WHAT IS SKIN TINT? USES, BENEFITS, AND HOW IT DIFFERS FROM FOUNDATION

What is skin tint?

A skin tint is a lightweight alternative to traditional foundation that provides a ‘tint’ of pigment on the complexion. Think of a skin tint as a fusion between makeup and skincare, providing sheer to light coverage in a serum-like texture.

Many skin tints are enriched with hydrating skincare ingredients, which give the skin a dewy glow that mimics the appearance of bare skin. Known hydrators like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are commonly formulated in skin tints, along with brightening ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin C to amplify radiance.

You may also find some skin tints are formulated with SPF for sun protection – although this should never replace your dedicated sunscreen.

What is skin tint used for?

A skin tint is used for evening out skin tone and adding a touch of skin-like colour while boosting your complexion’s luminosity. The lighter coverage of a skin tint allows your natural skin to peep through, which makes it perfect for:

• 'No makeup’ makeup looks
• Hot, humid climates where makeup can get cakey fast
• Dry skin that’s prone to flaky patches
• Days where you want minimal coverage – like a work day

Skin tint vs foundation

Technically, a skin tint falls under the category of ‘foundation’, but there are a number of key differences. So, what is skin tint like compared to foundation? Let’s find out.

• Consistency: As far as face products go, a skin tint has the thinnest liquid consistency compared to foundation, CC creams, BB creams, and tinted moisturisers.
• Coverage: Skin tints are sheer to light coverage, designed to be less detectable on the skin. On the other hand, foundations can be light, medium, or full coverage.
• Longevity: While skin tints generally offer lasting radiance, foundations are the more long-wear option of the two.
• Finish: Thanks to their serum-adjacent consistency, skin tints have a dewy-like finish, whereas foundations can be dewy, matte, satin, or even semi-matte.

Skin tint benefits

If you’re seeking a comfortable, skin-like base as an alternative to full-coverage makeup looks, there are ample skin tint benefits.

• Provides a natural, sheer look: You can enjoy a more uniform skin tone that doesn’t mask the look of real skin.
• Has a lightweight, breathable feel: Skin tints sit comfortably on the skin, making them perfect for everyday wear and light coverage days.
• Supports the complexion: Many skin tint formulas are enriched with skin-loving ingredients that brighten, hydrate, and protect your skin.
• Easy to blend and apply: A lightweight, serum-like consistency ensures skin tints are easy to blend and apply without leaving streaks or heavy lines.
• Perfect for layering: Just one layer can give you glowing skin, but you can also build up gradually for a touch more coverage.
• Well-suited to dry and sensitive skin: While all skin types can embrace a skin tint, dry and sensitive skin types benefit most from a skin tint’s nourishing skincare ingredients and dewy finish.

Is skin tint right for you?

So, you have an idea of what skin tint is used for – but how can you tell if it’s right for you? Armani beauty’s National Face Designer Jason Branigan shares his insights on how to choose foundation for your skin:

“I always start with three main considerations – your skin type, desired finish, and the level of coverage you need. Skin tints are a natural fit for complexions prone to dryness, but they’re also lightweight enough for those with excess oil. And, if you’re someone who favours a dewy feel and breathability over high coverage, a skin tint is the product for you.”

You can enjoy skin tint benefits alongside long-wear, lightweight coverage with Armani beauty’s Skin Tint Longwear & Care. Delivering up to 24 hours of wear, this skin tint provides low to medium coverage, unifies skin tone, plumps and smooths skin, and boosts luminosity for a ‘golden hour’ effect. The 92% silk-like serum formula is infused with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate and brighten all skin types.

How to apply skin tint in 5 simple steps

Applying a skin tint is like applying a foundation – but you can blend your formula with even fewer tools while still achieving a seamless finish. Follow our step-by-step guide for how.

1. Prep your skin for a flawless makeup base using the Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer. This will help support hydration and smooth the skin surface for more even application.
2. Use either your fingers or a damp beauty blender to apply your skin tint. Take one to two pumps onto the back of your hand.
3. Apply your formula from the centre of your face (nose, cheeks, forehead), blending outwards towards your ears and jawline using gentle tapping or pressing motions – this will give you a natural, streak-free finish.
4. If you have any blemishes, redness or discolorations that you wish to correct, you can apply the Luminous Silk Lightweight Liquid Concealer for any areas you want more coverage.
5. At the end of your makeup routine (once you’ve added blush, mascara, and brow products) mist your complexion with a setting spray. This will keep your makeup in place for longer, while maintaining a dewy, fresh appearance.

Now that you’re well-versed on skin tint’s benefits and uses, find out how to choose a foundation colour that matches your skin tone and undertone.