Why ILIA’s Iconic Skin Tint Remains the Benchmark for Barely There Coverage

In 2020, ILIA launched its beloved Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40, which helped spark the skinification of makeup trend that has dominated the category ever since. We’ve collectively shifted away from full-coverage, Instagram-era foundation and toward products that enhance our skin rather than mask it. Healthy, dewy, natural-looking skin is the goal, and hybrid products like this skin tint make it achievable. We’re not surprised it’s amassed thousands of five-star reviews and remains a best-seller.

Today, as ILIA announces a new partnership with Grammy-nominated band HAIM, we’re reflecting on why we (NewBeauty editors) love it, too.

Why We Love ILIA’s Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

When we talk about the modern skin tint boom, ILIA is included as one of the products that helped define the category. It combines three categories—skin-care serum, complexion makeup and SPF—into one product, and the sun protection is mineral-based, which is ideal for those with sensitive skin. The lightweight, liquid formula prioritizes hydration and barrier health, blending hyaluronic acid, plant-based squalane and allantoin to help support and strengthen the skin while visibly reducing the look of redness. The result is a calmer, happier, more even complexion. Did we mention it also comes in 30 shades?

“The idea for Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 came from a genuine need,” says founder Sasha Plavsic. “I was a new mother with a history of sensitive skin, who simply didn’t have enough time in the day and needed an all-in-one product to get me out the door faster.”

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In a consumer perception study of 50 people, the results were impressive. Immediately after applying the skin tint, 100 percent of participants said their skin’s moisture was boosted; 96 percent said their skin was more hydrated and its texture was smoother. After 28 days of daily use, 100 percent agreed that the skin tint smoothed their skin texture, minimized the appearance of pores and evened their skin tone without aggravating their skin. Additionally, 100 percent of participants with sensitive skin agreed the product did not make their skin react or break out, and it helped improve redness.

The HAIM sisters—Este, Danielle and Alana—say they’ve been longtime fans of ILIA, and especially the Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40. “When we’re on tour, we do our own makeup and we’re pretty much always in a rush, so having products that are quick and easy is everything,” they explain. “We all go for pretty natural makeup looks, so the Skin Tint is perfect. It hides blemishes really well, but still lets our freckles show through. It’s makeup, it’s skin care, it’s SPF—it honestly has it all. Especially when we’re performing outside, it’s a must.”