How to Apply Tinted Moisturizer for a Dewy, Radiant Glow
July 29, 2020We have (and love!) our fair share of BB creams, CC creams and foundations. But on days when we want our makeup routine to be quick, low-key and super natural-looking, a tinted moisturizer is our go-to. There are formulas that are good for your skin and provide a sheer tint of light coverage that’s perfect for the no-makeup makeup look. "Tinted moisturizers are great for a more casual finish — kind of like wearing your favorite pair of jeans," says Giorgio Armani celebrity makeup artist Tim Quinn. "They're easier to work with because they're more sheer, they have a lightweight texture, they usually have an SPF benefit, and they're more portable because they usually come in a tube." To learn more about the best tips for a flawless tinted moisturizer application, read on for Quinn’s expert advice.
Tip #1 for Applying Tinted Moisturizer: Cater to Your Skin Type, Not Tone
Because tinted moisturizers tend to have a sheer formula, choose one based on your skin type rather than your skin tone. If you're prone to breakouts, seek out an oil-free formula like the Urban Decay Naked Skin One and Done. If you have dry skin that needs a boost of glow, try the Giorgio Armani Prima Color Control Glow Moisturizer. It’s an ultra-sheer, tinted moisturizer that has SPF 35 and blurs your skin of any blemishes to unveil a revitalized glow.
Tip #2 for Applying Tinted Moisturizer: Ditch the Brush
Tinted moisturizers are like hydrating lotions. Skip the makeup sponge or brush and apply the formula evenly onto your skin using your fingertips. "Take a small amount and blend from the center of the face out, much like you would apply a daytime moisturizer," says Quinn. If you need more coverage in certain areas, add a light touch of concealer and blend (with your fingers) to give your skin a smooth appearance.
Tip #3 for Applying Tinted Moisturizer: Skip the Powder
Although you may be tempted to set the look with a finishing powder, we highly recommend resisting the urge. The point of tinted moisturizer is to look like you're not made up, so embrace the radiant finish. "Powder is definitely a no-no," says Quinn. "It's all about the glowing skin." If you can’t skip out on the setting step, we recommend spritzing with a facial mist like the Maybelline New York FaceStudio Glass Spray. It helps set your makeup while still hydrating your face and offering a dewy, glowing finish.
The Best Tinted Moisturizers, According to Our Editors
L’Oréal Paris Visible Lift Luminous Serum Tint Tinted Moisturizer
Specifically designed with mature skin in mind, this tinted moisturizer is formulated with nourishing oils and vitamin E to smooth the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It delivers a boost of hydration and a glowy sheen so your complexion stays radiant and supple. It has tinted sheen (it comes in five colors) and evens out your skin tone for a second-skin finish.
Giorgio Armani Prima Color Control Glow Moisturizer
For an ultra-sheer, glow-boosting formula, take a look at this option from Armani. The formula blends with your skin tone while simultaneously increasing your skin’s luminosity and radiance. It’ll blur fine lines and wrinkles, but if you want more coverage, feel free to use concealer over top.
YSL Beauty Touche Éclat All-in-One Glow Tinted Moisturizer
This medium-coverage tinted moisturizer (with SPF 23) truly does it all. The formula evens out your complexion, eliminates dullness, smooths fine lines and provides protections from the sun’s harmful rays. Infused with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and antioxidants, the tinted moisturizer delivers intense hydration and improves skin texture, all while giving your complexion a luminous glow.
NYX Professional Makeup Bare With Me Tinted Skin Veil
Want to try a tinted moisturizer, but don’t want to break the bank? Give this NYX option a try. The hydrating formula is super lightweight and ideal for achieving the no-makeup makeup look. It provides a smooth, satin finish that never feels or looks cakey. Wear this formula on its own or layer it underneath your favorite foundation.
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