Tinted sunscreens are timesavers because they cut the need to layer additional products before going out. Some are multitaskers because they are formulated as moisturizers or makeup primers on top of the SPF content. Depending on the formulation, you can get a dewy or matte finish. They are handy during the morning rush, whether you're off for a jog, your daily commute to work, or when running errands.
And since we live in a tropical country, sunscreens are a must. With so many choices out there, it can be daunting to choose. Don't worry, as we've prepared not only a list of the best tinted sunscreens but also a buying guide with comments from board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Meg Sison! Let's get started to find out which is the best product for you!
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Buying guides reviewed by featured experts.
Products or services listed have been independently ranked by the mybest Editorial Team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide as of 01-16-2023. Experts featured in this article did not participate in the selection and ranking process.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Knowing your skin type can be like a guessing game for some, especially if they haven't used skincare products. Furthermore, depending on your age, lifestyle, medications, and hormones, they can change as you grow older.
Normal skin is neither dry nor oily, and it's best to go with weightless fluid-textured, enriched, or creamy sunscreens that can keep your skin hydrated and balanced. If you have dry skin, go for brands with essential ceramides to retain the skin's moisture. For these skin types, look for liquid sunscreens that can give you that natural dewy look for a glowing face.
People with oily skin, more often than not, have enlarged pores and should look for gel-based and lightweight formulas. Better yet, choose a compact or powder sunscreen with an oil-free formula that you can easily pat on your face to minimize shine. This also works for combination skin since you have an oily T-zone area while the rest is dry.
If you have acne-prone skin, steer away from products with silicone, as this can build up on your skin and cause more breakouts. Go for non-comedogenic formulas or sunscreens that are solely formulated for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic products don't clog your pores and don't lead to the development of nasty whiteheads and blackheads.
Sensitive skin may react quickly to some ingredients, which can cause irritation and can also lead to dryness. Inspect the labels carefully, so you know if there are any ingredients that could cause allergic reactions, redness, or irritation. Go for products that are free of possible irritants like parabens and fragrances.
SPF means Sun Protection Factor, which is the number that indicates how much protection it provides against the harmful ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB). A high range of SPF doesn't guarantee 100% full protection on your skin if you miss small areas on your face and neck, so make sure you apply it evenly.
Dermatologists recommend that you use at least SPF 30 to ensure coverage even if you stay for a little while under the sun, as it can block 97% of UVB rays. However, if you are exposed for a longer period of time outside, a higher rating like SPF 50 gives you defense at 98%.
There are also some products, especially Japanese skincare brands, that indicate the level of sun protection through PA ratings with plus signs. The plus signs indicate how strong the product's defense against UVA rays is. The more plus signs you see on a product's label, the more sun protection it can offer.
Finding the right color that matches your skin tone is tricky, especially if you are buying online. While most brands and sellers provide swatches and shades, the most you can do is to follow your hunch and hope you get lucky or visit a physical store to test it straight on your skin and then buy it online to save more.
Some brands only offer one shade, which is typically formulated to adapt to your skin tone. For example, the local brand Belo uses iron oxide in their Tone Adapt Technology in moisturizers and sunscreens. On the other hand, some other brands offer three shades - fair, medium, and deep - to suit a wider range of skin colors.
It can be tempting to buy from a brand that claims that their sunscreen is waterproof. Well, don't be fooled by these advertising campaigns and tactics! Unfortunately, there's no such thing as a waterproof and sweatproof product. In fact, the FDA has already banned these kinds of labels in their rules in an effort to protect consumers from these misleading claims.
What you should look for in a legitimate sunscreen instead is that its degree of water resistance, which indicates how much time a consumer can expect to stay protected while doing physical activities like swimming, surfing, or working out. Brands now specify water resistance through time indicators, such as "40 minutes or 80 minutes water-resistant" in their labels.
Tinted sunscreen is an investment, and you will surely shell out hundred of bucks to make sure you get all the protection you need every day. So, why not make your investment even more worthwhile? Look for other ingredients that provide additional skincare benefits.
Inorganic sunscreens are also called physical sunscreens with active ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. They physically block and deflect UV rays between the sun and the surface of your skin. They act as physical barriers, sitting on top of the skin. If you're not using a tinted version, they often leave a white cast on your face.
However, these two provide the ultimate defense for UVA and UVB rays. Thus, brands include them together in their formulations to produce broad-spectrum sunscreens. Another benefit of titanium dioxide is its non-comedogenic property, which is good news for people with oily and acne-prone skin.
Tinted sunscreens are also formulated with humectants that retain moisture in your skin. Examples of this are hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Think of them as magnets that attract water, which is also good for people with dry, sensitive, and combination skin types.
