As someone whose makeup routine consists of no fewer than 11 products on any given day, I was hardly the first person to try Merit Beauty. The brand exudes minimalist, cool-girl energy with its breezy, low-effort formulas—the likes of which felt insufficiently full-coverage for this makeup maximalist.

But when Martha Stewart, Sarah Jessica Parker, and countless other A-listers swear by the same beauty brand, it’s impossible to overlook. Since trying Merit myself, I’ve fallen for its famous complexion stick—and have been anticipating the brand’s latest drop, the Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen since the brand began teasing the skin tint earlier this month. I received a tube weeks prior to its official launch—and I’ve hardly touched the collection of 40+ foundations I have sitting at home since.  

Merit the Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen

Merit’s the Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen is a creamy tinted moisturizer with buildable, light to medium coverage. In seconds, it blurs imperfections, conceals uneven tone, and smooths the appearance of fine lines, all while depositing dew-inducing skin care ingredients. Notably, the formula also features a healthy dose of UV protection thanks to SPF 45—a win for the sunscreen-averse or anyone seeking a speedier means of applying daily SPF. Ideal for all skin types, the formula is a breezy alternative to foundation, particularly in the warmer months. 

In a similar vein, the sunscreen is foolproof as far as application. Whereas I’ve found foundation requires makeup sponges, brushes, or other tools to nail a smooth finish, Merit’s tinted moisturizer is finger-friendly. A single push of the mess-free pump-top delivers just the right amount of product, which glides easily onto skin and wears seamlessly. I’ve even slapped it on in the back of an Uber without a mirror. In short, the low-effort skin tint is perfect for the time-strapped and scrambled among us.

Merit the Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen

The satiny, skin-like finish is subtly dewy without reading shiny or greasy. (Case in point: Dakota Johnson’s recent red carpet look.) Plus, it remains fresh-looking throughout the day—a welcome change from many tinted moisturizers I’ve tried, which are susceptible to melting off in the sweaty seasons. 

I’ve already recommended the SPF-spiked skin perfector to my best friend and twin sister, both of whom are clamoring to snap up their own after marveling at my skin on a recent FaceTime call. I’d suggest following suit; the brand does have a history of selling out. After all, this formula has all the makings of a hot-ticket item. 

For a breezy, skin-perfecting alternative to foundation with a bevy of added benefits, shop the only skin tint I’m wearing this season, The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen. Snap up more must-haves from the celebrity-loved brand, below. 

Great Skin Serum

The Minimalist Foundation Stick

Day Glow Highlighting Balm