Last year was full of self-care revelations. An international move will do that to you. Since European pharmacies turned from exotic to everyday, I’ve embraced more SPF formulas than I can count. I also found my ride or die sunscreen in La Roche-Posay UVAir SPF 50. A few weeks ago, some creative sneak peeks popped up on Reddit. It looked like UVAir was getting a subtle packaging refresh and would now also come in three tinted versions.
Well, all of it turned out to be true. I immediately ordered the medium shade, which just arrived. So here I am with first impressions and some side-by-side comparisons. I know the classic version already has a loyal fan base, so this matters. I’ll be quick. Let’s go.
Packaging vs Formula
Let’s start with the OG, because this update made me nervous. The newly packaged bottle (rounder edges and a pop-up top instead of a twist cap) houses the exact same formula I fell so hard for. Nothing to worry about. You are still getting the same genius SPF. Just packaged slightly differently. The same 50ml capacity remains.
OG UVAir vs UVAir Tinted
At a glance, these two formulas are nearly identical. They share the same modern UV filter system, the same alcohol-based fluid texture, and the same skincare backbone with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. In practice, they feel and perform almost exactly the same on skin.
Why this filter lineup is considered “modern”
This exact combo is typical of European sunscreens:
- Multiple overlapping UVA filters (not just one)
- Heavy reliance on photostable filters
- No dependence on outdated filters like octocrylene or homosalate
- Strong coverage across UVB, UVA II, and UVA I
In practice, this is the kind of filter system you see in La Roche-Posay UVmune, ISDIN, Eucerin Oil Control, and similar formulas.
UV filters used in both formulas:
- Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S)
- Ethylhexyl Triazone (Uvinul T 150)
- Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone)
- Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus)
Additional filter in the tinted version:
- Titanium Dioxide (mineral filter)
The real difference is that the tinted version adds mineral pigments. Titanium dioxide and three iron oxides give it visible color and light coverage, while also extending protection into the visible light spectrum. This makes the tinted formula more suitable for uneven tone or pigmentation-prone skin, while the original remains a true invisible sunscreen.
Key differences:
- Untinted: no color, completely transparent finish
- Tinted: contains titanium dioxide and iron oxides for shade and coverage
- Tinted offers extra visible light (HEV) protection
- Untinted works better for layering under makeup
- Tinted can double as a light complexion product
User Experience
Like the clear version, the tinted UVAir has an elegant texture, the same light floral scent, and incredibly seamless absorption. If anything, the tinted version feels slightly creamier than the original, but not by much. Coverage is very sheer. The finish is more satin than dewy and looks very natural on skin. It blends easily with just your fingers and leaves no streaks.
This one is a smart addition to the LRP SPF wardrobe.
Shades
I went with Medium. When a brand offers three options, I usually feel safe landing in the middle. The new LRP UVAir in Medium is just a touch dark on me right now (January). But I’m also in Spain. I’m confident it will be a perfect match from April through October. I’m far from a makeup pro but I’d say the shade runs cooler more than warmer.
Light shades tend to wash me out ever so slightly. Since the coverage is very sheer, the formula is forgiving. It can comfortably “round up” a small range of skin tones. Which is exactly what I want from a tinted sunscreen. And not what I expect from foundation.
UV Coverage vs Makeup-Like Coverage
Here is my rule for tinted sunscreens: no matter how subtle the tint, applying the full recommended amount will never look completely natural. That is just reality. With pigment-heavy formulas, I usually apply a bit less to avoid streaking or pilling.
That said, UVAir Tinted is surprisingly forgiving. I use four lines (roughly three fingers) across my forehead, cheeks, and neck. After blending, nothing gathers around my hairline, which is a huge win. Personally, I am thrilled with this launch.
Where to Find It
Unfortunately for my friends back home, it is not available in the US and likely won’t be for a bit. I ordered mine from lookfantastic.es and had it arrived in Madrid in under a week. It’s also on the UK site lookfantastic.com.
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