If you’re someone who wants to perfect a no-makeup makeup look, you’ll need to know how to apply tinted moisturizer. These hybrid complexion products are known for giving glowy, light-to-medium coverage while also delivering major skin care benefits (you’ll often see hydrators like hyaluronic acid or anti-inflammatory niacinamide listed on the bottle). Learning how to apply one correctly can make all the difference in the longevity of your look, even if it’s more minimal compared with a full beat.
Below, we asked makeup artists and dermatologists to weigh in on all of your complexion questions, including how to find the perfect formula for your skin type, application tips, and more. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to radiant, lit-from-within skin that lasts all day long and leaves your skin feeling moisturized.
How to choose the right tinted moisturizer
With the plethora of tinted moisturizers available (we’re talking lightweight skin tints, sticks, SPF formulas, and more), figuring out the right one for you can be overwhelming. First up, remember that this isn’t a full-coverage foundation. Instead, think of it as “your skin but better” and expect a natural finish. You might still see some texture, but it’ll even out your skin tone, add a little tint, and deliver a good dose of moisture.
Determine your skin type
Make sure you know what works best with your skin type. “Each product will offer a unique formula and a specific finish,” says Neil Scibelli, a celebrity makeup artist. “Understanding your skin and what the product offers will help you make the right decision when purchasing.” If you deal with occasional flaking, you likely have dry skin. If your complexion gets slick by the end of the day, especially in the T-zone and around the nose, you have oily skin. If you deal with both dry patches and oiliness on different parts of your face, you have combination skin.
Once you’ve determined your skin type, also make sure you’re asking yourself what you really want in a tinted moisturizer. Does your skin need extra moisture because of dehydration? Is SPF a main factor for you? These are all questions Scibelli says to think about.
Normal to dry skin
If you have dry skin, any tinted moisturizer will provide hydration, but keep an eye out for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to replenish and lock in moisture. A water-based skin tint will provide light coverage while nourishing dry patches or flakes (bonus if they have SPF for sun protection).
Original video of Brigitt Earley testing the BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer
