Why Every Guy Should Have a Skin Tint in Their Routine

January 1 | 4 minute read

Words by Shivan Patel

Originally published on | January 16

I think it’s time we drop the stereotypes and demystify makeup for men – starting with skin tints (you can bet the Styleses, Chalamets and Elordis of the world are wearing them!).

A skin tint is the ultimate cheat sheet to looking better - reducing the appearance of breakouts, dark circles and redness, without looking like I’m wearing anything. They were the first 'makeup' product I ever tried, to achieve a ‘healthy’ look everyday – even if I woke up and my skin disagreed.

For those who aren’t familiar, a skin tint is similar to a tinted moisturiser: a lightweight product (usually a cream or serum texture) that can even out your complexion while giving a boost of brightness and hydration.

It’s a life hack that works for any occasion; to give you confidence going into a big meeting (or big date), to ‘undo’ the night before, or to look your best in the photos at your best friend’s wedding.

If applying some coverage feels intimidating to you, start light with just a few drops and blend it into your skin with the warmth of your fingers – it’s as easy as that.

Here are my five best skin tints (for men, and for everyone) that are easy to apply and provide the perfect base.

The All-In One Tint

The ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint is a triple threat! It combines makeup, skincare and SPF protection into one step, and is packed with hyaluronic acid (to hydrate) and niacinamide (to smooth and even) to help improve the skin once the tint comes off. I love to reach for this when I’m in a rush or on cooler days when my skin is more dry.

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For The Oily Types

My second pick would be the bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Skin Perfecting Tint. This skin tint is hydrating like a lightweight moisturiser and has a great natural finish. It’s an oil-free formula, which makes it perfect for the guys who experience shine across their nose and forehead. I’ll pop this one on when I’m working in the office because it gives me a bit of coverage and lasts throughout the day.

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For The Dry Guys

The MECCA MAX Off Duty Skin Tint is a hybrid foundation and serum with amazing, skin-improving skincare ingredients like niacinamide and squalane to give your complexion a boost and help improve your skin barrier. This is my choice on the weekend; I love how easy it is to apply and it gives you that ‘just got back from the beach’ look without having to step foot in the sand.

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The One to Take on a Night Out

The Morphe Morphe 2 Hint Hint Skin Tint is what I reach for on a night out. It gives my skin a blurred, even look in photos and is so comfortable to wear all night! It’s buildable, so I can control how much coverage it has and the finish is natural for a more subtle ‘I just have good skin’ look. It’s also sweat, water and transfer-resistant, so it will stay on all night!

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The Low-Key Tint

When I’m feeling more introverted (or lazy!) I will apply the MECCA COSMETICA In A Good Light Face Tint. It’s lightweight but can be built up where you need extra coverage, and it gives a bright-but-not-oily finish to the skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to hydrate and nourish the skin like a moisturiser, and it has SPF30 for extra sun protection. It's perfect for a weekend jaunt, day off or coffee run.