Ilia Beauty has carved out a name for itself in the clean beauty space by offering high-performance, skincare-infused makeup products. Two of its most popular complexion products—the Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation and the Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 (often referred to as a tinted moisturizer)—both promise natural-looking coverage with skin-loving ingredients. But how do they really compare? And which one is right for your skin type, lifestyle, and makeup preferences?
In this guide, we break down the key differences between Ilia’s foundation and tinted moisturizer to help you decide which best suits your needs.
1. Product Overview: What Are They?
🌿 Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation
A medium-coverage, skincare-powered foundation that provides a natural, satin finish. It’s designed to improve skin texture over time while offering a polished, more perfected look.
- Coverage: Medium, buildable
- Finish: Natural to satin
- Best for: Normal, combination, or dry skin types
- Key ingredients: Aloe vera, niacinamide, allantoin
☀️ Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
A lightweight, dewy skin tint that acts as a 3-in-1: skincare, mineral SPF, and sheer makeup. Think of it as your daily glow-enhancer with added sun protection and hydration.
- Coverage: Sheer to light
- Finish: Dewy and radiant
- Best for: Dry, sensitive, or mature skin
- Key ingredients: Squalane, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, zinc oxide (SPF)
2. Coverage: Polished vs. Barely There
If you’re deciding between the two, your desired level of coverage is a major factor.
- Choose the Foundation if you want:
- More polished, even skin tone
- To blur imperfections like redness, discoloration, or mild acne
- Buildable coverage that can go from everyday to special occasion
- Choose the Tinted Moisturizer if you want:
- A sheer wash of color for that “your skin but better” look
- To wear minimal makeup that still boosts radiance
- A daily no-makeup makeup option with SPF built in
3. Finish: Dewy vs. Satin
Ilia is known for radiant finishes, but each product offers a distinct vibe:
- Super Serum Skin Tint delivers a glowy, almost wet-look finish. Great for dry or dull skin, or for those who want a youthful, luminous effect.
- True Skin Serum Foundation gives a satin, skin-like finish—more refined and balanced, especially if you have combination or normal skin.
Note: If you have oily skin, the tinted moisturizer may feel too dewy without powder, while the foundation may offer better shine control.
4. Sun Protection
- Super Serum Skin Tint includes broad-spectrum SPF 40 with non-nano zinc oxide—an excellent choice for daytime wear and daily sun defense.
- True Skin Serum Foundation has no SPF, so you’ll need to apply sunscreen underneath.
Verdict:
If SPF is a must in your routine, the Skin Tint wins for daytime simplicity.
5. Skin Type Suitability
✅ Best for Dry or Sensitive Skin:
Super Serum Skin Tint—its ultra-hydrating formula with squalane and hyaluronic acid makes it ideal for dry or reactive skin types.
✅ Best for Combination or Textured Skin:
True Skin Foundation—its smoother finish helps minimize texture and evens out oilier areas without settling into pores.
6. Wear Time and Longevity
- True Skin Foundation lasts longer throughout the day, especially if set with powder. It holds up better under heat or humidity.
- Super Serum Skin Tint is ideal for shorter wear or indoor days. Its dewy texture may fade faster or transfer more easily.
Verdict:
Go with the foundation for longer-lasting makeup. Choose the tint for short errands, remote workdays, or weekends.
7. Shade Range Comparison
Both products offer inclusive shade ranges, but:
- The True Skin Serum Foundation has slightly more neutral undertones and structured shade naming.
- The Skin Tint shades are more flexible, thanks to the sheerness, but may be tricky to match for those with very deep or olive undertones.
8. Price Comparison
- Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 – approx. $48
- True Skin Serum Foundation – approx. $54
While both sit in the high-end clean beauty range, the Skin Tint offers more multitasking value (SPF + skincare + tint), potentially replacing multiple steps in your morning routine.
Final Verdict: Which Ilia Base Is Right for You?
Choose Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation if you:
- Prefer more coverage and a refined finish
- Have combination or textured skin
- Want a more traditional makeup feel
- Need longer wear and better performance throughout the day
Choose Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 if you:
- Prefer a minimal, no-makeup makeup look
- Want SPF and skincare in one step
- Have dry or mature skin
- Love a dewy, radiant finish
Conclusion: You Can’t Go Wrong—But Know Your Skin
Both the Ilia Foundation and Tinted Moisturizer are standout products that align with clean beauty values, support skin health, and enhance your natural glow. The key difference lies in your skin needs and lifestyle. Whether you go for the polished, long-wear finish of the foundation or the radiant, nourishing vibe of the skin tint, Ilia delivers a complexion product you’ll feel good wearing every day.
Pro Tip: Want the best of both worlds? Use the Skin Tint for daytime and the Foundation for evening or events—your skin will thank you either way.