Beauty

How to apply tinted moisturiser, according to a pro makeup artist

That glow, though.
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Matteo Scarpellini

From avoiding uneven coverage to midday shine, learning how to apply tinted moisturiser properly is key to achieving a fresh, natural-looking base. The hybrid complexion product is known for giving glowy, light to medium coverage while also delivering major skin care benefits (you’ll often see ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, and niacinamide listed on the bottle). But how do you apply tinted moisturiser for the best makeup day possible?

We asked celebrity makeup artist and on-air beauty expert Neil Scibelli all your complexion questions, including exactly how to apply tinted moisturiser, how to choose the perfect formula for your skin, and more. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to radiant, lit-from-within skin that lasts all day long and leaves your skin feeling moisturised. Ahead, our step-by-step breakdown on how to apply tinted moisturiser.

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How do you choose the right tinted moisturiser for you?

With a wealth of tinted moisturisers on the market (we’re talking liquids, sticks, and balms, formulas with SPF, formulas for mature skin, lightweight skin tints – the list goes on), how do you determine which is the right one for you? First up, remember that this isn’t a full-coverage foundation. Instead, think of it as “your skin but better” and expect a natural finish. You might still see some texture, but it’ll even out your skin tone, add a little tint, and deliver a good dose of moisture.

Next, make sure you know what your skin type is. “Each product will offer a unique formula and a specific finish,” says Scibelli. “Understanding your skin and what the product offers will help you make the right decision when purchasing.” If you have dry skin, any tinted moisturiser is going to give you that hydration your skin’s craving, but specifically looking for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or squalane will really do the trick. Sensitive skin types will appreciate nourishing ingredients like niacinamide or ceramides. Oilier skin types should opt for a mattifying or gel formula to keep shine at bay.

Most important, make sure you’re asking yourself what you really want in a tinted moisturiser. Does your skin need extra moisture? Is SPF a main factor for you? These are all questions Scibelli says to think about.

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Unisex Healthy Glow Hydrating Tint

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Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser Spf 30/pa+++

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser

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Clinique Moisture Surge SPF25 Sheertint Hydrator

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Halo Glow Skin Tint SPF 50


What is the best way to apply a tinted moisturiser?

1. Prep your skin

Of course, you want to start any makeup routine with a clean face. You can even think of this as an extension of your skin care routine. If you like using a serum, moisturiser, or primer, go in with one of those first, followed by your SPF (always!). Though some tinted moisturisers do have sunscreen in them, you’re likely not applying enough on your skin to get the full sun protection value. So for extra protection, add your favourite sunscreen to your routine. Then it’s time for the star of the show: your tinted moisturiser.

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Tinted Serum BFF De-Stress

2. Apply tinted moisturiser with a brush, sponge, or your fingers.

Start by putting a small amount of tinted moisturiser (you can always add more) either on the back of your hand or directly onto your face. Grab your favourite foundation brush or makeup sponge, or even use your fingers to rub it in. “I’ll typically apply a tinted moisturiser with a synthetic foundation brush first to distribute the product evenly,” says Scibelli. He focuses on layering, building from light coverage to fuller coverage as needed.

Apply in upward and circular motions. “I typically apply a tinted moisturiser in an upward motion,” he says. If you have some hyperpigmentation, breakouts, blemishes, or dark circles you want to cover up or want some extra brightening power, this is where a concealer steps in: “Then I’ll go in with a concealer and conceal any spots that are peeking through the tinted moisturiser,” he says.

If you prefer lighter and more sheer coverage, “sponges can be a great option,” he says, as makeup sponges can soak up some of the product. “You can also do a final blend with a sponge once you've initially applied the tinted moisturiser to your skin, if needed,” he says, which helps diffuse the product for an airbrushed, skin-like finish.

Robyn Eugene testing the Kosas Revealer Super Creamy and Brightening Concealer.

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Kosas Revealer Super Creamy and Brightening Concealer

Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush

**Denise Primbet using the Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush. **

3. Set with a powder.

Wondering if you should top your tinted moisturiser with a setting powder or not? It depends on your skin type and what you're looking for in your makeup. “Applying a powder over a tinted moisturiser is something I recommend to anyone who is looking to set their makeup for longer wear, for a slightly less dewy finish, or to control oil in their T-zone,” says Scibelli.

If you decide to set with a powder, use it sparingly. “I personally like to target where the powder is going so the skin still looks multidimensional,” Scibelli says. “I typically will powder more of the centre of the face, like the centre of the brows and around the nose and mouth area.” This way your face won’t look too matte, but you’ll still get long wear.

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

4. Finish off your makeup.

Once your base is set, it’s time to play with the rest of your makeup and get out the door. For a quick and easy look, a touch of bronzer, blush, and mascara can do the trick: “I think cream blushes are the perfect balmy finish to top off a tinted moisturiser,” says Scibelli. If you like a more bronzed look, you can even add bronzing drops into your tinted moisturiser when you’re applying, he recommends.


This article was originally published on GLAMOUR US.