Skincare and makeup enthusiasts alike want to know – what is tinted moisturizer used for?
More importantly, can it replace foundation?
As someone with acne prone skin that prefers light coverage that won’t clog pores, I’ll tell ya.
I 100% prefer tinted moisturizer to foundation.
What is a tinted moisturizer?

Tinted moisturizer evens out your skin tone and keeps your skin hydrated at the same time.
If you do your skincare right and use tinted moisturizer, this should be enough for glowing skin.
The skin tint in tinted moisturizers evens out your skin tone.
What use tinted moisturizer?
Moisturizers with a skin tint provide more coverage for skin imperfections than regular moisturizer. This type of beauty balm can be great for sensitive skin!
Just a hint of color is all you need if you take care of your skin properly!
Tinted Moisturizer Benefits
You can think of tinted moisturizer like a face lotion with hydrating ingredients, a natural finish, and extra coverage compared to regular moisturizers.
Tinted moisturizers play double duty to protect your skin and cover up blemishes unlike standard complexion products.
Tinted Moisturizer with SPF

My personal favorite type of moisturizers are those tinted and with SPF. I like a matte finish and the extra sun protection.
Since SPF is just moisturizer with UV filters in it anyways, a pea sized amount isn’t enough!
I’ll spread a layer all over my face, neck, and the back of my hands for ample coverage.
Foundation vs. Tinted Moisturizer

Foundation
If you want fuller coverage, you’ll want to apply a foundation instead of cc creams (less coverage) after your moisturizer.
Difference Between Tinted Moisturizer and Foundation
You need to moisturize before makeup. That’s non negotiable for beautiful skin.
Moisturizer has skin benefiting ingredients and controls excess oils. Without it, your skin can’t function properly with makeup on.
Is Tinted Moisturizer Better Than Foundation?
Yes. Foundation has a tendency to clog pores and doesn’t work for every skin type.
Plus, you’ll need a makeup brush, foundation brush, or makeup sponge to apply it.
Also, foundation often doesn’t settle well for skin types like mature skin or dry skin because their skin’s surface is not as smooth.
Tinted Moisturizers and Other Makeup

Tinted moisturizer can replace your makeup routine if you prefer your skin to have a natural radiant glow.
However, regular moisturizers can also complement it for all the makeup artists out there!
Setting Powder
A makeup artist will apply this gentle in circular motions on top of your makeup. This keeps it oil free and set all day!
Setting Spray
Setting spray works similarly to powder, but it’ll give you more of a dewy glow similar to moisturizers.
Concealer
Concealer can be an alternative to foundation, or you can wear it underneath foundation if you want full coverage.
It has more coverage than a regular skin tint or tinted moisturizers.
You can also wear it over tinted moisturizers to even out your complexion.
BB Cream and CC Cream

BB creams and CC creams are skin tints with sheer coverage. You can use them for light coverage in place of foundation.
They’ll all also give you a bit of that dewy glow.
Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to wash off tinted moisturizer?
At night, yes. Check out my Stratia Velvet Cleansing Milk Review if you’re looking for a good face wash.
Is tinted moisturizer good for your skin?
Yes! Even if it’s not oil free, a tinted moisturizer will even out your complexion and protect your skin.
A medium coverage moisturizer with small amounts of skin loving ingredients like:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Jojoba oil
- Shea butter
are great for all skin tones.
What is the best tinted moisturizer?

The one you’ll wear! Personally, I like the CeraVe Mineral SPF ($17) as a tinted moisturizer with sun protection.
What are other good moisturizers?
There are so many that I love! Check out my Top 3 La Roche Posay Creams Review and Stratia Interface Review.