Be it winter, summer or monsoon season, sunscreen is one skincare product that should always be part of your skincare routine. It can block off harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that are known to damage your skin and lead to premature ageing. What if you could get your hands on a sunscreen that works as makeup as well as a skincare product? Meet tinted sunscreen, which can provide sun protection and also improve your skin tone and give you glowing skin. This is perfect for those who are in a rush every morning but want to prioritise skin health too.
It is a type of sunscreen that contains added pigments, usually in skin-tone shades. “It offers protection against harmful UV rays while providing light coverage to even out skin tone,” says dermatologist Dr Rupika Singh. You will find a lot of things listed on the product but iron oxide and titanium dioxide are the key ingredients. Different combinations of red, black, and yellow iron oxides along with white titanium dioxide are used in a tinted sunscreen. Thanks to these ingredients, a colour blend can be achieved that matches the skin tone of the person using it. The concentration of titanium dioxide is usually between 2 and 15 percent, according to research published in ACS Omega in 2016. As for iron oxide, look for a concentration of 3.2 percent.
Like regular sunscreen, tinted sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. “It shields the skin from ageing effects caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays, such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity,” says the expert. Iron oxide in tinted sunscreen can protect against ultraviolet rays, as per research published in the International Journal Of Dermatology in 2024.
Due to the presence of iron oxide in this type of sunscreen, it can protect against blue light, emitted by smartphones, laptops, and LED lights. “Blue light may lead to hyperpigmentation and premature skin ageing, so use tinted sunscreen that acts as a barrier against it,” says Dr Singh. A 2021 study, published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, showed that tinted sunscreen containing pigments like iron oxide, has a greater protective effect against blue light compared to regular sunscreen.
This type of sunscreen is often lightweight and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores. This makes the product suitable for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin types. “It combines protection with lightweight coverage, and also reduces the risk of breakouts or skin irritation,” says the expert.
Tinted sunscreen is a multitasking product as it serves as both a skincare and cosmetic solution. “It provides the sun protection of regular sunscreen and the coverage of a sheer foundation,” says the expert. It also saves time in the morning by reducing the need for multiple layers of skincare and makeup.
Hyperpigmentation, a condition that makes skin darker after exposure to sun and blue light, can worsen without proper protection. Tinted sunscreen is beneficial for people with hyperpigmentation disorders, including melasma, as per research published in the Journal Of The American Academy Of Dermatology in 2021. “It can reduce the appearance of discolouration, and blemishes, offering a smoother, even-toned complexion,” says the expert.
This type of sunscreen is often enriched with hydrating ingredients and skin-nourishing agents. “Components like hyaluronic acid or glycerin can ensure your skin remains moisturised throughout the day. Ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide can combat free radical damage, enhancing the skin’s resilience,” says Dr Singh.
While choosing tinted sunscreen, use one with broad-spectrum and a sun protection factor of at least 30, according to research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2021.
Tinted sunscreen can provide glowing skin while offering protection from sunlight and blue light. It works as makeup and not just a skincare product, making it perfect for women who don’t have time to follow an elaborate beauty routine. Apply it regularly but perform a patch test before using it to minimise side effects such as redness, and skin irritation.
Yes, tinted sunscreen is safe and effective for daily use. It provides sun protection and light coverage, making it ideal for both casual and professional settings. Make sure to reapply every 2 to 3 hours for optimal protection.
It depends on individual preferences and needs. For those with pigmentation or uneven skin tone, tinted sunscreen is often better due to its visible light protection and cosmetic benefits. For those who prefer a bare-skin look, non-tinted sunscreen might be a better option.
Yes, tinted sunscreen is particularly beneficial for pigmentation. Its iron oxide content protects against visible light, which is a major contributor to pigmentation issues. Regular use can help prevent further darkening and even out skin tone.
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