sunscreen. A combination of these two formulas can provide maximum sun protection.
Is Tinted Sunscreen Right for You? Making an Informed Decision
Before switching to tinted sunscreen, it's important to assess whether it suits your needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Skin Concerns:If you have specific skin concerns, such as acne or hyperpigmentation, tinted sunscreen can provide targeted coverage while protecting your skin. Tinted sunscreen has proven to be clinically effective in reducing hyperpigmentation due to its blue light-blocking effects. 11
- Lifestyle and Occasions: Evaluate your daily activities and the occasions where tinted sunscreen may be more practical than traditional foundation and sunscreen combinations. Consider using multiple sunscreen products and topical skin care products as necessary.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the decision to use tinted sunscreen comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy its convenience and natural coverage, it might be the ideal choice to implement into your daily routine.
Is Tinted Sunscreen Right for You? Making an Informed Decision
Before switching to tinted sunscreen, it's important to assess whether it suits your needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Skin Concerns:If you have specific skin concerns, such as acne or hyperpigmentation, tinted sunscreen can provide targeted coverage while protecting your skin. Tinted sunscreen has proven to be clinically effective in reducing hyperpigmentation due to its blue light-blocking effects. 11
- Lifestyle and Occasions: Evaluate your daily activities and the occasions where tinted sunscreen may be more practical than traditional foundation and sunscreen combinations. Consider using multiple sunscreen products and topical skin care products as necessary.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the decision to use tinted sunscreen comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy its convenience and natural coverage, it might be the ideal choice to implement into your daily routine.
Key Takeaways
- Tinted sunscreens reduce white cast on skin. They can also be colored and matched to any skin tone.
- Tinted sunscreen incorporates pigmented minerals which potentially carry added benefits for the skin.
- Tinted sunscreens contain visible pigments that block both UV radiation and visible light and are more effective at slowing aging in the skin.
- Tinted sunscreen serves as a fantastic substitute for a traditional makeup primer and can even serve as a light-coverage foundation. This makes it a convenient addition to your skincare routine.
Key Takeaways
- Tinted sunscreens reduce white cast on skin. They can also be colored and matched to any skin tone.
- Tinted sunscreen incorporates pigmented minerals which potentially carry added benefits for the skin.
- Tinted sunscreens contain visible pigments that block both UV radiation and visible light and are more effective at slowing aging in the skin.
- Tinted sunscreen serves as a fantastic substitute for a traditional makeup primer and can even serve as a light-coverage foundation. This makes it a convenient addition to your skincare routine.
By Felip Gerdes: Felip is an aspiring lawyer studying political science at the UC San Diego. For more on Felip, check out his LinkedIn.
By Felip Gerdes: Felip is an aspiring lawyer studying political science at the UC San Diego. For more on Felip, check out his LinkedIn.
References
References
Reviewed by Alessandra Zonari, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Co-Founder of OneSkin
Alessandra earned her Master’s degree in stem cell biology, and her PhD in skin regeneration and tissue engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil in collaboration with the 3B’s Research Group in Portugal. Alessandra did a second post-doctoral at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. She is a co-inventor of three patents and has published 20 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals.
Reviewed by Alessandra Zonari, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Co-Founder of OneSkin
Alessandra earned her Master’s degree in stem cell biology, and her PhD in skin regeneration and tissue engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil in collaboration with the 3B’s Research Group in Portugal. Alessandra did a second post-doctoral at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. She is a co-inventor of three patents and has published 20 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals.
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