How to Apply Tinted Moisturizer, According to a Pro Makeup Artist (2025)

If you’re someone who loves a no-makeup makeup look, you’re probably always reaching for tinted moisturizer. 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 moisturizer 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 moisturizer, 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 moisturized. Ahead, our step-by-step breakdown on how to apply tinted moisturizer.

How do you choose the right tinted moisturizer for you?

With so many tinted moisturizers 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 rightdecision when purchasing.” If you have dry skin, any tinted moisturizer 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 moisturizer. Does your skin need extra moisture? Is SPF a main factor for you? These are all questions Scibelli says to think about.

What is the best way to apply a tinted moisturizer?

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, moisturizer, or primer, go in with one of those first, followed by your SPF (always!). Though some tinted moisturizers 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 favorite sunscreen to your routine (the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a water-resistant broad-spectrum SPF that’s at least SPF 30). Then it’s time for the star of the show: your tinted moisturizer.

Apply tinted moisturizer with a brush, sponge, or your fingers.

Start by putting a small amount of tinted moisturizer (you can always add more—buildable coverage FTW) either on the back of your hand or directly onto your face. Grab your favorite foundation brush or makeup sponge, or even use your fingers to rub it in. “I’ll typicallyapply a tinted moisturizer with a synthetic foundation brush first to distribute the productevenly,” 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 moisturizer in an upwardmotion,” 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 throughthe tinted moisturizer,” he says.