An SPF 50 facial sunscreen will always be the top priority for those of us with pale skin. As a Scottish native, I burn easily and it takes me a while to develop a natural tan on my face. Luckily, dermatologist research has advanced and new categories of tinted SPF 50 sunscreen are dominating the market.
A tinted sunscreen provides more advantages than just essential sun protection; the tinted base helps to even out skin tone to enhance our skin and look dewy in the sun! With the right product, we can all achieve 2-in-1 protection and create the illusion of a naturally tanned complexion. Win-win, right?
From dermatologist research, we have found that an SPF 50, compared to SPF 20 or 30, offers a higher level of protection and is best for those that are fair-skinned or at higher risk for skin cancer. However, it is advised that further sun protection from clothing, sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats is also important, especially for those with fair skin.
Tinted vs. Untinted SPF 50
The core difference between tinted and untinted SPF 50 sunscreen is simply the colour. Standard sunscreen is white and is not intended to enhance the complexion. On the other hand, tinted sunscreens include pigments that have a similar effect as make-up on the skin. This can also be used instead of concealer to cover acne or blemishes.
Iron oxides and pigmentary titanium dioxide are used in various combinations and amounts in tinted sunscreens to block out visible light. To accommodate all skin phototypes, various ratios of iron oxides and pigmentary titanium dioxide can be used to provide a wide range of tinted sunscreen hues.
Ultimately it is not a one size fits all approach and it’s important to do your research and find a sunscreen that suits you. Other factors such as skin type should also be considered before purchasing. Read on to find out how to search for the best-tinted sunscreen for you.
Top SPF 50 Tinted Sunscreens 2022
- Best For Value: Altruist Dermatologist Anti Redness and Pigmentation SPF50 Tinted Face Cream
- Best For Oily Skin: La-Roche Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Tinted SPF50+, 50ml
- Best For Dry Skin: ISDIN Fusion Water Color SPF 50 (Medium) 50ml , Tinted daily facial sun cream
- Best For Anti-Ageing and Sun Spots: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Dark Spot Sun Defense Sunscreen SPF 50
- Best For Travel: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50
- Best Alternative Sun Protection for Over Make-Up: Garnier Ambre Solaire Over Makeup Super UV Protection Mist SPF 50
Altruist Dermatologist Anti Redness and Pigmentation SPF50 Tinted Face Cream
Best for Value – Recommended Tinted SPF 50 Sunscreen
50 ml, unscented, universal tint color and creamy texture.
Altruist is the number 1 selling sunscreen brand on Amazon offering high quality and low price. It was founded by a dermatologist who specialises in skin cancer.
The product is an SPF 50 tinted face cream, containing special pigments, providing an instant concealing effect, making skin look more even-toned, neutralizing redness, and blending out uneven pigmentation.
The tinted face cream offers broad-spectrum protection including high-energy blue light, 5-star ultra UVA and visible light filters to reduce the risk of further irritation and uneven pigmentation – the addition of iron oxides helps prevent the worsening of hormonally induced pigmentation (e.g. melasma). Suitable for all skin types; fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and vegan friendly.
Altruist Dermatologist Anti Redness and Pigmentation SPF50 Tinted Face Cream – £18.74
La-Roche Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Tinted SPF50+, 50ml
Best For Oily Skin: Recommended Tinted SPF 50 Sunscreen
50 ml, dry-touch gel, universal tint colour.
This product is recommended for oily skin because of its dry-touch texture that is subtly tinted to provide pale skin with a natural glow. It immediately mattifies and protects the skin and does not clog pores or increase shine. It also prevents future breakouts and is waterproof!
We recently wrote a blog on the benefits of La-Roche Posay for acne-prone skin which includes this product. Not only does the tinted SPF enhance pale skin but can be incorporated as part of an acne skincare routine. All products are dermatologist approved and we ourselves are very loyal customers!
La-Roche Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Tinted SPF50+, 50ml – £18
ISDIN Fusion Water Color SPF 50 (Medium) 50ml, Tinted daily facial sun cream
Best For Dry Skin: Recommended Tinted SPF Suscreen
50 ml, oil base, universal tint colour.
This product is the only tinted facial sunscreen with an oil-in-water base, with an ultra-light texture that absorbs immediately. The oil texture makes it perfect for people with pale, dry skin.
The sunscreen provides natural coverage. Very high protection UVA and UVB. From the product description, it is also made clear that it does not sting eyes.
The product absorbs quickly and does not feel greasy on the skin. Suitable
ISDIN Fusion Water Color SPF 50 (Medium) 50ml, Tinted daily facial sun cream – £21.68
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Dark Spot Sun Defense Sunscreen SPF 50
Best For Anti-Ageing and Sun Spots: Recommended Tinted SPF 50 Suscreen
50 ml, creamy texture, not tinted (we know)
This product is too good not to be featured on our list! Although it is not tinted, we can vouch for the impact it has had on our skin. We have written a full review on this product here and recommend giving it a read.
For a tanning effect, you can add pigment drops to the cream in order to enhance your glow. For anyone suffering from sun spots there is no better product and the active ingredients can help improve overall skin texture.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Dark Spot Sun Defense Sunscreen SPF 50 – £59.97
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50
Best For Travel: Recommended Tinted SPF 50 Suscreen
50 ml, light-weight cream texture universal tint colour.
This product is ultra-long wear and therefore great for traveling as frequent re-application is not required.
The sunscreen offers an invisible finish with added pigmentation to enhance face glow. It is suitable for sensitive skin and can also be applied around the eyes without causing any stinging. You can learn more about La Roche-Posay here.
The product absorbs quickly and does not feel greasy on the skin.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50 – £16.80
