My attitude towards base make-up has changed so much over the past few years. Call it the French girl effect, or perhaps simply the natural progression of getting older and realising that caked-on make-up just isn’t all that flattering anymore. These days, I want less. Featherlight skin tints and foundation balms that sweep over the skin with a subtle wash of coverage. Softened wrinkles, blurred blemishes and that plumped-up, healthy radiance. And, dear reader, I think I’ve found a product that does just that.
For context, I know my way around testing a foundation. I’ve tried full-coverage favourites such as Armani’s Luminous Silk and Estée Lauder’s Double Wear, as well as barely-there bases like Jones Road’s Just Enough Skin Tint and Clarins’ Tinted Moisturiser. They all have their place, of course, but it’s the lighter formulas I find myself reaching for more and more. So, when I got my hands on Boots’ newest skin tint from The Edit, I was genuinely excited to give it a whirl. Here's why I think you're going to love it.
What does Boots The Edit Skin Tint do?
Create skin that looks and feels hydrated, that's what. A small amount smoothed over a cleansed complexion provides buildable coverage and a natural, glowy finish. Bonus points for the addition of peptides and niacinamide to help moisturise and even out skin tone in the long run, too.
How to apply Boots The Edit Skin Tint
Application is a breeze, but personal preference is key here. In a rush? Shake before use then add a few drops straight onto your skin. Next, blend using the warmth of your fingertips. This will work to even out the skin tone and provide a subtle wash of colour. If you need more coverage, then use a densely packed stippling brush to press the product gently into the skin - spend a little extra time around oilier areas like the T-Zone to help with staying power.
Shop: Boots The Edit Skin Tint
Boots The Edit Skin Tint
A small amount smoothed over a cleansed complexion provides buildable coverage and a natural, glowy finish. Bonus points for the addition of peptides and niacinamide to help moisturise and even out skin tone in the long run, too.
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Our verdict:
Rachael Martin, beauty director says:
'First up, the packaging. It feels beautiful - very Rhode-coded, with that lovely minimal aesthetic. The formula squeezes out of the tube effortlessly, without feeling watery or clumpy. I tend to dispense a small amount onto the back of my hand before working it into the skin with a stippling brush. And honestly, it’s fool-proof - even if I’m in a rush. Simply sweep it across the face for a sheer veil of coverage, adding a little extra around the T-zone if, like me, that’s where you tend to get oily as the day goes on.
The result is a simple one. Skin that just looks like good, healthy skin. There’s no mega-watt highlight or dramatic filter-esque finish. Instead, the results are subtle - but no less brilliant. My fine lines appear softer, while blemishes aren’t completely concealed (nor would I expect them to be from a skin tint), but they look less pronounced and more blurred, with redness noticeably toned down. Pair it with a good concealer and a light dusting of setting powder, and this is where the magic really happens.
The price tag is, of course, part of the appeal. But as someone who typically invests in foundation - I’ve spent £100 on Victoria Beckham’s before, because, well, it’s literally my face - I’ll admit I was curious to see whether this would live up to the hype. And honestly? It performed like a high-end formula, delivering the kind of fresh finish I’ve come to love.
Final thoughts
Turns out that a bargain price tag needn't equate to a bog-standard base. For that elusive your-skin-but-better finish, this skin tint is hard to beat. It left my skin looking bright, bouncy and youthful. While the bottle size isn't particularly generous, a little goes a long way. Trust me - you can't go wrong with this one.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism.