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What is a Skin Tint & How to Use it

What is a Skin Tint & How to Use it

Using complexion makeup doesn’t have to be a big commitment with a full coverage foundation: it can well be just as easy as applying a moisturizer. Skin tints bring another option of effortless makeup to improve the complexion with a ultra natural feel. But what is a skin tint? We’re answering this and other pertinent questions about this straightforward beauty product.

What is a skin tint?

Skin tint is an easy-to-apply complexion makeup that combines sheer coverage with a hydrating formula. A skin tint means to be the solution for those seeking an uncomplicated makeup step that perfects the complexion while keeping a no-makeup makeup look that feels natural. They’re lightweight, easy-going and the perfect ally to enhance the radiance of the skin on a daily basis.

Is skin tint the same as foundation? Is it the same as a BB or CC?

If we think from a broader viewpoint, the foundation is a product type that shelters all complexion-perfecting makeup; to some extent, we may even consider a skin tint a type of foundation.

However, if you take a closer look at all the different types of complexion makeup, you’ll see that the word “foundation” is mostly used with those complexion products that are created to deliver some sort of coverage to the skin. In short, “foundation” refers to those products that were born to make your complexion look perfected and evened out. On the other hand, a different wave of products has been blooming in the last decade: skin-perfecting formulas like tinted moisturizers, BB creams, CC creams, and skin tints. These formulas are hybrids that combine perfecting pigments with other actives and ingredients that provide the skin with an extra something besides the pigments.

Now that we’ve seen the difference between foundation and skin-perfecting formulas, let’s dive deeper to find the differences between products that are as similar as brothers can be: skin tints and BB or CC creams. Even though they end up delivering pretty comparable results, they’re conceptually distinct. BB and CC creams present themselves as an alternative to foundation that also provides skincare benefits and protects the skin at the same time (with the CC cream having the extra role of counteracting color-related imperfections). On the other hand, a skin tint is presented as an effortless, natural-looking tinted cream that hydrates the skin while delivering a sheer tint that evens out the skin in the most natural way.

Should mature skin use foundation or skin tint?

A skin tint is a great option for those with post-menopausal skin. They’re sheer and lightweight, ideal for delivering the extra hydration that mature skin loves. Containing lightweight pigments, these formulas tend to not deposit on lines and wrinkles, creating a flattering effect. These formulas are ideal for replenishing mature skin with radiance while creating a sheer perfecting veil.

How to apply skin tint?

Skin tints are the easiest complexion makeup to apply: you can apply it directly with your hands. All you have to do is massage it from the center of the face outwards, creating a lightweight complexion-perfecting veil. If you’d rather use a brush or a sponge, just go for it! Skin tints are a versatile product that adjusts to your preferred application method and tool. Just make sure to blend it well and you’ll love the fresh result!

Can you use concealer with skin tint?

Yes, definitely. As skin tints won’t offer much coverage, you can use your concealer to hide imperfections like dark spots and dark circles. Using a concealer on top of the tint instead of a fuller coverage foundation, you’re making sure that the skin is lightly covered all over and you only get the higher coverage where your skin really needs it.

Do you put powder over skin tint?

That’s totally up to you! But we can help you decide: if you have combination to oily skin, you may find a few shiny areas after a couple of hours of wear. In that case, a mattifying powder should be helpful to keep excess shine away as well as to set the makeup for longer. On the other hand, if your skin is on the dry side and you usually don’t need powder to set your complexion makeup, then you can keep on skipping it!

Our top 5 best skin tints

As you can see, skin tints are a great makeup solution to perfect the complexion on a daily basis. If you’re willing to give them a try, we leave you with our top 5 best skin tints!

Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Tint SPF20

The long-wearing one

Featuring an impressive amount of 70% skincare ingredients, this tint does more to your skin than just beautifying it. It provides the skin with 24 hours of hydration, quenching its thirst while granting a natural skin-like finish that lasts up to 12 hours. Water, shine, and transfer-resistant as well as crease-proof, this is the lightweight formula that grants a natural result that lasts and looks fresh all day long.


Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Serum Skin Tint

The professional grade one

With a mission to improve skin health and appearance, this tint leaves the skin visibly hydrated, smooth, and luminous after each mess-free application. Combining hyaluronic acid with vegan squalane and vegan collagen peptides, this tint helps smooth texture and plump fine lines, all the while strengthening, repairing, and protecting the skin barrier. That’s incredible news considering you’re applying a makeup product!


essence Skin Tint SPF30

The affordable one

Get yourself a natural radiant complexion without breaking the bank: with essence, that won’t be a problem. Each application is a guarantee of supple and hydrated skin, as this tint evens out the complexion while delivering the much-needed boost of hydration. Natural and long-lasting, the formula stays on your skin all day long without ever feeling heavy or cakey. Will you give it a go?


Freshly Cosmetics Shield 360 Skin Tint

The fragrant one

For those seeking ultra-light coverage, this skin tint is the answer! Combining extra lightweight coverage with SPF30, antioxidants, and moisturizing actives, this face shield provides a smoother and radiant complexion that feels and looks natural. Extra fluid and buildable, you can apply one layer or build more until you have the desired result. You may consider it your beauty serum that does it all with a fresh fruity scent.


Maybelline Super Stay 24h Skin Tint Foundation

The antioxidant one

When your skin tint meets vitamin C, there you have the ultimate radiance booster. This long-lasting tint blends vitamin Cg with luminous pigments to grant the results you’ve been dreaming about. Each drop provides you with sheer coverage that perfects the complexion while fueling the skin with hydrating and brightening actives. Plus, you’ll get all of this magic with 24 hours of comfortable wear!


If you fancy complexion makeup with light coverage, then take a look at our selection of BB creams for sensitive skin.


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