Sunscreen is a daily essential for all skin types that helps minimize the effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Its purpose is to prevent sunburn, skin damage, and ultimately reduce the risk of skin cancer. While is protects, it reduces the development of fine lines and wrinkles, dryness, dark spots, and enhances radiance. But did you know that certain formulas can go a step above? As a time-saving, complexion-booster tinted sunscreen ticks a lot of boxes for sun protection with perks. Now that sunnier days are officially ahead it’s an ideal time to find a SPF you’ll look forward to applying every morning, and a tinted face sunscreen is just the type of overachieving formula that deserves serious consideration.
What is Tinted Sunscreen?
There are two types of sunscreen filters on the Canadian market that are commonly referred to as chemical and mineral formulas. They each provide protection from the sun, but work in different ways. Chemical sunscreens use active ingredients, such as avobenzone, that have an ability to absorb UV rays and convert them to heat which is released by the body. Mineral sunscreens, also called physical sunscreens, use the active ingredients titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide which can create a physical barrier on skin’s surface that reflects and scatters UV rays.
While highly effective at providing UV protection, both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide can be tricky to formulate into an easy-to-wear sunscreen. In powder form they are naturally opaque white and when blended into a lotion or cream they can create a chalky residue that leaves a white, gray or purple cast on skin. A tinted face sunscreen is usually a mineral sunscreen formula that contains some skin tone-like pigment to counteract and eliminate an unsightly white cast.
What are the Benefits of Tinted Sunscreen?
There’s a solid list of reasons why many people fall in love with tinted mineral sunscreen. First and foremost, they offer a high level of protection from damaging UVA and UVB rays. Exposure to the sun can lead to free radical damage in the skin which breaks down collagen, triggers excess melanin production and depletes hydration levels. They’re also a popular pick for complexion enhancement. Imagine a tinted moisturizer with SPF, aka a hybrid of makeup and protective skin care that gives you the best of both worlds in one product. Vivier SHEER SPF 30 Mineral Tinted Sunscreen features 10% titanium dioxide and 8% zinc oxide, plus ChromaTint technology that adapts and blends into your skin to create a flawless glow on most skin tones. You can expect complexion coverage that’s sheer, natural and radiant along with UV protection. A tinted mineral sunscreen is also versatile. It doesn’t replace foundation, but it will quickly and effortlessly even out your skin tone and smooth imperfections, which makes it ideal for use on its own to achieve a no-makeup look. And, if you are stepping up your glam, it also creates a perfect base for any additional makeup you want to wear on top.
Lastly, if you have sensitive or reactive skin, you’re also likely to become a fast fan of a tinted face sunscreen. While chemical sunscreens can be irritating for those with fragile complexions (a stinging sensation is a common complaint), mineral sunscreens are often strongly recommended by dermatologists for anyone with skin that is sensitive, easily inflamed, or reactive. If you’ve tried a traditional mineral formula in the past but weren’t pleased with the way it looked on your face, a tinted version could be a perfect match. Blended with a dash of cosmetic colour, skin can benefit from the power of mineral filters while remaining soothed and looking naturally beautiful at the same time.
How to Use Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
You should apply tinted mineral sunscreen as the last step in your skin care routine every morning, after applying an antioxidant serum and moisturizer. It’s important to protect skin from the sun daily. Exposure to UV rays occurs 365 days a year through all seasons and types of weather – even on overcast days. UV rays can also penetrate windows, so you’re still getting exposure when you’re indoors or any time you’re in a car. Lastly, UV damage to the skin accumulates (which is why dark spots tend to pop up on mature skin), so it’s best to protect your skin now to keep it healthy-looking in the future.
A great SPF is the best anti-aging tool you can get your hands on – but only if you love it and use it daily. Whether you want a luminous complexion boost or need the best SPF for sensitive skin, it’s time to tap into all that tinted sunscreen has a lot to offer.
