“The best time to apply tinted moisturizer is in the morning after washing your face and applying face serums, if this is part of your routine,” says Dr. Stull. “Those with dryer skin may choose to apply a regular moisturizer prior to tinted moisturizer, although this may not be necessary for oilier skin types. Application of tinted moisturizer can be followed by concealer for extra coverage in particular areas, bronzer, and blush.”
Additional makeup is totally optional, though. “The beauty of tinted moisturizer is that it’s really all you might need, especially on days you don’t want to wear makeup. It’s a great all-in-one,” says Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of New York City’s Mudgil Dermatology, who also advises choosing tinted moisturizer with SPF if you’re not wearing sunscreen otherwise.
As for how to apply it? “With your fingertips is actually perfectly fine, though a makeup brush could help provide a more even finish,” says Dr. Mudgil. It’s simply a matter of personal preference.