Skin Tint vs. Foundation: Knowing the Difference

(Photo : Vecteezy / Taras Grebinets)

Skincare and makeup go hand in hand. Both have the purpose of making you look good. It's a good thing that there are makeup products that serve as skincare as well. Let's start with the base: skin tint vs. foundation.

There is no debate here; we love, need, and use both products. Both fall under the coverage cosmetics umbrella and have different shades. Both can be formulated with skincare qualities, and both are made to give you a flawless look. So, what's the difference between skin tint and foundation?

Skin Tint

Sheer Coverage

Skin tint is typically used as a filter for your skin with its sheer formulation. If you are going for a low-maintenance but radiant sheer coverage, this product is the choice for you. It acts as a complexion perfector that evens out your skin tone, resulting in a natural-looking finish.

Skincare in Serum Formulation

Depending on the brand, skin tints are formulated differently. Some work as sunscreens with high levels of SPF and anti-aging properties, hydrating the skin and evening out skin tone. The usual texture is similar to serum and can be spread throughout the face using fingers. This can be easily used by makeup beginners.

Looks: Dewy and Glass Skin

Because it has a less greasy finish than moisturizers, experts recommend skin tint for that radiant, dewy look. Some also recommend it to achieve the glass skin look, only with a very subtle hint of color.

Our Favorites

Some of our favorites include the ultra-blendable Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint by Fenty Beauty and the skin-brightening SuperStay 24-Hour Skin Tint by Maybelline. 

Foundation

Medium to Full Coverage

When it comes to the traditional medium to full coverage with concealing power, foundation is the favorite. It can hide problems such as blemishes and uneven skin tone.

Skincare in Powder and Liquid Formulation 

Foundations, having different levels of coverage, also offer different shades and formulations. Some are powders, and others are liquids with varying consistencies. Some are made with sun-blocking properties, while others are formulated to hydrate and brighten the skin.

Looks: Customizable Finish

As they provide a wider range of coverage than skin tints, foundations give you options for a customizable finish. Think of your face as a masterpiece waiting to happen, and the foundation is the canvas.

Using other makeup products over the foundation can get you the look you want, whether a dewy look or a contoured look.

Our Favorites

Experts recommend the hydrating Studio Waterweight SPF 30 Foundation by MAC Cosmetics and the nourishing Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation SPF 25 with Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide by Kosas.

The Difference

Knowing the difference between skin tint and foundation is helpful when you know where your skin lies and what your goals are in terms of skincare and look.