Niacinamide or vitamin B3 strengthens your skin's barrier and produces ceramides to rehydrate your skin and improve its look. Some tinted sunscreens may serve both as your sunscreen and moisturizer as well, but make sure you still re-apply every two hours.
Tinted sunscreens are formulated with moisturizing agents and antioxidants to give you healthy and improved skin while protecting you against UV rays. You will see vitamin E and vitamin C on the label, while some brands also include Centella Asiatica, an extract that boosts antioxidant activity and is known for its wound-healing ability.
Plant extracts rich in antioxidants are also included in the formulation, such as Senna Alata that can defend your skin against damaging free radicals. Bisabolol and willow bark extract are used to calm irritated skin.
One of the best ways to verify the effectiveness and authenticity of the product is through customer reviews on online shops and recommendations from skin experts and influencers. Browse through the reviews sections and check out the comments, especially those from customers who have the same skin type as yours.
Remember that tinted sunscreens are not equally formulated. While some customers may claim satisfaction with a product, you may not necessarily have the same results. Lastly, when in doubt, you may also consult with a dermatologist to ask for recommendations on the best sunscreen that matches your skin type.
This hydrating mineral sunscreen gives you a beautiful glow without the white cast. With an SPF 30 rating, it gives you UVA/UVB protection and seamlessly blends into your skin for a natural finish with or without makeup. This non-greasy sheer tint sunscreen is suitable for sensitive skin because it's free of parabens and fragrances.
CeraVe loves including ceramides and niacinamide in its moisturizers and sunscreens, and this product isn't an exception. These two ingredients work together to hydrate the skin and keep it fresh. On top of that, this sunscreen uses titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as barriers against the sun's rays.
This product has the Skin Cancer Foundation Daily Use Seal of Approval and is packed in a 50-ml tube that's easy to carry in your bag or pouch. Apply this freely onto your face and neck 15 minutes before going out and re-apply every two hours.
This locally sold tinted sunscreen by vlogger and influencer Anna-Cay Villalobos is one of the best-selling products online that matches your Filipina skin. It's available in three shades - light, medium, and deep - to cater to different Pinay skin tones. It's lightweight and easily blends well into your face, offering enough coverage that you won't need a concealer at all!
Sun protection is assured with a combination of mineral and chemical ingredients like titanium dioxide and octinoxate. This has SPF 50 protection and is suitable for all skin types. It also comes in a small tube with a handy airless pump to dispense just the right amount of product you need.
Best of all, this product contains holy grail skincare ingredients like vitamin C, Centella Asiatica extract, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Customers who tried this claimed that it offers good coverage for the face, and the shades adapt to their skin color. According to them, they will most likely buy for the second time because of how satisfied they are with the results.
This tinted sunscreen is paraben-free, oil-free, and lightweight, making it a perfect choice for people who struggle with acne, hyperpigmentation, and rosacea. With an SPF 46 rating, this does the job of protecting your skin adequately. The light and silky texture also make it easy to blend on your skin.
It is also loaded with humectants like niacinamide, which reduces redness and hydrates dry or damaged skin. Additionally, it contains hyaluronic acid to help trap moisture and keep your skin supple. This product is non-comedogenic, so you won't have to worry about getting pimples with this!
Aside from its moisturizing benefits, this product appeals to many users because of its sheer universal tint shade, which works well with a variety of skin tones. It's also available in a non-tinted version packed in a small bottle with a pump on top, so the liquid doesn't spill and leak. For best use, apply this for 15 minutes on your face and neck before sun exposure.
From ₱799
This product doesn't only work as a sunscreen, but also as a gel primer. With a universal shade that adapts to most skin types, it's no wonder that this sunscreen has a loyal following. It offers SPF 50 and also has iron oxides that protect your skin from damaging blue light from your devices. Moreover, it has a PA triple-plus rating, which means it provides extremely high protection against UVA rays.
This sets clear on your skin and is mask-proof, although you need to let it sit for 30 seconds before you put on the mask. Aside from the titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, it has hyaluronic acid for a boost of hydration. It's also formulated with ceramides that strengthen your skin's barrier against environmental aggressors and pollution.
No need to worry about skin irritation, too! This is silicone-free and fragrance-free, which makes it suitable for all skin types. It's also non-comedogenic, so it won't clog your pores. Customers who bought this claimed it's refreshing on the face, has a nice shade, and has a dewy effect.
Eco-warriors and vegans can finally have a great time under the sun with this tinted sunscreen. This cruelty-free and reef-friendly option has three categories of shades that cater to different skin types - fair to light, medium to tan, and rich to deep.
It's also formulated with Kakadu Plum, a native Australian fruit that is a great antioxidant and is rich in vitamin C. On top of that, it has vitamin A and E, which are essential nutrients for the skin. This product is also paraben-free, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic, so it's great for sensitive skin.
