We put skin tints that promise to blur imperfections to the test
BARELY there brows, blusher over bronzer and polished skin are this year’s top looks.
So, I’ve been testing new skin tints, which promise to blur imperfections and deliver a natural skin finish . . .
Budget
The Body Shop Second Skin Tint (£18 for 30ml) thebodyshop.com: Normally I’d go make-up-free rather than reaching for a skin tint.
But after using this I understand the hype.
It melted into my face, reducing redness in my cheeks and the veins on my eyelids.
But you couldn’t tell I was wearing anything.
For anything more than errands or a gym class, I’d need to layer on concealer, but the fact it goes on as easy as moisturiser and has an IRL Instagram filter effect makes it a no-brainer for no-make-up days.
My only gripe is the packaging.
If you’ve ever had any type of cream in a metal tube you’ll be familiar with the dreaded overflow when you unscrew the cap, and as the formula is so fluid it gets everywhere.
Mid-range
Mac Strobe Dewy Skin Tinted Moisturiser (£30 for 30ml) lookfantastic.com: I have extremely oily skin, so words like “dewy” set alarm bells ringing.
The formula is quite thick and creamy, so you can direct the application and layer it better than the other two tints.
However, the coverage is very minimal and packed with pearlescent shimmer, which just served to highlight the uneven texture on my cheeks and didn’t disguise the discolouration on my face.
I can see why someone with less texture and oiliness would love this, as it gives a great glow.
But it was just too shiny for me.
That being said, I’ve been using it as a glow-giving primer underneath my make-up, and have received more compliments than I can count.
Luxury
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint (£46 for 30ml) sephora.co.uk: I didn’t think I would like this as the formula is self-adjusting, so it starts far lighter than you’d expect.
But once I’d finished applying the serum I was seriously impressed.
It has the most coverage of the three, and I can see myself wearing it at work and not just on days where you’re not expecting to see anyone.
It’s also packed with some of my favourite skincare ingredients, like niacinamide, squalane and hyaluronic acid.
The coverage is noticeable, so you won’t convince anyone you’re make-up-free, but the finish still looks like skin.
It’s earned a spot in my permanent rotation. My fave.
Pick of the week
SKINCARE brand Byoma was one of my favourite launches last year, delivering sophisticated, high-performing products that put skin health first, at an accessible price point.
To coincide with its first anniversary this week, the brand is launching three new treatment products.
I’m equally obsessed with – Byoma Brightening Toner, £11.99, Byoma Hydrating Recovery Oil, £13.99 and Byoma De-puff and Brighten Eye Gel, £12.99, all available from Byoma.com from today.