What is a tinted moisturiser?

“A tinted moisturiser is a mixture of a moisturising day cream with a hint of makeup pigment in it. It’s designed to feel like a skincare step, but with just enough pigment to even out the skin tone without being heavy or looking like makeup,” explains Rose.

“Tinted moisturisers are lovely for days when you want a one-and-done step,” continues Rose. “You can achieve multiple things – you can add luminosity, boost hydration, even tone, include skincare ingredients that complement your skin routine – all without having to add multiple steps.” You can get tinted moisturisers with SPF or tinted sunscreens, too.

How to apply tinted moisturiser:

It’s all well and good finding the best product for your skin, but how do you actually apply tinted moisturiser? “The best time to apply tinted moisturiser is in the morning after washing your face and applying face serums if this is part of your routine,” says Carolyn Stull, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. “Those with dryer skin may choose to apply a regular moisturiser prior to tinted moisturiser, although this may not be necessary for oilier skin types. Application of tinted moisturiser can be followed by concealer for extra coverage in particular areas, bronzer, and blush.”

“They {tinted moisturisers} work most effectively when applied with the fingertips,” Rose adds. “I like to apply some to the back of my hand, then pick up the product bit by bit to build the coverage to my desired finish. This helps you to avoid applying too much and having it feel heavy or too rich.”

You might be tempted to try a sponge or a beauty blender, but Rose warns against it: “Because tinted moisturisers are so heavily skincare based, using a sponge will likely drink up most of the product.”

How to find the best tinted moisturiser for your skin type:

According to celebrity makeup artist Brandy Allen, look for key ingredients such as hyaluronic acid for hydration, SPF for sun protection, and mineral-based formulas if you prefer lighter, natural coverage.

Additionally, look for antioxidants like vitamin C for protection throughout the day against free radical damage, especially for those with mature skin, says Marisa Garshick, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology.

“Tinted moisturisers may also contain botanical extracts that heal and soothe the skin,” says Allen. But keep in mind that plant extracts and essential oils can be irritants to sensitive skin.

What’s the difference between tinted moisturiser and foundation?

As for what differentiates tinted moisturiser from other types of makeup? “Tinted moisturisers offer lighter coverage in comparison to classic foundation preparations,” says Dr. Mudgil. “They are basically a foundation and moisturiser hybrid, which are perfect for days when full-on makeup isn’t needed or desired.”

What’s the difference between tinted moisturiser and CC or BB creams?

As if the world of tinted moisturisers wasn’t confusing enough, you then have a whirlpool of letters to worry about.

“Unlike generic tinted moisturisers, which are designed to add hydration with just a touch of pigment, BB creams – or ‘Beauty Balms’ – are designed to merge these skincare effects with makeup pigments and SPF whilst still being relatively lightweight,” muses Rose when I quiz her on the matter.

“CC Creams – or ‘colour correctors’ – merge makeup, skincare and SPF with the specific intention of colour correcting any uneven tones to create a more even canvas. These tend to have slightly more pigment and coverage as they’re used to correct things like redness, pigmentation or acne.” She continues, “DD creams, or ‘Daily Defence’ creams, are the least popular. Daily defence really pertains to a cream like the others, but this time with ingredients designed to offer high SPF protection or protection against environmental aggressors with targeted ingredients like vitamin C.”

Long story short, the market is full of options. Lots of them are great, but some are also quite meh, which is why I’ve narrowed down the very best tinted moisturisers for all skin types, budgets and preferences. I’ve tried to keep this list to tinted moisturisers only, but we have more guides on the best BB creams and CC creams if you like the sound of them too.