If you're looking for a tinted sunscreen that can minimize the appearance of uneven skin and improve your complexion, this is an excellent option. You get SPF 50 broad spectrum protection with a matte finish. It's also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, perfect for morning jogs or trips to the beach!
Looking for a tinted sunscreen that will give that fresh look? Look no further as this blk cosmetics Daydream Tinted Sunscreen, has you covered! It boasts SPF 50 PA+++ for the ultimate protection from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays.
This has a lightweight texture that doesn't feel greasy or malagkit upon and after application. In fact, it leaves your skin a matte yet not flat finish. It's also very easy to blend so application is a breeze! You'll also be pleased to know that this tinted sunscreen is fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic, making it safe even for those with sensitive skin.
This tinted sunscreen powder from Belo has a lot going for it. It has SPF 30 that's handy for your touch-ups while on the go and leaves a soft and matte finish on your skin. And thanks to its innovative Tone Adapt Technology, this product easily adjusts to your skin tone. It also blends well and is non-cakey, so you can be assured of looking fresh all day.
Not only does it protect you against harmful UV rays, but it's also formulated with iron oxides that block blue light from computers and devices. And despite being in powder form, it is talc-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic - perfect even for sensitive skin!
This product comes with a free 10-ml tube of Belo's Liquid Tinted Sunscreen, too. You can choose to apply this instead 15 minutes before you go out, then use the powder for easy touch-ups. Either way, you get superior sun protection!
This locally-made tinted sunscreen is very affordable and perfect for daily use. It's packed in a small mess-free tube with a pump at the bottom and a cap to secure the contents inside and prevent spills. It's formulated with SPF 50 with an active ingredient, titanium dioxide, to defend your skin against harmful UVA/UVB rays.
This cream-tinted sunscreen is available in three shades such as fair, medium, and deep. Packed with nourishing ingredients and antioxidants like Centella Asiatica and niacinamide, this is great for healing wounds and skin irritations, as well as for improving fine lines, uneven tone, and dullness. Meanwhile, the sunflower oil in its formulation helps to give your skin a natural radiance and glow.
Customers who bought this shared mixed reviews, with some claiming that it feels a bit heavy and would need a sponge to blend it well. Others claim it's light on the skin and doesn't cause breakouts even after a few weeks of use. Nevertheless, this product offers a great deal with its low price tag and numerous skin benefits.
Are you having trouble finding the perfect match for your skin tone? It's time to stop searching. Here's a 100%-mineral sunscreen available in 15 shades to blend with a wide range of skin tones. This oil-free color-correcting cream with an SPF 50 allows you to find the right shade while covering skin imperfections, blemishes, and unwanted spots.
It has a formula of 4% titanium dioxide and 20% zinc oxide as your ultra defense against the UVA/UVB rays. Other ingredients you'll find inside the mess-free tube are pure vitamin E that gives significant photoprotection against the UVB rays and sodium hyaluronate, a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated as well.
You can use this sunscreen and cream in one as base makeup or apply it without makeup for a natural glow. Apply this 15 minutes before sun exposure and re-apply for every two hours or as needed if possible, especially if you sweat a lot.
From ₱3,915
This premium 100% mineral, tinted sunscreen gives you broad-spectrum protection with titanium dioxide as its active ingredient. It comes in a lightweight, matte finish fluid that blends smoothly on your face, giving you that healthy glow without the white residues.
It's non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and ideal for active people because it's water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. It has Senna Alata, a tropical leaf extract and antioxidant, to protect your skin against free radicals that can cause early signs of aging on your face.
If you're happy to splurge on a luxurious tinted sunscreen that has 100% mineral UV filters for your everyday tasks and errands, this is a great option. Before applying this on your skin, make sure you shake it first and then squeeze it a little bit until the fluid comes out.
Want to maximize the use of your tinted sunscreen more? Read down below as Dr. Meg Sison gives her insights on the frequently asked questions about tinted sunscreens.
The recommended amount of sunscreen to be applied is 2mg/cm2. Most adults need about 1 ounce—or enough to fill a shot glass—to fully cover their entire body. Don't forget to apply to the tops of your feet, your neck, your ears, and the top of your head, as these are the areas we frequently miss.
It is recommended to reapply every 2 hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
You can use sponge applicators, cushion puffs, or brush sunscreen to reapply sunscreen throughout the day without removing your makeup. Make sure that these are washed regularly every week.
Because skincare is also a form of self-love, don't forget to check these wonderful items that are skincare specialists have reviewed so far. Looking for toners, serums, and moisturizers? We got you covered.
Author: Maria Krisette Capati-Lim
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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